Chapter 84

When Denton, Claire's parents (David and Christine), and Claire noticed Benjamin's changing expression, they immediately realized Gilmore was telling the truth. Denton and Claire's parents were particularly disappointed in Benjamin. They hadn't expected him to still be associated with Marco, especially since everyone in Oakhaven knew about the Chapman family's bankruptcy and vaccine fraud. Denton misunderstood Claire this time, embarrassing himself in front of everyone because Benjamin actually believed Marco. Denton was furious with Benjamin.

Emerson and Wallace were shocked by Gilmore's revelation—evidence proving Benjamin had sent Marco to stalk Gilmore and Claire. This was a complete shock. The Pahner family was now at a great disadvantage, but Claire was satisfied. She never expected Gilmore to have secretly gathered this evidence. Tonight, she received good news: her uncle revealed Gilmore wasn't Christine's real boyfriend; her grandfather confirmed Gilmore hadn't had affairs with two girls; and Gilmore had exposed Benjamin's weakness. She noticed her grandfather and parents' attitudes toward Benjamin subtly shifting, and their annoyance with the Palmer family. Claire wouldn't let this opportunity slip.

"Benjamin," she said, her contempt undisguised, "didn't you say you weren't in touch with Marco? Why are you silent now? Are you guilty?"

Benjamin blushed, speechless. Whatever he said would only further embarrass him. It wouldn't matter if he admitted to asking Marco to stalk Claire; Gilmore possessed a memory card containing video evidence of everything that happened between Benjamin and Marco in the underground parking lot the previous day.

Seeing Benjamin's embarrassment, Denton, his face sullen, said, "It's late. Mr. Benjamin must be tired. Please go back and rest."

Benjamin was startled by Mr. Carter addressing him formally as "Mr. Benjamin" instead of "Benjamin," a subtle yet significant shift conveying distance and disapproval. Denton had clearly distanced himself.

Emerson and Wallace understood. Emerson immediately spoke up, "Denton, this is my fault. I didn't properly teach Benjamin; he was misled by a scoundrel like Marco. I'll teach him a lesson." Wallace, equally solemn, added, "Benjamin, sever ties with Marco and reflect on your mistakes."

Benjamin knew his grandfather and father. Their sternness was a guise; they were helping him. He looked regretful, replying, "I'll do as you say."

As it was time to leave, Emerson apologized, "Denton, I'm truly sorry. It's late; I'll treat you to dinner another day. Goodbye."

Denton, however, remained solemn. "Wait a minute, Emez."

Emerson, stunned, asked, "What is it, Denton?"

"Emez," Denton began, "so many things happened tonight because you said Gilmore was having affairs with Claire and Christine. For your sake, I've spoken to everyone involved." He chuckled, "But it wasn't true. Someone believed a liar. Everyone's been offended."

Emerson's face froze; he was mortified. He'd hoped to escape with a few words, but Denton wasn't easily fooled. "Denton, it's my fault. I shouldn't have told you."

Denton shook his head. "Emez, you don't need to apologize to me. Apologize to my granddaughter, Claire, and her boyfriend, Gilmore. I reprimanded my granddaughter because of you, and she cried. You and your grandson accused Gilmore; I nearly killed him!"

Denton's anger flared. "Emez, don't you think you should apologize to them?"

Emerson's face paled. He couldn't believe Denton would ask him, the head of the Palmer family, to apologize to Gilmore and Claire. It would ruin his reputation. But Denton was serious. Refusal would turn Denton hostile. How could he apologize?

Claire, her parents, Benjamin, and Wallace were shocked. Gilmore remained calm; he expected this. He believed Emerson and his family deserved harsher punishment. He admired Denton's fairness.

Benjamin, with determination, stepped forward. "Mr. Carter, I started this and involved my grandfather. I should apologize, not him." He couldn't let his grandfather apologize; it would shame him for life. But a lack of apology would damage the families' relationship and prevent his marriage to Claire. He would endure the humiliation to save the situation.

(The final lines, including website promotion, have been removed as they were not part of the story itself.)