Chapter 513



With a sneer, Bethany continued, “I don’t believe Verena actually tried to kill herself. She must have been putting on an act.”

“It doesn’t matter anymore; it’s all in the past,” Belinda said calmly, then gently pressed her lips together.

Yet, both Johnson and Bethany could see that beneath Belinda’s calm exterior, she was far from composed. She was merely pretending to be unfazed.

At that moment, Johnson felt a twinge of regret. He regretted having told Lucas too soon that he didn’t have feelings for Belinda. He had believed that once Lucas realized his feelings for Belinda, their relationship would stabilize. But now… now it seemed that as long as Verena held any place in Lucas’ heart, no matter how small, Lucas and Belinda could never truly be together.

Just then, a notification from WhatsApp interrupted Johnson’s thoughts. He retrieved his phone and checked the message. It was from Lucas: “Come out for a moment; I am waiting for you on the small balcony.”

After a moment of hesitation, Johnson stood up and said to Belinda and Bethany, “I need to make a call.” He then left the private room, phone in hand.

Stepping onto the small balcony, he immediately saw Lucas waiting there.

Upon spotting Lucas, Johnson was swept by a tide of emotions.

“How is Belinda?” Lucas broke the silence first.

“She is not doing well,” Johnson said directly. “She might pretend she is unaffected, that she doesn’t care, but Bethany and I know she is far from okay. She is vulnerable and profoundly hurt right now.”

Lucas’ brow creased deeply as he absorbed Johnson’s words, his face reflecting a gradual shift in emotion.

Johnson exhaled a weary sigh, fixing his gaze on Lucas. “Lucas, do you realize how distraught Belinda was last night? How terrified and powerless she felt, confronting that attacker alone?” he asked.

He paused for a moment before adding, “Yes, Belinda is skilled at fighting, and most criminals wouldn’t stand a chance against her. But does that mean she should be left to fend for herself? Doesn’t she deserve someone who cares for her?”

Lucas looked down, his voice heavy with remorse. “I never intended for things to end up like this,” he said.

Johnson’s smile was tinged with sarcasm. “But that’s just it, isn’t it? You were so preoccupied with Verena that you neglected Belinda once again.” He shook his head, his laugh cold and mocking. “For Belinda, being overlooked by you isn’t anything new. She’s grown accustomed to it.”

Lucas’ features tightened. He felt as though the words had constricted his heart, making each breath a struggle.

Johnson fixed him with a stern look. “Do you know why Belinda won’t give you another chance?” he asked.

Their eyes locked, and Lucas’ gaze was earnest.

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