Trinity’s expression shifted from smug satisfaction to open annoyance. “Elliana,” Jason cut in with clear frustration, “you’ve been warning Trinity about possible fraud during her trip with Professor Sampson. What’s behind this concern of yours?”

Jason’s question functioned as an accusation, implying jealousy and questionable motives on Elliana’s part.

Elliana met his suspicious stare without flinching, her smile so genuine that it seemed to sparkle. “I’ve said exactly what I mean. Why keep grilling me?”

“So you’re just worried about Trinity being deceived?” Jason’s words dripped with doubt.

“Exactly!” Elliana declared with sincere conviction. “That’s my only reason, nothing else!”

Jason dismissed her apparent honesty with a scoffing sound and then looked away, ending their exchange.

Elliana shrugged with complete indifference. If Jason refused to believe her explanation, that was his problem. As the real Milena, she had done her duty by offering the warning. When they ran into trouble later and came looking for sympathy, they couldn’t blame her for not warning them.

Jason turned his attention back to Trinity. “Trinity, please wait in the car. I need to talk privately with Cole.”

Trinity hesitated about leaving. She hadn’t seen Cole for an entire week while he was away from the Evans estate, and she missed him desperately. She wanted to treasure every precious moment with him. But with Jason requesting private time with Cole, she couldn’t reasonably stay.

Though Trinity couldn’t remain close to Cole, she wanted to linger in his space a little longer. This estate was Cole’s private sanctuary, carefully secured. She had never gained access before. Today’s visit only happened because she tagged along with Jason.

“All right, I’ll walk around for a bit. I’ve never seen Regal Grove up close,” Trinity spoke to Jason with calculated brightness. She planned to familiarize herself with the property. Expecting to marry Cole eventually, she figured her future management duties justified this early scouting mission.

Jason nodded his approval. “Fine, I’ll send someone to get you when we’re ready to leave.”

: ν?

Trinity turned toward Cole, her smile blazing with exceptional radiance. “Cole, could you provide a guide? This is my first visit, and the property looks enormous. I’m afraid I’ll get lost.”

Cole glanced meaningfully at Myles.

Myles caught the unspoken command, bowing respectfully. “Miss Craig, please follow me.”

Seeing Cole approve her exploration and assign his head assistant as her escort, Trinity felt overwhelming joy, her face glowing with pure happiness. “Thank you, Cole!”

She then turned to address Elliana. “Elliana, I’m leaving to tour the estate.”

Elliana responded with a slight smile. Trinity’s performance outdid even Paige’s dramatic skills. While Trinity’s pointed look might have escaped others, Elliana caught the underlying challenge with perfect clarity.

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