Seven Years of Love Seven Minutes of Truth

Chapter 6

I couldn't tolerate betrayal. After the party, I began making arrangements.

Thanks to that share transfer agreement, I owned a significant portion of Reyes Industries. I'd never signed the document before, but now I needed to maximize my interests. The irony wasn't lost on me - what once felt like an insult now seemed like providence, making my escape easier.

The share negotiations progressed smoothly. I didn't care who ultimately bought them – whether it bled the Reyes family dry or went to their competitors. I arranged to meet Callum at the family estate to settle everything.

But even for this crucial meeting, he brought Sophie along.

“Sophie's just visiting Grandmother - they've always been close. Don't read into it," Callum explained before I could speak, his guilty eyes betraying him.

I watched silently as they exchanged meaningful glances. Mila kept insisting, "I love you most, Mommy," before gravitating toward Sophie, turning her back on me.

As I moved to discuss business with Callum upstairs, there was a crash. Sophie had fallen, her hand and leg bleeding from broken glass.

"Aunt Sophie!" Mila cried out.

Callum didn't hesitate – he shoved me aside to reach Sophie, scooping her up without a backward glance.

My arm throbbed where it hit the banister. My heart ached worse.

“Callum, where are you going?"

He paused briefly. "Sophie's hurt. I'm taking her to the hospital.” He added carefully, “Aria, you understand we can't let it scar, right?"

Mila chimed in, “Don't be jealous, Mommy. We can't ignore family when they're hurt!"

My daughter's accusation cut deep. I glanced at my swollen wrist - unnoticed, uncared for.

Sophie draped herself around Callum's neck, flashing me a triumphant smile. “Don't worry, sister. It's just a hospital trip."

“Aria, be reasonable,” Callum snapped as Sophie whimpered. “What could possibly happen in public?” They left, Mila trailing behind without a second thought.

3.0%

Chapter 6

Grandmother Reyes watched it all, finally approaching with her cane. “Sophie was always meant to be my grandson's wife. Without a marriage certificate, you can't stop them."

She headed upstairs, ordering chicken soup for Sophie.

My phone rang an unknown number, but I knew who it was.

"Have you decided? You'll find my offer very generous."

I stared at the empty courtyard. My husband and daughter had rushed to another woman's aid, the perfect little family.

I'd tried to maintain dignity by not selling to the Reyes' biggest rival. But now - with Callum's betrayal, Mila's rejection, and Grandmother's constant disdain - what was dignity worth?

I took a deep breath and answered: “Yes, I'll sell you the shares.”