16

“Mother, Kendra this Kendra that, she left herself, we didn't chase her! Right now we should be thinking about how the Thompson's reputation will be back in place!”

Victor sighed. “You're right Eve, the Thompson's company image is already strained after the divorce. Bringing personal drama to this table helps no one.”

Sofia smirked.

He faced Freya, his expression neutral but assessing. “You mentioned your PR firm. Walk us through how you propose to help with the upcoming events.”

Freya seized the lifeline, sitting up straighter and letting Richard's hand go.

“Of course, Mr. Thompson. My team specializes in reputation rehabilitation. We can craft a narrative that positions Richard as someone who grew from past mistakes, focusing on forward momentum, innovation at Thompson Enterprises. I have contacts in major media outlets. We can schedule soft interviews, philanthropy spotlights, and shift the focus from scandal to strength.”

Grace scoffed, picking at her salmon with disinterest.

“Philanthropy. How noble…You’ll spin betrayal into a redemption arc. In my era, we called that deceit, not strategy. Tell me honestly, girl…did you ever truly value Kendra’s friendship, or was it always a stepping stone to this?” She gestured vaguely at Richard and the opulent room.

Tears welled up in Freya’s eyes, but she blinked them back. “I valued it. Kendra was a good friend, I won't deny that but she changed. She pulled away, buried in her work and secrets. Richard needed more than quiet endurance. He needed fire and I gave him that.”

Grace exchanged a glance with Victor. “Fire that burned down her best friend’s home. Richard, do you truly believe this is sustainable? A relationship built on ashes?”

Richard’s grip on Freya’s hand tightened. “Yes. I do. Freya makes me happy. She doesn’t judge my flaws or demand I become someone else. Kendra always had conditions. She'd say ‘Build yourself up, Richard. Be better.’ I am tired of hearing that alone.”

The servants cleared the fish course and brought in the tender beef tenderloin with herb crust and roasted vegetables.

The aroma filled the room, but tension dulled their appetites. Grace took a small bite, chewing thoughtfully before fixing Freya with another probing stare.

“Beef is excellent tonight,” she commented mildly.

“Freya, look at me. When Kendra was ill, feverish and alone in that big house, where were you? Sending flowers? Or warming my grandson’s sheets while maids tended to her?” she asked.

“I… I checked on her. Sent messages. But she was distant even then. Richard needed me more in those moments. He was stressed with the company... and...”

“You shouldn't be talking, I swear to God,” Sofia cut in sharply. “Kendra sacrificed her own health for his career more times than I can count, though I never liked her." Richard glared at her but she continued talking. "I...read everything online, she told the world all she did for her marriage. And you swooped in for the rewards.”

Victor raised a hand. “Sofia, let it rest. Richard has made his bed. Now we manage the consequences."

“Father, we will regret it.”

“Freya, if you’re to be part of this family’s public life, you must understand discretion. No more leaks. No more public displays that fuel rumors.”

Freya nodded eagerly. “I understand completely. I only want what’s best for Richard and Thompson Enterprises. I’ve waited to be accepted, and to contribute to his life.”

Grace set her fork down with a deliberate click. “Accepted? Wife acceptance is not given to those who earn it through treachery. Kendra will always hold a place here. She earned it with loyalty, not bedroom whispers. I don’t know for anyone here, but to me you are a guest at best and a temporary distraction at worst.”

Richard stood abruptly, chair scraping. “This is ridiculous. We came for a family dinner, not a trial, Freya is staying. End of discussion!”

Evelyn sighed, signaling the servants to continue service. “Sit down, son. Raising your voice solves nothing.”

"I'm done here, but I'll never forget how I needed you guys' support and you chose Kendra over me!"

Freya stood up as well, and Richard held her hand, escorting Freya out to the car.

He opened the car door for her, helped her with seat belt and place a kiss on her forehead before closing the door. Then also entered the driver's seat and jammed the door.

Freya exhaled shakily. “They hate me.”

“They’ll come around,” Richard assured her, starting the engine. “Give it time. You’re mine now and that’s what matters.”