Irina's Action

~~ Garret's Bedroom ~~

Peony wept uncontrollably, her tears falling like rain. Irina's voice offered solace through the phone, "Cry as much as you want, dear. Let your emotions flow."

Peony sniffled and confessed, "Irina, am I truly inadequate as a woman? Why did it take me eight long years to truly understand him? I'm still attached... I can't admit this to anyone, but how can my heart simultaneously weep, be furious, and still care for the one who betrayed me?"

Irina consoled her, "Dear Peony, I wish I could be there to hold you and offer comfort. But, my dear, never lose hope. Beyond these conflicts, there's a world waiting for you. With time, you'll learn more. Stay strong. You can't truly know someone if they never reveal their true self to anyone. It's beyond your control."

Peony nodded through her sobs. "I understand what you're saying. I wish I could see you right now. I feel so wretched. Why me? Why does my family have to endure such humiliation?"

Irina clenched her teeth, her own painful memories resurfacing. She empathized with Peony's agony, seeing her younger self battling in a house when her husband, Mr. Gonzalez, brought his mistress home. Swallowing her own pain, Irina continued, "Peony, everything will improve. You're a good person, a devoted daughter, and a kind soul. First, you need to find a way out of that house. You can't stay there forever."

After a lengthy and tearful conversation, Peony began considering her escape from this "hell house."

"You're right, Irina. I need to leave this hell house first. Only then can I free myself from their grasp," Peony said, rubbing her eyes and gazing at the rain-soaked window.

It was still pouring outside.

"Peony, listen carefully. Be cautious. If possible, don't raise suspicion when you leave. Given what you've told me, they may have security in the garden to prevent your escape."

Peony noticed two men dressed in brown nearby, clearly watching to prevent her from fleeing. She was shocked to learn she was under surveillance, and Irina's warning couldn't be more accurate - she couldn't stay there indefinitely.

Whispering, Peony asked, "You're right, Irina. How did you know?"

Irina felt caught off guard but replied, "I just assumed. I mean, it's a common trope in novels, isn't it? Haha." She continued awkwardly, "Peony, I think I should handle the matter with Magnificent Entertainment now. Remember to remain calm before making any drastic decisions. Try to lower their guard and then find a way to escape. Choose the safest and most discreet route. Promise me you'll remember my advice."

"Alright, Irina, I won't rush into anything. I trust your judgment. To find a secure and discreet way to escape, that's my plan. Thank you, Irina. I wish I could have been part of your family instead of marrying him," Peony said, sniffling.

Irina, feeling the closeness, mumbled, "Aren't you already my daughter-in-law?"

"What?" Peony questioned, surprised by her statement.

Irina quickly clarified, "I mean, you're already like a daughter to me. You've stayed with me, and this is your home. So, in a way, you're like a daughter-in-law. Don't overthink it. Take care of yourself, Peony."

Peony understood and smiled. "Oh, I see. It could be that way. You do sound a bit different today, maybe because I've worried you so much. Don't worry about me, Irina. I'll be alright."

"I wish you all the best. Goodbye, Peony."

"Thank you, and goodbye, Irina," Peony replied, her emotional resolve growing stronger.

---

**~ Irina's House ~**

After ending the call, Irina's determination surged. "I can't allow another soul to suffer in that house. If possible, I'll stand against my own son. They took him from me years ago and molded him into a monster. I can't stand idly by. I'll reclaim everything they took from me."

She dialed her secretary.

"Hello, Madam Lopez. How can I assist you?"

"Book two tickets to K City, if possible, by tomorrow, and prepare to accompany me," Irina instructed.

"Madam, I'm not sure if we can secure tickets by tomorrow. You have a meeting with the shareholders tomorrow regarding the Orion Publishing House acquisition."

"Put the acquisition on hold. We need to go to K City. Pack your bags and prepare for our meeting with Magnificent Entertainment tomorrow. Inform the shareholders of my decision. They won't object after that."

The secretary, enthusiastic about the impending confrontation with Magnificent Entertainment and its CEO, responded, "Certainly, Madam. I'll make all the necessary arrangements."

"Maintain your enthusiasm without overdoing it," Irina chuckled.

"Of course, Madam. I won't let you down this time," the secretary replied with a smile.

"Good. Carry out your tasks diligently," Irina said before ending the call.

"Gonzalez, you will pay for destroying my life," Irina vowed, her determination unwavering.