Chapter 461

"Don't trust anyone. Don't trust anyone around you..." Linda grabbed my wrist anxiously, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and unease. Michael stared at Steven, his face filled with seriousness. Then, he turned to Linda in panic. "Is this what you were too scared to tell me?" Linda cowered behind Michael, clutching my wrist tightly in terror. She refused to release her grip. Her eyes were red, and she appeared utterly genuine. "Dad... wanted to protect you, and I... want to protect you too," Linda cried, shaking her head. She begged me not to be with Steven. "Stephie, Linda didn't inform me earlier. She only requested that I separate you from Steven... I can't believe that he's truly affiliated with the organization." Michael was fuming. He glared at Steven with a mix of anger and caution. "Steven, what do you plan to do?" "Stephie." Steven pulled me into his embrace. He warned Michael and Linda, "Stay away from her!" This was likely the first time Michael had heard Linda say