Chapter 253

Thea entered the Rowland family home. It was clear they were discussing something important inside. Even the servants and butler were stationed at the door. They asked confusedly, "Miss Miss Thea?" They thought, Didn't the rumors say she was dead? Why has she returned? Nicolas had protected Thea in the river; she wasn't even injured.

She met the servants' surprised gazes and smiled. "Am I unwelcome? Move aside." Even if Thea wasn't favored by the Rowland family, the butler wouldn't dare to block her. Water dripped from her as she walked.

Every time Thea left the Rowland family, she vowed never to return to this place that had broken her heart. But every time, she returned.

The argument in the living room was audible through the door.

"Max, Thea's death was sudden. We are her only family. Her belongings should be divided equally between us and Mother. How can you take everything?" Duncan's tone was teasing, as always. He sounded indifferent to Thea's death.

Ivy was stunned. "You mean, Thea is really dead?" Although she'd always been upset with Thea, she was her daughter. Ivy still had feelings for her, but she also had better options. After hearing the news, Ivy's heart ached. She asked, "Did you send anyone to look for her, or inform the rescue team? How could she die like that?"

"Mother, even the Hendrix family hasn't sent any news. There was no chance of survival It's all my fault. Duncan and I failed to protect Thea," Emmalie sobbed silently beside Ivy, trying to avoid Max's conflict with Duncan. The Rowland family loved her because she'd never coveted their assets. She added, "Duncan is right. If Thea is gone, her belongings must be divided equally."

Thea thought, It's okay if I'm gone? A painful smile touched her lips. She didn't understand what she hoped for. Expecting love and care from her family was extravagant.

Max said, "The shares under Thea's name and Sparkle Rocks were left to her by Grandpa. I'm the heir he appointed. He must have wanted these things to return to me to avoid trouble." Even with his family, Max's expression was arrogant.

08.18 Fri, Nov 15

Chapter 253

Duncan already owned some Rowland Group shares. If Thea's share was divided equally, Max felt Duncan would have enough to threaten his position. Max knew Duncan's plan.

Outside the door, Thea held the doorknob, hesitating. Her sneer was cold, but she anticipated more exciting events.

"Max, you're right," Duncan sighed. "I'll give up my share."

Thea thought, He doesn't want it? How generous of Duncan? Duncan was vengeful, kind only to Emmalie. He added, "Emmalie has been home for years without real power. Shares will give her confidence after she marries."

Emmalie was touched. "Duncan! I know you're doing this for me, but everything belongs to you and Max I don't dare covet it." Tears glistened in her eyes; she was subtly blaming Thea. Since Thea had received shares from Joshua and refused to relinquish them, Emmalie portrayed her as selfish and arrogant.

Ivy, having recovered from her grief, nodded. "Duncan is right. No matter who gets the shares, there will be trouble. Emmalie is a girl; the shares will secure her future. Max, Thea wandered for years before returning. You promised me you'd leave the best things to her."

Max, who cared for Emmalie, conceded. "In that case, Emmalie accompany me to close Thea's account and transfer the shares."

The decision was made. Only Emmalie could claim the shares.

Thea laughed coldly, then pushed open the door. "Shut down my account? Mr. Rowland, you have no authority. I'm standing here. Are you spreading rumors of my death?"

No one expected Thea's appearance. Ivy reacted first, surprised and delighted. "Thea, you're alive? Why didn't you contact your family? At least let me know you were safe?" Thea believed Ivy's heartache was genuine.

Before Ivy could approach, Emmalie stopped her. "Mom, don't go! I've heard vengeful spirits return as souls. I'm afraid Thea will hurt you." Emmalie hid her hatred and jealousy. Thea, though worn, was beautiful. Emmalie thought, Why does Thea get everything, even escaping death? She grabbed Ivy's sleeve, wanting Thea to see she didn't belong.

Ivy hugged Emmalie, heartbroken. "Emmalie, you're the best. Unlike Thea, who didn't inform us and worried us!"

Thea laughed angrily. Her first act after leaving the forest with Nicolas was to return to her family. "Mrs. Rowland, you're wrong. I'm not your daughter." She added provocatively, "I never intended to tell you I was safe. I'm here to warn you not to covet what doesn't belong to you."