Her Rebirth of Retribution
Chapter 307 Momentary Lapse In Judgment

This uncharacteristic behavior did not escape Kallum's notice, prompting concern. "What happened? What did they do to frighten you?" he inquired with evident worry.

Calista, looking somewhat subdued, replied, "I just feel... I depended too heavily on my own recollections. That's what led things astray this time. I accept a significant portion of the blame. I shouldn't have erred in such a way..." Her voice carried a hint of despondency, clearly impacted by her own perceived failings.

Kallum, attempting to lighten the mood, chuckled softly and affectionately tousled her hair. Noting her lack of resistance, his heart softened. "Silly girl, everyone makes mistakes. Don't hold yourself accountable for today's events; the fault lies with those despicable b*stards."

Despite his reassurances, Calista remained downcast. She had placed excessive trust in her memory, which not only led her into perilous situations but also jeopardized her survival. This was wholly inexcusable to her, and she struggled to readily forgive herself. "Geez..." Kallum murmured, sitting close and planting a tender kiss on her temple. "How did I ever fall for such a silly girl like you?"

Calista frowned slightly. I'm not silly! This mistake has been a rare lapse since my reincarnation. From now on, I can't rely solely on her memory of my previous life.

Upon learning of the machinations against her by Quincy and Jason, Kallum's expression darkened significantly. "It turns out it was that scoundrel. Years ago, a woman he fancied declared her affection for me publicly, which he took as a personal affront. Not only did he ruin her life covertly, disfiguring her, but since then, he's harbored a vendetta against me. I've never taken him seriously, but who could have imagined that he would be audacious enough to target you!"

The more Kallum dwelt on the subject, the more his anger intensified. A fierce sparkle appeared in his violet eyes. "Just wait and see, Callie. I'll make sure he pays for this!"

Calista nodded, her emotions mixed. Unexpectedly, she found herself expressing, "It's really nice to have you."

Kallum, momentarily taken aback by her candid admission, saw his previously somber demeanor transform instantly into one of delight. "You're just realizing this now?" he exclaimed, his heart swelling with emotion. He wished he could convey to her, "It's so wonderful to have you too."

She had found her sanctuary in him, just as he had rediscovered his zest for life in her. They were indeed a perfect match.

Filled with unspoken joy, Kallum pondered the gift he had promised Callie. I wonder if it's ready. I'm sure she'd be delighted if I presented it to her as a surprise before our wedding!

The next day, Horington was once again alive with talk of Calista, sparking significant news coverage. Initially, those visiting the Wolfords presumed the woman seen with numerous men was Calista, stirring whispers and potential jests at Kallum's expense about his fidelity.

However, following the episode

where Kallum heroically rescued

Calista from the flames, any such rumors dissipated. The woman masquerading as Calista was forced to change her appearance by Kallum, who refused to tolerate anyone using Calista's identity deceitfully. As for the arson itself, it remained largely unaddressed. Aside from Quincy, it appeared no one else was particularly concerned.

Furthermore, many banquet attendees developed a strong aversion to Quincy, some even severing all ties with her, which underscored the extent of their disdain.

Quincy was eventually held

accountable for facilitating drug use

and received a one-year prison sentence. On that day, several notable figures found in the secret room engaged in drug use and inappropriate conduct-were not only ousted and investigated but also received sentences ranging from two weeks to three months.

Kallum, however, was far from appeased, especially after discovering that Jason had instigated the perilous scenario involving Calista and a loaded gun. Learning of the malicious trap set to tarnish her reputation irked him immensely, and he vowed not to let such actions go unpunished. Shortly thereafter, the Wendells arrived to apologize, led by patriarch Titus Wendell, who had maintained a good relationship with the older generation of the Fairchild family. Recognizing his son's transgression, he imposed strict family discipline for the first time and personally appeared at their door with backup.

Silas was hesitant to appear, and Wanda openly disdained characters like Jason. Ultimately, it was Calista and Kallum who met with him directly.

Within days, a stark reversal of fortunes occurred.

"Mr. Kallum, please, for my sake, understand that this time, this fool was misled by Quincy, that wretch. He acted foolishly under her influence. I have disciplined him severely at home; he truly recognizes his error now!"

Kallum, lounging with an air of detached sarcasm, barely concealed his disdain.

Calista, seated nearby, couldn't suppress a laugh upon hearing this. She had endured significant loss, and if she allowed Jason and Quincy to succeed in their scheme, the repercussions would extend beyond mere apologies. Not only would the Fairchilds be embroiled in a scandal, but her own reputation would suffer irreparably. Did the Wendells

genuinely believe a mere

punishment could rectify

everything?

"Mr. Wendell, do you truly grasp what your son intended for me?" Calista's inquiry caused Titus' face to twitch involuntarily.

Guilt-ridden, he quickly offered his apologies. "I'm deeply sorry, Ms. Stafford... My son had a momentary lapse in judgment. He was under the influence of marijuana at the time. He had no idea what he was doing="

"I think you're the one having a momentary lapse in judgment!" Jason interjected brashly, prompting an immediate reaction from Titus, whose face reddened with anger.

"You insolent child! Shut your mouth!" he barked.