Chapter 468: Rex's Message Flashed on Vanessa's Screen

Rex’s message flashed on Vanessa’s screen. He confirmed a potential buyer for 60% of the shares. But the offer stood at only 80 billion. Eighty billion? Vanessa’s brow furrowed. The Bennett Holdings’s shares were worth far more. That lowball offer was insulting. She typed a swift reply. Not selling below 95 billion. She wouldn’t accept anything less. Rex responded immediately. The buyer refused to go higher. He cited the family’s damaged reputation. His tone was firm and unyielding. Vanessa felt the pressure mounting. Eighty billion was a substantial amount.

But it wasn’t enough for what she needed. Her situation was growing desperate. Everyone despised her now. She had to flee Kingsport soon. Where would she go? Starting over required funds. New identity, new life—all costly. As she pondered, movement caught her eye. A man in dark green stood at the hallway’s end. She recognized him instantly—her wedding day. She glanced around nervously. Everyone was still in Caleb’s room. She hurried out to meet him. The man waited under a garden tree. The spot was secluded and empty. Vanessa approached him, furious.

Why are you here? she demanded. Did you spend all the money already? I’m not here for money, he began. Vanessa cut him off sharply. I don’t care why you’re here, she snapped. Leave now. Don’t ever contact me again. My life is falling apart, she hissed. I have no time for you. I owe you nothing. The man sighed heavily. Vanessa, I came to take you home. Just come with me. You’ll understand. Home? she laughed bitterly. Where were you when I needed you? When my mother struggled alone? Her voice trembled with rage.

Memories flooded back, painful and sharp. Her eyes reddened with unshed tears. My mother worked as a cleaner, she spat. Pregnant and exhausted every day. She barely slept or ate. She had nothing when I was born. Couldn’t even pay the hospital bills. She died three days after giving birth. She swapped me into the Bennett family. So I wouldn’t end up like her. So I could have a better life. I lived in constant fear. Terrified they’d discover the truth. I avoided hospitals, blood tests, everything. I was paranoid about leaving evidence.

Even a single strand of hair. Every day was a nightmare. The man looked down, guilt-ridden. He tried to speak her name. Vanessa cut him off violently. Don’t say my name, she snarled. You gave me nothing. Not even my name. You weren’t there for twenty-three years. Now you show up because I’m rich? Have you no shame? No guilt? Get out of my sight forever. I don’t want your money, he insisted. Vanessa shoved him hard. Go! Now! Leave me alone!