Chapter 504

Chapter 504:

Fernanda found the whole notion not just absurd, but deeply unjust. This kind of irrational blame was the most crippling. Because deep down, the Reeds might know their claims were nonsensical; they might realize Cristian’s innocence. But they needed a scapegoat, someone to shoulder the fault.

By labeling Cristian a jinx, they shifted the responsibility for their business failures and internal strife onto him—a mere child at the time, naive and blameless. They just needed an outlet for their frustrations.

From his very first breath, Cristian was burdened with blame and hostility he never deserved. His childhood was shrouded in relentless gloom. And even today, Curran’s treatment of him hinted at a darker past. How much more severe must it have been when he was just a boy?

Bobby had shared how, during Cristian’s youth, he was the family’s punching bag. Initially, he bore it quietly, absorbing their hostility. But eventually, he reached his breaking point and fought back. Not long after, they cast him out.

Until now, these tales had been just stories Bobby relayed. But having witnessed the Reed family’s coldness today, Fernanda felt a profound empathy for Cristian’s plight. Because of the crowd today, Curran had to keep up appearances and couldn’t act outright hostile. But without the guests, would he have driven Cristian away on the spot?

Pondering this, Fernanda found herself saying, “You shouldn’t go back there next time.”

“Respecting your family is commendable, but not when it’s unvalued.” In Fernanda’s view, Cristian was dignified, resilient, and above their petty grievances. He shouldn’t have endured their disdain. “They don’t deserve your respect,” Fernanda added sharply.

She couldn’t pinpoint the extent of her anger, but it felt like a vice was clamping down on her heart.

Cristian had been observing her closely, noticing her every expression of dismay, her rising indignation, and the brewing storm of emotions within her. Suddenly, he felt the contempt he had endured tonight might have been worth it after all.

He had always seen playing the victim as a sign of weakness, but now, he realized that, albeit shameful, it did come with its benefits!

Discover stories now galnovℯℓs.cøm

Actually, he hadn’t even planned on attending the event tonight. What did Curran’s birthday have to do with him? But the thought of seeing Fernanda, dressed as beautifully as Bobby had described, had lured him there. He was eager to see how the stunning gown would complement her, how the jewelry he gifted would accentuate her elegance.

And indeed, the results were breathtaking.

The gown draped her figure with a grace and elegance that seemed to lift her out of a classic painting. She was the epitome of poise and grace.

The earrings and bracelet he had chosen sparkled at her ears and wrist, the perfect accents to her attire. Her compassion and concern for him shone just as brightly.

With these thoughts warming his heart, Cristian’s spirits soared. He intertwined his fingers with hers, giving her hand a gentle squeeze, and smiled. “Alright, I won’t go next time.”

.

.

.