Liliana felt a surge of panic, but she was careful not to let it show. She quickly said, “I know, Finn. You’ve always treated me so well all these years. If it weren’t for you, I never would’ve been able to make it so far in the entertainment industry, and my parents wouldn’t be living so comfortably now…”
“I know you’ve already repaid any debt long ago. I’m not trying to hold that over you—I just wanted you to know how much you mean to me…”
“Don’t say things like that again.”
The more Liliana tried to explain, the more Finnian’s irritation grew. He cut her off, his face cold and stern.
“From now on, as long as you don’t try anything underhanded, you’ll do well in this industry, and your parents will be just fine. But don’t even think about anything else.”
“Get some rest. I’m leaving.”
With that, he turned and walked out of the hospital room, ignoring Liliana’s gaze.
Liliana sat on the hospital bed, stunned and at a loss.
She knew it was impossible for Finnian to forgive her all at once, but she had at least hoped he would soften a little toward her. But the way he acted just now was so resolute—it was as if he was determined to draw a clear line between them. Now what was she supposed to do?
She gently patted her cheeks, trying to pull herself together and not sink into worry.
It was all right to fail this time. There would always be another chance.
There was still time. She would find a way to win Finnian back.
Forcing herself to calm down, her mind started working quickly as she began to plan her next move.
Mrs. Walker took the hint and, with a small gesture, her staff left the room, leaving only the two of them in the spacious living room.
Amara took a sip of tea, then continued, “Mrs. Walker, I’ve always heard you’re an exceptionally wise and capable woman who’s run the Walker family with true distinction. Now that I see you in person, you’re even more graceful and elegant than the rumors suggest—you’re a true role model.”
Mrs. Walker found herself rather perplexed.
Why had Amara shown up so suddenly and started complimenting her for no apparent reason?
Just a few days before, Amelia had publicly rebuked Amara, causing her to lose face. Mrs. Walker had thought Amara might come bearing a grudge, but instead, Amara was full of praise. She really couldn’t figure out what Amara was up to.
Amara went on, “But who could have imagined? With all your wisdom as the lady of the house, you ended up with such an ill-mannered daughter-in-law. I honestly feel sorry for you…”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Under the Veil I Rule (Amara)