Chapter 8

Two days later, Felix showed up again, this time holding a document labeled “Family Severance Agreement”.

As I flipped through the pages, he knelt down and unlocked the handcuffs around my wrist with a key.

He spoke gently, “I paid them a large sum, posing as your friend, to cut all ties with you. They signed.”

I was confused. “What are you trying to prove?”

“Alex, I want you to see things clearly and understand what you need to do.”

I glanced at the staggering amount in the agreement, feeling overwhelmed. “Felix, this is insane. I’ll make sure they return the money to you.”

His eyes remained calm, and a faint, cold smile tugged at his lips. “There’s no need, but you’re welcome to try.”

......

Felix let me go home.

As soon as I opened the door, I heard my mom and William talking excitedly in the living room. They were so engrossed in their conversation that they didn’t even notice me walk in.

My mom’s laughter was loud and genuine, the kind she only let out when she was truly