Built His Empire Then Watched It Burn When He Cheated novel Chapter 532

**Chapter 532: Carried Into His World**

A suffocating weight clings to my chest, a truth that feels inescapable: Anneliese and I are fated to be rivals. The realization gnaws at my insides, a persistent reminder of our shared past, filled with grievances that loom over any flicker of hope for resolution between us. Even if I were to extend a hand in friendship, I can’t shake the doubt that lingers—would she ever truly forgive the mistakes that have stained our history?

And there she is, striding confidently into the room, radiating an aura that feels like a dagger piercing my heart. It’s as if she’s completely oblivious to the emotional storm she stirs within me. My thoughts spiral into a frenzy, contemplating the implications of her vying for Derek’s affection—what will become of my place in this family? The fear of being overshadowed by her presence is almost paralyzing.

The echoes of the elders’ words reverberate in my mind, a haunting refrain that fills the air with tension. Elizabeth, with her icy demeanor, avoids making eye contact with me, her expression growing colder as the atmosphere thickens around us.

“Thank you, Grandpa. I appreciate everyone’s concern,” she says, her voice steady, yet I can sense the turmoil simmering beneath her calm facade.

Anneliese’s gaze shifts to Derek, a smile breaking across her face that seems to light up the room. It’s a sweet, enchanting smile, one that could charm even the most stoic heart. Beneath the grand chandelier, her skin glows, and her eyes sparkle with a clarity that is almost mesmerizing.

There’s no denying her beauty—flawless, captivating, and utterly disarming.

Before I can even process her presence, Jonathan sweeps her away, leading her effortlessly to a quiet courtyard nestled to the east of the main residence.

The Fullbuster family has established itself across Oceaton, with three main sons and their sister each creating their own homes. Yet, the Fullbuster Residence stands as a sanctuary, preserving the essence of family through its various courtyard quarters.

Jonathan guides her to the courtyard belonging to the eldest branch, a space steeped in the echoes of his childhood.

Once inside, Anneliese’s curiosity is palpable, her fatigue momentarily forgotten as she surveys the remnants of his youth scattered about—basketballs, skateboards, trophies, and model airplanes that whisper tales of days long past.

“Did you grow up here?” she asks, her voice laced with genuine intrigue.

If only fatigue hadn’t weighed her down, she would have been exploring every nook and cranny, absorbing the essence of his past as if it were a treasure map.

He gently eases her onto the bed, playfully pinching her cheek. “Still feeling okay?”

She looks up at him, a smile breaking through her weariness, a glimmer of life returning to her eyes.

“You haven’t let me walk or talk. What could possibly happen to me?”

Inside, I brace myself for the inevitable wave of criticism, the humiliation of being the timid daughter-in-law lurking in the shadows. Yet, to my surprise, the day unfolds differently.

Derek, while appearing stern, is not unreasonable.

It’s evident that he holds Old Mrs. Fullbuster in high regard.

“If anyone bothers you, let me know right away,” Jonathan says, propping a soft pillow behind her head. “You don’t have to put up with anything.”

Watching him, Anneliese feels the tightness within her begin to dissolve.

With him by her side, she realizes she won’t have to endure suffering alone.

Jonathan is a stark contrast to Zacharias, who speaks one way yet acts another. Jonathan is dependable, steadfast, and sincere.

But then, a flicker of suspicion crosses Anneliese’s face.

“Wait a minute…”

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