Wyatt’s funeral took place forty-two days later.

During that time, Abigail had to deal with the mess left behind at Gibson Group. While Warren helped with most matters, Abigail still honored Wyatt’s wishes and took over as CEO of Gibson Group.

Abigail had resigned from Halden Group, though she wouldn’t officially leave for another six months. The three projects she led couldn’t move forward without her at the helm.

When Abigail arrived at Timothy’s office, she found Leon smoking outside the door, worry etched across his face.

Everyone had seen the news coverage of Abigail’s interview with the media. Abigail’s burns were severe, and although her wounds had barely healed and she still wore bandages, she had come to the office anyway.

They all knew she was leaving.

Inside the office, Timothy studied the burns on Abigail’s face, frowning with concern. “Why haven’t you seen a doctor about reconstruction surgery?”

“What’s wrong? Do I scare you?” Abigail kept her tone deliberately light.

“Do I look like someone who scares easily? You and Sebastian are so close. A man like him values your abilities, sure, but let’s be honest—your beauty was definitely part of the package.”

Timothy had been at Halden Group long enough to understand how these elite circles worked. Plenty of talented women lacked conventional beauty, and few of them made it into wealthy families.

Those who possessed both intelligence and beauty stood the best chance of overcoming this barrier and ascending the social hierarchy.

Daniella was truly vicious. Unable to bear her misfortune, she’d made sure to destroy Abigail’s chances of advancement before making her escape.

Abigail simply smiled at his words. “Who said Sebastian and I have a future together?”

She wouldn’t get plastic surgery. She’d already consulted doctors about her facial scars. Even with reconstruction, she’d never look the same.

Sebastian might feel attracted to her now because of her abilities, but given time, he’d surely be disgusted by the scars covering her body.

Everyone preferred smooth and flawless skin. Even she couldn’t guarantee she’d be that tolerant with a partner.

Timothy watched her with a complicated expression. After a moment, he sighed. “You’re right. Your situation is complicated. Finding someone from a simple background would be easiest.”

Abigail nodded.

But the truth was, if Sebastian wanted her by his side to help navigate his complex family dynamics, she wouldn’t refuse, but not as his girlfriend or wife.

She didn’t know much about Sebastian’s family situation. Word was he hadn’t inherited the Robinson family business and hadn’t established his own company all these years. No one knew why he refused to start his own venture.

Perhaps his circumstances were even more complicated than hers.

But he’d brought his people to help her so much. She wouldn’t run away just because his family situation might be difficult.

Timothy approved her resignation, though his voice carried unmistakable regret. “I thought you’d stay here for a long time. I never expected to let you go so soon. Who knows? Maybe we’ll end up as competitors.”

“If we do become rivals, don’t go easy on me.” Abigail took the stamped resignation letter from his hands, her voice tinged with reluctance.

“I really wish I could keep working here forever. Everyone’s been wonderful. It’s such a shame.” Her words made Timothy’s eyes redden despite himself.

Those trapped in life’s difficulties often yearned most for such ordinary moments.

“Well, you’re destined for bigger things now. Why would you want to stick around our little department?” He waved her off, turning away to hide his emotions.

Walking out of the office, Abigail found Leon still leaning against the door.

“I’m leaving now, but I’ll keep following up on the project. I’ll come visit when I can.” Without waiting for a response, she turned and walked away.

Leon opened his mouth to speak but found no words. He’d always thought Abigail was just another ordinary person. He never imagined she carried such burdens—a wealthy heiress living such a tragic life.

After leaving Halden Group, Abigail’s thoughts drifted to Clark.

She hadn’t thought about him in ages, not since he’d ignored her last message. Now it occurred to her that Clark might actually be Sebastian.

Sebastian, Clark—they shared a last name.

Despite everything, she decided to send Clark one final message.

Gabriel was hospitalized, but fortunately it wasn’t serious—just angina brought on by extreme emotional stress. “Still no word from Christian?” he asked weakly from his hospital bed.

“No, his phone’s off, and I’ve tried all his social media accounts. No response at all.” Stephen sat beside the bed, his voice heavy with dejection.