70. "Forging Redemption: The Calculated Apology"

******

...

...

Lucien's words pierced the air, leaving an undertone of mockery that reverberated through the room.

The tension between him and the Delacroix family was palpable, each word laden with resentment and frustration.

"Mr. Sterling, we apologize if we have disturbed you in any way," Sr. Delacroix's voice sounded gruff, as though he had been shouting and exerting excessive energy with his mouth.

"Now that you have already disturbed me, you can get on with it!" Lucien's tone remained flat, his expression betraying his inner turmoil.

The sight of the Delacroix bastards, who had banished his wife from their family and subjected her to years of suffering, stirred a deep anger within him.

"What kind of attitude is that, Mr. Sterling? We came here to show you due respect, and you don't even acknowledge our presence!" A middle-aged man standing behind Sr. Delacroix spoke up, his face contorted with a heavy frown.