Chapter 1614

The sight of their cheerful faces felt like a sharp stab to Bailey's heart. Caught off guard by her sudden arrival, Lincoln stood awkwardly, unsure how to respond. "Why are you eating my bananas?" Bailey yelled, her voice bursting with misplaced anger. "What?" Lincoln blinked in confusion. "But didn't you say you didn't want any?" "Even if I don't want them, they're still mine! You can't just take my stuff!" Bailey shot back. With that, she slammed the door and rushed toward Ivy, determined to snatch the banana from her hand. As she lunged for it, she stepped right on a banana peel on the floor. In an instant, Bailey lost her balance and tumbled down the stairs. The scene unfolded so quickly that Lincoln and Ivy barely had time to react. Before they knew it, Bailey landed at the bottom, wailing in pain. To make matters worse, she had broken her leg. In the end, Helen had to face Jennifer, and Lincoln and Ivy also found themselves on the receiving end of a stern lecture. Despite everything, the Portell family made it clear they never wanted to see them again. From that day on, Lincoln promised himself he would never litter again. … The next day soon arrived. It was the weekend at the Terzian residence. With the publishing company struggling, Abraham spent the morning on the couch, reading the newspaper to fill the hours. Seizing the moment, Diana placed a steaming cup of tea and a plate of pastries in front of him. As she gently massaged his shoulders, she said, "Abraham, Katie has been in the countryside for seven years now. I truly believe it's time for her to come home. "She doesn't have any real support out there as a young woman, and there are always unsavory characters looking to take advantage of her. If something were to happen, it might be too late to act. What do you think, hmm?" Abraham shot her a weary look. "And if she comes back, are you ready to support her when she gets married? The industry is tough right now—my salary has been cut by more than half. Katie has always been reckless with her spending. Do you really think I can keep up with her lifestyle?" "That won't be a problem. Katie mentioned she's already had a change of heart," Diana said, leaning in closer. She continued, "She's in her late 20s now—almost too old for a good match! Do you really want her to settle for some random guy from the countryside? We should take advantage of this moment while there are still plenty of suitors interested!" Abraham mulled over her words but didn't commit to an answer. "Let me think it over." Just then, the family's sole housekeeper walked in and announced, "Mr. and Mrs. Terzian, Ms. Kaylee has returned with Mr. Lincoln and Ms. Sienna." As she spoke, Helen entered, guiding the three children into the room. "Wow, I can't believe she has three kids!" Diana exclaimed, her eyes widening in surprise. She hadn't expected "Kaylee" to be doing so well. Meanwhile, Abraham's expression turned grim, revealing no hint of warmth. "It's been seven years, and you couldn't even make a single call home. I thought you were dead out there. What brings you back now?" After settling the kids on the couch, Helen put on a sorrowful face. "Dad, no matter what, I'm still your daughter. I really need your help this time. "I accidentally damaged Mr. Yorgson's piano while I was abroad, and now I owe five million dollars in compensation. I'm scared that even selling the house won't cover it. Can you please help me find a way out of this?" "What? Five million?" Abraham's expression darkened as he shot up from his seat. "How could you even ask me that? Do you think I'm a bank? Where am I supposed to get five million dollars?" "Come on, Dad. Families are meant to stick together through thick and thin. This is the first time I've ever asked you for anything. You wouldn't really betray our familial bond, would you?" Helen pleaded, a sly smile dancing at the corners of her lips. "You little leech! Who do you think you are calling me your father? We cut ties a long time ago. I don't have any money, and you're not getting a dime from me!" Abraham snapped, his anger evident. So much for sticking together as a family—he was all about looking out for himself. "But I've let you live in my house all these years…" Helen pointed out, finally making her main argument.