Chapter 396: Only A woman Understands Another Best

"What we had?" Steffan laughed, the sound cold and bitter. "What exactly did we have, Dolly? A friendship? Or was it just a game to you? A way to get closer and make your move? 

"Was this why you were always so eager to be around me? All these years, you were hoping for something more? Was that the reason you never told me about my engagement with Lauren?"

"It wasn't like that!" Dolly pleaded, tears spilling down her cheeks. 

"Lauren was right," he murmured, almost as if talking to himself. "She warned me about you, said you were more invested than I realized. I didn't believe her. I defended you. 

Dolly's eyes widened at the mention of Lauren, guilt and anger flaring within her. "So what now? You're going to believe her over me? After everything we've been through?"

Steffan's gaze was unwavering, cold. "It's not about choosing sides, Dolly. It's about trust. And right now, I feel like I've lost something I can't get back."