Chapter 383

Unrestrained and genuine laughter erupted from Zavian. “The best man you say?” he echoed in disbelief.

Richard’s capacity for self-delusion seemed limitless... a psychological fortress built to protect him from ever confronting the reality of his actions.

Emmeline’s lips pressed tighter as she stared at Richard speechlessly. She realized he would never truly understand the damage he had inflicted. His mind simply wouldn’t allow it.

“At least I’m not a cheat,” Richard shot back, lifting his chin in defiance as he clung to the last shreds of his dignity.

Margaret patted her son’s arm with maternal sympathy. “You have to make them pay dearly,” she urged almost inaudibly.

Emmeline recognized these words for what they were—a poison Margaret had been feeding him. The belief that any challenge to his desires represented an injustice that demanded retribution.

Richard glanced at Emmeline one final time. His expression momentarily became unreadable—perhaps