My heart warmed at her words.
But then, her next words felt like a dagger to my heart.
"Clark, I just hope you won't hold Vincent responsible. He's powerful, and we can't afford to cross him."
And with that, my heart shattered.
The love I had for her, so deep and self-sacrificing, was crushed by her own hands.
I gently pushed her away, trying to reclaim my shattered pride.
My expression remained impassive as I stared at her beautiful face, which was now filled with shock.
I thought, "Has she never considered that I might reject her embrace?"
I forced a smile. "Sorry, Ms. Winslet, but I have to refuse."
At this moment, I was a wreck, both physically and emotionally.
Words were all I had to mask my humiliation.
"Why? It's just a matter of not pursuing the case. All you need to do is sign the settlement agreement. We'll get you the best treatment," Kate implored, her disbelief palpable.
She hadn't expected me to be so stubborn.
"Did he send you to persuade me?" I asked, keeping my gaze lowered.
My fingers curled slightly, trying to reposition my deformed leg into a somewhat normal shape.
After a long silence, it dawned on me.
She was here for Vincent.
I had been nothing more than a pawn.