Built His Empire Then Watched It Burn When He Cheated novel Chapter 800

Adrian uncrossed his legs, preparing to stand and leave.

Gianna reacted by lunging forward and grabbing his leg, looking up with wide, terrified eyes. "Dad, are we really just going away until things blow over? You won't disown me, will you? You'll bring me back, right?"

Her eyes were full of a daughter's desperate attachment and frantic insecurity.

Adrian eventually softened, leaning down to pat her head.

"Of course. You'll always be my daughter. Once people have moved on from this, I'll bring you both home."

By then, he hoped Pepper and Gianna would have reflected on their actions and learned their place.

Hearing this, Gianna realized that avoiding the trip entirely was impossible.

She stood up, wiping her tears. "Dad, you haven't forgotten, have you? This weekend is Grandma's eightieth birthday. I've been preparing her gift for a whole year. Can Mom and I at least stay until after the party?"

Adrian frowned.

Gianna's public apology had already brought enough shame to the Malone family.

His mother's eightieth birthday was going to be a massive affair. If Gianna and Pepper showed up, they'd be nothing but a walking joke, practically inviting people to gossip.

Pepper saw the hesitation on Adrian's face and knew exactly what he was thinking. He was embarrassed by them. This man is truly selfish and cold-blooded.

She and her daughter had been by his side for years, with Gianna acting as his perfect little girl, providing him with so much emotional support. And she herself had been nothing but gentle and submissive.

Yet now, over one mistake that hadn't even affected Steven, Adrian was treating them like social pariahs. He probably wanted to punish them severely just to prove his loyalty to his ex-wife, Wendy.

If he was going to be difficult, she wouldn't let him have his way so easily.

Pepper stepped forward, biting her lip with a look of pitiable shame. "Adrian, both Gianna and I owe so much to your mother. Her eightieth is a milestone. We just want to show our respect.

"If it's inconvenient, we don't have to make an official appearance. We can just slip in quietly to give her our blessings in private."

Gianna nodded quickly. "Yes, Dad! We won't show our faces. Besides, if I'm not there, Grandma will miss me. It wouldn't feel right for her."

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