Ch. 2081..2090

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2081-"Nonsense!"

Wyatt felt his vision darken as he angrily slammed his hand on the sofa's armrest. "How can you ask about the royal family matters so casually? Besides, if you really love that girl, you shouldn't approach her with an ulterior motive!

"She degraded herself just to see you and traveled thousands of miles. It's clear that she values you and has genuine feelings! If you wanted to use her, would that be fair to her? Will the royal family let you off for playing the princess like a fool? Are the special agents of the Sentania royal family just for show?!"

Declan's heart wrenched in pain. His hands hanging by his side trembled uncontrollably and curled into a fist…

How could he not understand Wyatt's reasonings? He was not without a heart.

However, if he did not uncover his mother's background, he would not know where Wyatt's concerns came from, and he would not get to be with Annabeth openly, let alone have a future together.

"You and that princess… Sort out your relationship soon. You can't be together, no matter what!"

"Dad, you've always praised me as the most obedient child since I was young."

A wave of unbearable bitterness surged up Declan's throat, and he blinked hard. "I've never defied you, but this time, can I beg you to give me a chance to date Annabeth?"

"No!" Wyatt was enraged, his body trembling uncontrollably, his words becoming slurred. "Do you want her, or me, your father… You choose!"

Then, Wyatt's vision blackened, and his limbs turned stiff, as if paralyzed.

"Dad!" Declan immediately turned pale with fright, rushing to check his father's condition.

"Dad!" Secretly eavesdropping outside, Bella rushed in quickly and contacted Arnold, while calmly performing first aid to Wyatt.

"Dad… I didn't mean to anger you… Sorry!" Declan, a grown man, knelt helplessly beside his father, tears gathering in his eyes.

Wyatt suddenly had an episode, but Bella and Asher did not alert the others from the Thompson family, only getting Justin and Arnold to help out.

After all, Ryan and Carrie's wedding was just in two days, and nobody wanted to cause trouble for the newlyweds on such a joyous occasion.

After taking his medicine and a simple treatment from Arnold, Wyatt's condition stabilized, and he fell into a slumber on the bed.

"What happened all of a sudden?" Arnold stood beside Asher, shoulders touching as he asked worriedly. "It's my fault… It's all my fault! It's because of me. I was a bad son…"

Declan lowered his head guiltily, the strong sense of remorse constricting his beating heart like thorny veins.

Justin held Bella's waist and saw her sullen expression. He instinctively knew that something unpleasant had occurred.

"I'd believe it if it was someone else. But you, Declan? I just can't buy it." Asher shook his head in confusion.

"Asher, Arnold, Justin."

Bella took a deep breath and slightly parted her lips. "Can you please step out for a while? I have something to say to Declan alone."

The three men exchanged a look but still wisely left the room.

"Bella, are you alright?" Justin lowered his gaze and looked at her, feeling worried.

"It's alright. Wait for me outside." Bella squeezed his large hand, smiling gently to assure him.

Soon, only Bella and Declan were left standing beside Wyatt's bed.

"Bella, I…"

"Declan, I wanted to talk to you about Mom."

Upon mentioning their mother, Bella's eyes immediately teared up, despite just calming her emotions. " Based on Dad's reaction tonight and the investigation and deduction I've made previously, it's almost confirmed that Mom is from Sentania and ended up in Hatchbay due to some misfortune.

"Besides, there's something else I'm almost certain of. Mom is connected to the royal family of Sentania, and this relationship is a secret both Mom and Dad never wanted to touch or let us know."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2082-It was unknown whether it was a dream or the mental connection between father and daughter, but Wyatt's brows slightly furrowed in his sleep, his fingertips twitching reflexively.

"Mom… Is she from the royal family?" Declan's breath hitched.

Bella shook her head lightly. "I don't know. If she is a member of the royal family, even if she was exiled or disowned for some reason, it's impossible to have zero historical records. So, I suspect she might have been working in the palace or was connected to the royal family. But I'm not sure, since we don't know the situation in Sentania at all. However, there's one thing I'm certain of."

Her beautiful eyes shone with a cold gleam as her slender fingers curled tightly. "Mom must have a deep grudge against the Sentania royal family, forcing her to be exiled. Coincidentally, she was rescued by Cameron."

The words "deep grudge" were like a cruel, invisible blade, piercing through Declan's heaving chest.

"Dad has always doted on us and let us make decisions about our own lives. As the descendants of a wealthy family, he never forced us to enter into a marriage alliance and let us pursue our happiness." Declan knelt on one knee beside the bed, holding his father's frail hand tightly, tears welling up in his eyes. "But my relationship with Annabeth incited such an intense reaction from him. It shows that your deductions have a basis. Something bad must have happened between Mom and the Sentania royal family, which caused Dad to have such violent emotions."

Upon hearing it, Bella fell into a deep thought.

Since they were young, Wyatt was only exceptionally lenient toward her mother's five children, even to the point of indulging them. But to Mila and Celeste's children, he was more like the strict head of a wealthy family.

He would fiercely oppose Camilla marrying off to Sentania, once arranged for Amelia to marry into the Solloway family, and constantly urged Ralph to settle down.

But for the five of them, even when she ran off to work for Doctor Without Borders or acted rebelliously, Wyatt was only stern on the surface. He would still compromise and surrender to her.

Wyatt indeed loved her mother the most, and, by extension, was incredibly kind to her children.

But if he was really so devoted, why did he take so many mistresses?

If her mother and father were truly in love with each other, why did she watch as Wyatt married one woman after another but never stopped him, even forming a sisterly bond with them?

As a woman, Bella could not understand her mother.

They were merely humans. How could they not feel jealous? Unless there was no love, she could not endure a day in the life of sharing a man with many other women, let alone have children with a man like that.

"Bella, if the royal family is really Mom's enemy, then I will sever my ties with Annabeth. I will not have any further contact with her."

Declan's breath hitched, his voice hoarse and trembling, trying to suppress his surging emotions. "When it's still possible…"

"Declan, everything we know now is just my speculation… If you give up on your happiness because of this, it would be too cruel." Bella looked at him and felt extremely distressed.

"I lost my mother long ago, and I can't lose my father now. I can't gamble with Dad's health." Declan lowered his head, his heart filled with an unbearable mix of bitterness and guilt. "Bella, I don't have any big dreams or the courage to risk it all for love. I only want Dad to be well, for all of you to be well… That's the only meaning in my life."

The brother and sister fell silent. After watching Wyatt for a while longer, Declan left the room, his shoulders slumped dejectedly.

"Dad, what really happened with Mom? When will you tell me the truth? I really want to know."

Bella sat on the bedside and sighed gloomily.

Just as her gaze landed on Wyatt's handsome face, her pupils suddenly contracted. Two streaks of tears flowed down the corner of his eyes, wetting the pillow.

Wyatt had cried in his sleep.

It was late at night.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2083-Declan took out his military uniform from his suitcase and hung it on the wall above his bedpost, then used a velvet cloth to polish his badges and rank insignia meticulously.

He made time to attend the Hoffmans' wedding and had to return immediately to be on standby after that, so he brought his military uniform with him. It was his pride.

Despite busying around, he could not sleep. Declan lay on the bed, tossing and turning around for a long time before finally feeling a little sleepy.

In a daze, he felt his body getting warm. A sweet, fragrant breeze gently brushed across his face…

He suddenly woke up, his eyes wide.

In the dim lights, Annabeth's fair and soft body was only clad in a nightgown as thin as paper. She straddled him, and the view in front of her chest was exposed when she leaned forward, revealing a tempting and mouth-watering sight.

"Declan, hug me… I miss you."

The girl's spirited, watery eyes were staring at him dreamily, full of deep and entwined longing.

The moment Declan saw her, he felt a surge of heat in his lower abdomen, and his long eyelashes trembled in restraint.

The dark surroundings covered his face, flushed as red as blood, which trailed down to his neck and the tip of his ears.

He was an upright gentleman, but still a man.

Something would definitely happen with another look.

Declan's breath grew heavy, and he immediately grabbed the military uniform hanging at the side to drape it over Annabeth's shoulders, wrapping her tempting body completely. No matter how much she squirmed, he did not let go.

The neatly pressed uniform became wrinkled amidst the girl's struggles.

Declan treated it like a treasure, always personally ironing and taking care of it, and even his secretary would not dare to touch it.

But at this moment, he did not feel distressed about it when it came to the girl.

"Declan, I've practically served myself up to you, but you still won't act… Do you not like me, or do you have problems in that area?" Annabeth's face flushed angrily, pouting with frustration.

"Stop messing around!" Declan held her shoulders, his gaze deep.

"Hmph, I'll know if you have a problem down there when I try it!"

Annabeth was a stubborn person who refused to give up. She tried hard to break free from his grasp, angry and arrogant. "In ancient times, the princesses would have their maids test if the future prince consort was up to the task in bed. I won't trouble anyone else. I'll do it myself!"

"Your Highness, stop messing around!"

Declan's tone was cold and hard, the indifference in his eyes stinging Annabeth. "I'm about to rest. Please leave now."

Annabeth stiffened in shock. "Just now… What did you call me?"

"Your Highness."

"Say that again?!"

"Your Highness."

Declan's eyes, clear as moonlight, showed no emotions. "It's the same even if I say it a thousand times." "Why didn't you call me Annabeth? You never called me Your Highness in private!"

Annabeth immediately panicked, her arrogance, haughtiness, and stubbornness a moment ago vanishing without a trace.

All that remained were her pitiful eyes, anxiously looking at him, her voice softer than ever in the night." Declan… Are you angry? Did I upset you? Tell me. Talk to me…"

"Go back to Sentania tomorrow."

Declan's gaze was cold and unapproachable. "From now on, I'll be a soldier, and you be your princess. Let's not cross paths again."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2084-The Thompson children were all loyal in love, but they were also great actors.

When Declan said those cold words, his heart felt as if it was pierced by a sharp blade, repeatedly twisting to hurt him.

"Declan…" Annabeth's body, wrapped in his military suit, trembled violently. She stared at him in shock, wanting to see through his cold expression. "You don't want me anymore?"

Like an outstanding actor, crystal-clear tears rolled down her cheeks when she spoke, glistening like a string of pearls.

Declan's heart clenched painfully, and he could not bear to look at her anymore.

How he hoped she was merely seducing him with shallow feelings. But the girl before him had genuine emotions and not one bit of acting.

"Have you forgotten… Have you forgotten everything we did in the palace? Have you forgotten how you took a huge risk to climb over the palace walls to see me? Have you forgotten hugging me…"

"Your Highness, I've indeed kissed and hugged you before, but what could that prove?"

Declan snorted, his mocking expression as cold as the Antarctic ice floating on the sea. "That could only prove you once attracted me, physically."

Physical attraction?

Although Annabeth was only twenty and grew up under the doting love of the king and queen, making her innocent and naive, she could still understand the underlying meaning of his words.

It was a biological impulse of a man to a woman.

The cheapest, ugliest kind of affection.

"The long nights were not so lonely anymore because of you. In that sense, I did like you before."

"No matter what… You still liked me!" Annabeth teared up, twisting her waist as she struggled to hug him. She only wanted him.

But her thin shoulders were held firmly in place by him. She could not touch him at all, and she was so anxious that tears could not stop falling. "Declan… I love you… Can't we at least try? We've never started anything. How could you be sure that you only like me that way? Even if you only want my body, I don't care! I just want to be with you… Nothing else matters if I get to be with you."

She cried and begged for his love, completely disregarding her noble status and dignity as a royal.

"Your Highness, you've said that I was your first man."

Declan slightly tugged at his lips and narrowed his eyes. "The reason you've set your eyes on me isn't because I'm all that. It's because you've met too few men. We aren't suitable. Forget it."

"No…!"

Annabeth's eyes, red from tears, widened like a cornered wildcat, and she gritted her teeth fiercely. "I order you to be with me! Otherwise, the royal family would not let you off! If you don't marry me… You will never be able to marry another woman!"

"I've decided to dedicate the rest of my life to my country. Romance was never part of my plans, and I've never thought of getting married. I'm saving you the trouble. Besides, don't forget that I'm not from Sentania. Your special privileges don't apply to me."

Declan flipped over and stood up, his tall and broad figure towering over her, his gaze without warmth." Leave my room immediately,"

"I won't!" Annabeth's pink lips pouted, snot and tears stained her face.

"Fine. Then you can stay. I'll leave."

Declan was expressionless and turned around to leave without hesitation.

Suddenly, a small and wet hand grabbed his palm tightly.

"Don't leave… I'll go. I'll go, okay?"

Annabeth left his military uniform on the bed and disappeared from his room in the blink of an eye. "Annabeth, there's no possibility between us. I'm sorry."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2085-Declan lowered his gaze, slowly clenching his fists, trying to hold on to the gradually disappearing warmth. "Find someone who would love you with their life and put you first. It's not worth it to fall in love with someone like me."

Annabeth ran while crying in the castle's hallways until she finally ran out of strength. She panted as she slumped against the wall and sat on the ground, looking like an abandoned child.

She did not know how long she had been crying when a figure stood before her and slowly squatted down, meeting her at eye level.

"Oh, it's you crying. Here I thought the castle was haunted." Bella tilted her head and looked at the girl, her bright eyes flickering with a gentle light.

Annabeth raised her eyes, swollen to the point they almost could not open, and sobbed. "Even if I'm a ghost… I'm the most beautiful ghost!"

"Yes, yes, you're the most beautiful princess in the world." Bella coaxed softly, but not without teasing her a little to lighten the sorrowful atmosphere. "Crying here in the middle of the night instead of sleeping? Aren't you afraid that you'll really summon a ghost? I heard that ancient castles like this have a lot of supernatural beings."

"Ah!"

Annabeth was timid and threw herself into Bella's arm in a panic, her frail body soft and warm, making it hard to let go.

Declan usually kept a low profile. She did not expect him to take down the high and mighty princess in just two trips to Sentania.

What a catch!

However, Bella also knew why Annabeth was squatting here pitifully late at night, wiping her tears.

She was born a princess, standing on the top of the pyramid with everything she wanted right by her grasp.

This was likely the only time she could not get what she wanted in her life and suffered, all because of Bella's brother.

At this thought, Bella could not help hugging the crying girl tighter, suddenly thinking of herself in the past.

Her father was the wealthiest man in Hatchbay, the uncrowned king who boosted Hatchbay's GDP and created many job opportunities for the people. When she went out with her father as a child, people would call her a princess.

She was the princess of the whole Thompson family and grew up with infinite love and care. However, the most violent storms in her life were caused by the person she loved most.

Luckily, after weathering the storm, she finally obtained the happiness she sought.

But the girl before her seemed to be walking her old path.

As his family, Bella naturally hoped Declan could find his own happiness, and she could see that Annabeth really liked him.

But…

Their mother's mysterious history and their father's intense opposition forced Declan to face the cruelest choice.

"Be good and don't cry. I'll send you back to your room." Bella sighed deeply, feeling upset.

"I… I don't dare to go back now…"

Annabeth rubbed her wet eyes and complained softly, "It's your fault telling me there are ghosts. I'm scared."

Bella patted her trembling back lightly. "Well, Your Highness, if you don't mind, why don't you sleep with me tonight?"

"Okay… I'll allow it." Annabeth sniffed, her nose red from crying.

Since Annabeth was young, she had always slept alone due to palace rules. In fact, she felt a little nervous to share a bed with someone else.

But the woman in front of her gave her a sense of security, like family. This feeling was rare and precious in the strict royal family.

Bella chuckled and slowly walked forward, her arms wrapped around Annabeth's shoulder.

At this moment, the phone in her coat pocket vibrated. She pulled it out and sneaked a glance. It was from Declan.

[Bella, please take care of Annabeth tonight.] Bella looked back in surprise and faintly saw a lean, lonely figure standing at the end of the dimly lit corridor.

It was Declan.

He seemed to have stood there for a long time.

Bella turned around, and while Annabeth was not looking, she raised her hand and made an "OK" gesture in the air.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2086-The long-awaited wedding finally arrived as planned.

Early in the morning, the weather was perfect. The sun shone warmly under a clear, cloudless sky.

Inside the castle, vibrant, fragrant red roses adorned both sides of every staircase, extending from the castle to the small chapel behind it.

The scene resembled a dreamy fairytale.

Dressed in their finest attire, friends and family from both sides stood outside with beaming smiles, eagerly waiting for the bride to appear.

"The bride is here!"

Bella's sweet and clear voice echoed through the castle's grand hall. Carrie, the bride, entered the room slowly, accompanied by Roza and Amelia. She wore a snow-white wedding gown, looking as beautiful and pure as an angel.

By this time, the men had already gathered at the chapel. Except for Justin, Steven, and Declan, who were not part of the groom's party, the rest were mostly women from both families.

Carrie's delicate and serene features stood out. The wedding gown Roza designed was simple, highlighting Carrie's understated elegance.

She shyly lifted her clear, doe-like eyes and smiled gracefully.

The roses in the castle seemed to lose their brilliance, overshadowed by Carrie, who outshone them all as the fairest of them all.

Although Carrie had been diligently maintaining her health through proper meals, medication, and rest, with Ryan helping her recuperate, winter had already arrived in Botvia. Even with a warm, wide white fur cape draped over her shoulders, the cold wind made her seem fragile like a flower stem swaying lightly in the breeze.

"Be careful, Carrie." Bella quickly steadied her when she noticed Carrie falter.

Standing behind them, Amelia and Roza also watched with concern.

"Ah..." Carrie looked up at her sister-in-law, guilt knitting her delicate brows.

She felt ashamed of her own frailty.

Anyone watching could not help but feel their heart ache.

Back then, Carrie endured psychological torment, cold stares, and suffering. Now that she had finally found happiness and was about to marry the one she loved, it seemed cruel that the heavens were trying to take away her health.

Bella's eyes filled with tears, but she held Carrie's hand tightly, smiling gently as she whispered, "It's alright, Carrie. You're just a little nervous about being a bride for the first time."

"We're here with you, Carrie. Don't worry!" Roza said boldly, her eyes also glistening with unshed tears.

As they stepped outside, a luxurious, vintage carriage waited, ready to take the bride to her beautiful wedding.

Carrie blinked her clear, watery eyes, slowly taking in the scene around her.

"Sorry, sorry! I'm late!"

Just then, Ralph came running over, drenched in sweat and panting heavily.

"You bastard, why are you just getting here now? Everyone's already here, and we're all waiting on you!"

Mila hurried over to straighten her son's crooked tie and button the middle button of his suit, chiding him. "As the First Lady, your sister even traveled all the way from Sentania and arrived the night before last, despite her busy schedule. What kind of important work did you have that kept you until the last minute? Everyone's been waiting for you! Aren't you embarrassed?!"

"I'm sorry, Mom. My flight got delayed. It's my fault. I'm sorry." Ralph raised his hand to wipe the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand, guilt written all over his face. "Mom, stop blaming Ralph. He's been so busy with his cases that he barely has time to sleep. Please cut him some slack," Camilla said with a gentle smile, ever the peacemaker.

Ralph quickly took the opportunity. "Yeah, Mom, cut me some slack."

"Cut you some slack? As if!"

Mila could not help but laugh, tapping her finger on her youngest son's firm chest. "Your sisters and brothers have been treating you like a little prince since you were a kid, spoiling you like crazy. Now you act like a monkey with no sense of propriety! You really need a good scolding!"

Thinking of Hugh, both Ralph and Camilla fell silent. Their hearts tightened with sorrow.

Mila's eyes reddened too. She then quickly changed the subject. "Ralph, look! Doesn't the bride look beautiful?"

Standing tall and straight as a pine tree, Ralph turned and lifted his gaze toward Carrie.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2087-Just then, the girl happened to be looking at him with delight. Their eyes met, but the connection was pure and innocent, untouched by romantic feelings.

"Ah…" Carrie's smile brightened as she waved the red rose in her hand at him.

Ralph smiled back.

But as he kept smiling, his eyes began to sting, his vision blurring as the beautiful girl in front of him gradually became harder to see.

To say he felt no regret would be a lie. Yet he harbored no resentment and never considered trying to make up for that regret. All he wanted was for her to find happiness.

Standing by the carriage, Justin wore a black suit, matching the rest of the groomsmen. He did not want to outshine the groom. Still, he looked strikingly handsome-enough to leave anyone breathless.

As Carrie's brother, he would escort his beloved sister to her wedding ceremony.

Watching her walk toward him step by step, Justin twitched his nose as he felt a sting, and his eyes subtly moistened. But despite the emotion, a smile of deep joy and satisfaction spread across his lips as he stood ready to fulfill his duty one last time.

Carrie's cheeks blushed as she gently placed her delicate, gloved hand into her brother's palm.

This scene tugged at Bella's heart. She stood silently behind them, overwhelmed with mixed emotions.

From the moment she fell in love with Justin, she had dreamed of walking down the aisle with him.

She was a simple woman who longed for a grand wedding the whole world would witness, where she would stand proudly by Justin's side.

Life did not have to be extravagant. However, when she loved someone, it should be passionate and grand. Her heart was the most fervent rose in this vast, blooming landscape. However, reality often proved to be cruel and complicated.

But she had faith in him. She believed that one day, everything she hoped for would become a reality.

"Wait, wait a minute!"

Just as Justin prepared to help Carrie into the carriage, a soft, urgent voice called out.

Everyone turned to see Princess Annabeth hurrying over in small, quick steps. Her left hand held a delicate black velvet box, while her right hand lifted the hem of her gown as she rushed to Carrie's side.

Every move she made was graceful and elegant, fit for admiration.

Her most unrestrained, chaotic, and disheveled moments, including her first kiss, were all reserved for Declan.

The two breathtakingly beautiful girls stood face-to-face as Carrie blinked in surprise.

Princess Annabeth bit her red lips and opened the box in her hand.

Inside was a tiara. It was entirely silver-white, set with dozens of large, teardrop-shaped diamonds. The dazzling light danced across Carrie's astonished face, radiating luxurious brilliance.

It looked mesmerizing and intoxicating.

This was not just a piece of jewelry. It was a symbol of royal majesty, emanating the aura of regal authority.

Standing behind the crowd, Declan felt a shock run through his heart. His eyes widened in disbelief.

In the Sentania royal family, every female member received a custom-made tiara at birth. It was a one-of-a-kind heirloom that accompanied them throughout their lives. They would only wear it on solemn, special occasions.

Who would have thought the little princess would dare to bring out such a priceless treasure? How audacious!

"My goodness… Is that a royal tiara? It's stunning!" Amelia gasped, covering her mouth in awe.

"That would fetch an astronomical price at an auction!" Roza, who had seen her fair share of grandeur, stared wide-eyed, utterly captivated.

"This is a tiara from the Sentania's royal family. It's a symbol of power and status, passed down through generations. It would never be sold at auction. Because that would diminish the royal family's prestige." Bella fixed her eyes on the tiara. Even as a top-tier jewelry designer, she found herself completely entranced by its allure.

Just then, Princess Annabeth's bright smile widened, her voice filled with joy. "Ms. Salvador, this is my gift to you. Congratulations on your wedding."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2088-Everyone stared in shock, their jaws practically hitting the floor.

No one present, except for Declan and Camilla, had ever met Princess Annabeth before this. Even if they had known her better, how could a royal symbol like the tiara be so casually gifted?

"Ah! Ahh!" Carrie blushed deeply and waved her hands in surprise. She did not even dare to touch the crown.

"Princess, this is far too valuable." Justin stepped forward, his voice gentle as he tried to decline the gift.' Your Highness, Carrie is deeply grateful for your kindness. She is very happy about the gift. But please, you should…"

"Hmph! Who are you to tell me what to do?"

Princess Annabeth tilted her delicate, radiant face upward and shot him a haughty glance. "Besides, this is my royal gift to her. Who dares to refuse it?!"

Justin was speechless.

For a moment, he wondered if he was getting too old, as his words only seemed to irritate others these days.

"Tsk, tsk… Why is the princess acting so high and mighty? Even the British monarchy lost its power decades ago… Yet here she is handing out royal gifts." Sasha mumbled, her knack for sarcasm kicking in. "Aunt Sasha, please don't say that."

Camilla gently linked arms with her, smiling softly. "The King and Queen have only one daughter, Princess Annabeth, whom they have raised with immense love and care. It's natural for her to be a bit spoiled. But she has a good heart. She's kind and sincere. Otherwise, we wouldn't have become friends, and she certainly wouldn't…"

As she spoke, Camilla glanced meaningfully at Declan, who stood tall and composed behind them.

His clear, handsome eyes focused on Carrie. Yet despite this, his intense gaze never left Princess Annabeth's face. A subtle worry flickered in his deep, dark eyes.

Princess Annabeth pouted stubbornly, her expression proud yet somehow endearing. "Taking back a gift after giving it? That would be humiliating and disgraceful for the royal family!"

Roza and Amelia struggled to hold back their laughter, while Bella could only sigh in exasperation.

If the princess was giving away tiaras after just one meeting, what would happen once she got to know everyone better? Would she empty out the entire palace?

Carrie had always preferred simplicity and elegance. Even on her wedding day, she chose to wear only a plain white veil. However, upon closer inspection, the veil bore intricate and beautiful rose patterns, a gift from Amelia, who had worked tirelessly for a month to embroider it as her wedding gift.

Princess Annabeth's expression turned serious as she carefully lifted the crown with both hands, placing it gently on Carrie's head as if she were performing a coronation.

The dazzling diamonds, paired with the pure white veil, made Carrie look like a stunning vision of sunlight on snow, refined and exquisite.

"Ah…" Carrie's rose-colored lips trembled as she parted them slightly.

"You want to say thank you, right? You're welcome."

Princess Annabeth took Carrie's soft hand in hers, her voice catching with emotion. "I've heard your story even in Sentania. I know how hard it's been for you two to get here. I know how much you've endured to finally find happiness together. But isn't that what makes this happiness so precious, so worth cherishing for a lifetime?"

Tears glistened at the corners of her eyes. "As a princess, I've always had everything handed to me. But the love between you and Mr. Hoffman… For the first time in my life, I've truly understood what it means to feel envy."

Princess Annabeth's chest rose and fell with overwhelming emotions as she glanced toward where Declan stood.

Just moments ago, he was there.

Now, the spot was empty.

She looked as if the hope she had carefully nurtured shattered into pieces. It left her feeling lonely and exposed.

Accompanied by her elder brother, Carrie stepped into the carriage that would take her to the chapel. The other relatives followed suit, getting into their luxurious cars to join the procession.

Bella made a point to ride with Princess Annabeth. The two of them were seated side by side in the back." Your Highness, after Carrie's wedding, you should take the tiara back," Bella said with the composed authority of an older sister.

As someone usually headstrong and willful who could challenge anyone or anything, Princess Annabeth seemed to lose all her bravado in Bella's presence. She became as gentle and pliant as a lamb. It was as if Bella were her real older sister.

It was true that there was always someone who could keep another in check.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2089-"Why?" Annabeth asked, clearly unwilling to do so.

"Why do you think?" Bella's eyes glimmered with a hint of reproach. "I'm worried that if your parents find out you gave away a family heirloom as a wedding gift, it could strain relations between the two countries. You're a pampered princess. You're free to do as you please without worrying about the consequences. But you can't ignore how your actions affect others. If you cause trouble, someone else might have to pay the price. Do you think that's fair for them?"

Annabeth's expression turned glum as guilt crept in. She lowered her head, her delicate fingers fiddling with the hem of her dress.

"Actually… I had my own reasons."

Bella tilted her head, seeking out Annabeth's tear-filled eyes. Her gaze was soft as she gently exposed the young princess's intentions.

"You know I treat Carrie like my own sister, so you went all out, hoping to win my favor. You thought if you impressed me, I might help you get closer to my third brother, right?"

Annabeth's cheeks flushed a deep red as she stammered, "You… You figured it out… Does this make me a schemer? Am I an awful person? I'm sorry…"

Bella could not help but feel her heart soften. She gently stroked the girl's back, her tone comforting.

"Don't be so hard on yourself. I never said that. Besides, using a bit of strategy to get close to someone you like is fine. What's wrong with that? As long as you're not hurting anyone or doing something unethical, it's okay,"

Annabeth sniffled. Her nose reddened. Then, she spoke in a small, wounded voice. "I like Declan… I like him so much that I'd give up being a princess just to be with him. My aunt married a commoner, and he wasn't even as well-off as Declan. Declan is wealthy. He can definitely take good care of me…"

Upon hearing that, Bella fell silent for a moment.

It was true. The Thompson family's wealth might not be far behind that of Sentania's royal family.

But Annabeth's straightforwardness was almost too much. Anyone listening might think she was just after his money.

"Bella, please help me."

Annabeth suddenly threw herself into Bella's arms, her soft, delicate face nestled against her chest, filled with pleading and dependence. "After all… We did share a bed once, and you're Declan's favorite sister. If you speak for me… Declan will surely be as kind to me as he used to be. He's so distant now… I can't stand it… I really can't…"

As she spoke, she began to cry. Tears streamed down her face like a pitiful, delicate flower.

"Anne… Don't cry…" Bella comforted her, feeling a deep ache in her heart.

What on earth did her third brother say that night to be so cruel and hurtful that it brought this once- proud princess to her knees and reduced her to such humility?

"Am I really that awful, Bella?" Annabeth's sobs grew louder, her voice trembling with self-doubt.

"Not at all! Don't ever think that way. If anything, it's Declan who isn't good enough for you. If anyone's to blame, it's him for making a girl cry!" Bella quickly pulled her into a tighter embrace.

The last thing she could bear was seeing a girl lose her self-worth, giving up her dignity and sinking into a pit of self-blame and doubt, all because of someone she loved.

She knew that pain all too well. She lost herself in it for three long years. Back then, she suffered and tormented herself every day.

Meanwhile, in the car trailing behind them, Declan sat with Ralph. He had not taken his eyes off the car in front, his long lashes quivering as he stared intently ahead, his gaze filled with longing.

"Dec, why are your eyes red? Did you not sleep well?"

Ralph leaned closer, scrutinizing Declan's face, then suddenly gasped, "Dec, did you cry?! Are you feeling emotional because Carrie is getting married?"

"Yeah." Declan closed his reddened eyes briefly before he turned to the window and said in a flat tone, "I wish them eternal happiness."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 2090-The luxurious, romantic carriage came to a graceful stop on the red carpet outside the church.

The Thompson brothers, along with Arnold, Steven, and Ian, were already waiting, each with a joyful expression, scattering rose petals into the bright blue sky.

They all seemed like knights for the princess, simply standing there in two perfect lines, creating a breathtaking scene that could steal the spotlight in any photograph.

Falling petals became poetry, and birds flew across the sky.

With the tiara on, Carrie looked every bit like a princess of the world, while the handsome men before her appeared as her loyal knights.

"The bride is truly stunning." Axel could not help but exclaim.

"She really is. Ryan is one lucky guy!" Arnold remarked. His fox-like eyes watched with envy.

"I should attend more weddings like this. When it's my turn, I'll have plenty of ideas and won't be caught off guard."

Axel captured every detail of the scene in his mind. As he thought of his own plans, a small smile played at the corners of his lips.

"Ax, does that mean your big day is approaching, too?" Arnold asked, his expression lighting up with excitement.

"Yes, I've started planning it." Axel then leaned in close to whisper, "Dude, don't let this slip out. I want to surprise my Roza."

"My lips are sealed. I'll stop being a Larson if even one word gets out!"

"Of course, you're no longer a Larson. You're a Thompson now," Axel teased with a grin.

Arnold's heart raced, and his previously calm face flushed like the scattered petals.

Just then, Gregory, the bride's father, stood in the center of the red carpet, dressed sharply in a suit, ready to escort his daughter down the aisle.

Nearly sixty, this man had been on a strict diet and exercise regimen for two months. He even dyed his hair and groomed his eyebrows.

He did these to ensure he would not embarrass his precious daughter on her big day.

Though Carrie appeared healthy, she was still quite weak. Even the simple act of lifting her skirt and stepping out of the carriage made her legs tremble slightly.

In the end, it was Justin who carried her down from the carriage.

Seeing this, Gregory could not help but feel emotional. His eyes reddened with tears of heartache.

With Justin's support, Carrie made her way to Gregory's side. She took his arm as they prepared to walk down the aisle together.

The beautiful bride took a few steps forward. However, she could not resist looking back. Her eyes glistened as she gazed at her older brother.

With a stature as upright as a towering tree, Justin stood firmly behind Carrie. Unfazed by the storms of life, he provided her with an overwhelming sense of security. Only "I'm right here. Go ahead." His starry eyes curved with warmth, tears glistening at the corners of his eyes as he waved her on.

Just sending his sister off to be married had already tugged at his heartstrings in ways he could barely withstand.

If it were his own daughter…

A wave of emotion surged through Justin's chest. He quickly shook his head, refusing to let his thoughts wander.

Whenever he thought about having children, he always felt like he was disrespecting Bella.

With solemn, graceful music accompanying them, the Salvador father and daughter pair slowly made their way into the chapel.

Seated in the front row with Matt by his side, Nigel watched as his granddaughter prepared to walk down the aisle. His heart swelled with a mix of emotions, and tears of pride and sentiment streamed down his face.

At the end of the chapel, standing atop the steps was the tall and handsome groom. Ryan gazed intently at his bride as she slowly walked toward him. Under his elegant suit, his chest heaved with uncontrollable emotion, struggling to stay steady.

He squeezed his eyes shut, the faint blush in his phoenix eyes intensifying, and when he opened them again, the image of his beloved was a blur, then sharpened once more.

Without a sound, tears streamed down his face without warning. Yet his brows and eyes were alight with profound happiness.

With tears flowing, Ryan stepped forward to take Carrie from Gregory's hand.

"Young man, you better treat my daughter well. You'd better spoil her rotten." Gregory smiled fondly as he placed his daughter's hand into the man's burning palm. "I know it's probably unnecessary to say this, but I have to anyway."

"I will, Dad. I promise I will," Ryan replied, his gaze warm, deep, and unwavering, The two newlyweds locked eyes, full of love, as they slowly walked up to Asher.

Dressed in a priest's robe, Asher stood as the wedding officiant. His deep voice resonated as he recited the marriage vows.

"Ryan Hoffman."

Asher addressed the groom, his voice firm and resolute. "Before God and in this sacred ceremony, do you take Carrie as your lawful wife? Will you love, honor, comfort, and cherish her in sickness and in health, in prosperity and in adversity, and remain faithful to her for the rest of your lives? Do you take this vow?"

"I do!"

Ryan's voice rang out with unwavering clarity, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, shining as brilliantly as diamonds.

Though not booming, his response was powerful enough to shake the heavens and earth.

"Carrie Salvador."

Asher turned to the girl whose rosy cheeks glowed with emotion, "Do you take Ryan as your lawful husband, to love, respect, and stand by him through all of life's highs and lows, forsaking all others, and remaining faithful to him for the rest of your days?"

Overwhelmed with emotion, Carrie's slender neck tensed as tears welled in her eyes. Unable to speak, she nodded vigorously, her silent answer more poignant than any words could convey.

The radiant couple exchanged rings and lit the unity candle.

Ryan then wrapped his strong arms around his petite bride, sealing their vows with a deep, unforgettable kiss in the presence of God and their loved ones.

"I love you, Carrie. I'll love you forever and always, until the end of time."

He whispered softly into her ear, again and again, his voice unwavering.

Their love story was a grand, mutual journey.

They were like rivers flowing to the sea, destined to meet at last.