"Lyra, you are a wonderful girl. It's a true pity the Sterling family wasn't blessed enough to keep you."
Lyra smiled gracefully. "You're too kind. Marrying into the Sterling family means our paths were meant to cross, even if they weren't meant to merge."
They walked in silence until they reached his waiting car, turning to face each other in the crisp night air.
The streetlights cast a bright glow over the driveway.
Yet, to Godfrey, the clarity in Lyra's eyes shone even brighter than the lights.
"Lyra, for years I turned a blind eye to Maxwell's behavior, allowing you to get hurt. Earlier, I lacked the courage to admit it fully because of my own selfish pride. But now, I must say it out loud."
Godfrey's confession caught Lyra off guard.
In her eyes, he had always been an untouchable patriarch who would never stoop to admit his faults, especially to a younger generation.
"It's fine. None of it matters anymore. It's all in the past."
She meant every word.
"And please don't worry. The Sterling family's current crisis is only temporary. Without Maxwell holding it back, you will undoubtedly steer the company to safety."
Seeing the driver step out to open the door, Lyra smiled and took a step back.
"Please take care of your health, Mr. Sterling. I have some errands to run, so I'll head back inside now."
"I've kept you far too long tonight. I expect great things from you the next time our paths cross."
With those parting words, Godfrey got into the car.
Lyra stood on the driveway, watching until the taillights disappeared into the night, before turning back toward the villa.
The staff had already brought her luggage down to the foyer.
Eleanor emerged from the kitchen carrying a sleek travel container. "I packed some fresh fruit. Eat it on the drive to the airport so your stomach doesn't get upset during the flight. Oh, and your father already arranged your accommodations over there. Remember to eat on time. Do not go on any diets. If you come back looking even a pound lighter, I will be furious."
Seeing her look so smug and triumphant, Miles burst into a low, genuine laugh.
Lyra turned to look at him, catching his profile in the passing light.
His jawline was striking, sharp as a blade.
Illuminated by the streetlamps, his deep, expressive eyes were framed by impossibly long lashes.
He was incredibly handsome.
Lyra had known that since they were kids.
For as long as she could remember, there had always been a flock of pretty girls chasing after him.
As they got older, he received more love letters than he knew what to do with.
Feeling nostalgic, Lyra suddenly mused, "Miles, sometimes I'm actually a little jealous of my future sister-in-law."

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