Chapter 351

Benjamin's determination wavered.

In the dead of night, Amelia crept into his room with a tray of food.

The guards stationed outside hesitated, but ultimately let her pass. They knew Samuel always indulged Amelia's whims.

Even if Samuel himself were present, he wouldn't have stopped her.

Besides, they feared Samuel's temper. What if Amelia complained about them?

Letting her in seemed the safest choice.

When Amelia entered, Benjamin lay face down on the bed, sobbing uncontrollably.

"Benjamin? Benjamin, sit up. You'll choke like that."

Startled by Amelia's voice, Benjamin bolted upright, hastily wiping his tears. He turned to face her with red-rimmed eyes. "Amelia? Why are you here? Shouldn't you be asleep?"

"I couldn't sleep worrying about you." Amelia grabbed tissues and dabbed his cheeks. "Look at you. Grown men don't cry like this."

The tears kept coming despite his efforts. Amelia's words only fueled his frustration. "Amelia, I was framed! I didn't do what Samuel accused me of. I took that influencer's phone to clear Evelyn's name!"

Amelia froze, her hand halting mid-motion. A dark shadow crossed her face.

'Benjamin risked himself for Evelyn too? What's so special about her? First Nathaniel investigates the leak, now even timid Benjamin dares steal from Samuel's desk? They've all fallen for her innocent act...'

"Amelia?" Benjamin frowned at her strange expression. "You don't believe me either?"

She snapped back with a gentle smile. "Don't be silly! Of course I believe you. But you know Samuel - he trusts only evidence. Being his brother won't sway him. Without proof of your innocence, he won't go easy on you. Tomorrow, apologize to Nathaniel. Say you don't know what came over you. It'll calm them both down."

Benjamin recoiled, pushing her hand away. "Are you serious? Apologize for something I didn't do? Never! Why should I when I'm innocent?"

Amelia sighed, disappointment etching her features. "I won't force you... But you know my dream is to marry Nathaniel. Our families' past already complicates things. This video scandal will destroy any remaining goodwill with the Graysons. I might lose him forever! Benjamin, please do this for me?"

Her eyes welled up, the picture of heartbreak. Anyone would soften at her tearful plea.

Benjamin's resolve trembled. He'd do anything for Amelia, but...

"But Amelia, I think Nathaniel and Evelyn are—"

She cut him off gently, "I know Nathaniel treats Evelyn well, but she's his wife. He's just maintaining appearances for his family. He's responsible - even without feelings, he'd care for her."

"That's not what I meant," Benjamin insisted. "Nathaniel treats her differently. Better than—"

Amelia interrupted again. "It's all an act for his grandfather's sake. The kindness, the protectiveness - just maintaining the Grayson reputation. Not real feelings."

"He told me himself - he married Evelyn to please his family. Once his grandfather recovers, he'll end it and come back to me."

"And you know a man like Nathaniel wouldn't fall for someone else in a month. I know him best - it's impossible."

Benjamin found her logic sound. The Nathaniel he knew wouldn't abandon Amelia so easily.

Unable to bear her distress, he relented. "Alright. For you, I'll tell Nathaniel I posted the video and apologize tomorrow."

"Oh, Benjamin! Thank you!" Amelia hugged him tearfully. "I knew you'd understand. You're the best brother. I'll find who planted that evidence to clear your name!"

Benjamin nodded, trusting her completely.

Wiping her tears, Amelia produced the smuggled food. "Here, your favorites. I couldn't stand you going hungry. Eat."

Though appetite-less, Benjamin nibbled toast to please her.

Amelia watched her naive brother with relief, a sly smile forming. 'Perfect. With his apology, no one will suspect me. What's his punishment compared to losing Nathaniel's trust? Sorry Benjamin, but my happiness comes first.'

The next morning, Evelyn still slept when Nathaniel left his study. He knocked on their bedroom door.

Silence.

The knob turned - locked.

"One moment, Mr. Grayson," Theodore said, already fetching the spare key.