Upon returning home, Lily was thrilled to see Scott and enthusiastically prepared a feast for him.Scott rolled up his sleeves to help in the kitchen. Caroline wanted to lend a hand too, but Scott insisted she stay out of it.Before dinner, Scott took the children to wash their hands while Lily carried the dishes out. As they settled in, Lily addressed Caroline, "Carol, I know it's not my place, but I've observed things over the years, and I feel I should remind you. Doctor Wilson is caring and attentive, especially to the kids. Considering him might be best for their sake."Caroline fell silent momentarily. "Lily, I still need to sort things out. I don't want to burden Scott."Lily reassured her, "Doctor Wilson knows that too, but he's willing to support you regardless. You need someone to share the pressure."Caroline looked down. "I already owe him so much...""Then why not give him a chance? You don't have to shut yourself off from happiness," Lily urged.Caroline glanced
Caroline was stunned. "You did this for the children?""Yes." Scott did not deny it. "Since you won't let me share the stress of your life, I can only help out more with the children."Caroline's heart felt warm and content. While her feelings for Scott weren't strong, he seemed like the best choice to be her husband and the father of her children.Caroline said sincerely, "Thank you."Scott chuckled. "You know I don't like you saying 'thank you' because it'll make us seem like strangers. In addition, I'm doing this voluntarily."Scott took a sip of juice. "When is Axel coming?""Tomorrow." Caroline said, "I'll bring him over."Scott paused for a moment before he said, "I'll go. It would be best for you not to go to Villa Rosa now."Caroline shook her head. "I want to keep my promise to the child. Moreover, the child doesn't know you, so I'm worried he might resist you."Scott relented. "I shall come over earlier tomorrow, then.""Sure."*Caroline wore her shades and heade
Caroline went upstairs and entered the study to access her laptop's encrypted files.Inside were DNA test reports for her, Daniella, and Neil, along with evidence of Danielle's false identity discovered by Neil. The most crucial item was the video call where Daniella and Nicholas colluded.Caroline had Nicholas to thank for storing this evidence due to his unique hobby. She planned to gauge Daniella's reaction in two and a half months.However, one doubt lingered in Caroline's mind. There seemed to be someone who had concealed the evidence of Daniella's murder years ago, as well as facilitated the child swap.Caroline deduced that Danielle aimed to keep the Xanders and Jordans in the dark about this. The question remained: who was the person assisting her?Lost in thought, Caroline stood up, walked to the window, and sipped her drink.Unbeknownst to her, Julian had already snapped her photo from the opposite building the moment she revealed her face. *Evan was on a business t
Liora quickly moved and blocked the stairs before Caroline could reply. Her chubby cheeks were puffed in anger as she said, "Why are you taking my mommy, Mr. Police Officer?"Tyler and Axel joined them, both stern-faced.Tyler's voice was icy. "You can't take her without a reason."Axel's tone matched. "Tell us the reason."The three kids eyed the officers with hostility. They defended their mother, afraid she would be taken away.Scott and Caroline, though, were unusually composed. They exchanged a glance and worked together.Scott soothed the children while Caroline descended the stairs calmly. She approached the officers and asked, "I can go with you, but could you please explain what I've done wrong?"The lead officer replied, "Someone reported you as a murderer who faked death to escape prison.""Mommy's not a murderer! This is crazy!" Liora yelled, breaking free from Scott's grip and clutching Caroline's thigh."Child, please let the police do their job. We'll investigat
Caroline sat in the police station and looked at the detectives, Ross Webb and Wendy Walsh, seated opposite her calmly.Ross and Wendy had already interrogated her for an hour, yet they refused to let her leave despite not having substantial evidence.Caroline missed her children, so she said, "Is there anything else?""I'm sorry, but we can't let you go yet," Wendy said sternly. Caroline looked toward them nonchalantly. "You've interrogated me thoroughly. What else is there to suspect?"Five years ago, Neil created a false identity for her. He had asked a friend abroad to carefully organize Carolyn Shenton's background from childhood to now.This is why Caroline could remain so composed being here.Ross spent a long time carefully reviewing the information and records. After confirming that everything was flawless, he talked to Wendy about it."There is no issue except for the similar appearance. Release her then," he suggested."Have you forgotten something?" Wendy asked.
Shortly after, Wendy exclaimed, "Chief Dunn?"Caroline turned to follow Wendy's gaze. A slightly chubby middle-aged man stood there, visibly anxious. However, the handsome man with him caught Caroline's full attention.Caroline's eyes widened, and she clenched her fists as their eyes locked.'Why is Evan here? Wasn't he on a business trip?' she thought.Fabian Dunn frowned at Wendy and asked, "What's going on, Walsh? Why hasn't she been released yet?"Wendy explained, "Chief, this person looks exactly like the murderer who died while giving birth...""What do you mean 'exactly'?!" Fabian berated, annoyed. "He's Mr. Jordan's girlfriend! This is nonsense!"Wendy gazed at Evan in confusion, then turned to Fabian. "Chief Dunn, the murderer named Caroline Shenton was once associated with Mr. Jordan too. Aren't you concerned that he's defending a murderer?" she spoke firmly."Show me proof!" Fabian's anger flared.Reluctantly, Wendy handed over the blood test report. "Her blood type
Caroline swiftly broke free from Evan's grip and cautiously stared at him. "Please control yourself, Mr. Jordan!"Evan smiled faintly upon hearing the familiar remark.'Did she realize she gave herself away when she blurted out "Mr. Jordan" like that?' he wondered.Evan didn't create problems for Caroline but sat up straight and directed Reuben, "To Bayview Villa."Caroline's anger flared as she looked at him. "Did you investigate me?""Yes," Evan truthfully replied."You never learn to respect others!" Caroline scolded."I don't need to," Evan said through his gritted teeth, radiating a cold aura. "I've been searching for you for five years!""You didn't have to find me!" Caroline countered."Caroline, don't be ungrateful!" Evan suppressed his anger."Did I ask you to find me?" Caroline's cold gaze bore into him. "I wouldn't have hit such a low point in my life if it weren't for you!""Did I plot your imprisonment?" Evan inquired."You believed Daniella without giving me a
Evan's expression turned serious immediately as Caroline criticized him in front of many people.He glared at Caroline and retorted, "You took my child without asking, and now you're scolding me?""I didn't tell you beforehand, and I'm sorry!" Caroline's anger was evident in her clenched teeth. "But consider Axel's feelings. Questioning him right away might harm him. Haven't you seen how Axel is doing? Please, show some care and compassion."Evan squinted. "Why are you so concerned about my child?"Caroline was left speechless. She had forgotten that Evan didn't know her connection to Axel because she focused on Axel earlier.She changed the topic quickly. "I'm just advising you to be gentle with Axel."Evan scoffed and walked up to Caroline. "I'm curious why you're so invested in my son. Are you trying to get back at him after failing with Daniella?"Caroline glared at Evan, thinking, 'Is it necessary to stoop so low and seek revenge on an innocent child?'"I'm right, aren't I
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