Chapter 433

Melody couldn't meet Nyla's gaze. She looked away and let out a wry chuckle. "My mom was under his control at the time. If I didn't do what he said, she might have died."

"Why didn't you call the police?" Nyla asked.

"I was too scared... Nyla, no matter what, I'm really sorry. I've already transferred the 30,000 dollars back to you. I don't expect you to forgive me, but I hope you don't hate me," Melody pleaded.

Seeing Melody's guilt and her red eyes, Nyla pressed her lips together. "I don't hate you, and I understand. If I were in your situation, I'd probably make the same choice. You don't need to feel guilty, but we can't be friends anymore."

Melody stared in disbelief. She had prepared herself for harsh words but hadn't expected understanding instead.

Tears welled up as she covered her face, choking out, "Thank you…"

Nyla handed her a couple of tissues and, without another word, stood up and left.

As she stepped out of the cafe, the shadow of betrayal that had been clouding