Liora's interest was piqued. "What's the good news?"Siobhan told Liora about her conversation with Tyler. "For real?" Liora was excited. "Is Tyler really buying you dinner? Just the two of you?"Siobhan was so shy she was stuttering. "I-I don't know yet.""Frankly, Tyler is quite shy too. He won't want anyone else to know if he's taking you out for dinner. So, don't worry. Tomorrow will definitely be your first date together.""Date…" Siobhan's face flushed visibly.She covered her cheeks and said, "I haven't thought of it as a date."Liora interjected between bites, "You should figure out what you're going to wear tomorrow. Then, freshen up and get some rest. You'll want to be at your best for going out with my brother.""Join us, Lia," Siobhan pleaded.Liora hastily waved her hand, swallowed her food, and said, "Why would I want to be a third wheel on your date? I refuse to intrude, and my brother wouldn't want me there!"Siobhan lowered her head in disappointment. "I'm w
Axel's smile slowly faded as Siobhan departed with Tyler. A trace of dejection lingered in his eyes as he ascended the stairs, his lips tightly pursed.Unbeknownst to him, Liora had already awoken and observed the entire scene from the staircase.With a deep frown and a mixture of emotions in her eyes, she watched Axel, who was walking toward the staircase."Axel."Axel hastily looked up at her upon hearing her voice. Soon afterward, he cracked his usual smile and said, "You're up already, Lia?"Liora said, "Axel, come to my room. I would like to speak to you.""Sure."They went back to Liora's room. Liora stared straight at Axel, who sat on the sofa. "Axel, are you falling for Shiv?" asked Liora. Axel could not help feeling shocked. He was about to speak when Liora immediately said, "You can't escape my eyes, Axel. Don't lie to me."Axel lowered his gaze. "How did you figure it out?""I saw everything from the staircase just now. Your lonely expression was too obvious
Tyler stared at her. "However, I don't have feelings for you." Siobhan felt her heart sink upon hearing that. "I'm aware that you don't have feelings for me. I do like you, but I've never expected you to feel the same way about me," said Siobhan softly. "What's the point then? Axel is great. He has a much better temperament and personality than me. The two of you will definitely be a perfect match for each other," said Tyler. "You can't control my feelings. You can have your own thoughts, and I can have mine. You're pressuring me to like Axel just because he has feelings for me, but that's not fair to me," answered Siobhan in determination. Tyler sneered. "You don't have to be so worked up. I'm just giving you a heads-up." "I don't need your reminder," said Siobhan. Tyler said, "Suit yourself but don't hold any romantic expectations from me. I'm not getting married ever."Siobhan was confused. "Not getting married?" "Yes, I will protect Lia for the rest of my life,"
Liora looked at Siobhan in sympathy. "Do you want to make another effort and give it a try?""No more. If the person isn't emotionally invested, any further effort will be in vain," said Siobhan nonchalantly. Liora did not expect that Tyler had no intention of dating, that he would even reject Siobhan so explicitly.However, she wondered why she suddenly felt relief. After all, Axel would not be that heartbroken anymore in that case. Liora thought about it and said, "Shiv, have you considered Axel?""Don't tease me. I only see Axel as a good friend." Siobhan scolded her with a reproachful look. "Well, a good friendship can turn into a romantic relationship, too, right?" said Liora with a forced smile. Siobhan stared at Liora for a long while in all seriousness before she said, "Come on, you also know it's impossible. Look at your forced smile."Liora was rendered speechless. Siobhan stood up slowly and said, "Lia, I'm going to stay with my father.""Now? Why are you l
"That's not possible. She is so outstanding and beautiful. After seeing her selfless dedication, I'm the first to feel outraged on her behalf.""You may go and stop her then.""I'm still on duty."Unaware of the bodyguards' discussion, Liora watched Chester earnestly as he wrote in his journal.The faint sunlight bathed his body, accentuating the tenderness of his already soft facial features.The sight of his perfect, pink lips tempted her to caress them. Liora swallowed, realizing she was behaving inappropriately. She hastily stood, steadying her breathing, determined to maintain her composure and not be overwhelmed by Chester.She nervously patted her face, leaving the two bodyguards behind her bewildered, convinced she had lost her mind.The disturbance caused Chester to stop writing. He glanced toward the door but saw no one, prompting him to wheel his chair in that direction.As he reached for the handle, the door swung open abruptly.Chester looked at the person stand
Their breaths gradually intertwined as they locked eyes, each contributing to the rising temperature in the room. Liora glanced at Chester's lips, drawn to their allure.His most captivating features were undoubtedly his enchanting eyes and rosy lips.Liora's heartbeat quickened once more as she found herself inevitably drawn closer to Chester's lips.Chester blinked, momentarily holding his breath as he watched Liora approach.Just as they were on the brink of a kiss, Chester abruptly turned away, enveloping her in a hug instead.Confusion clouded Liora's thoughts.Chester swallowed hard, his lips parting as he struggled to catch his breath. He came dangerously close to kissing Liora, his hesitation stemming not from reluctance but from a sense of timing.After all, he reminded himself, they were not in a relationship, and such bold actions would be disrespectful.However, Liora didn't perceive it that way.Her body tensed with confusion as she grappled with unanswered ques
The shame of rejection engulfed Liora, filling her with bitterness and causing her eyes to turn red.She stood with her head low, caught between the decision to stay or leave.Chester sighed at the sight before him. "Lia, I'm truly sorry. My words may have wounded your self-esteem. But I believe love is sacred."I like you, Lia, and I sense your feelings for me as well. However, I think we should take the time to truly understand each other before committing to a relationship."What are your thoughts? If not, prolonging this will only lead to greater pain.""You're right," Liora replied, suppressing her sobs. "I respect your perspective."Despite Liora's words, Chester didn't feel relieved. Her tears pained him, but he knew he had to stand by his decision. The present hurt was preferable to the potential agony of a breakup.After a brief hesitation, Liora announced, "I'll go to the washroom first, then we can head to the shop.""Okay—" Chester's sentence was cut short as Liora
Chester put some distance between himself and Liora."Lia, I don't make any assumptions," he stated.Liora kept her head hung, observing as Chester pulled away.Suddenly, she smiled and sat up straight. "Fine. Suit yourself."-An hour later, Isaac walked into the store carrying an exquisite box of desserts, only to find Chester already there."Oh, Chester, you're here too," Isaac remarked as he entered.Chester smiled and nodded in acknowledgment.Isaac placed the food on the cabinet in front of them."Chester, try out the desserts my mom made," he offered."Thank you," Chester replied.Then, Isaac moved closer to Liora and whispered, "Lia, are you out of your mind?"Puzzled, Liora looked at Isaac.Isaac clicked his tongue. "Why did you bring Chester here? It's full of negative energy. He can easily cause trouble since spirits love getting close to him!"However, Liora ignored him and pulled open a drawer, retrieving a stack of charms and placing them on the table.Inst
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