Chapter 348

The tension in the Carlson living room was palpable.

Jeff sat rigidly on the sofa, his stern face framed by age-lined eyes filled with anger.

Even Melissa, known for her quick temper, restrained herself from speaking out.

Matthew frowned as he glanced at Cedric and Austin. The cousins used to get along well during childhood, but competition had crept in over the years, particularly concerning Sophie. This only added to the family strain.

Jeff glared at them and snorted before speaking. "Now that you’ve grown up and become successful, you think you can do whatever you want, don’t you?"

He had hoped to see Cedric and Sophie live happily together within his lifetime, and for Austin to let go of his obsessions and find his happiness. However, his hopes were dashed as their lives spiraled into chaos.

When Mrs. Carrie reported that Sophie had not come home all night and then returned to the apartment with Cedric, Jeff had felt a spark of hope. He had assumed progress was being made, de