Revenge is Best Served After Reborn (James) novel Chapter 1728

"Alright, that's the spirit!"

Adler lifted his glass with enthusiasm. "In honor of Ms. Sandy's determination, let's all raise a toast!"

"Cheers!" Jenna added, raising her own glass.

Everyone joined in, and the room buzzed with warmth and laughter. Amidst the joyful crowd, Sophie's smile seemed a bit forced, unnoticed by most—except for Colby, who gently squeezed her hand.

He knew.

Everyone was here.

Except for one.

Sandy, sitting right next to Sophie, also picked up on her mood. She had caught snippets about Sophie's situation while overseas, though her brother hadn't filled her in on much.

Halfway through the evening, Sophie got up to use the restroom.

Sandy followed her out.

The hallway was a stark contrast to the lively room, quiet and calm.

After washing her hands, Sophie turned to find Sandy waiting.

"Ready to head back?" Sophie asked, initially planning to return together, but Sandy suggested, "It's too noisy in there. Let's talk for a bit."

Sophie hesitated but then agreed.

Sophie said, "What's happened is done. Dwelling on it doesn't help, but my heart just won’t listen. I get it logically, but I can't accept it."

"I didn't know Mr. Gordon well, but he reminded me of my brother."

Sandy's remark caught Sophie's attention. "How so?"

"My brother loves me a lot, just like Mr. Gordon loved you."

Leaning against the railing, Sandy continued, "If my brother left suddenly, I wouldn't handle it as well as you, Sophie. You're so rational, the kind of person I look up to. I admire your bravery, your smarts. Even after losing Gordon, you only let yourself grieve briefly before tucking it away. But if it were me, I'd cry my eyes out and probably stay down until time eventually healed things enough for me to move on."

Sandy paused, then added, "Maybe I understand why Mr. Gordon treated you the way he did. He wanted you to be strong, strong enough to thrive even when he wasn't around."