Rebirth Into My Second Chance

Hannah laughed, wrapping an arm around my shoulders. "You're such a good girl, Claire. You and Richard are going to be my right-hand helpers. We're not just taking down the Hiltons or those old money families in Crestview Heights. Our world is much bigger. I never thought you'd take Kate out, too. But the moment she came to me, I never intended for her to leave alive. It's fine if she's burned to ashes now." My fists clenched, words failing me. I hoped Kate could really lead them away.

The cries had stopped by now. Maybe they had escaped?

Watching the roaring flames brought back memories of my death in a past life. The difference was, back then I was on the inside; this time, I was on the outside.

If it wasn't for Kate leading them away, then I was the murderer.

"Claire, come back with me. Let's see how Richard plans to take down the Hiltons," Hannah pulled at my hand. Her icy touch made me resist, but I needed time for Kate to get them further away, out of Hannah's reach.

Seeing my reluctance, she pulled out a tablet. "The detective bureau's caught fire. Ronald's trapped inside. If the firefighters don't arrive soon, he'll die in there, charred beyond recognition."

The sight of the detective bureau engulfed in flames turned the sky orange, making my skin prickle with grief.

My legs weakened, unable to move.

"Why this ruthlessness? Many of them are innocent," I looked at Hannah in despair, underestimating her capabilities.

Hannah spoke as if she was

the car, I looked back at the now ruined wooden house,

to get in the car with Hannah, I spotted the bodyguard Claude mentioned, standing with Kate

wave of relief washed over

us. Hannah also noticed: "Looks like

four

we had won, Kate and the two girls were suddenly

to turn a blind eye, but if you're thinking of escaping, there's no point in pretending anymore. I was going to take you with me before dealing with them, but they seem in a

Hannah, I'll go with you, just don't hurt

even in this second life. I was still no

now." Hannah's aged finger touched my lips, sending a chill

"No!" With a bang-

of the orphanage girls, her body kneeling before

beer abdomen.

a maniac, a