Chapter 47
Chapter 43
“Office, it’s really a family matter, and we don’t want to press charges, Alexa said, supporting Lillian as they walked out. She couldn’t let Audrey go with The police, in case she said something she shouldn’t.
“Even though she took the money without eur permission, it was origin
iL” Lillian said, her expression a mix of mild reproach and helplessness.
It was just a misunderstanding We’re family, we won’t pursue
“Audrey was just jealous, which led to the argument with Clayton Couples fight all the time, it’s easy
hled
department” Aless chimed in, giving Clayton a meaningful look. “Right, Clayton?”
y to make up. There’s no need to involve the police
John’s career took a hit, it would also have a significant impact on Wyatt. Although Alexa wanted to teach Audrey a lesson, she was willing to swallow het resentment for the sake of John and Wyatt’s careers.
Without the police backing her up, Audrey wouldn’t be able to cause any trouble at the Patel Manor. It would be all too easy to keep her in check
Clayton suppressed the discomfort he felt inside and reached for Audrey’s waist. “Audrey, don’t be sulky, Vally and I are just friends. You misunderstood.”
Audrey dodged his touch, her expression indifferent. Her clear eyes held none of the usual tenderness. “The police will figure out if it was a misunderstanding or not.”
“This is a family issue. There’s no need to “Clayton began.
“think there is a need,” Audrey cut him off sharply, pointing at her face. “You did this. Admit it. Today, you accused me of stealing money and hit me. What if something else goes missing at home next time? You’ll blame me again.”
took a few steps forward, her eyes flashing with anger. “Audrey, you’re all alone in Ironhaven. Clayton dotes on you because he likes you. You should know your place.”
It was a blatant waming Audrey, you’re an orphan. Without Clayton, you’re nothing Lillian thought to herself.
if Clayton could force Audrey to go to Ashwood Mental Hospital, he could send her somewhere else. If Audrey disappeared quietly, no one would know or
Audrey looked at Lillian’s stern face, then at Alexa’s undisguised contempt, and finally at Clayton, who seemed both guilty and eager to smooth things
Clayton’s heart jolted. It felt sour and bitter in his chest, and the guilt from the past swelled up, choking him.
He hadn’t been eating well lately, and his stomachache had flared up. It felt like a giant hand was twisting his stomach, making his face pale with pain. He pressed his hand to his stomach and looked up at Audrey
In the past. Audrey was always the first to notice when Clayton wasn’t feeling well. She would prepare antacids for him and cook food that was easy on
the stomach.
If Audrey shows concem in front of Mom and Alexa, I can stand up for her. She says she didn’t take the money. Maybe it really was a misunderstanding I’ve accused her too many times before, Clayton thought to himself. This time, he wanted to trust Audrey
Clayton looked at her expectantly, but Audrey turned her head away. Instead of sympathy, there was a hint of disdain in her eyes. “How could she look at me like that?” Clayton wondered.
“Officer, I hope you can get to the bottom of this Audrey said firmly
Seeing that Audrey wasn’t budging Lillian couldn’t maintain her composed demeanor any longer. She raised her voice. “Audrey, we will not tolerate a troublemaker in this family.”
Audrey didn’t even glance at her. The officer nodded and looked at his colleague, who was walking out of the living room. “The Patel family has another member named Riley. Have her come to the station as well.”
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Chapter
“What does Bley have to do with this?” Alexa exclaimed shilly. “She wasn’t home when it happened, and she’s not here now. She’s just a student There’s no need to involve her.”
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“We have out reatens for needing her at the police department,” the officer said, accompanying Audrey back into the living room to get her backpack
Clayton followed. “What did you tell the police? Why are they singing key to the station?
Audrey ignored him and began picking up the scattered items from the sofa, putting them back into her bag.
“n it just because Alexa went through your bag that you want to drag filley into this?” Clayton lowered his eyes and took a deep breath.
I promise l’Il keep my distance from Vally. Go tell the police to drop the case. No matter who took the money, I’ll make it up.”
Valene, standing nearby, was stunned. Am I being excluded ke this?” she thought to herself
“Clayton Valene clutched her dress, looking at Clayton with a hurt and innocent expression. Her big eyes were brimming with tears, threatening to spill
Clayton frowned. He couldn’t stand to see Valerie looking so pitiful. But he couldn’t allow John and Wyatt’s careers to be ruined because of Audrey
Saving that Clayton wasn’t speaking up for her, Valerie walked up to Audrey “Audrey, it’s really a family matter. You don’t need to take it to the police department. Even if the investigation proves you’re innocent, the Patel family’s reputation will still be affected”
” didn’t know that bracelet was a gift from you to Clayton. If you don’t want me to wear it, return it as soon as I get home. Just stop making a fuss,”
she added
Oh, what a clever woman. She’s just given me another reason to seem like I’m getting back at the Patel family, Audrey thought to herself. She waved her hand in the air as it to swataway a foul smell, then picked up her bag and walked outside
Clayton started to follow, but Valerie grabbed his arm. “Clayton, Ishouldn’t have come today. I’m sorry I’ve caused you more trouble. Maybe I should just
Clayton’s eyes followed Audrey as she got into a police car. He shook off Valerie and reached for his car keys.
John had been sitting on the couch the whole time. His position of power was a testament to his exceptional insight. From Audrey’s reaction, he could tell this matter was far from simple
Half an hour later, the Patel family was stunned. In the reception room, the police played a surveillance video for them, showing Riley shopping at the mall last night.
There was a camera right by the elevator, clearly capturing Riley throwing an envelope into the trash can
“No, it’s impossible. How could it be Riley?” Lillian refused to accept the reality. “She’s always been well–behaved, and the family doesn’t skimp on her allowance. There must be some misunderstanding here.”
Alexa’s face turned pale, and she felt a chill run through her body. It felt like everything was falling apart.
She had watched the surveillance for a few seconds longer than Lillian and naturally saw Audrey walking out of the store and picking up the envelope. Last night, Audrey had been at the scene.
As soon as Audrey walked out of the reception room, Clayton stopped her. He was agitated and annoyed. You insisted on coming to the police department just to ruin Riley completely, didn’t you?”
Audrey sneered and shrugged innocently. “You were certain stole the money and went through my bag without permission. Once you found the envelope, you were ready to pan the blame on me
She adjusted her backpack strap and said sarcastically, “I was actually trying to help cover things up, but you forced me to tell the truth”
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Chapter 43
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hest, making it hard to breathe and causing a dull ache in his eart, He had m
nderstood Audrey
apelinges were cubit, what would be the point of having lawa?” Auday walked around him and headed outside.
(wrid. I’meam Give me nother chance. No matter what happens in the future, I’ll stand by you firmly
I don’t need to” Kudrey said family.
Audity
“need to.” Clayton tightened his grip on Rudy’s hand, his face daikening It was as if he would lose her the moment he let go. “Audrey, I’m not going to
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