Felicia felt tempted. Mike's offer was exactly what she needed; it felt orchestrated. Who could refuse?

"Pathetic," Stephan scoffed, tossing the contracts back onto the desk. His tone was lazy, indifferent. "I can offer better gifts. Why bother with the Lawson family's offer?" She almost retorted, "Maybe you don't need them, but I do!"

Mike produced another contract. "Here are two mines. As an apology, the Lawson family is also giving them to Ms. Fuller."

"Not enough," Stephan drawled.

Mike produced another contract, his gaze fixed on Stephan as he offered it to Felicia. "This is for an oil field, also for Ms. Fuller."

Felicia was stunned. Moments before, the row of shops had seemed extravagant. But those shops paled in comparison to two mines and an oil field.

Stephan lounged on the leather sofa, sipping tea languidly. He remained silent.

Relieved, Mike addressed Felicia earnestly. "My father passed away last night. I'm now head of the Lawson family. Arnold is leaving for studies after the new year; he won't bother you again. Ms. Fuller, I sincerely apologize for the distress and harm we've caused. I am truly sorry." He bowed his head, a gesture of genuine regret. His generosity reflected his sincerity. After all, Matthew and Arnold were responsible, not him.

Felicia glanced at Stephan, who appeared perfectly composed. Suppressing a smile, she replied, "I accept your offer." Mike chuckled, his gaze lingering on Stephan. He'd had no choice but to offer everything.

In one night, the Lawson family learned the meaning of wrath. Stephan had initially taken the mines and oil field, assets that rightfully belonged to Mike. He could have leveraged their friendship to reclaim them, but Stephan’s coldness admitted no exceptions. Moreover, Matthew and Arnold had gone too far. Even regaining the assets wouldn't have sufficed as an apology to Felicia. Only her forgiveness would appease Stephan.

"Alright. I'll take my leave," Mike said, picking up Sandra. He encouraged her to wave goodbye. Sandra giggled, blowing a bubble that popped with a soft "plop"—silly, yet endearing.

After they left, Felicia asked Stephan, "Where's Sandra's mother?"

"No idea," he replied, glancing at her thoughtful expression. "Three years ago, Mike had a girlfriend; they were almost engaged, but Mr. Lawson Senior broke them up."

"And then?" she asked.

"Then, he drowned his sorrows, had a one-night stand, and ten months later, received a baby girl and a note claiming she was his child, leaving him to raise her."