?Chapter 1231:


    Unfortunately for her, her joy didn’tst long.


    “However…” Lucas added, “I don’t want to see Carmelita in Askya for the next five years.”


    A deafening silence followed his words, and Carmelita felt like she had been struck by lightning. She stared at Lucas in disbelief.


    What did he just say?


    Five years? He wanted her gone from the country for five years?


    He was practically banishing her!


    How could this be happening?


    “Lucas!” Brielle gasped, her face pale with shock.


    Nigel looked hesitant. “Lucas, this…”


    Lucas didn’t bother ncing at Brielle. He fixed his gaze on Nigel, his tone cold and unyielding. “You should know this better than anyone. Once I’ve made up my mind, there is no room for negotiations. You’re well aware of my methods as well. You wouldn’t want me to personally handle the matter, would you?” His words were a tant threat.


    “Grandpa! Please don’t make me do this!” Carmelitapletely panicked. She looked at her grandfather with pleading, tear-filled eyes, then quickly darted them over to Lucas. “Lucas, I know I was wrong. Please, forgive me just this once. I promise, I’ll never do something like this again! I’m begging you…”


    Lucas paid her no attention. He simply stared at Nigel in silence, waiting for his answer.


    After a long silence, Nigel finally let out a weary sigh. “Lucas… can you give me some time to think this through?”


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    Lucas, appearing remarkably patient, gave a slight nod. “Of course. You can tell me your decision by this time tomorrow.”


    “Alright,” Nigel said, suddenly looking much older, as if the weight of the world had settled onto his shoulders.


    Lucas then turned to Belinda. “Let’s go.”


    Taking her hand, he led her out of the Davidson family’s residence. As soon as they departed, Carmelita rushed forward to plead with Nigel again, desperation evident in her voice. “Grandfather, please, I—”


    “Enough! Go to your room and reflect on your actions!” Nigel interjected, his tone allowing no argument.


    Without another word, Nigel turned and ascended the grand staircase, his footsteps heavy. He knew Carmelita had crossed a line too serious to forgive easily, yet Lucas’s proposed punishment—sending her abroad for five years—seemed overly harsh. He had to find a way to negotiate with Lucas and convince him to reconsider.


    Once settled into his chair in the study, Nigel exhaled deeply before picking up his phone to dial Harold’s number.


    Meanwhile, Lucas and Belinda drove toward the Grand ins General Hospital, the air between them thick with contemtion.


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