I Forgot I Ever Loved You (Zoe and Hayden) novel Chapter 219

Zoe raised a brow, her composed reaction not going unnoticed by Garrett. He seemed to understand.

"Lily was innocent to begin with."

She hadn't intended to be so ruthless, but since they hadn't even given her a three-day grace period, they couldn't blame her for fighting back.

Garrett voiced his agreement.

"You did the right thing."

Zoe paused for a moment before Garrett smiled and continued, "From the very first day Professor Layne introduced you to me, I knew you were extraordinary. Zoe, you have the talent and the capability—you don't have to keep hiding in the shadows.

Of course, I understand you have your reasons. But as the CEO of Sterling Group, you need to believe that I am more than capable of protecting my employees, and a sister."

This was Garrett laying out his stance before Zoe.

He was not only her boss and a powerful backer, but he was also stepping into the role of a protective older brother.

Aside from the stability her mother had given her and the indulgence Hunter Keating had once shown her, Garrett was the first person in Zoe's life who truly made her feel safe.

Zoe felt a wave of genuine emotion.

She gave a playful smile, effortlessly deflecting the weight of the conversation.

"Mr. Stone, did I blow my cover too soon?"

Garrett chuckled, amused by her wit.

Someone passing by Zoe's office happened to catch the exchange, secretly snapping a picture on their phone before walking away as if nothing had happened.

The kindergarten that had expelled Lily drew the attention of the authorities due to the massive online backlash, prompting a thorough investigation.

They quickly discovered that the school had indeed expelled the victim of the bullying.

Zoe received a call from the principal. The woman's voice was impossibly soft and pleading, and through the speakerphone, Zoe could hear one of the teachers crying continuously in the background.

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