Chapter 218
Could there be a hidden truth behind my parents’ untimely death? Where do I even begin to untangle this mystery?
Does Claude have a piece of the puzzle? And what role does Richard play in all this?
I pondered over these questions all night. As I drifted into a fitful sleep, I felt someone tuck in my blanket and gently brush the hair from my forehead.
I knew it was Max, but I kept my eyes closed, pretending to be asleep. His scheming nature terrified me; being alone and vulnerable, I feared being betrayed without even realizing it.
By dawn, I woke up to find Max gone again. This time, I didn’t inquire about his whereabouts from Helen. Instead, I declared, “After breakfast, I’m meeting Tracey. As a survivor of an attempted murder, I need to ask her why she wanted us dead p>
Max’s kindness over the past few days had lulled me into a false sense of security, making me forget how important it was to seek out the truth for myself, no matter how painful or challenging, instead of relying on others. Helen seemed visibly anxious at my words.
“You’re pregnant now; it’s not the best time to confront Tracey. Besides, this case is quite sensitive and could negatively affect your emotions as an expectant mother. Just look at how Lydia’s death certificate distressed you last night, causing a feverish night of sweating.” I was feverish?
I looked at Helen in confusion.
“Yes,” she said, handing me the medicine the doctor prescribed last night. “You had a high fever, and Mr. Hilton took care of you all night. The doctor wanted to give you fever medication, but you refused, insisting on the baby’s safety p>
I scoffed. “Am I supposed to believe I didn’t notice my own fever p>
Helen looked at me with innocent eyes. “You were delirious with fever p>
As we spoke, several exorcists approached the house. Helen informed me, “I suggested to Mr. Hilton that we have a clergyman perform a blessing. He was hesitant at first, but I thought it might help, so I went ahead without his explicit consent p>
Watching the exorcists scatter holy water and perform their rituals seemed absurd to me. “Ridiculous p>
Yet, having died and been reborn felt even more absurd.
“You shouldn’t meet Tracey today,” Helen insisted, blocking my way.
But I was determined.
She grabbed my arm, pleading, “Ms. Claire, if not for your own sake, then for your child’s. You had a high fever last night, deliriously calling out for Claude to save you from the fire. It was terrifying, even for Mr. Hilton p>
Her words somehow convinced me Pecause only Max knew d in a fire in my previou
had
“I’ll keep my emotions in check. I must see Tracey p>
“Alright, I’ll accompany you,” Helen agreed, leading me to the car.
As we left, I glanced back at the exorcists. What were they trying to drive away?
My soul, my anxiety, or my complete trust in Max?