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Audrey nodded, her expression softening. “Yes, I’m sure. It’s enough for today. Let them go with their dignity intact… sort of.”
Catherine’s gaze lingered on her for a moment before she turned her attention back to the Burtons. With a quiet sigh, she nodded to Branden, signaling that she was willing to let the matter end here.
Branden, who had been observing the interaction carefully, seemed to be in a more contemplative mood than before. He stepped forward, his aura still commanding, and addressed Josh one final time.
“You are fortunate that Catherine is merciful today,” Branden said, his voice carrying both authority and a subtle threat. “Consider this a warning. If anything like this happens again, it will not be so easily forgiven.”
Josh, still pale but recognizing the gravity of the situation, quickly nodded. “Understood. We won’t forget your kindness, Mr. Duncan.”
Turning to his wife and daughter, he added, “Let’s go, now. Apologize properly to Catherine and her family, and let’s put this behind us.”
Carol, looking defeated, nodded quickly. “Yes, yes, we understand. We’ll never cause trouble again.”
Sheryl, with clenched fists and a furious red face, reluctantly mumbled another apology, her voice low and strained. “Sorry, Catherine.”
Catherine’s sharp eyes met Sheryl’s for a brief moment, but she didn’t respond, her expression unwavering.
As the Burtons turned to leave, the atmosphere lightened, but the weight of what had just transpired still lingered in the air. Audrey let out a relieved breath as she glanced at Branden, who stood quietly beside Catherine, his presence unyielding.
“Thank you,” Audrey said softly, her gratitude evident. “You handled that perfectly.”
Branden gave a slight nod, his expression unreadable. “It was nothing. They won’t dare to cause any more trouble. But Catherine… she’s the one who made the decision. She was merciful when she didn’t have to be.”
Audrey looked at Catherine, who remained poised and calm. “Kathy, you’re incredible,” Audrey said, her voice full of admiration.
Catherine simply shrugged, her usual composed self. “It was nothing. Sometimes, letting go is the better choice.”
Branden’s eyes flickered briefly toward Catherine, a soft smile tugging at his lips. It was fleeting but noticeable, and Audrey caught it, her eyes widening in surprise.
As the tension from the confrontation finally dissipated, Catherine turned to Audrey with a more relaxed expression. “Let’s go. I think we’ve had enough excitement for today.”
With the Burtons gone and their pride thoroughly crushed, the Swanns walked out of the shop together, leaving the mall in peace. But Audrey couldn’t shake the feeling that this encounter had only marked the beginning of what would be an even more dramatic and powerful journey for her sister—and for their entire family.