"Finally I can be with you again. I only feel safe when you're around." Mia sat in the car the Reynolds had sent, clutching Sarah's sleeve in the backseat as if afraid she'd disappear.Sarah noticed her anxious attachment. She'd always known Mia depended on her deeply, but this level made her uneasy.At the Reynolds house, William had retreated inside, leaving Zachary and Vivian standing outside.They stood in silence, Vivian staring at Zachary while he gazed in the direction Sarah had gone."She's been gone for ages. You still won't look at me?" Vivian's voice trembled.Zachary snapped back to reality, his face blank. "No. I'm worried about Mia.""Is it Mia you're worried about, or Sarah?" Vivian sneered.Zachary just glared at her, refusing to answer.As he turned to leave, Vivian blocked his path. "Answer me. Why are you running? Did I hit a nerve? You still love her, don't you?""I don't know what you're talking about," Zachary said coldly.Vivian laughed sharply. "Don't
"Aunt, we should still ask my brother." Sarah insisted.Aunt Amanda's displeasure showed. "Sasa, Melvin is my son. He'll listen to me. I discussed Sydney's internship with him months ago."Months ago - before Sarah had returned.Before she could react, Sydney had already directed the bodyguards to move her luggage to an empty room upstairs.She acted like she owned the place, while Mia hid behind Sarah.Only after Sydney had settled in did Aunt Amanda leave, satisfied."Sarah, is she really going to intern at Sanders Group?" Mia asked quietly.Sarah paused. Why place Sydney at Sanders? She hated the idea of someone she distrusted infiltrating the company. Sanders Group was her parents' legacy - she had to protect it."Mia, go rest for a bit."After Mia left, she called Melvin.“Melvin, about Sydney..."His voice sounded tired. "I know. Mother wants her to stay here for now.""I see." Sarah hung up.She couldn't understand her aunt's motives, or Melvin's thoughts.When Mel
Mia tasted the food with a dismissive look. "Sarah, this soup is terrible.""What's that supposed to mean?" Sydney jumped up, glaring at Mia.Even if Mia was a Reynolds, she couldn't take this forever.Mia smirked. "Just stating facts. Or are we not allowed to be honest?"Sydney, expert at playing victim, clutched Melvin's arm. "Melvin, did you hear how rude she's being?""Who are you calling rude?" Mia fixed her with an icy stare. No one had ever dared speak to her like this."Melvin, you saw that. I'm not starting trouble - she is." Sydney gave him an innocent look, tears glistening.Sarah and Mia exchanged disgusted glances. Even Mia found these tactics pathetically obvious - just like Lucy all over again.Melvin's face was blank, though revulsion showed in his eyes. "Let's eat. Annette will cook from now on."Sydney wanted to argue but caught Melvin's expression and stayed quiet.She remembered her aunt's advice: despite Melvin's cold exterior, he had a soft heart, especi
"Sign here."James Chancer’s cold, deep voice broke the silence as he slid the divorce papers across the table. Sarah looked up at him, managing a bitter smile.So this was it. No wonder he'd surprisingly called this morning to say he'd be home tonight, wanting to talk. She'd been happy all day, only to find out this was what he wanted to discuss... Three years of marriage, coming to an end.Sarah Sanders took the papers with trembling hands, her voice barely a whisper, "Do we really have to divorce?"James frowned as he studied the woman who'd been Mrs. Chancer for three years. She must have just finished cleaning - sweat still glistened on her forehead, exhaustion and confusion evident in her eyes behind those thick glasses. Gentle and modest, but utterly plain. This unremarkable woman had been Mrs. Chancer for three years.James put out his cigarette, his tone leaving no room for argument, "Just sign it. Charlotte's back, and I don't want her to get the wrong idea."Sarah felt
Sarah listened to the conversation outside the study, her eyes downcast.During her years as James’s wife, she had given everything to her mother-in-law and sister-in-law Lucy. When Lucy had her car accident, Sarah had stayed at the hospital for days. She'd always shown nothing but respect and care for Mrs. Chancer. Yet it seemed no amount of devotion could change how the Chancer family saw her.Shortly after, Scarlett Larson called, her voice tired, "Sasa, are you sure you won't come? You used to love hunting outdoors, and you'd get to race cars too."Sarah froze. Memories she'd buried deep came flooding back. Before marrying James, she'd loved hunting, racing cars, and good wine. Then she met James at the Larson estate and fell head over heels. After falling for him, she learned through others that James preferred gentle, trad wife. So she'd gradually given up everything she loved.Three years had passed, and she'd almost forgotten who she used to be.On the other end of the lin
Sarah left the Chancer mansion without looking back, wheeling her suitcase behind her. Outside, she found Scarlett leaning out of her car window, blowing her a playful kiss. "Get in, baby! Time to celebrate!"Though Scarlett called it a celebration, knowing Sarah was freshly divorced and likely down, she just took her to a music-themed restaurant. When she heard James's reason for the divorce, Scarlett couldn't help but scoff, "Charlotte Garnett again? What's so special about her that James is this obsessed?"Sarah stirred her coffee listlessly. "No idea..."She'd never actually met James's dream woman. Charlotte had already left for abroad when Sarah first met James. She'd only heard that Charlotte was gentle, accomplished, and understanding. When James had fought with his grandfather over her, Charlotte had been mature enough to convince James to let it go - which had led to Sarah's arranged marriage with James.Seeing Sarah's reluctance to discuss it further, Scarlett changed th
Sarah stopped in her tracks. Her expression remained calm, but she didn't take Charlotte's offered hand.As Charlotte's smile faltered, James stepped in to ease the tension, "Grandfather heard about us,” he said in a deep and restrained voice. “He wants you to join us for dinner tonight. Your phone was off, so I came to get you.""I see." Sarah checked her phone - it was indeed dead. She nodded. "I'll charge it and join you later."The message was clear- she wouldn't be going with them.James frowned. "I can wait while you-""No need," Sarah cut him off with a smile. "I'll make my own way there."When he fell silent, Sarah glanced at Charlotte. "And tomorrow at nine, if you're free, let's get the divorce papers finalized."For some reason, James felt unsettled. "Why the rush?"Sarah nodded firmly. “Cause it's urgent."James was taken aback, his expression darkening as he led Charlotte away.After a few steps, Charlotte whispered something intimately to James, then turned back
Lost in his thoughts, James felt a warm hand on his. He turned to see Charlotte looking at him with concern. "Are you feeling okay? Would you like some soup?"James shook his head.After greeting Richard, Sarah quietly took her seat, pointedly ignoring their interaction.Richard let out a scoff of disgust.Dinner at the Chancers' was traditionally eaten in silence. Sarah had little appetite but picked at her food to be polite.After dinner, Richard held her back. "I've heard about you and James. Don't worry, Sarah. You're the only daughter-in-law this family recognizes."He cast a cold look at Charlotte and James, their faces stiffening at his words. "If anyone should leave this family, it should be the homewrecker and this excuse for a man!"Sarah shifted uncomfortably.James's jaw tightened. Beside him, Charlotte clutched his hand, her eyes filling with tears, looking every bit the victim.Richard ignored them both, drumming his fingers on the table with a sigh. "Your father
Mia tasted the food with a dismissive look. "Sarah, this soup is terrible.""What's that supposed to mean?" Sydney jumped up, glaring at Mia.Even if Mia was a Reynolds, she couldn't take this forever.Mia smirked. "Just stating facts. Or are we not allowed to be honest?"Sydney, expert at playing victim, clutched Melvin's arm. "Melvin, did you hear how rude she's being?""Who are you calling rude?" Mia fixed her with an icy stare. No one had ever dared speak to her like this."Melvin, you saw that. I'm not starting trouble - she is." Sydney gave him an innocent look, tears glistening.Sarah and Mia exchanged disgusted glances. Even Mia found these tactics pathetically obvious - just like Lucy all over again.Melvin's face was blank, though revulsion showed in his eyes. "Let's eat. Annette will cook from now on."Sydney wanted to argue but caught Melvin's expression and stayed quiet.She remembered her aunt's advice: despite Melvin's cold exterior, he had a soft heart, especi
"Aunt, we should still ask my brother." Sarah insisted.Aunt Amanda's displeasure showed. "Sasa, Melvin is my son. He'll listen to me. I discussed Sydney's internship with him months ago."Months ago - before Sarah had returned.Before she could react, Sydney had already directed the bodyguards to move her luggage to an empty room upstairs.She acted like she owned the place, while Mia hid behind Sarah.Only after Sydney had settled in did Aunt Amanda leave, satisfied."Sarah, is she really going to intern at Sanders Group?" Mia asked quietly.Sarah paused. Why place Sydney at Sanders? She hated the idea of someone she distrusted infiltrating the company. Sanders Group was her parents' legacy - she had to protect it."Mia, go rest for a bit."After Mia left, she called Melvin.“Melvin, about Sydney..."His voice sounded tired. "I know. Mother wants her to stay here for now.""I see." Sarah hung up.She couldn't understand her aunt's motives, or Melvin's thoughts.When Mel
"Finally I can be with you again. I only feel safe when you're around." Mia sat in the car the Reynolds had sent, clutching Sarah's sleeve in the backseat as if afraid she'd disappear.Sarah noticed her anxious attachment. She'd always known Mia depended on her deeply, but this level made her uneasy.At the Reynolds house, William had retreated inside, leaving Zachary and Vivian standing outside.They stood in silence, Vivian staring at Zachary while he gazed in the direction Sarah had gone."She's been gone for ages. You still won't look at me?" Vivian's voice trembled.Zachary snapped back to reality, his face blank. "No. I'm worried about Mia.""Is it Mia you're worried about, or Sarah?" Vivian sneered.Zachary just glared at her, refusing to answer.As he turned to leave, Vivian blocked his path. "Answer me. Why are you running? Did I hit a nerve? You still love her, don't you?""I don't know what you're talking about," Zachary said coldly.Vivian laughed sharply. "Don't
"Mr. Reynolds, is there something specific you want to tell me?" Sarah asked, neither humble nor proud."You're clever. Mia trusts and depends on you, but that doesn't erase my concerns. The incident with Tina’s suicide made headlines across the East Coast - how she left only you to blame."Sarah smiled faintly. "I wouldn't expect you to ask such naive questions. Tina’s case was public. If I'd done anything wrong, the psychiatric community would have condemned me. Only those who choose to stay blind believe otherwise."Her boldness surprised him. He studied her with renewed interest."Miss Sanders, you're intriguing. But that alone isn't enough to stand as Zachary's equal."Sarah shook her head. "Mr. Reynolds, I've never sought to be with Zachary. Besides, isn't Vivian your choice? Zachary and I are done. I'm only here because you sent for me."William chuckled. "True, the Sanders family can't compare to the Wilsons. I've known Vivian since childhood - I know exactly who she is.
"It's alright, Mia. I'm here."Sarah covered Mia's eyes with her hand, guiding her to the bed and helping her lie down."Just relax..."Under Sarah's gentle care, Mia finally fell into a peaceful sleep. Minutes later, she woke, lucid this time.Calm now, she looked around at Zachary and William.“Zachary, Grandpa, Sarah - oh, and Vivian, you're here too?" She brightened at seeing everyone, seemingly with no memory of her episode.William studied Sarah intently. He'd brought in many therapists and knew how Mia responded to them. None had connected like Sarah.Mia showed an inexplicable trust in Sarah, able to calm instantly at the sight of her."Just checking on you," Sarah said softly."Sarah..." Mia glanced nervously at Vivian.She knew well the complicated relationship between Sarah, Vivian, and Zachary. Why were they both here?Unless...?She looked at her brother, finding his expression unreadable.William turned to Vivian warmly. "Vivian, you're here too. Let's have s
"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,