"Thomas, I’m sorry. Wrong is wrong, and an apology won’t change that."

He quickly loaded the pistol, his index finger ready to pull the trigger.

The water cup in Thomas Shannon’s hand traced a parabolic arc through the sky, accurately hitting his arm.

His arm went numb, his movements paused, and Charlie River swiftly seized his wrist and took back the pistol, "Young Master Benson, there’s no need for this."

Thomas Shannon furrowed his brow, his voice suddenly a few degrees colder, "I told you this not to make you harm yourself in front of me as an apology."

"Thomas, I..."

"Enough, there’s nothing more to be said." Agitation surged within Thomas Shannon’s heart, "Charlie, take him back."

"Yes, Young Master."

Charlie River secured the pistol, more vigilant this time, not allowing him to easily seize it again, "Young Master Benson, I’ll take you back."

Charlie River lifted the despondent Edward Benson and led him out.

Edward Benson’s departing figure vanished from view, only then did Sophie Sullivan jest, "I didn’t expect Young Master Shannon to be so steadfast in his friendship."

No one anticipated that someone so vengeful would forsake his principles for friendship.

Linda was indeed extremely fortunate; having attempted to assassinate Thomas Shannon numerous times, she faced no punishment or inquiry and even gained freedom.

All of this was due to Edward Benson’s influence.

If not for Edward Benson, both Linda and Isla Stanley would undoubtedly have faced a tragic end.

Thomas Shannon pinched her chin mischievously, "You’re just finding out now?"

...

Linda drove Edward Benson’s car into the city center before abandoning it.

She returned to the Presidential Mansion, reported her arrival, waited for a while, and was granted permission. After passing through security, she entered the mansion.

Inside the study room, sandalwood incense was burning, emitting wisps of smoke.

Lillian Spencer was seated on the sofa, reading the Records of the Grand Historian. Upon hearing the knocking, she didn’t raise her head, "Come in."

Linda pushed the door open, shut it behind her, and quickly approached Lillian Spencer, respectfully lowering her head, "Miss."

"You’re here." Lillian Spencer then raised her head, closing the Records of the Grand Historian with one hand.

Linda lifted her head, pressing her lips, "Miss, I’ve completed the mission. Thomas Shannon was poisoned."

At that instant, Linda clearly saw a look of manic joy appear in Lillian Spencer’s calm eyes.

"Are you sure?"

Linda nodded solemnly, "I’m sure. I personally saw Thomas Shannon drink the red wine with the medicine. I also personally witnessed him vomit fresh blood, his body limp and powerless."

Lillian Spencer suddenly stood up, her gaze urgent and imposing, "Did you personally see him die?"

"I didn’t." Linda shook her head, quickly adding, "However, he drank Miss’s medicine. Even if Hush were alive, there’d be no hope for recovery."

"Hah."

Lillian Spencer chuckled softly, her laughter growing louder, "Hahaha... Thomas Shannon, your day has come!"

Linda watched Lillian Spencer laugh almost hysterically, wait until she calmed down before speaking, "Miss, when will I know who my enemy is?"

Edward Benson said her enemy was General, is that true?

"No hurry, once I’m certain of Thomas Shannon’s death, I’ll help you get revenge." Lillian Spencer’s facial color softened, speaking calmly, "You’ve worked hard, go rest."

"Yes, Miss."