Chapter 1752: Chapter 1852

I asserted firmly, “We are a family, regardless of appearances.

”

Sensing my potential irritation, Shirley lowered her voice to clarify, “I merely meant it as a compliment because you all look striking.

If you’d rather not be complimented, then let’s drop it.

”

With that, she turned away, visibly upset, and fell silent.

My frustration grew.

Turning to Andrew, I asked pointedly, “Why did you keep calling me? If it’s nothing urgent, we should head out.

It’s not wise to drive after dark.

”

Andrew cast a quick glance at Shirley and urged her softly, “Come on, don’t dally.

Debra’s about to leave.

”

Shirley appeared hesitant but eventually faced me, resigning herself to the situation.

My confusion only deepened, unsure of Shirley’s intentions.

Yet, in the following moment, she bowed deeply, a full ninety degrees, to my family and offered a heartfelt apology.

“I’m truly sorry.

I won’t make reckless decisions again.

From now on, no child will be involved in my actions, I promise.

”

Shirley, always so proud and dismissive, was now apologizing to me, something I had never expected.

Her contrition didn’t end there.

“Having wronged you, I’ll do whatever it takes to make amends, regardless of the punishment or compensation you deem fit.

I sincerely hope you can forgive me.

”

This unexpected humility from Shirley forced me to reassess her.

It became clear that her actions were driven by a desire to earn Andrew’s forgiveness, indicating her deep feelings for him.

With a sigh, I responded with measured calmness, “Since you’ve made the effort to apologize and vowed not to harm any child again, I’ll let it pass this time.

But be warned, if you cross me again, my response won’t be as forgiving.

”

Shirley nodded vigorously, assuring me, “I won’t cause you any more trouble.

”

Watching Shirley in this state, I couldn’t resist a chuckle.

Once the promise was made, Shirley confessed with a hint of resentment, “Initially, I disliked you because I thought you were Andrew’s girlfriend.

I believed you had stolen my man and that you were someone climbing the social ladder.

Naturally, I felt irritated whenever I saw you.

”

I found her admission amusing and asked, “And now?”

Shirley gave a shy smile.

“Now I realize you and Andrew were just pretending all along.

You have a wonderful husband like Caleb, and together you have three children.

It’s clear now that you and Andrew could never be an item, so there’s no chance you’re my romantic rival.

”

Her remarks left me speechless.

It was apparent that her love for Andrew clouded all other thoughts.

“Is love really all you think about?”

Shirley gave a nonchalant eye roll.

“Yes.

My thoughts are straightforward, and even when I try, I can’t think as deeply as my mom, Addy, or Andrew.

Listening to them allows me to lead a good life without worrying about making my own decisions.

”

Hearing this, I was at a loss for words.

Perhaps there was a certain bliss in her silliness.

Born into support and unconditional love, with her life laid out for her, Shirley’s existence was something ordinary people couldn’t fathom.

As someone who had always been self-reliant, I found myself, strangely enough, envying Shirley a bit.

Debra’s POV:

We had a long conversation until I realized it was getting late.

I then suggested we should leave before nightfall.