Chapter 26

The name Luke crossed my mind, and I felt a surge of gratitude.

Max didn't seem suspicious. He assumed it was one of my dad's former students paying their respects. After all, my dad had a wide circle of influence from his teaching days.

At my parents' graves, Max knelt down first, tearfully apologizing and admitting his mistakes. He even turned to me while on his knees.

"Honey, in front of your parents today, I beg for your forgiveness... I swear, I'll never betray you again in my life!"

Tears streamed down my face as I choked out, "Really?"

Max earnestly replied, "Yes, honey, I swear. If I ever betray you again, may I be struck by lightning and die a horrible death!"

I wanted to laugh. Max, this scumbag, actually dared to say that.

Wasn't he afraid that my parents in heaven would be displeased and send a bolt of lightning to strike him dead?

But I had to keep up the act, crying as if heartbroken, pleading, "Max, I've lost my mom and dad. You're the only family I have left in