Chapter 25

Grace lingered, searching for more to say. But Stephanie’s stance was firm, her words cutting. "I'm sorry, but Chris and I are finished."

Grace felt helpless. She had exhausted her arguments. Stephanie gently patted her hand. "I don't expect him to dedicate his life to me—that would be greedy. But he can't even give me basic respect."

Grace realized Stephanie was right. Chris showed no intention of concealing his feelings for Olivia, a blatant insult to Stephanie. Even considering it was her son's actions, Grace couldn't ignore it.

With a sigh, Grace said, "But what will you do? Without Chris, your life in the Hart family will be even harder." She was reminding Stephanie of her precarious position. Both women despised Olivia, yet Olivia remained the family's favored child.

Stephanie lowered her gaze, silent. Grace's voice softened slightly. "Don't rush to answer. I'll speak to Chris. I'll ensure he sends Olivia away."

Grace was furious, even more so than Stephanie. She couldn't comprehend Olivia's hold over Chris, the magic that made him behave this way. The thought of Stephanie and Chris separating, with Chris becoming increasingly reckless with Olivia, unsettled her deeply.

She squeezed Stephanie's hand, anxiety creeping into her voice. "The Hart family favors Olivia. If you continue to oppose them, your life will become considerably harder." The unspoken plea was clear: Please, Stephanie, just give in.

Stephanie recognized Grace's good intentions, sensing a rare moment of genuine support. But it no longer mattered. Everyone seemed to believe Stephanie had no place in the Hart family, leaving the Ashfords as her only hope for the future.

She met Grace's gaze, her voice steady and unwavering. "No matter how difficult life becomes, I will find a way. Mrs. Ashford, Chris and I are finished. That's final." There was no room for discussion. She wouldn't back down. She refused to offer false hope, nor would she prolong the inevitable. Procrastination would only complicate matters, and she wouldn't waste more time.

Chapter 26

Grace, surprised by Stephanie's resolve, said, "You're so independent. I don't know if that's good or bad." Her attempt to soften her approach faltered; her composure slipped. She hadn't expected such unwavering defiance. A flicker of annoyance crossed her face. Stephanie wasn't interested in prolonging the discussion.

"I'm leaving," she said almost casually, returning the necklace to Grace and turning abruptly. Grace, still wanting to speak, watched Stephanie's determined departure.