Page 65 of King of Pride

But after speaking to Rose, Maria finally understood.

Rose was the one determined to end the relationship.

And she wasn't going to change her mind.

The Carrington family was already suffering from the canceled business deals, and now Maria realized just how serious the situation had become. Rose wasn’t simply angry with Ivan. She was determined to walk away from him for good.

The shame on Maria’s face was impossible to hide. She was clearly embarrassed by her son’s actions, but she struggled to find the words to express it.

Rose finally rose to her feet.

“I’m not going to forgive him, Mrs. Carrington.”

Maria opened her mouth, clearly preparing to try once more to persuade her with gentle words, but Rose had already made up her mind.

Before Maria could say anything else, Troy appeared from the hallway beside the kitchen. He had been quietly listening to the entire conversation, and the determination in Rose’s voice brought a small, approving smile to his face.

“Troy, please escort Mrs. Carrington out of the house,” Rose instructed.

Without waiting for a response, she turned and headed upstairs to her bedroom.

Troy approached Maria with his usual polite demeanor.

“Mrs. Carrington, please allow me to walk you back to your car.”

Maria had little choice but to follow him.

***

After picking up a few things from her room, Rose returned downstairs. She stepped into the living room and looked around before asking, “Where’s Dad?”

“He’s at work, Miss Rose,” Troy answered. “If you’d like, you can go to his company and see him. Would you like me to call his assistant?”

“No, that’s fine. I was just asking.” Rose shook her head. “I don’t have anything important to talk to him about. I’m going to leave now.”

She glanced at Troy.

“Thanks for helping me with Mrs. Carrington.”

Troy smiled knowingly.

“Of course, Miss Rose.”

There was an understanding look between them, and Rose smiled faintly before turning toward the door.

She had barely taken a few steps when Troy suddenly called after her.

“Miss Rose, there’s something else.”

She stopped and turned around.

“There’s a package that your father has purchased for you. Would you like me to bring it out?”

Rose immediately turned back.

“What is it?”

Troy walked toward the table in the living room where the household packages were usually placed. Rose followed him.