"What?" Chris looked at her, stunned into a rare silence.

Amelia’s facade finally crumbled, tears streaming down her face. "I was terrified, Chris. I didn't think it would actually work."

"It was brilliant... and utterly reckless," Chris whispered, a mixture of pride and lingering fear for her safety boiling within him. He pulled her into his arms, but this time his touch was cautious, as if she were made of glass. He realized that beneath her cold exterior lay a woman capable of daring anything for him.

By the time they reached the private jet, Amelia had fallen into an exhausted, deep sleep. Chris watched her, his heart swelling. She had risked everything on a bluff, a masterpiece of deception.

Amelia woke up in her own bed, the familiar scents of home grounding her. Her body felt heavy and sore, memories of the confrontation with Larry flickering like scenes from a fever dream. As she moved to sit up, she noticed a figure beside her.

Chris was asleep in a chair by the bed, his head resting on his hand. Amelia was genuinely surprised; the proud CEO of the Spencer Group had never looked so vulnerable.

"You're awake," Chris murmured, his eyes opening instantly. "Do you need anything? Water?"

Amelia shook her head, her voice still thin. "Why are you here, Chris?"

"You shouldn't have to face the aftermath alone," he said, getting up to pour her a glass. "Consider it a gesture from someone who plans on staying around."

Amelia accepted the water, her silence speaking volumes. "When are we going back to the island? Victor will be furious if he finds out I left without permission."

"We’re going home," Chris said, taking her hand. "The island was a sanctuary, but it's time to face the reality of Pinecrest. I’m here. I won't let him sideline you again."

Despite her reservations, Amelia found comfort in his presence. Her heart was slowly gravitating toward him, a fact that both comforted and terrified her.

The return to Pinecrest was far from quiet. News that Chris had prioritized his personal life over his executive position at the Spencer Group was the talk of the town. Amelia’s gallery reopened with more attention than ever, but the social scrutiny was stifling.

A few days later, Sophia brought Owen to visit. The boy clung to Amelia, his eyes filled with a maturity that broke her heart. "Be careful, Mom," he whispered before Sophia hurried him away, fearing Chris might arrive and see the resemblance.

Amelia decided she couldn't hide forever. She needed to face Victor and offer her apologies. However, the first person she encountered at the Spencer Mansion was Stella, being pushed in a wheelchair by Jared.

"Look who decided to crawl back," Stella sneered, her voice full of its usual venom. "Amelia or Bella—whatever you’re calling yourself today—do you really think you have a place here? You’ve missed your window. Leila has already been solidified as the future of this family."

Amelia ignored the taunt and walked toward Victor’s study. The man she found there looked haggard, the vitality of his military years finally fading under the weight of family scandal and illness.

"Grandpa, I’m back," Amelia said softly, keeping her head down.

Victor sighed, beckoning her closer. "I’m glad you’re safe, child. But tell me, what is your intention now? After everything that has happened..."

"I can't be what he needs, Grandpa," Amelia replied, her heart heavy. "It’s better for everyone if I keep my distance."

"Matters of the heart follow their own destiny, Amelia," Victor said, his voice weary. "You can try to fight it, but respect the path it takes."

As she left the study, the living room was no longer empty. Diana and Leila were there, huddled with Stella.

"Stop right there," Diana commanded, her voice cold. "Do you think being a 'friend' of my son entitles you to ignore the etiquette of this house? You should show respect to your elders."

Amelia turned, her expression neutral. "Mrs. Spencer, respect is earned, not demanded by title alone. I don't consider myself beneath your son, nor do I consider your approval necessary for my peace of mind."

Diana’s face flushed with anger. "You’ve seduced him into making reckless decisions, and yet you stand there with such arrogance! My son already has a partner who understands the value of this family."

She gestured toward Leila, who stood up with a triumphant smile. "Ms. White, it’s only fair you know. Our engagement is being finalized. I’ll be sure to send you an invitation to the gala. It’s the least I can do for an old acquaintance."

Amelia’s back stiffened, but she didn't give them the satisfaction of a reaction. She walked out of the mansion, the battle lines clearly drawn.