Even on the rare occasions they ran out, he reminded Marlene to take care of it afterward.

Could it be that this deceitful woman didn't follow his instructions?Marlene looked aggrieved.

"Kaden, how could you say that? I swear on everything I hold dear, this child is yours. If it isn't, may misfortune strike me. You promised me that if I transferred my company's shares to you, you'd treat me well.

I've already given you the shares. My father was so upset that he had a stroke and is now bedridden. You're all I have left, how can you break up with me?"

Her words were filled with genuine grievance, so much so that even Lilah, an outsider, felt Marlene's acting had significantly improved.

Most importantly, her demeanor was genuinely convincing.

Absolon was taken aback. "Kaden, is what Marlene said true? Did she really give you her company's shares?"Kaden was at a loss for words.

The truth was out there, and anyone could find out with a little digging.

Before he could respond, Marlene continued, "Karol knew about this too. It was Karol who told me Kaden needed those shares, and because I trusted my friend and partner, I handed them over."

Unbelievable, she's pulling Karol down with her.

Lilah stood there, somewhat shocked.

Karol lowered her voice in a furious whisper, "You're spouting nonsense!"

Marlene looked pitiful. "Karol, are you planning to deny everything? I trusted you, did everything you asked. You gave me advice on so many things, and now you're turning your back on me?"

As she spoke, tears welled up, painting her as a pitiful figure that few could doubt.

Absolon's face turned grim.

He thought his daughter had changed for the better, but who would have thought she would conspire with her brother to deceive her best friend like this?

"Karol, don't you think you owe us an explanation?" Absolon sneered, his sharp gaze cutting across the room.

Danna was both shocked and angry, but her first instinct was to defend Karol.

"Absolon, you've known Karol since she was a child. She can't be... "

"Mom, please don't speak, " Absolon interrupted coldly. "I know what I'm doing."

Karol was startled, realizing even her grandmother's words held no sway. What was she to do? This wretched woman dared to team up with Lilah to trap her. It was intolerable!"Uncle Absolon, I don't need an explanation from her. My father had a stroke, and I can't even afford his medical bills. I went to Karol for help yesterday, but she refused. Perhaps she had her reasons. Uncle, could you help me get Kaden to return the shares temporarily, or I really won't survive."

Marlene pleaded, tears streaming down her face.

She was genuinely aggrieved and truly angry, but she kept the anger hidden, showing only her grievance, which pierced Karol's heart like a dagger.

Absolon understood her implication. She had been deceived and was now waking up to reclaim what was hers.