Chapter 462

When Debra heard about the valuable gift, everything clicked into place. She understood Melody's motivations perfectly. Given Melody's obsession with reputation and status, she would never reject Declan's personal negotiation and generous offer, especially since Sheila was carrying the Nichols family heir.

Debra sneered, realizing that, in both her past life and this one, Melody was always driven by profit and self-interest. In her previous life, when Debra was the Frazier family heiress, Melody had treated her well. But Sheila's pregnancy, and its potential benefits, had spurred Melody to elevate her instead. It seemed history was repeating itself, with Sheila assuming Jade's identity and carrying Juan's child. Once again, Debra and Juan were entangled, but she was determined to avoid the same tragic fate.

"This is strange," Leah pointed out. "For such an important occasion, where is Juan?"

She wasn't the only one curious about Juan's absence. Other guests were also scanning the room, whispering amongst themselves. "With the future Mrs. Nichols present, where is Mr. Nichols?"

"Madam." Ben leaned in, whispering something in Debra's ear. Debra paused before saying, "I see."

"Debra, what's wrong?" Leah asked, noticing Debra's preoccupied expression.

"I need to go upstairs for a bit. I'll be down soon," Debra replied with a polite smile. Leah nodded gently. "Alright."

Debra lifted the hem of her dress and instructed Ben, "Wait here. Don't let anyone up to the second floor."

"Understood."

Debra ascended the grand staircase, her steps echoing through the empty second floor. Sheila emerged from around the corner, dressed in a luxurious white gown that belied the pitiful expression on her face.

"Debra," Sheila began, her voice soft and pleading.

Debra's tone was cold and unyielding. "I expected to see Juan. Miss Blair, why did you call me up here in his name? What is it you want to discuss?"

Sheila moved closer, her eyes wide and innocent. "Debra, I know you're upset about this. I called you here to tell you…"

Sheila paused, her expression suddenly twisting into a sneer. "I wanted to tell you to die."

Before Debra could react, Sheila lunged at her, grabbing her wrist and pulling her toward the edge of the stairs. A scream erupted from below, and all eyes turned to the horrifying spectacle. Sheila lay at the bottom of the stairs, a pool of blood spreading ominously across the floor.

"Help! Miss Blair fell from the stairs!"

"Jade!" an elderly voice rang out. Declan had just arrived and witnessed the scene. Edgar, accompanying him, rushed to Sheila's side, his face etched with concern.

Declan helped Sheila up, cradling her limp body in his arms. Edgar turned to the maid, his voice urgent and commanding. "Call an ambulance!"

The maid, momentarily stunned, quickly snapped into action and dialed for emergency services. Declan raised his head and glared at Debra, who was standing at the top of the stairs.