Chapter 286
Chapter 286:
His music career had thrived thanks to Janice’s discreet support.
“Dad, I’ve been thinking a lot lately. Why were my past proposals so perfect, but this one turned out to be a mess?” Lowell’s bloodshot eyes glared at his father, bitterness in every word. “It’s because Janice revised all those proposals. Every time I hit a wall, she quietly stepped in to fix them. Someone who has given so much to this family—how could she ever try to sabotage Delilah just to gain attention?”
Connor’s face darkened, his eyes hardening with denial. “Is that all?”
“Why can’t you see it?” Lowell’s voice rose in desperation. “Delilah is nothing but a manipulative liar! She orchestrated everything to get Janice kicked out—” Again, Connor’s hand struck Lowell’s face sharply. “Say another word against Delilah, and I’ll slap you again.” Lowell froze, shock flooding his expression as he stared at his father. How could this be the same man who had always been so reasonable? How could he be so blind? Then, as the rage faded, a realization took its place. Hadn’t he been just as blind not long ago?
His pride had refused to acknowledge how much of his success was built on Janice’s quiet support.
It took days of reflection for him to finally see the truth. After Janice returned, she had never tried to steal the spotlight. She had always worked quietly, helping the family without complaint.
She had even protected his pride, helping him in silence without asking for recognition.
And what about Delilah? What had she ever done for the family? Aside from crying and playing the victim, had she contributed anything?
Each time Delilah clashed with Janice, there was never any solid proof—just tears and a pitiful act. Yet somehow, that was all it took for everyone to side with her and treat Janice cruelly.
“Dad, we were wrong,” Lowell said, his voice trembling as blood trickled from the corner of his mouth. His eyes welled with tears. “We mistook glass for diamonds. We drove out the real family!”
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Connor struck him again, but Lowell barely noticed the pain as he spiraled deeper into frustration. “Dad, do you remember the allergy incident? Dr. Carter confirmed that Delilah isn’t even allergic to mango. Yet she accused Janice of trying to harm her!”
“Enough!” Delilah’s sharp cry pierced the air, her face streaked with tears and resentment. “Lowell, why do you hate me so much? Fine, I’ll go! Is that what you want?” She turned to rush up the stairs.
“Delilah!”
Carman and Dotson quickly followed, blocking her path.
“Let me go!” Delilah sobbed, her eyes desperate. “If I stay, Lowell will completely lose it. I can’t let that happen, even if he misunderstands me. I just want him to be alright.”
“Stop pretending, Delilah!” Lowell shouted, his voice trembling with anger. “I looked into it. The pudding Janice bought wasn’t mango. But you claimed it was mango—to frame her and turn us against her.” At last, the truth came out.
Delilah’s face went pale, her knees buckling as she collapsed to the floor.
As she fell, she forced a bitter smile. “Lowell, if this helps you, say whatever you want about me.”
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