Chapter 491
Scarlett's fingertips trembled.
She knew there was no turning back now.
"I'll talk," she whispered through bitten lips, her voice barely audible.
Tears welled in her eyes but stubbornly refused to fall. She drew a deep breath and recounted everything from beginning to end.
Director Galatea sat on the sofa, his expression dark as storm clouds.
His long fingers tapped rhythmically against the armrestโeach tap a hammer blow to Scarlett's heart.
"Dad..." Her voice cracked with unshed tears.
She knew her father too well. This silence was far more terrifying than any outburst.
The Galateas had been in politics for generations. Scandals were their greatest taboo. And this time, she hadn't just crossed her father's lineโshe might have destroyed the family's reputation entirely.
Thud.
Scarlett's knees hit the floor with a heavy impact.
"I was wrong..." Her forehead pressed against the cold hardwood. "Please... help me."
She couldn't afford to lose her father's protection.
The Lows were insignificant. But if Sebastian Valdemar ever learned the truth...
A violent shiver ran down her spine.
"Get up." Director Galatea finally spoke, his voice glacial.
Scarlett didn't dare move.
"I'll handle the hospital." He rose, looking down at his daughter. "The Lows will be compensated."
Scarlett's head snapped up, hope flashing in her eyes.
"Butโ" His tone sharpened like a blade. "Starting today, you're grounded for a month."
"What?" she gasped. "But the Valdemar galaโ"
"Don't even think about it." His laugh was icy. "Either obey, or clean up your own mess."
Scarlett's nails dug into her palms.
"Hand over your phone." He extended his hand.
Trembling, she surrendered it, watching helplessly as her father dialed a number.
"Joy, I need a favor." Director Galatea's voice regained its usual steadiness. "Yes. Make it disappear."
When the call ended, father and daughter locked eyes.
Scarlett knew the storm had temporarily passed. But the disappointment in her father's gazeโthat, she feared, would never fade.