Zachary thought for a moment. “No.”“Zachary, if Mia has another episode when she wakes up, I’ll call the hospital right away. I’ll also continue helping with her treatment,” Sarah said seriously.Zachary nodded. He trusted her completely.After everything that had happened, Sarah was utterly drained. She slumped back into the sofa, her breathing heavy.On top of the pain from her burns, a dull, twisting ache began forming in her lower stomach, like a sharp blade digging into her insides.She curled up slightly, clutching her abdomen tightly. Zachary noticed immediately.“Sarah, what’s wrong?”“My stomach…” she muttered weakly, sweat breaking out across her forehead. She didn’t have the energy to explain further.“Did you take your painkillers today?”“Not yet,” she managed.Zachary didn’t hesitate. He headed straight to the kitchen, pulling a bottle of prescribed pain medication from the cabinet. He poured a glass of warm water and set it on the counter before turning back t
Half an hour earlier, Sarah had tried to get up and make herself some noodles in the kitchen, but the pain in her leg was unbearable. That’s when she called Scarlett for help.Now, sitting comfortably on the couch, Sarah recounted everything to Scarlett—how Lucy had thrown the boiling water at her during the competition, and how James later barged into the infirmary to question her.Scarlett was fuming. “Those people are unbelievable! I’ve never liked that Lucy! Even when you were married to James, she treated you like her personal maid. Now that you’re divorced from that loser, she still won’t leave you alone. She’s rotten to the core!”“She probably wanted to use this competition to prove she’s better than me,” Sarah replied calmly. “But stealing the test papers? That’s crossing the line. It’s illegal.”Scarlett scoffed angrily. “Her brain must be missing a few screws! She spends all her time scheming instead of doing anything worthwhile. Honestly, her mother and that jerk James
“It’s not up to me,” Sarah said, her mouth still full of food. “Even if you came to me, it wouldn’t help. The dean already spoke to the Reynolds family, and they won’t let this go.”“I’m just worried…” Scarlett started to ramble, clearly lost in thought, when a knock at the door interrupted them. She looked at Sarah with confusion, only to see the same puzzled expression on her face.Scarlett opened the door cautiously. The moment she saw who it was, she slammed it shut again.“Who was it?” Sarah asked, still chewing.“That jerk!” Scarlett snapped irritably.“What does he want?” Sarah’s patience wore thin immediately.The knocking resumed, louder this time. Scarlett yanked the door open again, glaring at the man standing there. “What are you doing here? You’re not welcome! Leave!”“I need to talk to Sarah,” James said urgently, pushing the door open with force.“You’re out of your mind, James!” Scarlett shouted angrily, stumbling back from the shove.“James, this is my house!”
“Zachary Reynolds?” James narrowed his eyes. Why was he here, at Sarah’s apartment, at this hour? “I came to see Sarah for something important. This has nothing to do with you, Mr. Reynolds,” James said stiffly. Zachary’s gaze turned ice cold. “Scarlett and Sasa already told you you’re not welcome here. If you’ve got time to waste standing around, why don’t you focus on getting your sister out of jail? The school reported her, and the decision was unanimously approved by the board. This has nothing to do with Sarah.” Hearing Zachary refer to her as “Sasa” with such familiarity only made James’s expression darken further. “Mr. Reynolds, the Chancers is also part of the school board. I don’t recall any formal board meeting being held,” James said with a hard edge. Did Zachary think the board belonged to him alone? Zachary looked indifferent, his tone casual yet cutting. “Ah, I forgot. You “are” on the board. But isn’t it true that the Reynolds family holds the largest s
“Mia is at the hospital, asleep for now. I was worried you hadn’t eaten, so I had Steven pick up some food for you,” Zachary explained. He hadn’t expected Scarlett to be here, let alone run into James just now. Sarah’s face still carried a hint of discomfort from the awkward encounter. “Sorry you had to see that.” It seemed like every time she had a run-in with the Chancers, Zachary was there to witness it. “I used to think the Chancers had some dignity, but clearly, I was wrong,” Zachary said calmly. He rarely paid attention to gossip like this. When it came to stories about wealthy families, he had seen plenty of scandals over the years—he just never expected to be part of one himself. Scarlett, gnawing on a drumstick, chimed in sarcastically. “Oh, you haven’t seen the half of it. It’s like watching the most ridiculous soap opera come to life!” “Eat your chicken,” Sarah quickly interrupted, trying to shut her up before she said something worse. Zachary chuckled b
"Mom!" James snapped, his tone sharp with irritation. "Stop saying that. This isn't Sarah's fault. When I went to her place, Zachary Reynolds was there. The Reynolds family is clearly involved now."Zachary Reynolds at Sarah's apartment? Charlotte felt her heart sink. Were they together now? They were getting far too close for comfort.Mrs. Chancer's voice rose sharply, bitter and angry. "Of course, now the Reynolds family is helping that little witch deal with Lucy. My poor Lucy—how could this happen to her!""Sarah won't even talk to me anymore," James admitted helplessly.Charlotte seized her chance. "Well, of course not. The Reynolds are one of the most powerful families in the city. Sarah probably doesn't think she needs to be polite to us anymore—not with Zachary Reynolds in her corner."Her implication was clear, and James caught on immediately.Mrs. Chancer jumped in, her voice dripping with venom. "Charlotte's right. That woman only cares about power and status. She to
"What's wrong? Is it Mia?""Yes, Mia's awake and she won't stop crying.""You should go to her then. Here, take this food - she hasn't eaten yet," Sarah quickly handed him a thermos container.Zachary didn't refuse, taking the container with him.Before leaving, he glanced back several times, concerned. "Call me if anything happens." Though he knew she wouldn't."Okay, and let me know when you get to the hospital. I want to know how she's doing."Zachary arrived at the hospital quickly. Before he even entered the room, he could hear the girl's hoarse crying.The nurse explained anxiously, "Mr. Reynolds, I don't know what happened. After you left, Miss Reynolds was sleeping, but when she woke up, she just started crying and hasn't stopped. Her voice is hoarse now, and she won't respond to anyone - she just keeps saying she's scared.""I'll see her."When Zachary entered the room worriedly, Mia didn't have a strong reaction to him. Instead, she looked at him pitifully. “Zach, is
But Mia wasn't responding, just clinging to Sarah's shirt without letting go, no matter what Sarah asked.Zachary looked at Sarah apologetically. "She seems very attached to you."Though it was strange, Sarah let Mia hold onto her."It's okay. She probably needs to feel secure right now and wants someone with her."It was getting late, and Sarah was worried about Mia's condition. “Can Mia stay here tonight?"Zachary had been considering this in the car, but he was concerned about Sarah's injury."You're hurt - how can you take care of her? I should take her home," Zachary said, glancing at Sarah's swollen leg.Besides, Mia's episode today had been hard to control even with him there. It would be even harder for Sarah alone if he left.But nobody expected Mia to start crying again when Zachary tried to take her away.It wasn't loud sobbing this time, but pitiful whimpering as she curled up in the corner hugging her knees - a sight that would break anyone's heart.She kept mumb
"Is that a threat?" Sarah scoffed. "I'm seeing Zachary because of Mia.""Whatever the reason, if Zachary and his grandfather don't want you treating Mia anymore, you should just disappear. Stay away from them." Vivian's voice dripped with venom.Sarah narrowed her eyes, suddenly leaning in so close their faces nearly touched. A chill ran down Vivian's spine."Aren't you overstepping? Not everything needs your control, Vivian. Mia's my friend. Of course I'll help when she's in trouble."Vivian sneered. "Don't be ridiculous. Their grandfather and Zachary have found dozens of renowned therapists. You really think you're more qualified? Are you really helping Mia, or using her condition to get close to Zachary?""Shut up. There may be many qualified people, but I've been treating Mia all along. No one knows her condition better than I do. As for Zachary - we're over. I won't go back. You don't need to be so threatened."Vivian burst into mocking laughter. "Me? Threatened? You don't k
Mia calmed slightly at the familiar voice. Her frantic movements slowed, the pillow she'd meant to throw falling to the floor. She stared at Zachary with wary confusion, her guard dropping only when she finally recognized him."Brother?" she tested uncertainly.The worry in Zachary's eyes softened. "Yes, Mia. It's me, your brother."He approached slowly, careful not to startle her, gently removing the cup from her left hand."Mia, look at my face. I'm your brother.""Brother?" she murmured, then her expression twisted. "Liar! You want to kill me, don't you? You want to eat me!" The word "eat" seemed to trigger her deepest terrors.Her face contorted as she crouched down, hugging herself. "Don't eat me, please don't!"Zachary looked at his sister with pain, cautiously placing a hand on her shoulder. "Don't be scared, Mia. I'm here to protect you.""You're lying! You said you'd protect us but never came! Sarah was eaten and you never came! You lied to us!" Mia sobbed hysterically
She left without waiting for Zachary's response, not looking back.At the restaurant, Vivian and Zachary sat at the best window table, their food already served."Zachary, try this!" Vivian said eagerly. "This steak's even better than that Kobe beef we had in Japan."Zachary mechanically cut a piece and took a bite. The meat was indeed good."So," Vivian asked, feigning casualness, "what did Miss Sanders want earlier?"Zachary frowned slightly. "That's private.""Why so hostile? I just care about you. If she needs help, maybe I could assist?" Vivian's voice turned hurt.Zachary put down his cutlery and looked at her coolly. "Actually, there is one thing you could help with.""What is it?"A cold smile played at his lips. "Stay in your lane."Vivian's smile froze, her body tensing. She forced a laugh. "What do you mean?""Nothing at all," Zachary said, taking another bite.After dinner, Vivian dabbed her lips. The meal had been tasteless.She hadn't mentioned the engagement
Sarah looked at Zachary gravely. "Mia's condition is deteriorating. I need to continue her treatment."Zachary's fingers drummed lightly on his desk, disapproval written across his face. "That's...""What? Don't you trust me?" Sarah raised an eyebrow."Of course I trust you. I've never doubted your professional ability. I just..." Just want to prevent what might happen - like you leaving me when you learn the truth.But he'd never tell her that.Sarah knew Zachary well. Something specific was making him hesitate. Those strange photographs? Or that drawing Mia had made?Though she suspected he wouldn't answer, she had to ask. "Tell me why."Zachary froze. "I'm sorry. I can't."He couldn't say anything until he'd figured out his explanation.Sarah gave a bitter laugh. "Is it because of Tina’s incident? Or what happened when Mia had her episode at the school gates? I know you don't believe those online rumors, but I can't think of any reason you'd willingly stop Mia's treatment,
The receptionist barely concealed her frown. Who could she be calling?"I'm at Reynolds Tower. Need to see you."The woman's tone was curt. The receptionist wondered who warranted such directness.Moments later, she watched in shock as the executive elevator whirred into action. The doors opened and Zachary Reynolds himself strode out, heading straight for the woman, his pace quickening. "Sasa, what brings you here?"Sarah didn't return his warmth. "Your office. We need to talk."In his office, Sarah fixed him with a disapproving look. "Mr. Reynolds, I don't know what you're thinking, but I do know you care about Mia. If you care so much, you must realize my therapy is what's best for her."She couldn't understand why he'd suddenly stopped her sessions with Mia, but it had to be connected to Mia's buried memories.Zachary looked at her helplessly. "Sasa, it's not just my decision. It's Grandfather's too. I'm sorry."Sarah stared at him in disbelief. "So because of your grandfat
Three days after leaving Sarah's... that was so long ago.She couldn't imagine how Mia had endured, but the raw marks on her arms told the story.Sarah frowned at Mia's scarred arms. "You silly girl. Doesn't it hurt?"Mia shook her head. "My mind's so chaotic then, I don't even remember doing it. It's like a nightmare - I just wake up and find the scratches.""What kind of nightmare?" Sarah asked worriedly."Someone trying to grab me, saying they'll drink my blood, eat my flesh. I'm so scared."Sarah knew these casual descriptions masked Mia's reality - waking up screaming, probably crying herself hoarse.Mia's shoulders trembled as she spoke."Mia, stop. That's enough," Sarah cut in quickly."Sarah, can you help me?" She buried herself in Sarah's embrace."Of course I will." Sarah patted her shoulder and stroked her forehead.Since she'd come under the pretense of therapy, Mia needed to get to her therapist's office.In the car, she looked back at Sarah longingly. "I'll co
After Shawn and Amanda left, Melvin warned, "Sasa, Sydney won't let this go. Be careful.""I will. Heading to the office?"“Yep. See you at home." Then he left too.Alone at last, Mia threw herself into Sarah's arms. "I've missed you so much! I've been trying to see you, but my grandfather wouldn't let me out. I finally found a way!""Did you sneak out?" Sarah asked, getting some coconut pudding from the fridge."Not this time!" Mia said proudly. "I made a deal with my new therapist.""A deal?"Mia nodded. “My grandfather and brother keep finding therapists, but I couldn't work with any of them. This one's different - I agreed to treatment if he'd bring me here."Sarah looked at her with concern. "Still having nightmares?""Yes. Without you, I'm always panicking. Even at home, my heart races. I just want to lock myself in my room, avoid everyone. But with you, I feel safe. I can talk again." Mia took a bite of pudding.Sarah had always known Mia depended on her - it seemed es
"Sydney," Mia said mockingly, "if you want Sarah to forgive you, it's simple - get on your knees and apologize. Right here, in front of everyone. And promise you'll never bother her again."On her knees?Sydney's eyes widened. Kneel before Sarah? Before that bitch?"Never! I won't kneel to her!"Sarah stepped closer, with a cool smile. "Fine. Then I'll personally see you to a cell. The last person like you is already in prison, and your cousin won't escape either.""You're threatening me!" Sydney's face flushed.Mrs. Blanco turned tearfully to Amanda. "Amanda, look at your niece! We're family - how can she demand Sydney kneel?"Before Amanda could speak, Shawn pulled her back. "Mrs. Blanco, where was this 'family' talk when your daughter was plotting? Since Sarah wants an apology on knees, that's what she'll get. Unless you want Benjamin back in detention? How would Lady White take that?""Uncle! I'm your niece too! Why protect only her?" Sydney's tears started falling."Sydne
"I see." Old Lady White fixed Sydney with an icy stare. "Benjamin, is this true?""No! Grandmother, please believe me! I'd never do something like this. Sarah's framing me - it's all her plot!" Sydney looked at her grandmother desperately.Benjamin pressed on, "She even warned me on the way to the hospital not to mention her involvement.""You're lying! Benji, look carefully at who's really trying to destroy you!" Sydney turned on Benjamin like a cornered animal."Look at yourself, Sydney," Mia said coldly. "You're acting unhinged. Your cousin's confessed - what's left to deny?""You Reynolds have no place here! This is Sanders family business. Anyone can see Sarah's manipulating everything behind the scenes!"Benjamin shook his head fiercely. "Grandmother, Sydney did this! Now that everything's blown up, she's trying to pin it all on me when she's the real mastermind."Old Lady White's expression grew colder. Finally dropping her facade, she said, "If this was Sydney's scheme