Chapter 287:

“I’ll manage this situation properly.”

On the other end of the line, Nate listened quietly, giving her the space she needed.

“I will not be a burden or a weakness in your life. I promise to stand equal to you, capable and strong.”

Determined to match his unwavering support, Corrine resolved to give her all.

“Okay.”

Nate’s response was tender and understanding.

“If you feel like crying, let it out. There’s no need to hold back, love.”

A faint smile broke through Corrine’s tears at his words.

“I understand.”

After ending the call, Corrine sighed deeply, releasing the tension.

“What do you propose we do?” Karina asked, seated like a general preparing for battle, her eyes alight with resolve.

Corrine responded with a light laugh.

“Let’s put those social media profiles you’ve been managing to good use.”

Karina’s brow furrowed, surprise and concern evident.

“You’re not suggesting we escalate this, are you?”

Corrine nodded, gently stirring her coffee with calm certainty.

“The Ashton family orchestrated this. They’re trying to smear my name and distract the public.”

“What’s the plan then?” Karina asked, her eyebrow raised in anticipation.

She had long recognized the crafty nature hidden beneath Corrine’s reliable facade.

Corrine, often seen as the ideal student and perfect daughter, rarely faced consequences for her few missteps. No matter what mistakes she made, as long as they weren’t too severe, forgiveness and understanding always seemed to follow her.

“If the Ashton family wants to play games, I’m more than happy to join in,” Corrine remarked casually. She turned to Karina, her crimson lips curving into a sly grin.

“The Ashton family clings to their reputation and influence—both of which I painstakingly built for them over time. If I gave it to them, I can just as easily take it away, piece by piece, and eventually leave them with nothing.”

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“Wouldn’t it be simpler to just push them into bankruptcy?” Karina asked, her voice laced with impatience.

“Why go through all this trouble?”

Corrine tilted her head slightly, letting out a soft laugh.

“Losing everything you’ve worked for is far more agonizing than never having it at all,” she explained, her voice calm but cutting.

“I want them to bask in the spotlight, only to crash into obscurity. Let them feel the despair of holding something precious and watching it slip through their fingers while they stand helpless.”

Her words carried a cold detachment, sending a chilling wave through the room.

Karina was not intimidated by Corrine’s cold aura, fully aware of her refusal to simply swallow an insult or suffer in silence. However, she maintained a differing stance.

“Directly pushing the Ashton family into bankruptcy might be the more effective approach,” Karina suggested, her gaze fixed on Corrine with resolve.

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