Chapter 160:

Kaelyn touched her wound, then examined the blood on her fingers. She looked up at Theo, hoping for remorse, but his eyes held only hatred. Forcing a weak smile, she said, "I didn't intend to deceive you. I truly regretted hurting your feelings and lied to bring us closer. I was desperate for your love; I couldn't bear to lose it." Tears welled.

"If you don't leave, I'll have you escorted out," Theo said sternly.

Realizing her pleas were futile, Kaelyn wiped her tears and left the study. Before closing the door, she cast a pitiful glance back at Theo. But once the door latched, her expression twisted, revealing malice. Touching her wound, she sneered, "Elyse Lloyd, I thought you'd remain naive forever. You've grown sharp since marrying." She regretted not killing Elyse that day. Now that Theo knew the truth, reconciliation with Elyse seemed inevitable, rendering her efforts useless. This was intolerable. She couldn't bear the thought of Elyse's happiness. She went to the basement.

Mabel was confined there, guarded by Theo and two bodyguards. Approaching, Kaelyn said, "Theo sent me to speak with Mabel." The bodyguards exchanged glances, then opened the door. Kaelyn entered confidently.

Mabel was unharmed, only under house arrest. She'd accepted the vast differences between herself and Theo, realizing he'd never treat her kindly. She regretted falling for such a cold man.

Hearing footsteps, she looked eagerly towards the door, hoping for Theo's release. Seeing Kaelyn, she rolled her eyes, sank back onto the sofa, and ignored her.

Undisturbed, Kaelyn simply asked, "You don't seem pleased to see me."

"Why would I be? You couldn't even win a man. Does my mood matter to you?" Mabel, known for her intimidating influence, had only heard of Kaelyn and chose to ignore her.

Kaelyn disregarded Mabel's rudeness. Smiling, she said, "You were close to release today, but Elyse didn't comply with Theo's demands. If she had, I could have freed you."

Mabel's expression changed. "What didn't Elyse do?"

"She was supposed to stay with Theo for three hours, but left after a short while. She didn't take his request seriously, nor did she intend to rescue you. Such an uncaring sister," Kaelyn said, drawing out her words and grinning maliciously.

"What did she say?" Mabel asked, angrily.

"She doesn't consider you her sister. She doesn't care about rescuing you. She'd prefer Theo kill you so she could tell your parents to collect your body," Kaelyn replied, enjoying the effect.

Mabel was silent, her eyes burning.

Kaelyn, knowing of the sisters' discord, had understood that a few words could easily stoke Mabel's jealousy. Seeing Mabel's fury, Kaelyn was satisfied. "If only Theo were as gullible as Mabel," she thought.

Having achieved her goal, Kaelyn left. "Theo is irritable. I'm not sure when you'll be released, but good luck," she said, then left, swaying her hips confidently.

Back in the living room, Elyse felt a sudden chill. Touching her nose, she murmured suspiciously, "Is someone talking about me?"