The Heiress They Couldn't Break (Amelia) novel Chapter 397

**Chapter 397: A Misread Invitation**

**Brushed**

Amelia had learned the hard way that even the smallest misstep could lead to a reprimand at the dinner table. If a single strand of pasta slipped from her fork and landed on the pristine tablecloth, she would be met with disapproving glares. Crossing her legs, a seemingly innocent gesture, would also earn her a swift punishment.

Yet, amidst these rigid expectations, Amelia held a deep respect for Walter, the man who had shaped her into who she was today. His influence was a guiding light in her life, illuminating the path she walked with unwavering determination.

Walter was a man of few words, rarely gracing the room with a smile, but his love was palpable in the subtleties of their interactions. He had a way of showing affection through small gestures—an encouraging nod, a gentle pat on the back, or the way he would listen intently when she spoke.

In Amelia’s eyes, Walter transcended the role of a mere mentor. He was a father figure, a teacher, and a steadfast supporter who treated her with a kindness that her own family had never shown.

“Haha, look at you,” Truman chimed in, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. “You’re saying the exact opposite of what you feel. Deep down, you really want to see Walter, don’t you? Come on, the two of you are practically mirror images of each other.”

Amelia couldn’t help but chuckle at Truman’s observation. He had a knack for cutting through the tension that often hung between her and Walter. “You care about each other, but neither of you ever says it. I’m always stuck in the middle, playing the peacemaker,” he continued, exasperation lacing his voice.

Truman understood them both far too well. Every time a disagreement arose, or when the air thickened with unspoken words, it was Truman who stepped in to mend the rift. The silence that often enveloped them was deceptive; beneath it lay two soft-hearted individuals who simply struggled to express their feelings.

“Amelia, when are you coming back to the research institute?” Truman pressed, his tone shifting to one of genuine concern. “Everyone’s been asking about you non-stop.”

The members of the confidential core lab at PharmaCore 01 had been inquiring after her with an eagerness that warmed her heart. When she was present, the atmosphere buzzed with energy and curiosity. Amelia had a way of bringing out the best in her colleagues; her intelligence, patience, and calm demeanor made her an excellent teacher.

In stark contrast, Walter and the others could induce fear with just a single glance. Their stern expressions often left people too intimidated to voice their questions.

“I promise I’ll return when I can,” Amelia replied earnestly, her resolve firm. She meant every word. The unsettling realization that many were conspiring against her and Jeremy, all linked to the world of pharmaceutical research, weighed heavily on her mind.

The situation surrounding the enigmatic research institute and the Alchemist Guild was murky at best. Amelia felt an urgent need to return, to document everything with Walter. There were secrets she could only share with him, matters too delicate to be mentioned in public. If even a whisper of her knowledge got out, those who lurked in the shadows would be alerted immediately.

She was acutely aware that many eyes were still watching her every move, waiting for a slip.

Danny, spotting Amelia standing alone, seized what he believed was his opportunity. He approached her with confidence, but she swiftly declined his invitation.

“No thanks. I’m not really into dancing,” Amelia replied, her tone calm and composed.

Dancing was a rarity for her, especially with someone she hardly knew.

“Aww, if you don’t know how, I can teach you! You’re a celebrity now; there’s no way you don’t know how to dance,” he insisted, his enthusiasm unabated. “Come on, let me show you. I promise I’ll take good care of you.”

Despite his eagerness, Danny was not particularly striking, nor did he possess any exceptional skills. Yet, his wealth and privilege had always shielded him from the harsh realities of rejection. He had grown up believing that any girl would be thrilled to receive his attention, that no woman would dare turn him down.

Unfortunately for him, tonight he had chosen the wrong person to pursue.

Some individuals, and some circumstances, are always exceptions to the rule. Amelia was one of them.