That evening, the two of them excitedly uploaded their edited video to the internet. They used Norton’s account, which had over a million followers, so it quickly gained traction and went viral.
Elated, they pulled Penelope over to watch.
“We followed those two old creeps and Chasel all day. They had a fancy dinner at a steakhouse, went on a shopping spree… acting like they’d just won the lottery. We also got footage of them waiting for a cab, saying that if you don’t give in, they’ll just keep spreading rumors to force you to pay up.”
Norton’s expression softened with concern. “The Lancasters are absolute scum. But don’t worry, Penelope. This video will show everyone the truth. No matter what lies they spread now, no one will believe them.”
Timothy pointed at the laptop screen. “It’s spreading fast, and all the comments are calling Chasel and his family shameless.”
Penelope was touched, but she was also a realist.
“It won’t work.”
“What do you mean?” Norton frowned. “Look, people know the truth now. They’re on your side.”
Timothy added, “They wanted to use public opinion to threaten you. Now that public opinion is in your favor, their threats are useless.”
Penelope managed a weak smile. “Thank you both, but…”
Before she could finish, Timothy let out a frustrated noise.
“Hey, why was our video taken down?”
Norton leaned in to look. It was gone.
They searched for it, but it was as if it had never been uploaded. Not a trace remained.
“What the hell?”
As Norton was trying to figure it out, his mother called. Her voice was ice, and she ordered him home immediately.
After hanging up, the realization dawned on him.
“My mom took it down?”
“Zebulon, you always say I don’t care about our past. But do you?”
“You want to talk about our past now? Where was this when I was begging you? You were pretty cold-hearted then, weren’t you? It’s too late, Penelope. Pleading with me won’t work.”
“You wronged me first!”
“Is this about Rebecca? All I wanted was a child. My parents wanted a grandchild. You’re the one who can’t conceive. Shouldn’t you be more understanding?”
“I did it to save you.”
“How many times are you going to bring that up? I’ll say it again: did I ask you to save me? You did it on your own. You were the one who thought love was some grand sacrifice. Well, I don’t!”
“You must be feeling pretty proud of yourself right now.”
“Damn right, I am! We ended up here because of you, Penelope. It’s all your fault! But since you want to talk about old times, I’m not completely heartless. Get that deal between Stone Group and Zenith Group done, and I’ll get rid of Chasel for you. I’ll make sure he never bothers you again.”

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