Blake gazed at her phone resting on the bathroom sink. It vibrated with a new message from Liam, reading: [You've just returned. Take a few days to rest at home. I can manage things at the office for now.]

As she read the message, Blake's thoughts drifted to Cecilia's suggestion of marrying Liam to prevent further crimes. She recalled learning about the dark history of Madelyn's family from Simon. The Jent family had been a prominent force in Ventropolis, respected by high-ranking officials. Yet, their behind-the-scenes actions were far from honorable.

Lost in these thoughts, Blake suddenly felt dizzy. Her hand reached out to brace herself against the sink. Flashbacks of a dark basement flooded her mind, echoing with the cries of a young girl no older than six or seven devouring a bun given by a shadowy figure.

The cacophony of the memories overwhelmed Blake. She clutched her head as a piercing pain surged through her. She endured the excruciating sensation, which eventually ebbed a