**Chapter 584: The Price of Truth**
“Allow me to accompany you to your studio, and I promise to reveal the truth,” Yulia insisted, her tone firm yet laced with an unsettling edge.
Natalie felt a wave of irritation wash over her at Yulia’s words, but she was acutely aware that this matter had lingered far too long. It wasn’t merely her own quest for answers anymore; the entire Stone family was now entangled in the web of uncertainty surrounding past events.
After a moment of contemplation, Natalie made a resolute decision. There was no way she could take Yulia to meet the Stone family. Instead, she opted to lead Yulia to the studio, hoping that the enclosed space would offer a semblance of control over the situation.
As Natalie re-entered the studio with Yulia in tow, Renee’s brows furrowed in confusion. The sight of the two women together sparked concern within her.
“Natalie, did this woman threaten you in any way? Should we call Mr. Gunn for assistance?” she questioned, her protective instincts kicking in.
Yulia, feeling the weight of Renee’s suspicion, bristled with annoyance. “Excuse me, miss, but have I done anything to offend you? Why are you so defensive around me?” Her voice carried a sharpness that hung in the air.
“You just have an unsettling presence,” Renee shot back, her gaze unwavering.
Yulia’s temper flared at the comment, her cheeks flushing with indignation. “Natalie, are you going to rein her in, or what?” she demanded, her voice tinged with frustration.
“Not a chance!” Natalie replied, her tone leaving no room for argument. Yulia’s eyes burned with anger, but she realized she was in no position to retaliate. Here, under someone else’s roof, she had no choice but to swallow her pride.
With a huff, Yulia plopped down onto a nearby chair, crossing her arms defiantly. She decided it was best to remain silent for the moment, even if it chafed against her nature.
Renee, noticing the tension, opened her mouth to say something further but was cut off by Natalie’s firm voice. “You and Beth should head out early today. I have some matters to handle.”
Renee hesitated, casting a wary glance at Yulia. “Are you sure you’ll be alright alone? She doesn’t seem like someone you want to be left with. Don’t let her push you around.”
Yulia, overhearing this, couldn’t contain her laughter, though it was fueled by anger. “Could you keep it down a bit while you’re judging me? I’m right here!” she retorted, her irritation bubbling over.
“You can always cover your ears if you don’t want to hear it,” Renee replied, rolling her eyes dramatically.
Frustration welled up in Yulia’s chest, making her feel as if she might explode.
“Natalie, should we call Baron?” Renee suggested, her voice tinged with concern.
“I will,” Natalie assured her, though she had already intended to do so without needing the prompt.
Relieved, Renee nodded, her tension easing slightly at the thought of Baron’s presence.

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