Chapter 1021

Julian hung his head low, looking just like a child who had done something wrong.

Albert’s once-straight back remained bent. All he could feel was his pride being trampled underfoot.

How long had it been? And this woman still hadn’t made up her mind?

His spine–once bowed–felt as though it might never straighten again.

He didn’t know why, but deep down, Albert had a sinking feeling this time…

Even Carol was gritting her teeth to endure it. She wasn’t ready to give up her life of wealth and status. She had only just begun to enjoy this kind of life–how could she go back to the days of hardship?

Tessa glanced at Grace with a questioning look, trying to understand what she meant. After all, she knew perfectly well that Grace’s original target had always been Julian.

But Grace remained silent, still staring at the two figures bowing before her. Her eyes drifted toward Julian, who stood there like a fool, and finally, she sighed.

“All right. That’s enough. You can get up now. Though I’ll say this, I can accept your apology.”

With that, both Albert and Carol slowly straightened their backs. They looked at each other, confused, unsure of what Grace meant.

Tessa had her own guess, though she couldn’t tell if it was right. She didn’t dare assume anything about Grace’s thoughts. After living by her side for so many years, Tessa knew her mother’s temperament well. Grace didn’t like being controlled. She liked to move at her own pace and didn’t appreciate anyone disrupting her way of life.

After a moment of internal struggle, Albert finally spoke. “So… Madam Grace, what exactly do you mean by this?”

“I can let you off the hook and spare Hayes Enterprises too.”

At those words, Albert couldn’t help but smile. Didn’t that mean she was willing to forgive them?

“So… does that mean this time we can just leave it at that?” Albert asked carefully, his tone cautious. He even cast a flattering glance at Grace. It was obvious how crucial this moment was for Hayes Enterprises; Albert was treating it with utmost seriousness. Right now, the fate of the entire company hung on Grace’s decision. If she was willing to let them go, then the road ahead would be much smoother. He’d definitely find a new business partner.

Just as Albert was about to make a promise, Grace let out a cold snort. “Leave it at that? You really think quite highly of yourselves.”

Chapter 1021

The once softened atmosphere instantly dropped to freezing point.

Albert and Carol exchanged glances, completely lost as to what she meant.

Albert gathered his courage and asked, “Madam Grace, just now you said…” He didn’t finish the sentence, but everyone present knew what he was trying to say.

Grace crossed her arms and said, “Your entire family really has some nerve. Did you really think just because your son turned into a fool, he no longer has to take responsibility?”

At those words, the entire Hayes family stiffened. They all jerked their heads up to stare at Grace’s icy face.

It was clear Albert had realized something.

And sure enough, Grace continued, “Don’t forget, Julian is still under observation. The police are still waiting for a conclusion.”

With that one sentence, the truth hit the Hayes couple like a hammer.

Chapter 1022