?Chapter 1253:


    Within the grand estate, only Harold and Norma were present.


    When Belinda and Lucas arrived, they all gathered around the dining table to share a meal.


    Harold was the first to break the silence. “I’ve already been informed about what happened with Carmelita. Her actions crossed the line this time. She must be held ountable—if we let this slide, she’ll only be more reckless in the future.”


    He nced briefly at Belinda and Lucas before continuing, “You don’t have to worry about Nigel. I’ve already spoken to him and made things very clear. This time, the fault lies entirely with their side.”


    Belinda offered a gentle smile. “Thank you, Harold.”


    “We’re family; no need for you to thank me,” Harold replied casually with a wave of his hand.


    Norma then leaned in and asked, “Has it been confirmed who colluded with Carmelita? Was it Verena?”


    “Yes,” Lucas responded with a solemn nod. “And not only that, Verena was also the one assisting Minna in secret back then. She was the one who had people abduct and assault Kylee. Then, she framed Belinda for the matter and conspired with Kylee to harm Belinda.”


    “What?” Norma’s face darkened, her expression contorted by shock.


    Even Harold’s demeanor turned grave.


    Furious, Norma mmed her hand on the table. “That vile woman! She’s despicable! Who would have imagined she had orchestrated all of this from behind the scenes?”


    Then, as if recalling something important, she turned sharply to Lucas. “Lucas, didn’t you uncover any of this earlier?”


    Lucas’s expression was taut. “No. Verena was extremely discreet and took great care to cover her tracks. That’s why my investigations never linked anything directly to her. It wasn’t until recently that we stumbled across some overlooked evidence and found out about her involvement. That’s why I believe someone else has been helping her, someonepetent and powerful.”


    The moment those words left Lucas’s mouth, Harold’s expression subtly shifted. He furrowed his brows.


    He remained silent for a beat, then asked in a measured tone, “Do you have any leads? Anyone in mind?”


    Lucas shook his head. “Not at the moment.”


    Harold fell silent, saying nothing more.


    The conversation then shifted to lighter topics, and overall, the atmosphere was good during the meal.


    After the meal, the four took a brief walk in the estate gardens before Lucas and Belinda departed for home.


    After getting into the car, Lucas couldn’t help but frown slightly.


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