A Journey from Bitterness to Truth (Matilda and Yvan) novel Chapter 312

The moment the question was asked, Matilda's face turned as white as a sheet. She stood frozen, a look of shock mirroring Hadrian's expression on her face.

"I..."

It took all her strength to calm the storm of emotions raging in her chest before she could speak in a hushed tone, "Mr. Crowe, these are personal matters. It's... it's out of line for you to ask."

Hadrian, uncharacteristically considerate, replied, "I didn't mean to cause you any distress. If it's something you'd rather not discuss, let's pretend I never asked. Oh, and Terry!"

Terry stepped forward, arms laden with an assortment of gifts, which Hadrian then handed over to Matilda, "This... is our way of making amends. After all, the mishap on the cruise was our responsibility. We hope you can forgive this unfortunate incident..."

There were many words exchanged, and Matilda responded in kind, watching as Hadrian walked away before she finally let out a sigh of relief, feeling as if a great pressure had been lifted off her shoulders.

Luna, observing Matilda's reaction, asked with a puzzled look, "Did you know Mr. Crowe before this?"

"No, we're not acquainted."

Matilda's response was indifferent as she turned to Luna, "Do I look like someone you know?"

"I'm not sure," Luna shook her head, clearly confused, "Maybe someone from Hadrian's circle, but no one I or my brother know looks like you."

Matilda fell silent, her gaze deepening.

...

At three in the morning, the lights on the cruise ship dimmed, and it sailed quietly through the ocean. Everyone was asleep, and the decks were shrouded in a layer of frost, a testament to the chilly night air.

It was a moment of serene tranquility.

Suddenly, a shadowy figure appeared on deck, moving stealthily, as if wary of being discovered. Their footsteps were light, but their movements swift, quickly reaching the recently repaired section of the railing.

The old piece of railing had been replaced, likely thrown into the sea to rid of any evidence. However, that would be too obvious a move. If the railing had simply worn away, there would be no need to dispose of it in the ocean. Such an act would only raise suspicions.