Chapter 26

Seeing the necklace in her hand only intensified her frustration. She stomped her foot, irritated. The butler appeared, stepping into the tense atmosphere. “Mrs. Ashford.”

Grace sighed, a heavy, defeated sound. “Why is she being so stubborn? Who else would want her besides Chris?” If Stephanie broke off the engagement, her reputation would be ruined. No prestigious family in Long Harbor would consider her afterward. And the Hart family… Grace knew them too well. They would discard Stephanie without a second thought.

Grace couldn't understand it. How could Stephanie reject someone like Chris?

The butler glanced at Stephanie. “She’s still young. She can’t let go of what Olivia did to her.” He believed Stephanie was acting out of wounded pride. Grace agreed.

Grace snorted. “She can stir up trouble anywhere, but with the Hart family, she’d better check that superior attitude.” The truth was, Grace only cared because of Chris's grandmother, who insisted Chris marry Stephanie, calling her the family's lucky star. Grace, however, didn't believe any of the Hart girls were worth her time.

Grace's anger boiled over. She was furious about Chris and Olivia's affair, but even more enraged that Stephanie had canceled the wedding. The Ashford family had lost face; their dignity was gone. And with Chris's grandmother demanding Stephanie's return, Grace felt there was no solution.

Her mind raced, then she made a decision. “I’m losing my mind! Where is Olivia staying?”

The butler replied with a stiff nod. “Long Harbor International Clinic.”

Stephanie had just left the Ashford house when a sharp honk pierced the quiet. She turned and saw Chris's Phantom. He hadn't left yet.

Chris emerged, a cigarette dangling from his fingers. His tall, lean frame commanded attention; he possessed an effortless, aloof elegance that made him seem untouchable.

If you overlooked his flaws, he was hard to ignore. Under his leadership, Ashford Group had doubled its market value in a single year. He was respectful to his elders, dutiful, and seemingly successful—except for his poor judgment in women.

Their eyes met, but Stephanie's gaze was cold, devoid of warmth or softness.

Chris spoke first, his voice low but commanding. “Give your car keys to Kevin. He’ll drive your car back to Cloudridge Valley. You can ride with me.”

Stephanie laughed, a short, almost bored sound. “I can drive myself.” The words were laced with sarcasm, showcasing the independent spirit of a woman who would never need rescuing or wait for someone else to take charge.