Chapter 307

Adrian Valdemar's breath caught the moment he stepped into the living room.

"Stop."

His voice cut through the chaos like a blade.

"Perfect timing, Adrian."

Vincent Valdemar turned with eyes sharp as knives.

"Hand over that video. Publicly apologize to Damian. Admit you framed him."

Adrian strode past him toward Diana Valdemar, who was being restrained by bodyguards.

"Mother, don't do this."

He gently pried the guards' hands away.

Diana broke free and began pounding her fists against Adrian's chest.

"Why? Why must I endure this?"

Adrian grunted in pain as his wounds throbbed.

Sophia Laurent gave a sharp glance. The bodyguards immediately pulled Diana away.

"Are you hurt?"

Sophia rushed to Adrian's side.

He shook his head, signaling for the housekeeper to take Diana upstairs.

Once his mother was gone, Adrian turned an icy gaze toward Vincent.

"Haven't you hurt her enough?"

Vincent sneered. "I wouldn't be here if you hadn't framed my son."

"Framed?" Adrian scoffed. "Your bastard inherited your treachery. He reaped what he sowed."

Vincent's hand shot up.

Sophia reacted instantly, yanking Adrian out of reach.

"You dare dodge me?" Vincent stumbled forward.

"Should he just stand there and take it?" Sophia positioned herself between them.

"I'm his father!"

"Father?" Sophia's laugh was bitter. "You don't deserve that title."

She pulled Adrian back as bodyguards formed a protective circle.

"Sentencing without evidence—is this your idea of justice?"

Vincent's face darkened. "Damian doesn't lie!"

"And Adrian does?" Sophia stood her ground.

"I raised him. I know him."

"You know him?" Sophia's voice dripped sarcasm. "You can't even see your own son clearly."

She met Vincent's glare. "No apologies. Not until we settle Damian's bullying of Adrian."

"Lies!" Vincent roared.

"The old man made a mistake marrying you! I'll make sure he knows the Valdemars don't need a shrew like you!"

He turned on his heel and stormed out.