Chapter 11
Over the course of two months, I traveled to many places and saw incredible sights.[]
Snow–capped mountains, endless fields of wildflowers, desolate but magnificent desert sunsets, mysterious hidden caves, vibrant underwater worlds…
I fully embraced freedom and life itself.
I developed new perspectives about myself and the world that were completely different from before.[]
My skin had gotten darker and rougher.
But my muscles and spirit had grown stronger too.
Jentered a world of true independence, where the rules were health, freedom, assets, and strength.[]
I returned to the company bursting with inspiration and threw myself into the wedding industry.
I also began exploring other fields.
I rarely thought about Chase, only occasionally hearing gossip about him when I was having drinks at quiet bars.
Chase had reverted to his old ways.
Throwing money around at clubs, getting blackout drunk.[]
Cycling through women–none lasting even a week.]]
Completely abandoning his company responsibilities.]
And racing cars like he had a death wish every time.
Griffin Hale was constantly worried sick about him, practically aging into an old man, only to have Chase resent him for it.[]
Eventually, after a big fight, the two of them cut ties completely.
When I heard all this, I felt neither pain nor satisfaction–just a profound calm.]
I had truly let go.
One evening after work, I had just gotten to the parking garage and pulled out my car keys.
Suddenly someone covered my mouth with a cloth from behind, and I instantly lost consciousness.
When I came to, I was in Chase’s penthouse.
On that row of couches where I used to love curling up and being affectionate with Chase.
Two people sat across from me–Chase’s parents.]
In the six months since I’d last seen them, they seemed to have aged dramatically.[]
Chapter 11
Even Meredith Whitlock, who never hesitated to spend money on her appearance, now had deep wrinkles on her forehead.
I glared at them angrily.
“What exactly are you trying to accomplish by using such despicable methods to bring me here?”
Richard Whitlock sat rigidly upright, clearly not intending to speak.[]
After a tense standoff, Meredith finally spoke with a face full of remorse: “Miss Alcott, we’re terribly sorry for bringing you here so rudely, but we truly had no other choice…]
“That boy Chase wronged you, and it’s my failure as his mother for not raising him properly. I apologize to you.[]
“We asked you here today because we need your help.
“Please help us talk to Chase. Since you left, he’s been completely broken–drinking every day and racing cars recklessly. I’m afraid if this continues, he’ll…]
“He’s our only child, Please help us–every parent’s heart breaks for their child![]
“He gave up all those bad habits for you before, and now he’s fallen back into them because you left. You’re in his heart–only you can make him quit these destructive behaviors and get back on track. I’m begging you as his mother to please talk to him.“[|]
Meredith spoke through tears.
I silently clenched my fists.]
“Mrs. Whitlock, you’ve got the wrong person.[]
“I can’t do what you’re asking, and I don’t want to.]
“If you ever use these strong–arm tactics on me again, I won’t hesitate to push Chase over the edge completely.“]
Meredith covered her mouth in anguish.[]
“I’m sorry…]
“We won’t bother you again.“]
The moment she finished speaking, I heard a low, menacing male voice behind me that sent chills down my spine.
“Who told you to bring her here?“]
I turned around and met Chase’s bloodshot eyes.[]
His face had gotten thinner, his skin an unhealthy pale.
His body was still tall and imposing under his coat.[]
His features were still striking, but now dark and threatening, as if a storm was brewing beneath the surface–absolutely terrifying.[]
“Get out! All of you!“]
He roared in fury.
Chapter 11
I quickly stood up and hurried toward the exit.[]
Behind me, I heard the crash of a vase hitting the floor, followed by Richard’s angry shouting and Meredith’s crying.
The sound of slaps echoed as they struck Chase’s face, one after another. He took it silently, then screamed hysterically: “Get out! Just get the hell out!
“Who asked you to come here? I don’t want to see you!“[]
I stopped and turned back to watch this family drama unfold.]
“Chase.”
The living room fell eerily silent at my quiet call.
Chase’s parents both turned to look at me.
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12
Chase stood sideways to me, completely motionless.
I could see his disheveled hair and swollen face.]
“Don’t yell at your mother like that.
“Take care of yourself from now on. Be well.“[]
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PES
