The Scorned Heiress: No More Mercy novel Chapter 717

Decades ago, Charles and Jovani had briefly been childhood sweethearts, but the romance was short-lived. He quickly realized she was manipulative and ruthless. He never imagined that their paths would cross again, trapping him in a decades-long game of espionage and deception.

Deanna remains perfectly still, her eyes empty and defeated.

"Nikolai is going to pull through," Charles continues, his voice thick with emotion. "Tara saved him. He's recovering, and so will you. Everything is going to be okay."

At the mention of Tara's name, a flicker of life returns to Deanna's deadened gaze. Tears well up in her eyes, spilling over her lashes. It's a mixture of overwhelming relief for her son and crushing guilt toward her daughter.

"I know you're drowning in regret," Charles whispers, leaning closer. "You blame yourself for letting Jade deceive you, for treating Tara so poorly. I'm drowning in it too. I failed her. Neither of us has the right to demand she call us 'Mom' and 'Dad' ever again."

His voice breaks, rough and ragged with suppressed agony. His eyes burn.

"But look at her now. Our daughter is brilliant, independent, and she's found a man who truly values her. Meanwhile, we're a disaster, constantly dragging her down into our mess."

He brushes a stray lock of hair from Deanna's forehead. "You beat yourself up for being a society wife who couldn't hold the family together. But I always loved the life we built. You were perfect the way you were. Ignore the vipers who whispered poison in your ear."

Charles takes a deep, shaky breath, fighting to keep his composure. "You have to get stronger, Deanna. The family still needs you to guide them. If... if I'm not around, they'll only have you to rely on. When Tara eventually walks down the aisle, she'll need her mother to give her away."

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