Reborn Young Miss: Phoenix Burning Red-Chapter 487: Set in Stone (1)

Her father was already dead, but despite that, Adrienne could never forgive him for everything he had put her and her family through. The pain and resentment lingered, leaving a void in her heart that seemed impossible to fill. Despite the finality of his absence, the wounds he had inflicted continued to haunt her, making forgiveness an elusive concept.

Adrienne was sought by the authorities to settle the remaining properties and financial matters left behind by her father. It was a daunting task, as each document and decision reminded her of the pain he had caused. With Cayden still in prison and Hunter refusing to acknowledge his Jiang family name, Adrienne had no choice but to take on the responsibility herself.

It was late afternoon, and she stood before her father’s gravestone. Her face was cold and expressionless as she stared at the engraved words; her mind was flooded with memories of his betrayal. Her emotions threatened to consume her, but Adrienne knew she had to find a way to let go and move forward.

He was already dead, and until his last breath, he refused to acknowledge the pain he had caused her. Adrienne couldn’t help but wonder if he had any remorse or understood the magnitude of his actions. Despite the anger and hurt that still lingered within her, she made a silent promise to herself that she would not let his legacy define her.

"We should get going, Addie. It’s getting colder already."

Throughout it all, her husband accompanied Adrienne. He had been her rock, supporting her through the darkest moments of her life. His unwavering presence gave her the strength to face the painful memories and begin healing. As they walked away from the cemetery, Adrienne felt a glimmer of hope that she could finally start a new Chapter, free from the shadow of her past.

"Why was Scarlett crying this morning?" Lennox asked as they drove back home. "She won’t tell me anything."

Adrienne let out a small laugh. She understood why her sister-in-law kept it a secret from her husband. Even when Samantha started dating, her husband looked as if he would burst into tears at the thought of his little sister growing up.

Adrienne knew that Lennox had a tendency to worry, and she didn’t want him to become overwhelmed with unnecessary concern for Scarlett. It was better for Scarlett to confide in someone who could provide her comfort and support without adding extra stress to Lennox’s plate.

"Your sister is officially a young woman. She had her first heartbreak today."

Lennox stiffened in his seat. He was overprotective when it came to his two sisters and couldn’t bear the thought of them getting hurt.

"What happened?" he asked, concern evident in his voice. Adrienne sighed, realizing she had to tread carefully.

"It’s just a part of growing up, Lennox. Scarlett will be okay, but she needs our support right now." Lennox nodded, his grip on the steering wheel tightening. He knew he had to trust Adrienne’s judgment and be there for his sister during this difficult time.

"That boy must be foolish not to see how amazing Scarlett is," Lennox muttered, his jaw clenched.

Adrienne placed a comforting hand on his arm, understanding his protective nature.

"Sometimes people don’t appreciate what they have until it’s gone," she said softly. Lennox took a deep breath, trying to calm himself, but it was hard when he remembered hearing his sister’s sobs on the phone earlier that day. He couldn’t bear the thought of Scarlett being hurt or mistreated by someone who couldn’t see her worth.

As they arrived home, Adrienne went to the kitchen to start dinner, hoping the activity would distract them from their worries. Lennox followed her, still lost in his thoughts but determined to be there for his sister, but he had no idea how to make Scarlett feel better. It was easier for him to deal with her and Sam when they were younger. Still, now that Scarlett was already a teenager, with many admirers vying for her attention, Lennox couldn’t help but worry.

As the aroma of simmering sauce filled the air, Adrienne glanced over at Lennox. She could see the love and concern etched on his face. He was a protector by nature, fiercely loyal to those he cared about. Raising two younger sisters had only strengthened that instinct within him.

"Len," Adrienne said gently, breaking the silence. "You know you can’t shield Scarlett from every heartbreak, right? Sometimes, these experiences help us grow stronger."

"I know," he replied, his voice tinged with resignation. "But it’s hard seeing her in pain. She deserves so much more."

Adrienne turned off the stove and walked over to him, wrapping her arms around his waist.

"And she will find someone who sees her worth and appreciates all she is. Just like how we found each other."

Lennox sighed and rested his forehead against her, finding solace in her words. He hoped Adrienne was right because he knew not everyone who sought his siblings had pure motives. Even if they were illegitimate children of Richard Qin, their surname alone was enough to attract those seeking to exploit them for their family’s wealth and power. Lennox couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of responsibility to protect his sisters despite their strength and resilience.

Adrienne leaned back slightly, her eyes meeting Lennox’s, filled with understanding and compassion. She knew the weight he carried on his shoulders—the burden of being the older brother, the guardian, the protector. But she also knew he couldn’t shield Scarlett from everything; she had to learn and grow from her own experiences.

"I know it’s hard, Len," Adrienne said softly. "But we have to trust in Scarlett’s strength and judgment. We can support and guide her, but ultimately, she has to make her own choices and learn from them."

"You’re right," Lennox murmured, his voice barely audible. "I just want them to be happy and safe."

"They will be," she said firmly. "Scarlett is resilient, just like Sam. And with us by their side, I believe they’ll find their happiness."