Chapter 1597: Chapter 1697

Was this some kind of bizarre reversal?

I watched Shirley closely, skepticism clear in my gaze.

I knew her all too well.

She was haughty and spoiled.

A genuine change in her demeanor seemed utterly improbable.

Was she plotting a ruse for me to be lured into?

Shirley caught on to my guarded look, gave a gentle smile, and continued, “Debra, I regret my previous actions.

Trust me, I’ve realized what I need to leave in the past.

I truly hope for your and Andrew’s happiness together.

I wish for your forgiveness.

”

I couldn’t suppress a derisive snort.

After all the emotional turmoil she had inflicted, did she really think a simple apology would make everything right?

Ivy blurted out, “Honey, just ignore this disgusting bitch.

She’s hurt you so much before.

It’s unlikely she’s truly changed.

Who knows what she’s scheming?”

Ivy made a good point, but catching Andrew’s eye, I was reminded of my role at the moment.

I wasn’t just myself.

I was also Andrew’s fiancee.

Since Shirley is the clan leader’s daughter and was already humbling herself before me, etiquette required me to at least superficially acknowledge her gesture, if not genuinely.

Taking a deep breath to steady myself, I smiled at Shirley and raised my glass in a toast, offering polite, vague compliments.

“Life is long, and we all make mistakes.

I’m sure your actions weren’t meant to harm, and I hold no grudge.

”

Andrew, smiling at my side, chimed in, “Exactly, Shirley.

Debra is very understanding and doesn’t linger on past grievances.

”

Clearly, he was happy to see Shirley and me on what appeared to be the road to reconciliation.

Shirley’s eyes lit up with delight.

“That’s marvelous! I always know you’re the most compassionate and gentle, Debra.

Andrew, you’ve made a wonderful choice.

”

“Bah!” Ivy spat out, umable to hide her scorn.

“It’s obvious Shirley’s pretending.

And Andrew, really, what kind of nonsense is that, expecting you to forgive her?”

Debra’s POV:

Ivy’s analysis was spot-on, hitting the core of the issue.

I found myself in an uncomfortable predicament, like being coerced into swallowing greasy, repulsive fat in full view of everyone, with no recourse but to force it down.

At that moment, the urge to lash out peaked within me, but I restrained myself for the sake of Andrew’s dignity.

With a forced smile, I carried on with the pleasantries.

“It’s heartening to witness you acknowledge your errors and strive for change, Shirley.

”

Just as the conversation reached an unbearable level of insincerity, other guests approached Andrew for toasts and small talk, relieving the awkward atmosphere and allowing me a moment to catch my breath.

Andrew cast a glance my way, poised to engage with the other guests.

Not wishing to inconvenience him, I nodded in acquiescence.

“Excellent timing!” Ivy remarked, feeling content.

“With Andrew occupied, you needn’t endure Shirley any longer.

”

However, after Andrew left, Shirley remained nearby and signaled to a passing waiter carrying champagne with a smile.