Built His Empire Then Watched It Burn When He Cheated novel Chapter 766

Steven opened his eyes and fixed his gaze on her. "You have no idea what happened?"

"What?" Gianna blinked, looking completely baffled. "I've been at home the whole day. What could I possibly know?"

Her confusion looked genuine, almost too genuine. He lifted a hand and pressed his fingers against his brow again. "You really haven't heard any of the rumors going around?"

She shook her head.

A shadow crossed her face as her mood sank. "I lost the competition and humiliated Dad and Mom... No, I guess that's wrong now. I'm not even her daughter anymore."

Her voice lowered, full of misery. "I feel terrible. I don't want to go out or answer anyone's calls. I've just been watching TV all day to pass the time. Steven, what exactly should I have heard?"

Her expression was flawless. Even the blank confusion in her eyes had no crack in it.

Steven studied her silently for a few seconds before letting out a gentle laugh, which held no warmth.

"Steven..." Gianna's heart tightened, though she kept her face innocent. "What's wrong? Did I say something I shouldn't have?"

Unease crawled higher in her chest. Something's off. Extremely off. Is it possible that Steven discovered I am responsible for everything?

Her breathing faltered for a moment, yet she still forced a smile onto her face. No. I'm just scaring myself.

The rumors only started spreading today. No matter how capable Steven is, there's no way he can trace everything back to me this quickly.

I planned it carefully. Even if he investigates, the trail will only lead him to the Quimby family. Everyone knows the Quimbys and the Malones have hated each other for years.

Gianna had only just managed to steady herself when Steven's faint smile vanished completely.

"I used to think you were only a little jealous," he told her coldly. "I thought you were the type to play petty tricks just to show off. Today, I realized I underestimated you. If nothing else, your acting skills are impressive."

The color drained from Gianna's face. Her hands curled into tight fists. "Steven? What are you talking about?"

"Stop pretending." His eyes were sharp enough to pierce through her. "Did you really think that preparing a scapegoat in advance would keep you hidden?"

Gianna's eyes reddened at once. Hurt, panic, anger, and helplessness all surfaced across her face in perfect measure.

"Steven, what do you mean? I know I'm not your real sister, and I know you never really cared for me. However, since I was young, I've always considered you my only real brother. You're the person I'm closest to, the brother I rely on, respect, and admire the most!"

Tears spilled down her cheeks one after another.

"Steven, please don't scare me like this, okay?"

She mused, He only suspects me. That has to be it. He's trying to scare me into slipping up and admitting it myself.

I can't confess or panic; I must hide any sign of weakness. Everything has been cleaned up, and Steven has no proof.

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