Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

If Brielle did nothing, she'd probably spend her entire life draped in a shroud of guilt. However, taking action might just be the wrecking ball to her and Max's relationship, possibly leading to a breakup that neither could mend. It was a tug-of-war between heart and conscience, and she felt utterly drained by the emotional battle.

Back in her car, she took a deep breath, reached for a bottle of water to quench her thirst, and noticed a text from Patrick.

Kingston and his wife were behind bars, serving about a five-year sentence.

She harbored no sympathy for Kingston and his wife. Their shady dealings were no secret. However, the thought of James was like a thorn lodged in her throat.

She sat in her car, lost in thought, but couldn't come up with any solution. Defeated, she drove back to Premier Palace.

In the end, she felt too powerless to stand against the Dorsey family.

That night, her sleep was restless again, compounded by the centennial celebration of Beaconsfield College looming over her. She felt adrift and overwhelmed. She had always wanted to be someone capable and strong, but now, it seemed like misfortune befell anyone linked to her.

With hardly any rest for two nights straight, her eyes were bloodshot.

was still away, busy with Alivia at the nursing home. Martha seemed to exclusively want Alivia's

to see Brielle the day before

a visitor arrived an unexpected one, Max's sister, Victoria. "Miss Brielle," she greeted, barely lifting her chin as a sign for Brielle to

times, but she never

of you. It's clear enough that he's avoiding Premier Palace... avoiding you, even if he won't admit it." Victoria's words cut deep into Brielle's heart. It was

of her mother. It's not that he

seventy million in

own

Brielle truly did. But the troubles you've brought to Max's door are

a

guilt? She's

mother, for heaven's sake."

boyfriend's mother and appeared unaffected. Either Brielle had nerves of

once supported