Chapter 422



When Kylee thought of that, the turmoil in her eyes faded, replaced by a practiced calm. She managed a small, reassuring smile and looked up at Lucas.

She said, “Rest assured, Mr. Clark. I am not lying.”

Lucas tilted his head, his tone laden with unspoken meaning as he replied, “Is that so?”

He then turned and walked away, his tall, commanding figure exuding an effortless authority that left Kylee breathless.

Kylee exhaled deeply after Lucas left, trying to ease the tightness in her chest. Lucas’ presence was overpowering, a force that seemed to compress the very air around her. But the lie was already told. All she could do now was pray that Lucas would never uncover the truth, that he would remain in the dark forever.

Pressing her lips together, Kylee spun on her heel and left.

After work, Belinda returned to Vera Villas, feeling the weight of the day pressing down on her. During dinner, Holley kept slipping extra portions onto Belinda’s plate, her watchful eyes darting to her face at every opportunity.

Belinda sighed, setting her fork down. “Mom, why are you looking at me like you don’t know who I am?” she asked.

Holley hesitated for a moment, her lips twitching as if she were searching for the right words. “It’s not that… It’s just…”

Belinda gave her a faint smile, though her gaze dropped. She said, “There’s no need for you to worry about me. I’m fine.”

“Belinda,” Holley began, her voice cautious, “I know this has been hard for you. Maybe you should talk to Mr. Clark again. There might still be a chance for you two to reconcile…”

Belinda’s face darkened instantly. Her eyes snapped up to meet Holley’s. “Did Baker put you up to this?”

Holley sighed in exasperation. “Belinda, Baker is your father. Besides, he is not wrong. You still have feelings for Mr. Clark, don’t you? If so, then why not—”

“Why not what?” The sharp interruption came from Kenia, whose tone was as cold as her gaze.

Holley’s words faltered under Kenia’s stern expression, and she fell silent.

Kenia’s voice was steady, almost indifferent. “Belinda knows what she’s doing. It’s not our place to meddle in her life under the guise of care.”

“I understand,” Holley replied with a nod.

Kenia’s demeanor softened slightly as she turned to Belinda. “You have surgery to perform tomorrow morning. Make sure you get enough rest tonight.”

“Alright.” Belinda gave a brief nod.

When Holley heard that, her eyes flickered with something unreadable. She suddenly spoke up with a small smile. “Yes, Belinda. It’s your first surgery as the attending physician.”

“Tomorrow is your big day—make sure you’re well-rested tonight.”

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