chapter1059

The second Kylie mentioned the police, Frank's face drained of color. He was truly scared now. The thought of jail was unbearable, and the police would only make things messier.

Kylie and Cameron glared at him, their anger barely contained. You... How could you do something so awful? We actually thought you were helping him. We never imagined you'd stoop so low."

Frank's whole body shook. He dropped down, pleading. "Sir, Ma'am, I'm sorry, I swear I'm sorry. I was desperate. The debts were crushing me, and I just... I didn't know what else to do. Please, just give me another chance. I'll never do this again.

Kylie marched right up to him, her voice cold and sharp. "Forgive you? You think you can just say sorry and walk away? He's an old man, and you put him in danger. Don't think we'll just let this slide. We're calling the police, and you'll answer for what you did."

Frank's panic hit a new level. He started crying, his words tumbling out. "I'm really sorry! I just lost my head for a second. I'm Lucinda's father. Please, for her sake, please let me go this one time."

Hearing Lucinda's name only made Kylie angrier. "Stop bringing up Lucinda. What kind of father are you? She deserves so much better."

Cameron looked just as furious. If you needed money, you could've just told us. We wouldn't have turned you away. But you had to go and pull something like this?"

Neither of them could believe how shameless Frank was. If Lydia hadn't called him out today, how long would he keep fooling them?

Frank tried to explain, still on his knees, tears streaming down his face. "Sir, Ma'am, I never wanted Lucinda to know. I just want her to focus on school. I didn't want to drag her down. I know I messed up."

Kylie took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "Since you're Lucinda's biological father, we'll let her handle this. She can come home and decide what happens next If she says we should call the police, then that's what we'll do if she wants to let you go, we won't say

anything else."

It felt fair. At least this way, Lucinda wouldn't feel like they'd betrayed her by turning Frank in without her knowing.

Frank heard this and felt a wave of relief. Lucinda would never hand him over to the police. He tried to keep up his pitiful act. Ma?am, please, don't tell Lucinda. How am I supposed to face her after this? I don't deserve to be her fatter. You are more like her real parents than I ever was."

Kylie had had enough. She pulled out her phone and called Lucinda.

Lucinda was in the middle of peeling fruit for her grandfather. When ske saw Kylie's name pop up, she smiled. "Grandpa, Mom's calling. She must be worried about you. again."

Mr. Norwood chuckled. "Tell them I'm fine, Lucinda. My legs are just a little stiff, but give me a couple days and I'll be as good as new. No need for them to worry."

Lucinda nodded, handing her grandfather the fruit. "Here, for you. I'll go let Mom know you're okay."

Mr. Norwood smiled, his eyes soft. You've really grown up, Lucinda. I'm lucky to have you taking care of me."

Lucinda answered the phone. "Mom, don't worry. Grandpa's doing great. Nothing serious."

Kylie was quiet for a moment, then said, "Lucinda, have the nurse keep an eye on your grandpa for now. I need you to come home. We need to talk."