“I’ve been thinking a lot after so many brushes with death, and I’ve begun to realize something important.”

Katelyn’s expression shifted, curiosity lighting her eyes as she waited for Carol to elaborate.

Carol lifted her hand with effort, brushing through Katelyn’s silky, flowing hair with a tender touch.

“For a long time, I’ve wished for you and Neil to find your way back to each other. Without the Bailey family’s support, I believed that being Neil’s wife could at least open doors and bring you more stability. That actually motivated every move I made.”

Katelyn’s grip on the fruit knife tightened, her eyes filled with uncertainty as she looked at Carol.

Her love for Neil had always been unwavering, but now, it was clear—her journey with Neil was over. Aimee had once suggested divorce, and with a sigh, she had sadly noted that Katelyn was too kindhearted. For years, Katelyn had believed that Neil might one day change, never letting go of that fragile hope.

Aimee’s words, however, were not completely right. When every ounce of hope and emotion had been drained, even the kindest heart could turn hard. No matter how many times she had to begin again, there was no way Katelyn would ever take Neil back now.

Carol could tell that Katelyn was about to say something, but she gently shook her head.

“Please, let me finish.”

Katelyn gave a quiet nod, her gaze fixed on Carol.

With a heavy sigh, Carol’s thoughts drifted back to the time when Katelyn’s eyes were filled with love for Neil.

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“All I ever wanted was for Neil to change, to realize the truth about that deceitful woman, and come back to you. I hoped he’d care for you, truly appreciate you. But now, I finally understand…”

“He’s been completely taken in by Lise.”

Carol’s gaze softened with a hint of sorrow as she looked at Katelyn.

“Staying with someone who can’t tell right from wrong will only bring you pain. I’ve come to terms with it. No matter what you decide, you’ll always be family to me.”

Katelyn felt the weight of those words, as if each one was a slow, heavy blow to her heart. She had always known Carol’s intentions, clear as day. What made it even more meaningful was that Carol had never once spoken these thoughts aloud, nor had she ever pressured Katelyn into going back to Neil. Carol had even gifted Katelyn a piece of valuable land, worried that she might face judgment or mistreatment in their social circles.

Carol’s compassion and thoughtfulness wrapped around Katelyn’s heart, soothing her like a warm, gentle hug. ? ? ? ?s, ?s? s

Katelyn forced a weak smile, nodding with genuine sincerity.

“I understand what you’re saying, but I’m done with relationships. I have no interest in starting a new one.”

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