Ann stood across from Caitlin, radiating an air of gentle kindness that seemed almost theatrical. Even her voice was soft, every word dripping with empathy.

The camera focused on the two of them, capturing every nuance for the

livestream. As Ann spoke, the chat erupted into a frenzy:

"Oh my god, Victoria is just too kind! Even after everything Freya's done, she's not seeking revenge-she just wants an apology. She's a saint!"

"Victoria's being so understanding, and Freya can't even appreciate it? I'm furious!"

"If I could just step into that ballroom, I'd drag Freya up to the stage and make her answer for this. Disgusting."

"Freya just doesn't care at all, does she?"

"My Victoria really is the embodiment of kindness."

"Freya is so lucky to have Victoria as her sister-she must have saved a kingdom in her previous life to deserve this."

"What's Freya even playing at?"

"Anyone cursed with a sister like Freya must have the worst luck imaginable."

And on and on it went.

Caitlin listened to Ann's words and looked up, meeting her gaze with clear, unflinching eyes—there wasn't even a flicker of guilt. Her lips curled into a calm smile. "Ann, I could say the same to you. If you're willing to tell the truth and apologize right here, on this livestream, maybe there's still a chance to fix things. But if you wait for Mr. Quinten to arrive in person, there'll be no turning back."

Caitlin had never cared for fame or fortune. Who deserved Mr. Quinten's gratitude didn't interest her in the slightest. But that didn't mean she had no boundaries. Now, Ann had crossed a line, and Caitlin had no intention of backing down.

Ann's eyes turned red as she blinked away tears, her voice trembling. "Freya, I told you—if you want my account, if you want anything that's mine, I'll give it to you, no questions asked."

"You're my only sister, and like Grandma, I'll always protect you. Even though I'm the one who saved Mr. Quinten's life, I can't ask the old gentleman to lie for you."

Ann looked every bit the picture of wounded innocence-anyone watching would think she'd suffered the greatest injustice.

The chat bristled with outrage:

"Freya turned out this way because of Keira, that grandmother's just as much to blame!"

"Such blatant favoritism!"

"Poor Victoria, she's been through so much in that family."

"What's wrong with Keira?"

Miranda, fuming, marched to Ann's side and spoke up for her. "Ann, you're just too good-that's why people take advantage of you. Your account is yours, why should you hand it over?"

She turned on Caitlin, eyes blazing. "Freya, let me tell you something. As long as we're here, you're not going to bully Ann!"

To Miranda, Caitlin's behavior was beyond belief. Stealing from your own sister- unthinkable.

What kind of person does that to their family?

But Caitlin didn't rise to the bait. Her

voice remained cool and steady. "Miss Lowell, let me give you a word

of advice Don't pass judgment. When you're not the one in the middle of the storm. Until M Quinten arrives, you'd be wise to keep quiet."

"Well said! Don't pass judgment from the sidelines!" Vesta applauded as she made her way over.

"Miss Gonzales, I have to admire

your nerve and your acting skills. Even now, you're still playing

innocent. Honestly, you could win an

you thought

Oscar for this Haven't what with

about the consequences?

you do when Mr. Quinten gets here and the truth comes out?"

Vesta and Ann had never been close, but between Ann and Caitlin, it was obvious

to her who was the real deal. Without hesitation, she sided with Ann.