The Beginning Of All Sins

The board of directors approached Claude after hearing from Lilah. "We're glad this was just a misunderstanding, Claude. Please ignore our earlier comments." Claude smiled and replied, "Why would I mind? I know you're all just concerned. It's understandable."

Everyone smiled in relief, not knowing it was Tyler who had stirred up trouble in the meeting to warn Claude.

After the meeting, Claude and Lilah left the room. Claude noticed Tyler was still there, talking to Jordan.

Jordan spotted Claude and immediately said, "Claude, why didn't you take care of Tyler yourself?"

Walking over, Claude smiled. "I was in a meeting and didn't want to interrupt."

Tyler politely said, "I didn't realize he was busy. It's fine, I'll catch him next time." He then said his goodbyes and left Claude and Jordan alone.

Claude watched Tyler leave with a cold stare.

Jordan turned to him and instructed, "Don't mess with the restructuring plans."

Smiling, Claude just nodded and replied flatly, "Mm-hmm."

Back in his office, Claude looked at Morgan's framed photo. This text is property of Nô/velD/rama.Org.

He studied her smile for a moment before turning the photo face down, determined never to see her face again.

Olivia had been staring at a love locket she received. She didn't want to keep it and planned to ask Sophie to return it to Claude.

As she was about to make the call, her phone rang-it was Naomi. Without a second thought, Olivia hung up, not wanting any contact with her.

Naomi didn't call again but sent a couple of texts instead.

[Can you forgive me, Olivia?]

[Keep your distance from Claude, Olivia. After all, the two families have a unique relationship. If you really like him, I'll help you after the baby is born and your connection with the Harrises is over.] Olivia deleted the messages without responding.

Just then, Tyler walked in. Olivia, sitting on the couch, looked up to see him standing at a distance. The room was filled with silence.

It was as if a thin wall were between them. Neither dared to bridge the gap.

Tyler acted as if nothing was wrong and casually asked, "I suppose you stayed in the room all day?"