Wayne finally came to his senses but did not let go. His eyes were filled with a cold glint as he asked in a deep voice, "What are you trying to do?"

Olivia held the silver needle with a look of grievance and replied, "The needle fell near your hand. I was just picking it up."

Wayne released his grip only then. "Sorry, it was a reflex. Are you alright?"

The distinct red mark on Olivia's neck hardly looked harmless. He felt even more remorseful. "I never intended to harm you."

"I understand. I'll be more careful in the future. You should rest now. I won't disturb you any longer," Olivia said. She put the silver needles back into the acupuncture kit and returned to her room.

The moment she closed the door, she was drenched in sweat.

She was terrified as she nearly met her end at that man's hands. His vigilance over the ring was evident, but she wasn't out of options. Starting tomorrow, she would start preparing medicine for Wayne.

She planned to add a few sleep-inducing herbs at