?Chapter 823:


    Just as the doors were about to slide shut, a firm hand shot through the gap. Brian pushed his way in, half his body wedged inside before the sensors reopened the doorspletely.


    His voice carried a rare sincerity as he looked at Rachel.


    “Please, just listen to me.”


    Rachel’s jaw tightened.


    “I don’t have time for this.”


    Brian’s gaze didn’t waver.


    “What if it’s about the divorce?”


    That made her pause. Without a word, she pressed the open-door button and stepped out, leading the way back to his office.


    In the office, they settled into their seats as Ronald quietly ced a jewelry box on the table.


    But before anything could be said, a hurried knock echoed through the room.


    Rachel turned toward the doorway and froze. It was Debby. The shock in Debby’s eyes mirrored her own.


    “You two?” Debby’s voice held confusion and hesitation.


    “Mom, I’m in the middle of something. We’ll talkter.”


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    Debby, however, didn’t budge.


    “You go ahead. I’ll speak after you’re done,” she insisted, making it clear she wasn’t leaving.


    Brian shot Ronald a nce, signaling him to escort her out.


    But before he could move, Debby stepped forward, her sharp eyes locking onto Rachel.


    “Since you’re back, there are things I want to rify with you.”


    Rachel’s lips curled into a faint smirk.


    “That’s fine. I have things to clear up too.”


    Debby exhaled slowly, as if steeling herself. Then, to Rachel’s utter shock, she bowed.


    “I know Brian still hasn’t let go of you. I made a lot of mistakes in the past, and for that, I owe you an apology. So today, I sincerely and formally apologize to you.”


    Debby bowed three times, each one carrying deep remorse.


    She held thest bow for an especially long moment before speaking.


    “Rachel, I’m truly sorry. My own prejudice and ignorance caused pain to both you and my son.”


    Rachel bit her lip, caught off guard by the unexpected apology. Of all the scenarios she had imagined for this moment, an apology had never been one of them.


    “If you’re willing to forgive Brian and start over, I won’t stand in the way this time. In fact, I’ll personally arrange a grand wedding—everyone will know my rightful daughter-inw.”


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