The Jilted Heiress' Return to the High Life - Chapter 156

Chapter 156:

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Donnelly, with a casual air, twirled the bracelet in his fingers, his voice as cool as ice.

“The Ashton family’s behavior today has truly shocked me. Just moments ago, a group of you ganged up on Corrine, forcing her to kneel and apologize. Now that the truth is out, none of you can even offer a simple apology? Is this how the Ashton family uses its influence—to oppress others?” His words cut through the room like a blade, dragging the entire Ashton family through the mud, painting them as tyrants.

“They’ve been ungrateful, so of course, they think they can use their power to oppress others.” A low, cold voice suddenly shattered the tension, its frigid tone freezing the very air and sending a chill down everyone’s spine.

At the sound of the familiar voice, Corrine’s heart skipped a beat. She quickly turned around, her gaze meeting that of Nate, standing just a few steps away.

Panic flashed in her eyes. When had he arrived? Had he seen everything that had transpired?

Women, more than anyone, wanted to appear at their best in front of those they loved, and Corrine was no exception. She dreaded Nate seeing her harsh, unyielding side.

Noticing her distress, Nate’s lips curled into a soft, reassuring smile. He mouthed the words, “I’m here for you; don’t be scared.”

Those simple, comforting words left Corrine momentarily breathless.

“Who are you?” Gloria snapped, her eyes narrowing in suspicion and hostility.

Nate’s expression hardened, his lips pressed into a thin line as he responded, his tone as frigid as the winter air, “Her protector.”

Nate’s claim of being her protector stirred something in Corrine’s heart.

In this chaotic world, there really existed a rare and unexplainable bond—a connection where someone embraced her cold exterior and accepted her completely, without question.

Corrine’s heart felt as though it had been struck by something powerful, yet soothing. A warmth seeped into the cracks of her guarded emotions, wrapping around her heart like a tender embrace and spreading through her entire being. At that moment, an overwhelming urge washed over her. She wanted nothing more than to run to him, throw her arms around him, and whisper, “Thank you, Nate.”

She wanted to thank him for stepping in when the world seemed against her, bringing her light in the midst of shadow. She was grateful to him for choosing to stand with her, without needing a single reason.

Farris, although oblivious to Nate’s full identity, could sense an aura of authority radiating from him. His brows furrowed slightly as his sharp gaze darted between Nate and Corrine. Finally, he exhaled heavily and barked in a cold, commanding tone, “What are you all standing there for? Apologize immediately! Otherwise, don’t think about setting foot in this house again!”

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The unspoken threat loomed heavy in the air. If anyone from the Ashton family defied him now, it was clear he wouldn’t hesitate to sever ties. And with Farris’ health declining, everyone knew what that could mean—the family assets would all pass to his eldest son.

Panic began to ripple through the group. Unable to contain his unease, one of them finally stepped forward, his voice shaky with urgency.

“Miss Holland, I—I’m sorry, I misjudged you earlier, and I sincerely apologize.”

Corrine stayed where she was, seated comfortably in her chair. Her expression didn’t change as she toyed with the coffee cup in her hand, her movements slow and deliberate. It was as though she was waiting for something—or someone.

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