"What do you mean?" Debra said.
"I don't want those things anymore. They're all yours," Melody explained. "But you must return those shares."
"Are you sure you understand the situation?" Debra asked. "My shares are worth far more than a hundred chests like yours. You're letting greed cloud your judgment."
"I..." Melody faltered.
She certainly knew the worth of the shares, but this was already her best offer.
"Those shares were given to you by Juan. Don't you care about his feelings?" Melody argued, glancing at Marion.
He met her gaze, and she quickly looked away. "You didn't spend a single dime on the shares. My jewelry should be enough for your appetite."
"You see, Juan willingly transferred the shares to me. I didn't force him," Debra reasoned. "It's a done deal. As for your treasures, I've kept them long enough. You're welcome to redeem them anytime."
"Apart from that chest, they total just a few billion," Debra responded. "10% shares are worth just as much, if not more. I'm already giving you a discount."
Melody's chest heaved with rage. Debra continued, "Think about it. Without shares, you'll have no say in the company. The other shareholders won't respect you just because of your age. Theda holds 10% of the shares and can easily make things difficult for you. I'm doing you a favor here."
"You are unbelievable!" Melody was furious, yet helpless. "I thought, if you had some decency left, I'd overlook our past grievances and let you stay as long as you sever ties with Marion. But now, it's clear. You're unfit to be in this house."
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