Rachel aired it all out.

“From this moment on, if you want to do anything to Tyler, go ahead. We’ll take whatever you throw at us. But… think carefully. If the Ziegler family’s century-old legacy is destroyed over something this petty, isn’t that a little shortsighted?”

It wasn’t just confidence. It was a direct provocation.

Steven actually froze for a beat.

Cecilia, who had assumed Rachel came here with some flawless plan to negotiate, was stunned. She tugged gently at Rachel’s sleeve.

“Rachel, do you even realize what you’re saying?”

Rachel met her gaze, eyes steady.

“I know exactly what I’m doing, and exactly what I’m saying. You don’t need to be so shocked.”

“Impressive. The Lloyd family must be proud to have a daughter like you. I’ll admit–I’ve never met someone quite like you.”

For a man of his age, he had seen plenty of bold people, but none who dared to openly challenge him to his face.

“But let me be very clear. It won’t work. You think throwing out a few tough words will make me back off Tyler? I told him from the start–hand you over to me, and I’d wipe the slate clean. But he refused. He’d rather lose everything than give you up.”

Rachel straightened her back, unshaken.

“I’ve said what I needed to say, and I’m not changing my stance. But tell me, do you really think it’s wise to keep enabling Howard like this?”

His eyes suddenly turned razor-sharp. “What exactly are you implying, Ms. Lloyd?”

“Howard’s been lawless since he was a child. Everyone in Yurelia City fears him. And why wouldn’t they? With you shielding him, he’s had free rein to do whatever he pleases. If you’d put a stop to it earlier, he wouldn’t be so out of control now–so out of control that he dares to commit kidnapping and assault.”

Her words came rapid-fire, each one hitting like a blow. Steven’s expression darkened with every sentence. His breath caught for a second in anger.

“Rachel, you think you have the right to lecture me about Howard? How I raise him is none of your business! Don’t think that just because you speak so boldly, you can escape punishment. We already have the medical report. Tyler’s in no position to protect you.”

Rachel snorted. Truth be told, she was furious. One person’s actions should be theirs to bear. There was no need to drag Tyler down with her.

“Let me ask you. Between kidnapping and assault, and my self-defense, which crime weighs heavier? Or have you conveniently forgotten Howard’s crimes? Do you think bribing Sheryn to alter her testimony means you can cover the truth forever?”

She didn’t care how ugly Steven’s expression became. In her mind, his way of protecting Howard had ruined not just Howard’s life, but hers as well.

When she was done, Rachel turned to Cecilia without waiting for a reply.

“Let’s go.”

Cecilia was still in shock, only snapping back to reality when Rachel called her name. She quickly stepped up to steady Rachel, and they started toward the door.

Just then, they heard a maid’s sharp cry from behind them.

“Sir! Sir!”