Axel looked at her in frustration. "It's all about Chester to you now. I'm hungry after helping you with things."Liora held Axel's hand affectionately. "I know. Let me buy you lunch!"Axel chuckled. "How can you afford to buy me lunch with the money you have?"Liora scratched her head awkwardly. "I can't afford to buy you food outside, but I can still afford cafeteria food.""Sure, let's go to the cafeteria then."-Liora picked up quite a number of Axel's favorite foods in the cafeteria.She brought the tray and sat down opposite Axel. She said, "Axel, are these your favorite foods?"Axel chuckled and looked in a direction just as her voice faded.Liora followed his gaze in astonishment and found Chester sitting nearby.Chester was not sitting by himself—Reyna and a few other students were with him.They sat not far away, and Liora could hear their conversation clearly."Turns out Jason is not someone to be trusted!""Yes! Acting all innocent, I thought he was the one wh
Liora cleared her throat and set down her cutlery. "Axel, I did it intentionally last night. We don't need to exaggerate the situation."Her intention was to prompt Axel to confront the chancellor, but she hadn't anticipated this approach.Had she not set a trap, Jason wouldn't have laid a hand on her, and none of this would've occurred."Lia, do you believe you bear some responsibility, which is why you're inclined to forgive him?" Axel asked.Liora nodded."Have you considered the impact on those girls he manipulated? Individuals like him pose a threat to society," Axel asserted."I haven't considered that," Liora admitted."Being compassionate often leads to self-sacrifice. Do you realize how often Ty and I were exploited due to our kindness?" Axel mused.Liora gazed at him inquisitively.Axel took a sip of water. "Are you familiar with the Swinger Rainforest?"Liora furrowed her brow, pondered, then shook her head. "No.""It's fraught with dangers beyond imagination. Ty
Tears streamed down Liora's face. "Why haven't you mentioned it after so many years…"Axel said gently, "I wouldn't have brought up such frightening matters to you if I didn't fear you might be benevolent in critical situations. Do you still think I'm ruthless now?"Liora shook her head swiftly. "No, I understand your point now. I see the importance of taking decisive action against adversaries to avoid prolonged troubles."Axel nodded, grabbed a tissue, and sat beside Liora to wipe her tears.Soon afterward, he pulled Liora into his arms and said, "Don't cry, Lia. Those matters are behind us now."Liora hugged Axel tightly. "Don't get involved in such dangerous things anymore, okay? I don't want to lose you and Ty.""We won't do it anymore. We will always be with you," said Axel, chuckling.The lunch left Liora feeling unusually burdened. She felt pity for Axel and Tyler, who had endured arduous hardships out there while she had been living a good life with their parents.It s
Liora bolted out of the lecture hall after her heated exchange with Chester.Chester, torn between his desire to chase after her and the pressing need to attend class, found himself rooted in place.Meanwhile, their confrontation had not gone unnoticed by a bystander tucked away in the corner of the lecture hall.As soon as Chester departed, this observant individual followed suit.-A week passed, and Liora stood at the private jet terminal, eagerly awaiting Siobhan's arrival.The helicopter's door swung open, revealing Siobhan's cascading curls as she stepped out.Siobhan possessed a tall, graceful figure and fair complexion, a captivating sight from afar.Meanwhile, Liora exuded vivacity and energy, a stark contrast to Siobhan's refined demeanor.Upon catching sight of Siobhan, Liora waved enthusiastically. "Shiv!"Siobhan returned the gesture with a sweet smile before hastening her pace toward Liora.Liora embraced Siobhan eagerly as she approached, nestling against her
Liora pursed her lips but refrained from rejecting Siobhan's suggestion.In truth, she was really curious about why Chester had abruptly cut off contact with her 14 years ago, more so than anyone else.Despite her keen interest, she was too proud to admit it and feared uncovering the reason for Chester's avoidance.Consequently, she resisted the urge to investigate him, preferring not to delve into the truth.Chasing after someone who ignored her held no appeal—she lacked interest altogether!-After signing up with Siobhan, Liora accompanied her as they explored the campus and its lecture halls.Given that it was a Sunday, the academic building was sparsely populated by students.Once they reached the lecture hall, they found a spot to rest.Not wanting to dwell further on Chester, Liora redirected the conversation, asking Siobhan, "Do you genuinely like Tyler, Shiv?"Siobhan met her gaze with a smile. "Why do you ask?""Axel is quite decent, too! He's gentle and attentive,
Axel smiled as he spoke. "We're supposed to have a meal anyway."His expression was warm and inviting.He nudged the menu toward the two of them. "Shiv, take a look and decide what to eat."Siobhan smiled graciously and replied, "I'm not picky. I'll have what you have."Axel nodded in agreement. "I shall order Lia's favorite then.""Sure."-The waiter served the meal courses one by one.Shrimp was Liora's favorite, so Axel constantly peeled prawns for her.Liora ate with delight while chatting with Siobhan.Suddenly, Liora looked outside, her attention caught by someone.Sensing something amiss, Siobhan followed Liora's gaze and saw a young woman walking alongside a young man. The young woman chatted joyously and even offered food to the young man, who declined.Liora's mouth, previously full of food, tightened at the sight outside.Siobhan's gaze shifted between Liora and the pair outside until she realized the young man was Chester.She turned to Liora, who had already
Tyler declared, "If she's staying here, I'll treat her courteously, like any other guest. I won't subject her to the differential treatment the rest of you seem so fond of. And, frankly, it's not your place to question why I don't care for her.""So, what should I ask?""I have no feelings for her, so how could I possibly like her?" Tyler asked.Liora was momentarily stunned and felt disheartened.Siobhan's romantic prospects hadn't even taken off, yet she found herself already at a disadvantage. It dawned on Liora that Siobhan and she were in similar predicaments.Speechless, Liora stared at Tyler.Quickly catching onto Liora's intentions, Tyler adopted a stern tone. "Let me be clear, Lia. Don't try to project your ideas onto me. I have no feelings for Siobhan and won't be in a relationship with her. Dealing with your troubles is already enough for me. I don't have time for any other romantic involvement.""Do you realize that setting unrealistic expectations will only lead to
Tyler glanced away and proceeded to the stairway without glancing behind him.-The following day, Axel accompanied Liora and Siobhan to campus.On their way there, Axel asked, "Siobhan, why didn't your father come to pick you up from the airport this time?"Siobhan, too exhausted from a restless night's sleep, failed to register Axel's question.Liora nudged Siobhan's arm and snapped her back to the present. Siobhan gazed at Liora in a daze.Liora clarified, "Axel was wondering why your father didn't pick you up."Siobhan replied, "My father is currently on a business trip away from Angelbay."Axel stole a glance at the weary Siobhan in the rearview mirror."Did you not sleep well last night?" he asked.Siobhan chuckled. "I feel somewhat unsettled sleeping in a new place. I should rest better tonight once I'm accustomed to it."Axel reassured, "If you need anything, don't hesitate to let us know. We'll take care of it for you."Siobhan hastily waved off. "It's alright. I h
Reese winced in pain. "Alright, ma'am. I guess I can read your mind? Be gentle!"Liora relaxed her grip at last. "Right, when are we going to that place you mentioned previously?""There's no rush. Your body isn't up for constant actions now. What if you get hurt by those harmful spirits again? I've already committed myself to you out of guilt. If it happens again, I won't have anything else to offer."Liora chuckled. "You make it sound like I'm desperate for your compensation.""What's wrong with that? I'm a strong, handsome man, and everyone loves me!" said Reese, displeased.Liora was astounded by his narcissism.She took a deep breath and said, "Reese.""Hmm?"Liora said, "In truth, I'm not the best choice to be your partner because of my profession. Those spirits may bother me from time to time. I'm the complete opposite of Isaac because of my negative physique.""What happens when you have a negative physique?""Spirits will be drawn to bother me and might cause me a lo
Reese and Isaac couldn't perceive the spirit, but they witnessed a dark mist dissipating before them.Isaac asked in astonishment, "What's happening, Lia?"Liora turned and answered, "The female spirit didn't want to move on, so her soul has been dissolved.""Dissolved? Do you mean her soul has been destroyed?" asked Reese. Liora nodded and looked around. "Uncle Kenny, please help me find the six spirits."Kenny took on the task and brought those fearful spirits in just a few minutes. Liora asked, "Do you want to choose the same option as her or come with me to Cross Chapel?""Cross Chapel!""We would have left long ago if we weren't trapped here by her threats!""She wouldn't let us go even in death. Aren't our lives worth anything?"After Fiery Red was gone, these spirits began to complain in anger.Liora was infuriated by their complaints. "How dare you criticize her! She may be responsible for your deaths, but what about you then? Do you think you bear no responsibil
"That's easy for you to say! Those who caused my death may have become spirits, but I still want to stop them from moving on!" Fiery Red barked. Liora frowned. "So, you're implying that those six students caused your death?""Why would I kill them otherwise?"Liora said, "It's time to let them go now that they've faced your revenge. Keeping them trapped is like trapping yourself. Why bother?""Allowing them to move on is letting them off too lightly!" Fiery Red roared. Liora said, "Your obsession is too strong and is keeping you trapped here. You're constantly hurting yourself with painful memories. If you move on properly, it will be a kind of liberation from your past.""Don't preach to me! I'll make it simple for you. It's either you die or my soul gets destroyed!" Fiery Red snapped. She was about to attack Liora just as she finished her sentence. Liora was planning to call out to Isaac when a figure suddenly showed up. Kenny rushed over and blasted away Fiery Red."Y
Tyler did not comment further upon hearing Liora's reply. In the evening, Isaac returned home from school to find Liora already there. He hurried over, brimming with excitement. "You're back, Lia! How are you feeling? Have you recovered from your injuries?"Isaac's smile stretched from ear to ear.Liora glanced at Isaac meaningfully and said, "Please do me a favor tonight, Isaac."Isaac nodded repeatedly. "Sure, are we heading to the campus?"Liora looked at Isaac in astonishment. "Are you not scared anymore?"The smile on Isaac's face faded slowly. "Spirits are scary, but I don't want to see you bullied by them again, Lia. I wanted to destroy those spirits on the same day after seeing you suffer. However, they told me to respect your decision, so I didn't do that."Liora caressed Isaac's head affectionately. "You've grown, Isaac. You know how to look out for me now."Isaac took Liora's hand and held her hand tightly in his own. "Lia, I've always cared about you. Next time you
Reese said, "Yes, you have been in love with her for 15 years and have invested a lot of time for her. However, haven't you noticed that Lia is a very rational person? As soon as she figures things out, she can move on immediately."Chester's breathing became irregular. He took two deep breaths shakily while staring at Reese. "Yes, she is more sensitive and rational than anyone else."Reese said, "I'm going to give you another analogy. If Lia chooses to be with me, what are you going to do?""Nothing. I said before that I'd respect Lia's choice no matter what. Similarly, you don't have to worry about anything else. I won't harbor any resentment because of love," Chester replied. Reese said, "In other words, you'll continue to be friends with Lia even if we end up together, is that right?"Chester frowned. "Lia and I are friends. If we can't be together, our relationship will remain the same as before. You like Lia, but you can't stop me from being friends with her, Reese."Reese
Reese raised his right arm and said, "My entire right arm was covered in blood at the time. I watched the removal of rotten flesh from your back with my own eyes. I couldn't sleep peacefully for days.""That's easy! Just get the doctor to prescribe sleeping pills to you. You will be able to sleep better, right?" Liora said while giggling. Reese crouched down next to the bed, smiling. "Lia, are you mad at me?"Liora was confused. "Mad at you? For what?"Reese scratched his nose. "If I didn't take you there, you wouldn't have gotten injured."Liora took a glance at him, astounded. "This has nothing to do with you taking me there. It's the ignorant spirits. I'll deal with them all once I recover!""You still want to go back there?" Reese exclaimed. "Yes, of course! Hades will be delighted if I can send the seven spirits to him," Liora said. Reese looked at the joyous smile on Liora's face, feeling guilty. "I was hoping that you'd scold me instead of talking to me so casually."
Reese sent away Tyler and the other, surging them to get some rest while he remained seated, his gaze fixed on Liora.She slept peacefully, her chest rising and falling slowly with each breath. Meanwhile, a nurse approached. Reese noticed her and hastily stood up. "Hello, nurse."The nurse asked, "How can I help you?"Reese said, "May I inquire when Liora can be transferred out of the ICU?"The nurse said, "I'm not too sure about that. It depends on the healing of her wounds and vital signs. She has the most extensive wound that I've ever seen on a girl. She might end up with scars…"The nurse opened the door and walked inside upon saying that. Reese was overwhelmed by a sense of guilt as he thought of the debt he owed to Liora. He knew he could never fully repay it in this lifetime.-Three days later, Liora was transferred out of the ICU.After learning about the incident, Caroline and Evan rushed to the hospital. They were heartbroken to see Liora lying prone on the be
Fear and worry flooded Reese's mind, making it impossible for him to sleep. He opened his eyes and looked at the sky through the skylight. Reese could not help Liora in her profession, so he wondered if he could help out in her safety. He thought about it before he grabbed his phone to text Tyler. Reese: [Can you tell me where Ms. Yelena is staying?]Soon, Tyler texted Yelena's hotel and room number. Reese: [Thank you, my friend.]Tyler sneered.Tyler: [I haven't settled the score with you over Lia's predicament.]Reese: [I'll accept any punishment you deem necessary. It was my mistake, and I'll take responsibility for it.]There was no reply from Tyler afterward.Reese did not send another text, so he started the car and drove to the hotel. -Half an hour later, Reese arrived at the door of Yelena's room. He pondered briefly before knocking on the door. Soon, he heard a response. "Coming."Yelena opened the door and was surprised to find Reese. "Are you the lad fro
Liora opened her palm. The outline of the charm was vague, but she could feel its intense energy. She took a deep breath and stood up. After sensing her movement, the spirits glanced at her. Liora turned to look at them and felt the same feeling that stopped her from leaving again!Suppressing the fear, Liora braced herself to walk out of the door.The closer she got to the door, the more intense the gloomy presence became—she felt as if her soul was being crushed. "Don't be scared, Lia!""Try to walk out, Lia! They won't hurt you!""Lia! Axel, Ty, Mr. Gates, and I are waiting for you!"Αfter hearing their voices, Liora shed tears. She gnashed her teeth and continued to stride toward the door, which seemed so close yet remained out of reach. She took a deep breath, raised her hand with the charm, and attempted to walk closer. This time, the spirits all turned to look at her. They rushed forward in unison when they sensed Liora was about to touch the door. Sensing t