After the meeting, Quentin returned and briefed Ernest on everything that had happened back at the Flynn Mansion.

For a moment, Quentin wondered if Ernest truly planned to leave things be.

But then Ernest checked his watch and said calmly, “Head back home.”

“Yes, sir.”

Half an hour later, they arrived.

By then, Linda had been sedated. She slumped in her wheelchair, eyes unfocused, as if only half-awake.

The door opened quietly. Ernest walked in.

She turned toward him, managed a small, bitter smile, and muttered, “So you finally decided to show up.”

Ernest walked over and sat across from her. “I came to see you, and I’ll be leaving soon.”

“Leaving? You mean leaving Srixby?”

“Yes.” Ernest nodded.

Hearing that, Linda let out a cold scoff. “Just admit it—you didn’t come back last night, did you? You were with Elissa.”

Ernest remained silent.

“I knew it.” Her mouth curled into a bitter smile. “Then let me guess—this urgent trip of yours, postponing the wedding… it’s also about her, isn’t it?” Her voice sharpened. “Did she pull something again? Did she run off? Are you chasing after her now?”

Still, Ernest didn’t answer—but his eyes gave him away.

“What…” Linda leaned back, stunned. “So I’m right?”

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Her voice trembled as anger overtook her. “Ernest, say something! You’re putting everything on hold, and you won’t even tell me why?”

“Yes.” His voice was calm, but firm. “I’m going to find Elissa.”

Hearing that, Linda let out a harsh, disbelieving laugh. “You’re giving up our wedding for her?”

She stared at him in disbelief, fury rising. “Of course it’s her. Always scheming. Always making things about herself! So utterly shameless!”

“Don’t twist things,” Ernest warned, his tone hardening.

“Can’t you see? She planned this! She ran off now—on purpose! She wants to stop the wedding. She wants to keep you all to herself!”

Linda’s voice cracked with frustration. “She’s nothing but a manipulative—”

“Enough!” Ernest snapped, his voice thunderous as it cut through hers.

Linda was utterly shocked. She stared at him, stunned. “Are you yelling at me? What did I say that was wrong? Ernest, snap out of it…”

“No!” Ernest’s breath quickened. He struggled to keep his composure. “She’s not like that!”

“Then explain it! The facts are right in front of—”

“I said shut up.” His voice turned sharp and cold.

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