Addison studied the man's face, her voice steady. "Everything I've chosen to do over the past three years was entirely my decision. You shouldn't feel guilty." The abrupt end to her relationship with that person left her in a state of shock. She had observed his anguish while feeling utterly helpless. If only she had arrived earlier—if only she had acted more decisively—they might not have reached this painful conclusion ... She wouldn't be feeling so bitter, wouldn't have defied her parents to sacrifice everything for a life with the Johnstons . .. Her eyes lingered on the man, lost in memories, unaware that her gaze held a profound warmth. Lance focused intently on Addison, his expression a whirlwind of emotions. Has she truly fallen for someone else? That tender look in her eyes felt authentic; he still believed Addison loved him. But as doubt crept in, it shook his previously steadfast belief. "Don't worry," he said softly. "I'll make sure you're compensated fairly. Just tell me what you want." His gentle tone was reminiscent of the other man's. Addison managed a smile, though it was laced with self-mockery. "I don't want anything. "I sincerely hope you look after your mom, and I wish the best for the family." After all, that was also the other man's family. Surely he didn't want to see them suffer, nor did he desire unhappiness for his loved ones. That was what Addison genuinely thought. Lance fell silent, taken aback by the sincerity in her gaze. He could hardly tell what was real and what was pretense, yet a part of him wanted to trust her. Is Addison really cheating on me? Maybe I shouldn't rush to conclusions; it feels unjust to judge her without solid evidence. She loves me too deeply, and that isn't a crime. Just then, the phone rang, and Lance answered. Virginia's voice came through, tinged with strain. "Lance, are you done over there? I'm not feeling well again." "What's wrong? Did you take your medicine on schedule?" Worry seeped into Lance's tone."Lance, I miss you so much. Can you come and keep me company ... " Addison flinched at the sweet, needy tone coming through the receiver. This delicate girl had certainly shown a fiercer side when upset. Yet she understood Virginia's intent behind the call—it was a thinly veiled plea to hasten the divorce, a strategic move. Addison wasn't in the mood to indulge Virginia's melodrama, seeing as she would hand over the position as Mrs. Johnston soon. She casually opened her phone to text Keith, checking when he would arrive. Lance hung up, anxiety for Virginia's health washing over him as he was eager to rush to her side. But as soon as the call ended, reality crashed back in. Addison has been so gentle and nice, playing on emotions to prolong the divorce. I almost fell for her charm. I made a promise to Virginia, and I have to make sure she feels secured. Observing Addison quietly waiting for him to finish, pretending to be magnanimous, Lance felt a chill creep down his spine, his expression hardening. He inwardly scoffed at her. If he truly held feelings for Addison, considering her unwavering devotion over the past three years, he would have faltered by now. But he hadn't. Not being attracted to someone meant just that—no external force could change it, and he wished Addison would grasp that. With a hint of contempt, he bluntly warned her, "Addison, don't think we can escape the divorce just because my mother disagrees." Addison, still focused on her phone, looked up, surprised. "Huh?" She hadn't fully comprehended the sudden change in his demeanor. What potion has Virginia given him to shift his attitude so abruptly? "I have no feelings for you whatsoever, so don't entertain any hope. Marrying you was simply a way to find someone to care for my mother and grandfather; you were just the most convenient choice." His tone was harsh and resolute. Addison couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. "Lance, must you be so cruel when you speak?" Lance glanced at the clock. "If you're smart, I'll offer you a bit more money, enough for you to live comfortably. If not, you'll leave with nothing. Without money, you won't make it in Halton. Think it through." More money? As if I cared about the Johnstons' wealth! I really don't understand him. I genuinely wish for his happiness, yet this is the response I receive? Addison narrowed her eyes slightly, a sardonic smile playing on her lips. "I don't want a dime from the Johnstons; I wouldn't take it even if it were offered freely! "Talking more is pointless; let's just finalize the divorce paperwork!" She had no desire to argue any longer. With that, Addison angrily turned to march toward the clerk's office—only to find the door firmly closed. Frustration surged within her; she shouldn't have wasted time bickering with Lance outside. The clerk's office was closed for the day! Fuming, she spun on her heel and stormed away, no longer caring about Lance. Lance watched her retreating figure, a sigh escaping him. Why can't she get it? Even if she loves me so deeply that she won't ask for anything, I still won't return her feelings. No matter how hard someone tried, if love wasn't present, it simply wasn't.