Chapter 256

That day, the Levines withdrew their complaint, agreeing to mediation. Christina and Gregory found Brittany slumped on a bench at the station, her clothes soiled and clinging.

"Brittany, darling!" Christina cried, rushing to embrace her daughter. The stench hit her instantly – Brittany had wet herself.

"Mom, why so long? You know how I spent the night?" Brittany sobbed, "Why did you wait to rescue me?!"

Christina hugged her tight, ignoring the smell. "I'm sorry, my fault. It’s over. Those who wronged you will pay." Her teeth clenched, images of the Levines and Paisley flashing through her mind.

Brittany shoved her away. "I want out of here! I need a shower!"

Christina nodded frantically, pulling her up. "Home now."

Brittany frowned. "Home? That dump? Take me to a hotel!"

"No, no, the villa," Christina coaxed.

Brittany's face lit up. "The villa? Dad said I could come back?"

Gregory arrived, beaming. He started to hug her, then recoiled at the smell, his forced smile strained. He managed to keep his composure, but Brittany saw his reaction. The humiliation was unbearable; in the past, Gregory would have abandoned her. But not now.

Seeing her tears, he rushed to comfort her. "Don't cry, my daughter. I'll take you home."

"Dad, you really mean it?" Brittany asked, surprised.

"Of course. I was impulsive. I regret it. To be honest, it’s all Paisley’s fault. If not for her…" He trailed off, blaming Paisley for everything.

Brittany’s face hardened. She wouldn’t forget Paisley’s cold indifference while the Levines preyed on her.