Family on Their Knees Heart Turned to Ice novel Chapter 782

The Bennetts felt not an ounce of fear toward the unknown—only boundless anticipation. They genuinely believed that once they returned from this luxurious vacation, they would be utterly transformed, elevated to a higher social status.

Ethan glanced down at Dolores. "Say goodbye to your family."

She looked at her mother, a flicker of hesitation in her eyes. But with Ethan's encouragement, she took a few steps toward Emily.

"Goodbye, Mom. Goodbye, Dad. Goodbye, Grandpa, Grandma... Aunt, Uncle..."

After dutifully addressing every relative, she retreated back to Ethan's side.

Emily couldn't care less about the farewells. She hurried over to Ethan. "Mr. Hayes, about my daughter's monthly allowance... can I give you my bank account number so you can deposit it directly?"

Ethan felt a sharp surge of disgust at her insatiable greed. He didn't bother arguing. It wasn't worth the breath.

He flashed a polite smile. "Sure."

Emily eagerly handed him a slip of paper with her account details. What she didn't know was that her accounts had already been frozen due to her involvement in illegal activities. Soon, their cell phones would lose signal out here on the open water. By the time they disembarked, they would have no local SIM cards, no internet access, and absolutely no way to contact the outside world.

Ethan pocketed the slip, took Dolores by the hand, and led her down to the waiting speedboat.

Even as he boarded the smaller vessel, he saw the Bennetts still watching him. He offered one last, bright smile and waved.

Once he and Dolores had their life jackets secured, the speedboat roared to life.

On the distant ship, Lillian lowered her binoculars. They were equipped with high-powered night vision, making the scene unfolding across the water crystal clear.

She knew that even without hearing the conversation, Celia had seen everything.

*Goodbye forever.*

Her duty was fulfilled. From this moment on, her life belonged solely to her. She would never again be hounded, beaten, or blackmailed under the guise of familial obligation. Her servitude ended tonight.

Lillian silently handed her a tissue.

Celia took it but didn't wipe her tears. As the massive ship began to move, the corners of her lips slowly curled upward into a genuine, weightless smile.

Just then, Ethan and the little girl stepped onto the deck.

"Look," Lillian said softly. "They're here."