When Debra heard the valuable gift, everything clicked into ce.


    She understood Melody''s motivations perfectly. Given Melody''s obsession with reputation and status, there was no way she would reject Den''s personal negotiation and generous offer, especially since Shelia was carrying the Nichols family''s heir. Debra sneered, realizing that whether in her past life or this one, Melody was always driven by profit and self-interest.


    In her previous life, when Debra was the heiress of the Frazier family, Melody had treated her very well. But with Shelia''s pregnancy and the potential benefits, Melody was eager to elevate her instead.


    It seemed that history was repeating itself, with Shelia taking on Jade''s identity and carrying Juan''s child.


    Once again, Debra and Juan were entangled in this web, but she was determined not to meet the same tragic end.


    "This is strange. For such an important asion, where is Juan?" Leah pointed out.


    She wasn''t the only one curious about Juan''s absence. Other guests were also scanning the room, whispering among themselves.


    "With the future Mrs. Nichols present, where is Mr. Nichols?"


    "Madam."


    Ben leaned in, whispering something in Debra''s ear.


    Debra paused for a moment before saying, "I see."


    "Debra, what''s wrong?" Leah asked, noticing Debra''s preupied expression.


    "I need to go upstairs for a bit. I''ll be down soon," Debra replied with a polite smile.Còntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Leah nodded gently. "Alright."


    Debra lifted the hem of her dress and instructed Ben, "Wait here. Don''t let anyone up to the second floor."


    "Understood."


    Debra ascended the grand staircase, her steps echoing through the empty second floor. Shelia emerged from around the corner, dressed in a luxurious white gown that belied the pitifu expression on her face


    "Debra," Shelia began, her voice soft and pleading.


    Debra''s tone was cold and unyielding. "I expected to see Juan. Miss ir, why did you call me up here in his name? What is it you want to discuss?"


    Shelia moved closer, her eyes wide and innocent. "Debra, I know you''re upset about this. I called you here to tell you..."


    Shelia paused, her expression suddenly twisting into a sneer. "I wanted to tell you to die."


    Before Debra could react, Shelia lunged at her, grabbing her wrist and pulling her toward the edge of the stairs.


    A scream erupted from below, and


    all eyes turned to the horrifying spectacle. Sheliay at the bottom of the stairs, a pool of blood spreading ominously across the floor.


    "Help! Miss ir fell from the stairs."


    "Jade!" an elderly voice rang out.


    Den had just arrived and witnessed the scene. Edgar, apanying him, rushed to Shelia''s side, his face etched with concern.


    Den helped Shelia up, cradling her limp body in his arms. Edgar turned to the maid, his voice urgent andmanding. "Call an ambnce!" The maid, momentarily stunned, quickly snapped into action and dialed for emergency services.


    Den raised his head and red at Debra, who was standing at the top of the stairs.