hapter 49
“I didn’t mean anything by that, Grandma,” Amber cried,
“You won’t talk? Then I’ll beat it out of you.” Grandma wheeled herself over to Amber and struck her with her cane.
Dad grabbed the cane. “Mom, Amber meant well. Don’t take it out on her.”
Grandma stared at him in disbelief. “Are you out of your mind? I suspect Amber has
something to do with Ally’s disappearance, and you’re still defending her? Her life matters, but Ally’s doesn’t?”
Tears streamed down Amber’s face as she frantically shook her head. “Grandma, I wasn’t even at Ally’s wedding because I was sick that day. I’ve never even seen her since, let alone know where she went.”
“Exactly, Mom. Amber’s always been kind and gentle. She would’ve told us if she knew about Allison’s whereabouts. Why would she hide it?” Mom reasoned.
“Mom, I know you’re worried about Allison, but you can’t take your anger out on Amber. She’s not in good health as it is,” Dad added.
As my family rallied around Amber, Shane approached her slowly.
Amber was on the floor while he towered over her. His usual gentleness was replaced by indifference.
Had Shane finally realized Amber’s true colors?
He asked coldly, “Amber, did you lie to me? Tell me the truth.”
Amber met his gaze. She bit her lip and whispered, “I wasn’t lying, Shane.”
“Amber, we’ve known each other for many years. I don’t want you to lie to me, okay?” Shane pressed.
Amber shook her head. “I swear on. If I had anything to do with Allison’s disappearance, I’ll…
Before she could finish, Shane clamped a hand over her mouth. He helped her to her feet. “I believe you. Don’t swear something like that.”
Amber sobbed into his arms. Shane patted her back gently. “Alright, don’t cry.”
I rolled my eyes. I had overestimated Shane and underestimated Amber’s manipulative skills.
Grandma was livid. “Shane! Ally disappeared because of her. And instead of cutting ties with her, you’re hugging her? The public would think the two of you are a couple if they saw you! You may not care about your reputation, but don’t drag our family into this!”
Chapter 49
“Mom, It’s not that verlous. Amber grew up in the Lundberg family. It’s normal for them to have a close sibling relationship. What’s important now is finding Allison as soon as possible.” Mom snorted.
“That troublesome girl is probably hiding and watching us make fools of ourselves. She’s trying to make us worry.”
“Exactly. Why else would she contact relatives in Gildford about renting a place, book a ticket, and then not go? She’s obviously trying to stir up trouble. They say jealousy and spite are a woman’s strongest traits.
“Allison must be doing this to get back at her husband. She’s hiding on purpose! And she’s even dragging us into this,” Dad said.
Shane’s frown deepened as a storm of questions brewed.in his mind.
“Dad, Mom, rest assured. I’ll find Ally as soon as possible,” Shane promised.
He let go of Amber’s hand and turned to Grandma. “Grandma, I told you I only view Amber as
a sister. I’ll be more mindful of my actions in the future. This is the last time. I have some matters to attend to now.”
Shane walked out briskly. But as he approached his car, a group of police led by Liam stopped
him.
Liam greeted him. “Hello, Mr. Lundberg. Has Mrs. Lundberg returned?”
