Rebirth Into My Second Chance

"Richard, it feels like you know everything but never tell me," I said, my voice filled with sadness.

It took Richard a moment to respond, "Claire, I only wanted to keep you happy, surrounded by love, doing what you love without any distractions. If my approach was wrong, then, as your family, I'm sorry." With a short acknowledgment, I hung up the phone. After getting ready, I chose a simple outfit and sneakers, casually tying my hair back with a couple of loose strands framing my face.

I murmured, "Mom, Dad, I wish I knew how to contribute to your legacy. Since this project was your life's work, the least I can do is check out your accomplishment."

But upon arriving at the venue, I realized I didn't even have an invitation. And my casual attire made me stick out like a sore thumb among the formally dressed attendees.

I should've never trusted Richard's words. Max wasn't there for my parents' project. He was only a businessman. If he cared about my parents' cause, he would've sent me an invitation the night before! Just as I was about to leave, Claude and Kate approached arm in arm.

"Claire, you made it, too?"

Claude seemed somewhat restrained, but how could I forget the days he went mad enough to cut off Lydia's finger, leading to her death?

"Have Lydia's family been taken care of?" My sudden question confused Kate, and before Claude could reply, she interjected, "Didn't Lydia's family move abroad? What do you mean by taken care of?"

I scoffed without explanation, realizing Kate was in the dark about Claude's plan to confine me in Elmwood Springs.

a moment alone with Claire?

glare but

a room at the

furrowed. "Let's

again, especially not in front of the Goodwin

CUMS

it laughable. "Is Lydia's death your guilty stain, Claude?

I could testify

her. She wouldn't have died if it wasn't

he didn't dare hurt me. In the past, he

Taking down

grew louder.

Claude's threats empty. "Try harming

make your fate