Chapter 202
Chapter 202:
“Oh, I heard you got here last night. I figured Gracie would make you leave, but you stayed anyway.” Ellie crossed her arms, her gaze sharp with hostility.
In her past life, she had often been defeated by Lia.
On the outside, Lia appeared gentle and innocent, yet beneath that calm exterior hid a cunning, ruthless mind that even Ellie couldn’t rival.
Yet in this life, the two of them now faced a common enemy. For now, that forced them into an uneasy alliance.
Lia’s gaze sharpened as she scanned Ellie from head to toe, noting how snugly she was bundled. “I don’t know who you are, but it’s the middle of summer—aren’t you sweltering in that p>
“Keep your nose out.” Ellie tugged her collar tighter. “I’m offering help—refuse it and everything you own will vanish.” She dropped down beside Lia without asking. “I know your scams. Only my gullible sister Gracie would fall for them. You really lost your memory? That’s ridiculous p>
A sharp glint flickered in Lia’s eyes, but she swiftly masked it with calm. Her lips lifted into a seemingly innocent smile. “I honestly don’t follow what you mean p>
“I don’t care whether you get it or not. I just need to speak my mind.” Ellie shrugged off Lia’s pretense. “You’ve been away filming, so you likely haven’t seen how much sway Gracie holds with the Stanleys. I can show you how to bring her down p>
She hesitated, then said, “Gracie’s academic wins have earned her respect in her field and favor with the Stanleys. If you could expose fabricated research and wreck her reputation, the family would reject her—and that would clear the way for you to take her place. Remember, the Stanley family owed you p>
Ellie smirked, locking eyes with Lia. “Don’t let me down—you’ll lose my respect p>
She rose, straightened her outfit, and walked off, her head held high.
A thin, chilly smile crossed Lia’s face as her eyes narrowed. “You’re a fool,” she hissed. “Don’t act like you understand me. No one will stop me from doing as I please p>
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She stood as well and made her way toward the building behind her.
Once Lia was out of the yard, Ellie’s confidence wavered. She nervously approached the man stationed at the entrance.
“I delivered your message… does that square us?” Her voice trembled.
The man turned, and Ellie saw Theo’s polite, composed expression.
“You did well. This counts as making amends. Tonight, let’s enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner.” He gently extended his hand toward her forehead.
Her heart fluttered, and she instinctively recoiled.
Understanding the weight of her actions, she lifted her gaze to Theo. His expression had turned stern, and she hurried closer, resting her forehead against his hand. “O-okay,” she whispered, her voice shaking.
He gave a brief nod of approval and lightly patted her forehead. “That’s better,” he said calmly. “Do as you’re told, and there won’t be any more consequences p>
“I-I get it.” Ellie trembled at the thought of being taken back to the basement, haunted by the image of the whip still stained with blood.
Beneath her clothes, bruises mottled her skin, hidden but undeniable. Any fresh marks could ruin her appearance.
“Go back and rest. Don’t wander around without reason,” Theo ordered.
“Okay.” Ellie hurried off, relief loosening her steps.
Theo pulled a tissue from his pocket, wiped the fingers that had touched her, and tossed it aside with a flick of contempt.
His gaze drifted toward Gracie’s home, a sly smile curling his lips. “Gracie… after being shamed by an intruder, this is exactly when you need support. As family, how could I possibly watch you endure it alone p>