?Chapter 1354:


    Belinda’s eyes lowered, hershes veiling the emotions swimming in them. A faint, ironic smile touched her lips. “She had her reasons?” she murmured, her voice almost inaudible.


    She drew in a slow, steady breath, then gave a small nod. “Alright. I do need to talk to her in person about this.”


    “Okay,” Kenia said, her voice cracking under the weight of emotion.


    Belinda said, “Grandma, you should get some rest. Let’s just wait until Holley arrives tomorrow.”


    “Alright.” Kenia’s face was still ashen.


    Belinda leaned closer, her voice soft but firm. “Grandma, whatever happens, please remember—you’ll always be my family. I’ll never turn my back on you.”


    “Stay by your side and take care of you for the rest of your life. Nothing will ever change that.”


    “I know, sweetheart. I know…” Kenia’s tears flowed freely, streaking down her cheeks.


    Belinda held her for a long while, offering quietfort before finally leaving.


    When she returned to the main bedroom, her face was expressionless, which only deepened Lucas’ concern for her.


    The calmer Belinda appeared, the more worried Lucas felt.


    He would have rather seen her cry or curse at Holley.


    He stood up and gently guided Belinda to the sofa, holding her hand. “What did your grandmother say?” he asked softly.


    “She said we’ll speak to Holley tomorrow and let her exin herself,” Belinda replied, her toneposed.


    Lucas gave a slight nod. “Alright… We’ll listen to what she has to say about the matter.”


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    Just then, Belinda pulled her hand from his grasp. “Lucas, I’m tired. I think I’ll take a shower now.”


    Lucas hesitated, as if wanting to say more, but swallowed his words and forced a smile. “Okay.”


    Belinda offered a faint smile in return before turning toward the closet.


    Lucas watched her go, a heavy frown clouding his features. His heart ached for her.


    That night, as theyy together in bed, Lucas wrapped his arms around Belinda tightly.


    Belinda turned in his embrace, her arms snaking around his neck. She leaned forward, brushing her lips against his in a slow, tender kiss.


    “Lucas,” she whispered, “I want you…”


    Lucas’ eyes deepened, and his breath caught in his throat.


    “Belinda, are you sure—”


    Before Lucas could finish speaking, Belinda silenced him with another kiss.


    Her voice then came in a whisper. “Will you make love to me now?”


    Seeing Belinda like this, Lucas couldn’t hold back anymore.


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