Chapter 172: Fractured Loyalties

The grand living room of the Carpenter estate was bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, casting long shadows across the polished floor. Mrs. Woodwell sat poised in an armchair, her fingers drumming a steady rhythm on the armrest. Michael stood nearby, arms crossed, his expression a mixture of confusion and concern. Jasmine lounged on a couch, her demeanor calm but her eyes flickering with unease. Michael broke the tense silence first. “Mother, why do you see Kimberly as such a threat?” he asked, his voice steady but laced with frustration. “She hasn’t done anything to harm us.” Mrs. Woodwell’s eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of impatience in her gaze. “Michael, you’re being naïve,” she replied coolly. “You don’t understand the complexities of the situation.” Michael took a step closer, refusing to be brushed off. “Then help me understand. What has she done that’s so dangerous? What makes her a threat to our family?” Mrs. Woodwell’s lips pressed into a thin line. She was s