Chapter 174



Hearing this, Holley was momentarily speechless, her lips parting but no words emerging.

Belinda continued, “If it eases your mind, then yes, Mom, I don’t blame you for any of this. Just focus on recovering and let go of these thoughts.”

Holley’s face turned a bit red, a trace of embarrassment flickering in her eyes. Over the years, Belinda had realized that Holley was inherently a timid soul, prone to avoiding confrontation. This wasn’t new to her. She had recognized this trait in her mother long ago.

What was there to hold against her mother? This was simply who Holley was. Moreover, even if she blamed her mother for this, what purpose would it serve? Holley was her mother, the one who had raised her. Acceptance was her only real option.

“Belinda…” Holley began, wanting to say something more, but Belinda cut her off.

“Let’s call it a night. You need your rest now. I’ll stay right here with you.”

Belinda quickly finished wiping down the last few spots of Holley’s body and made sure Holley was comfortable in bed.

Holley said nothing more and slowly shut her eyes.

That night, Belinda remained vigilantly at Holley’s bedside. She tended to Holley throughout the night, and it wasn’t until just past dawn that Holley’s fever began to subside.

Once Holley awoke, Belinda fed her a bowl of warm soup and ensured she took her medicine. Only then did she feel comfortable enough to return to her room for some rest.

Yet, come noon, Holley’s voice unexpectedly roused her.

Belinda rubbed her eyes wearily and propped herself up, asking Holley, “What’s the matter? Are you feeling unwell again?”

Shaking her head, Holley replied, “No, I’m fine now.”

“But your father… He is back.”

She hesitated for a moment before adding, “He wants to speak with you about something.”

At this, Belinda’s expression tightened with frustration. She responded, somewhat sharply, “Didn’t you tell him I was up all night? Can’t this wait?”

The abrupt awakening had left Belinda with a heavy headache.

Holley spoke in a hushed tone. “I mentioned it, but he insisted on talking to you now. He has other commitments later and wants to see you right away. He said you could return to sleep afterward.”

Belinda’s frustration was palpable, her anger nearly spilling over.

“Alright, I understand. Just give me a moment,” she said tersely.

“Okay, he’s in the study waiting for you,” Holley said.

Then, she quietly exited the room.

Belinda quickly got dressed and left her room, heading toward the study. She couldn’t help but wonder what urgent matter her father needed to discuss with her right now.

In the study, Belinda entered with dark circles under her bloodshot eyes, visibly worn from a sleepless night.

Baker noticed her fatigue but merely gestured toward the sofa with a composed demeanor. “Sit down,” he said.

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