Chapter 36

Chapter 36:

Rylie climbed the grand staircase, her leather jacket and fitted pants drawing every gaze in the hall — she was an undeniable outlier among the crowd of polished socialites. She nonchalantly blew a bubble with her gum, strolled right up to the Kirk family, and said, “I’ll only be a couple of minutes. I need to grab something from upstairs p>

Without waiting for a reply, she turned on her heel and disappeared into her old bedroom.

Tessa’s composure snapped as she watched Rylie’s retreating figure. “Just look at her outfit! This is the night Stacey’s recognized as our daughter, and Rylie can’t even pretend to act with dignity p>

But Phillip’s focus wasn’t on her clothes. He was squinting out the window at the motorcycle parked by the entrance, his voice sharp with suspicion. “She’s going too far these days. Where on earth did she get the money for a bike like that p>

Leland interjected, brow furrowing in warning. “Enough, Phillip. This isn’t the time for wild accusations p>

Phillip bristled, refusing to back down. “You clearly don’t get it. That bike outside? It’s a rare model — costs at least two million. Since she’s no longer with the family, I’d like to know what trick she pulled to afford it p>

Stacey cut in without a pause, saying, “Phillip, you need to stop with these wild claims. Rylie isn’t the type to steal money from us or sell herself. She must have made money through rightful means p>

From the outside looking in, what sounded like a defense actually hinted at something less charitable about Rylie.

Casper’s anger burned so hot that he felt pain in his chest. “At first, I hoped Rylie could settle in Crolens, but if she keeps carrying the Kirk name, she’ll ruin our standing. She cannot stay here p>

A small, self-satisfied smile crept across Stacey’s lips as she lowered her eyes. The moment Rylie walked back into the room, contemptuous stares greeted her from every corner.

In full view of the guests, Casper confronted her. “Rylie, look at the trouble you’ve brought us. Admit what you did, then offer your apology p>

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Whispers filled the air as the guests watched, eager for the drama to unfold.

Yet Rylie remained poised, her face unreadable. “My visit was by your request. I didn’t come here to put on a show of regret p>

Casper’s outrage flared. “There’s no hope for you! Your brothers had every reason to drive you out p>

With a deepening scowl, Tessa said, “I made it here today just to make one thing clear: Stacey is our daughter now. Rylie, there’s nothing you could say or do to change that p>

Tessa’s words were cut short as Rylie lifted a box and revealed an emerald necklace. “This necklace was given to me by your mother. I’m returning it to you, Stacey.” She set the box in Stacey’s hands, then brought out a brooch. “Here’s the limited edition brooch Nicolas gifted me as a child. You should have it now p>

Next came a delicate ring. “This pink diamond ring, from Leland, is yours too.” Finally, she held out a small trophy. “And the trophy Phillip gave me after his first win — take it as well p>

After passing the entire collection into Stacey’s hands, Rylie spoke up. “Everything here belongs to you now p>