I knew this question was cruel, but I couldn't control myself. I needed to know."That afternoon, she made our favorite crab rangoons and grilled sea bass for Stella and me. Crab rangoons were Stella's favorite, and I love grilled sea bass."Crab rangoons? That was also my favorite."While eating, she insisted that we finish everything and told me I should protect Stella."At that time, I didn't think much of it. But when Stella and I came home after school, there were many strangers in the house, and even a funeral car... " I felt a chill down my spine.He paused for a long time before continuing, "Someone told me that Aunt Hailey had died. Stella was crying inconsolably, and I held her. Just then, a body was carried out toward the funeral car. "I ran over and pulled the white cloth covering the person. What I saw was a terrifying face, with black blood around the mouth and eyes..."I stiffened in his arms, feeling my hair stand on end. Atlas's warm hand gently stroked me.
Atlas and I didn’t hurry to work the following day because we needed to move to Pleca Park. Molly and my mom had already packed the daily necessities. However, we didn’t need to bring much since Atlas had prepared everything there.Ava and Jenny curiously followed us. Ava asked where we were going and why they didn’t have to attend school that day. When I told her and Ava we were going to a new home, Ava stared at me in surprise. She asked, “Do we have a new home?”I nodded. “Yes, we do. It’s Uncle Atlas’s home.”Atlas quickly corrected, “It's our new home.”Ava asked, “Is it where you and Mommy will stay after getting married?”“Is it?” Atlas asked as if that was indeed the reason. I felt embarrassed as I stole a glance at my seemingly indifferent dad. It lightened my heart to see that.I knew my parents’ impression of Atlas changed after he brought Ava back from the kidnappers. My mom and dad were no longer as hesitant about my and Atlas’s relationship, especially after seeing
I had accompanied Trinity when the doctor discharged her from the hospital. We didn’t meet again after that since she had been busy with recovery and handling various matters upon returning to her family.I was also busy with the aftermath of Grace’s passing.When I answered the call, she said, “Let’s meet if you’re not busy. There’s something I want to discuss with you.”She seemed to have reverted to her cold and dismissive demeanor. I glanced at Atlas and then pondered for a moment before agreeing, “All right, where do you want to meet?”“Wherever you are right now.”“I’m at Pleca Park,” I truthfully replied.“Then let’s meet at Sugar. See you there.” Trinity hung up immediately after.I raised an eyebrow, wondering why she sounded so urgent. I also didn’t know what Sugar was. It sounded like the name of a bar. After putting away my phone, I hurried over to Atlas and said, “Trinity has something to discuss with me, so I need to head out for a bit.”He asked, “Where are you g
I instinctively brought the photos closer for a careful examination. Then I looked at Trinity with amazement and asked, “How’d you get these?!”Trinity smirked. “I have my ways.”I grew excited. “My entire situation hinges on these. I never thought you’d obtain such crucial evidence so effortlessly. Things will be much easier for me now.”Trinity looked at me and dampened my enthusiasm. “Don’t get too excited. These photos can only nail Keegan, but you still can’t touch Liora. She’s the one pulling the strings, after all. She’ll escalate things if you can’t deal with her this time. She’s your real threat.”I didn’t expect Trinity to understand me so thoroughly. It seemed I had underestimated her. After some thought, I tapped the photos to the back of my hand, muttering, “I’ll stay put for now and let Liora get anxious.”Trinity spoke cunningly, “Then you must play the part well.”I knew she was more cunning than I thought. I had to learn from her tactics, so I asked for her advic
Trinity's actions startled me. Indeed, she could instantly turn words into actions. As soon as her words fell, the tall and robust young man from earlier walked back in.Trinity asked, "Has Grandpa arrived?""Yes, Ms. Trinity," Erik replied respectfully.I was surprised, wondering who Grandpa was. It escalated the situation a bit, and I thought I should express my gratitude to the older man."Erik, please bring Grandpa in," Trinity commanded, and Erik turned to leave.I stood up, feeling nervous. After all, I should show respect to the head of the Huffmans. Moreover, his daughter risked her life for me.Seeing my nervousness, Trinity stood up with a smile. "Why are you so nervous?""I've always wanted to thank your grandpa but never had the chance," I said.She smirked. "I'll give you that chance."When the door opened, a spirited old man entered with a crowd. The liveliness made me uneasy, and it seemed the Huffmans’ meals might not be as enjoyable as I had hoped. The old man
Anson smiled at me, saying, “It’s good that you like the idea. Let’s get to it then.”I didn’t know how to respond, but he kept looking at me. He seemed displeased and asked, “What’s wrong, Chloe? Do you disagree?”My mind raced as the situation astounded me. Still, I knew disagreeing would contradict what I had just told Trinity. On the other hand, I didn’t expect this with the Huffmans. I never wanted to have dealings with a family of the Huffmans’ status. After all, they differed from the Beringers.I became a goddaughter to the Beringers because I understood Atlas’s connection to them. It was also because of Atlas’s subtle intervention.However, the Huffmans belonged to an entirely different category. I knew the term sworn sisters carried significant weight, especially to Anson. Most would keep their distance from such families, but I had little time to think.Anson awaited my response, and the Huffmans’ loyal guards were watching me. It would humiliate Trinity if I refused. U
Things returned to normal after the banquet ended, and we saw Anson off. I finally had a chance to talk with Trinity alone.Trinity smiled at me and asked, "Did we scare you?"I relaxed on the sofa, and half complained, "What do you think? You make such a big fuss, not even discussing it with me. I was not prepared whatsoever. It made me so nervous, and Mr. Anson's... ""What's his name?" Trinity reminded me.I stuck out my tongue. "I mean, Anson. I'm still not used to it! His commands are a bit intimidating. What did I do to deserve this?""It's not like they're asking you to take over the Huffman family. There's nothing you can't handle. In terms of capability, you certainly have it. Don't underestimate the Huffman family. Not just anyone can be associated with them."Trinity looked at me with a cool expression, clearly proud of the family."How could I underestimate them?" I paused, then said, "The Huffman family's reputation is definitely significant, and I never thought tha
However, Anson had announced that this matter wouldn't be publicly disclosed. That was a good thing for me.Carol's call came in. I answered the phone and then looked at Trinity, saying, "I guess it's time to let me go, right?"She casually snorted. "It sounds like I was detaining you. Did I stop you from leaving? But I do need to remind you to be careful with Liora. I'll lend you a hand when you need it!"I looked at her triumphantly and said, "It seems like having a sister has a lot of benefits. I really took full advantage of it today."She leaned back on the sofa and said, "That’s right. You'll understand sooner or later. With me as your sister, you won't ever suffer. I just want you to know that I'm a friend who will benefit you for a lifetime."I suddenly realized that there was more to her words than met the eye. My attitude was originally a joke, but she took it seriously. "I will cherish it, Trinity," I said earnestly.She waved her hand and said, "Alright, go on. You