Bearing a weighty look, Hilliard responded not with words but by extending the paternity test report toward her.


    Lucinda’s gaze immediately fell upon the red inscription in the document’s lower right.


    “Half sibling kinship,” it dered.


    Although Lucinda was no expert in medical jargon, the meaning was crystal clear to her.


    “Does this mean my DNA and N’s are a match?” she inquired.


    Hilliard confirmed with a nod.


    “Indeed.


    The results from the tests I conducted three times confirm that she is your half-sister.


    ”


    At this moment, N’s true identity as Valerie was undeniable.


    Now that irrefutable proof was presented, Valerie could no longer deny her identity.


    Lucinda felt no surprise about the test results, only a deep sense of vindication.


    “Thank you, Hilliard.


    ” She expressed her gratitude.


    Hilliard, though pleased to have helped, posed a question tinged with concern.


    “Now that N’s status as our half-sister is confirmed, what ns do you have in mind?”


    Lucinda’s features hardened at the mention of “half-sister”, a term she loathed.


    “This is a family affair.


    I intend to disc


    ipline her in ordance with our family’s customs.


    She will find no opportunity for redemption this time.


    ”


    Her decision met no resistance from Hilliard, who silently stood by her.


    Jennifer, sharing a simr disdain for those born out of wedlock, backed Lucinda’s resolve to reprimand N.


    As the clock struck three in the afternoon, a smirk danced on Lucinda’s lips.


    “N’s reckoning is nigh.


    Hilliard, Jennifer, care to join me at the old vi for a bit of spectacle?”


    The exchange of nces between Hilliard and Jennifer bore an unspoken agreement.


    They were eager to witness Lucinda confront the deceitful N.


    They exited the vi in unison, but as they approached the door, Lucinda’s phone disrupted the silence.


    ‘s BunnyBookery


    Kern was on the other end, marking a first in their phonemunication.


    With a mix of suspicion and unease, Lucinda paused to answer.


    “Kern, what’s wrong? Are Colby and Destinee alright?”


    Kern’s voice, fraught with worry, conveyed urgency.


    “Colby and Destinee are safe.


    However, Mr.


    Norton Payne has taken ill.


    He copsed during afternoon tea and now lies in aa.


    The Payne family’s medical team is tending to him, but with Mr.


    Nathan Payne away from Stastle, any mishap could plunge the family into chaos.


    We need you here at once.


    ”


    “I’m on my way,” Lucinda assured, her tone grave.


    After ending the call, she turned to Jennifer with aposed demeanor.


    “Jennifer, please find Violeta.


    Ask her to monitor N in the basement of the old vi.


    I must attend to the Payne family crisis.


    Once resolved, I’ll return to address N’s situation.


    ”


    “Understood.


    Don’t worry,” Jennifer replied, assuring her.


    Lucinda then directed her attention to Hilliard.


    “Hilliard, apany me.


    Despite the Payne family having top medical professionals, you’re the one I trust most in medical matters.


    ”


    Hilliard agreed without a moment’s dy.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    As their paths diverged, Jennifer set off for the Graham’s vi, while Lucinda and Hilliard hastened to the Paynes’ house.