The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 629

Seeing that Daphne wasn't willing to disclose the amount, Riley didn't push it. The heart that had long been frozen solid by her adoptive parents' cruelty slowly began to thaw under Daphne's painstaking, gentle care.

They chatted a bit longer. Daphne mentioned that contractors had already started renovating new bedrooms for her and Alora at the estate. She then asked when Riley would have some time off so they could schedule the formal recognition banquet.

Since Riley had just taken a personal day yesterday, her schedule was booked solid this week. It would have to wait until next week.

Before leaving, Daphne slipped a bank card across the desk. "This is just some pocket money from your father and me. Take it."

Riley pushed it back. "I'm not a child anymore. I'm a grown woman with a stable career. I can support myself."

"What you earn is yours, but what your parents give you is ours to give. If you don't take it..." Daphne's eyes immediately reddened with tears. "My heart aches for you. You've suffered so much. If you won't even give me the chance to compensate you, you're going to make me..."

Choking on a sob, she couldn't finish the sentence and looked down to wipe away a tear.

Riley's resolve crumbled instantly. She snatched the card back. "I'll take it. Please don't cry."

Daphne nodded, her eyes still red, but a wobbly smile broke across her face. "Good girl. So good."

At that moment, several colleagues began returning from lunch.

Daphne quickly stood up. "Mom's going to head out now. I won't keep you from your work."

Riley stood, intending to walk her out, but Daphne stopped her. "No need to walk me out. Get back to work." With that, she picked up her thermal bag and left the office.

Meanwhile, Pierce Landon was dining at a high-end restaurant when a message popped up on his phone. He opened it to find a photograph sent by the informant he had planted at First Medical Center.

The photo showed Daphne Spencer sitting in Riley's office, holding Riley's hand. Daphne's expression was warm, her eyes overflowing with affection.

There was no hint of disdain—only clear, overwhelming adoration and tenderness.