?Chapter 636:


    And then, like pieces of a puzzle falling into ce, understanding dawned upon her. She had assumed Andromache’s hostility toward the Ford family was personal—an attack directed at her. But now she realized there was something deeper at y.


    Without Nate by her side, Corrine found herself disinterested in the scenery and decided to retrace her steps.


    Meanwhile, a group ofdies, led by Judie, had gathered at a distance. As Corrine approached, their gazes turned toward her, filled with a mix of curiosity and scrutiny.


    Though they were clearly aware of her presence, no one made the effort to speak to her.


    It was obvious they were intentionally excluding her.


    Corrine ignored their juvenile behavior and weed the unexpected solitude.


    She found a quiet spot, pulled out her phone, and began browsing.


    “What’s the best birthday gift for a boyfriend?” Karina read aloud from over Corrine’s shoulder, her voice t and emotionless.


    Startled, Corrine quickly locked her phone and shot Karina an embarrassed re.


    “Why are you so stealthy?” she eximed.


    Karina noticed Corrine’s slightly swollen lips, and a mischievous smile appeared on her face.


    “Maybe because you were too engrossed to notice anyone,” she retorted.


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    Corrine touched her lips subconsciously, realizing where Karina’s attention hadnded.


    “Since you’re here, help me out,” she said quickly.


    “Nate’s birthday ising up, and I need to find him a gift.”


    A momentter, a flicker of trouble crossed Corrine’s delicate features. She rested her chin on one hand and idly stirred her drink with a ss straw, the clinking of ice breaking the quiet.


    “It seems like he needs nothing,” she muttered with a soft sigh.


    “Who says he needs nothing?” Karina countered, her eyes twinkling.


    “There’s always something missing.”


    “Like what?” Corrine asked, her eyes sparkling with intrigue.


    “Well, Mr. Hopkins has been famously single for years, avoiding romantic ties. Maybe what he’s missing is a bit of tender loving care,” Karina said, her smile widening, her tone yful.


    Corrine was at a loss for words.


    She shook her head, realizing she should have known better than to expect practical advice from Karina.


    Seeing Corrine’s fading smile, Karina leaned in, grinning mischievously.


    “Tell me the truth. Have you two… you know?” she asked.


    “What?” Corrine looked puzzled.


    “You know, that thing.” Karina raised her eyebrows suggestively.


    A slight blush tinged Corrine’s cheeks as she caught on.


    “No,” she murmured.


    “Then you really should consider my suggestion!” Karina said, lightly pping the table.


    Corrine fell silent, stirring her drink absently. After a pause, she mumbled, “But shouldn’t he be the one to initiate?”


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