Rebirth Into My Second Chance

I spent the whole night waiting, hoping for a rescue that never came as dawn broke. Deep down, I knew I shouldn't have expected anyone to save me, especially not Max.

Right on cue, Lydia knocked and entered, "Ms. Claire, it's time for breakfast."

I barely glanced at the meal she brought in. After years of taking care of me, Lydia knew my eating habits all too well. Breakfast was a lean chicken broth with a side of toast this time. "Ms. Claire, you need to eat well to keep up your strength to fight back."

Her voice cracked as she covered her face and rushed out, tears streaming down her cheeks. It struck me then how she was just as much a prisoner of circumstances as I was. Despite her and her family's innocence, Claude's madness had torn them apart, leaving them in constant danger.

I forced myself to eat, knowing full well that waiting for the end wouldn't help anyone.

Determined to not just sit around, I attempted to leave my room only to find that the villa was under constant surveillance, leaving no corner unwatched. Claude's paranoia seemed almost laughable now.

When I loved him, he pushed me away. And now, when my feelings had faded, he watched me obsessively.

"Ms. Claire, the villa is spacious; feel free to explore. But stay away from the front door. The backyard, however, is full of the flowers you love. Maybe take a stroll there..."

Her words hinted at a possible escape through the back, yet the thought of leaving Lydia and her family in danger held me back.

with me to attend the Hilton family's investment in a new prosthetic limb showcase. If he couldn't reach me, he'd surely come looking. But then it hit

back door right now. If you leave, I'll keep up the pretense of bringing your meals. That

power to

has returned to Crestview Metropolis.

Swr

phone's been confiscated. So, Ms. Claire, you need to come

was I supposed to flee, much less

by heart. I had to escape first, then figure

my dash for freedom through the back, Claude's car was already there,

to be in Crestview Metropolis," she

on his face,

my doubts, and it seems they

I ran. But Claude didn't rush; he followed leisurely, his driver trailing me

villa was

but stretches of