Lyla Greene slipped into the Victorian-style dress Cameron Carlson had picked out for her and twirled in front of the mirror, caught off guard by her reflection. She always knew she was beautiful, but this look was different—captivating and mysterious. The semi-sheer black fabric gave her an enigmatic charm, and she felt a flicker of nervousness.

The dress wasn't revealing; in fact, it was quite modest. With its full-length skirt, cinched waist, and a white knitted shawl, it accentuated Lyla's form without showing too much. She was puzzled as to why Cameron had chosen such an old-fashioned, demure gown for the party, especially since he usually preferred her in trendier attire. Yet, she had to admit, the dress did its magic in its own way.

“Seems like I know your figure well,” Cameron noted, his eyes gleaming with appreciation as she descended the staircase. He nodded in approval, satisfied. He didn’t want other men to enjoy the sight of Lyla in something less modest, hence his choice for the evening. Even he was surprised by his growing possessiveness.

“No matter how conservative, your allure can’t be hidden,” he added, pulling Lyla into a warm embrace. Her presence stirred unfamiliar feelings in him.

The sudden embrace made Lyla’s heart flutter. She looked up into Cameron’s intense eyes, feeling her cheeks warm slightly. “Let… let go of me. We’re in the living room!” she exclaimed, trying to wriggle free. But his strong arms only held her tighter.

“How about we skip the party altogether?” Cameron suggested, caressing her styled hair before impulsively kissing her neck. “Mrs. Carlson, you’re irresistible.”

“Cameron, let me go. We’re going to be late!” Lyla protested, his kisses causing a mix of discomfort and excitement, her face flushed.

“Eager, aren't we?” Cameron teased, masking his own conflicted emotions. “Have you forgotten how they humiliated you at your wedding? How your so-called friend walked away with your fiancé, her pregnancy turning into a public scandal?” He tilted her chin up, his eyes clouded with anger. “Tonight is their child’s baptism. Are you really in such a rush?”

“Enough! Stop reminding me of the past,” Lyla pleaded, her heart heavy with the memories. “Please, Cameron, let’s not dwell on it.”

“Not say anything?” Cameron continued, his tone sharp. “A year’s gone by, and you’re still too trusting. I thought you were stronger now. If you can’t handle this, how will you reclaim what’s yours?”

“I know what I’m doing,” Lyla said, her fists clenched, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “I haven’t forgotten how I ended up here, and those who hurt me will face the consequences.”

“Good. Accepting reality is the first step,” Cameron replied, releasing her and stepping back. “But remember, you also have to understand your current role.”

“My role?” Lyla repeated, perplexed. “I’ve been cut off. After the wedding fiasco, my father got seriously ill, and my stepmother and uncle took everything. You know that.”

“I know. That’s why you’re no longer Lyla Greene. Until you take back your place, there's no Lyla Greene in this world.” Cameron glanced at his own wedding ring, lost in thought. “You need a new identity.”

“A new identity? What identity?” Lyla asked, baffled by Cameron’s intentions.

“You’re my wife. At the party, being Mrs. Carlson will have much more clout than being Lyla Greene.” Cameron smiled, a hint of coldness in his expression, as he caressed her face.

“You…” Lyla was confused. Cameron had never publicly acknowledged their relationship. Who would believe she was Mrs. Carlson?

“Don’t worry. I’ve always said you’re special. Tonight, everyone will know who you are.” He deliberately brushed her ring finger before leading her out.

“What do you mean?” Lyla asked, uneasy. She had a strong feeling something significant was about to happen.

“Nothing really. You’ll see soon enough,” Cameron replied, dismissing her concerns as he opened the car door and settled into the driver’s seat.

Lyla shook her head, exhaling slowly before getting into the car. Despite spending a year with him, Cameron remained a mystery to her.

Meanwhile, Jude Holmes was face to face with Emerie Adams by his flashy sports car on a bridge, visibly upset. Lyla, trapped inside the car, could only watch through the window as Jude gestured wildly during what looked like a heated argument with Emerie.

“Why is she here?” Lyla wondered, surprised but not entirely shocked by Emerie's presence. Her life had become a string of unexpected events.

“Emerie, say what you want. If you’re here to harm Lyla, I won’t let you get near her. You’ll regret it,” Jude warned, his tone unusually fierce.

Emerie laughed mockingly. “Oh please, with your family’s name, do you think you’re untouchable? Or maybe you want to stage a dramatic showdown with her?” she taunted, trying to push past Jude towards Lyla.

“We don’t have time for this, Emerie. Step back now!” Jude said, grabbing Emerie and shoving her away.

“Oh, Jude. Since when did you become so ruthless? Or do I need to remind you how to treat a lady?” Emerie flirted shamelessly, reaching to brush Jude’s chest.

“Get off me, you vile woman!” Jude shouted, warning her. “If you keep this up, I won’t mind tossing you and your car off this bridge!”

“Go ahead, Jude. I’m not scared. I’ll call Cameron right now, and we’ll see who ends up worse!” Emerie threatened, her face twisted in anger as she pulled out her phone.

Jude didn’t expect her audacity. There was barely any time before Lyla needed to leave for the airport, and he couldn’t afford delays.

“Give it to me!” he demanded, trying to snatch the phone.

“No way, Jude. Call him! Let’s see him deal with your precious Lyla,” Emerie smirked, keeping the phone out of reach.

“You witch!” Unrestrained, Jude lunged for her arm to seize the phone.

But in their struggle, they forgot they were on a bridge with traffic rushing by. A single misstep could be fatal.

“Watch out!” Jude shouted too late.

Emerie never imagined her malicious plans would lead to this. Focused on her phone, she didn’t notice the oncoming truck.

The crash was swift. Emerie’s body was hurled through the air before hitting the ground hard. The terrifying moment lasted seconds but felt like an eternity.

Emerie lay in a pool of blood, her body spasming in a final struggle. The truck driver, shaken, hurried out, glancing at Jude before checking Emerie’s pulse.

Jude stood frozen, mind blank. Though he didn’t need to check, he knew Emerie wouldn’t make it.

Lyla, having witnessed everything, was pounding on the car window. “Emerie! Emerie!” she cried, tears flowing freely.

“Open the door! Let me out!” she shouted, but Jude was immobilized, incapable of movement.

Shock had paralyzed Jude—his own guilt weighing heavily. He was, in part, responsible for Emerie’s fate.

Finally, Jude turned to see Lyla’s tear-streaked face and made a decision. “Lyla, something’s happened. Listen, I’m taking you to the airport. You can’t stay here,” Jude said, his usual gentle tone now replaced by urgency and a hint of desperation.

“Let me out! Emerie’s hurt; I have to help her!” Lyla insisted, ignoring Jude’s warning.

“Lyla, Emerie’s gone! There’s nothing you can do!” Jude’s voice broke, eyes brimming with grief and guilt.

Jude arrived at Skyler Lopez’s estate just as Lyla was stepping out. She had no idea Cameron was already aware of Keily’s existence and appeared calm.

After settling Keily for a nap, she decided to return to Jude, but found her way blocked by him.

“Lyla, where’s Keily?” Jude asked, holding her arm with urgency.

“He’s asleep. It’s been a long flight. Jude, what’s wrong? Why are you so frantic?” Lyla asked, puzzled by his demeanor.

“Lyla, listen. Don’t panic, but it’s possible Cameron knows about Keily,” Jude began hesitantly, unsure whether to share the news.

“What? How could he know?” Lyla’s heart raced, disbelief coloring her voice.

“It’s likely he’s been tailing you. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have known. We have to leave with Keily before he has a chance to confirm it,” Jude advised, urgency in his tone.

“I’m not panicking!” Lyla insisted, though clearly shaken. “But if he finds out, do you think he’ll let go easily? How did he find out, Jude? Explain!”

“Maybe he’s been tailing you,” Jude suggested, trying to calm her. “But we have to act fast.”

Lyla’s world was spinning. If Cameron discovered the truth about Keily, she knew he’d recognize his own child in him.

Meanwhile, Nora James’s fainting spell, stirred by Jolie Stone’s antics, became the talk of the town. Nora, a public figure, found herself in fresh scandal thanks to Jolie’s media stunt. The incident turned Lyla into a laughingstock, with rumors spreading that her jealousy had driven Nora to the hospital.

Even as Lyla sat in Nora’s hospital room, tabloids painted her as a villainous homewrecker. Yet she knew in her heart that wasn’t the truth. What she wanted was not revenge on Nora—it was answers.

“Ma’am, don’t worry about it. That woman always makes a fuss over nothing. Don’t stoop to her level,” the housekeeper urged, trying to comfort Lyla. She secretly hoped Lyla and Cameron would reconcile, having seen their undeniable connection.

“You’re overthinking it,” Lyla replied, setting the papers aside. “Go check if she’s awake yet. She should be by now.”

“I’ll go see if she’s awake. Here, have some coffee to keep you going,” the housekeeper said, handing Lyla a thermos.

“Madam, she’s awake!” the housekeeper announced shortly after.

“Is she?” Lyla stood and headed toward the room. “Have you called the doctor?”

“Yes, they’re on their way,” the housekeeper replied, following Lyla. “But she doesn’t seem fully coherent.”

Lyla stood by Nora’s bedside, watching her lips move faintly.

“The doctor will be here soon. Don’t worry, I won’t harm you now. Unlike you, I know right from wrong,” Lyla assured, noting Nora’s frightened expression.

“No… I…” Nora struggled to speak, bound by some unseen force.

“What?” Lyla leaned in closer to hear Nora’s whispers, despite their strained relationship.

“Something…” Nora tried, her voice weak, but her urgency clear.

“Let’s wait for the doctor, then we can talk,” Lyla said, stepping back as the doctor entered.

The doctor conducted a brief examination before gesturing for Lyla to step outside.

“Is it serious?” Lyla asked once they were outside.

“The patient shows signs of a cerebral hemorrhage. We need to prepare for surgery immediately,” the doctor informed her, jotting notes on a chart.

“Then proceed with the surgery,” Lyla instructed without hesitation.

“The risks are significant. Are you her family?” the doctor questioned, skeptical of her authority.

“I’m aware you’re not,” he added, implying Lyla’s involvement was unwelcome.

The doctor’s insinuations and dismissive remarks stung, but Lyla remained composed. Her immediate concern was Nora’s health, despite their past. Her thoughts lingered on how to reach the person who might help resolve this.

As night settled over Florence, the city's shimmering lights captivated Lyla Greene from the car window. She eagerly rolled it down, relishing the fresh air after feeling trapped in Cameron Carlson's mansion for far too long.

Cameron drove in silence, occasionally glancing at Lyla through the rearview mirror. She seemed lost in a perfect daydream, free from burdens, worries, or animosity. Her eyes held a longing for the outside world, a side of her that Cameron found spellbinding.

"Why are you staring at me?" Lyla suddenly asked, sensing the intensity of his gaze. Her cheeks warmed as she turned to meet his fiery eyes.

Thrown off by her question, Cameron felt a twinge of guilt at being caught. He awkwardly looked away, clearing his throat to hide his embarrassment.

"When we get to your family's home, follow my lead. If you get too emotional and cause a scene, you're on your own—don't say I didn't warn you," Cameron said, his voice returning to its usual aloofness.

Lyla simply shrugged, turning back to the window. "Don't worry, I know what I'm doing," she muttered under her breath, clenching her fists and closing her eyes, trying to shut out the world outside.

Despite Cameron's swift driving, they arrived at the Greene family's residence to find the driveway crowded with luxury cars. They waited a couple of minutes for a parking spot. Unfazed by the valet's lack of recognition, Cameron courteously opened Lyla's door, inviting her out of the car with a rare tenderness that made her wary. Hesitantly, she placed her hand in his.

As she was drawn into Cameron's familiar embrace, his scent disoriented her, and her breath caught.

"Mrs. Carlson, keep it together—this isn't our bedroom," Cameron teased, nibbling playfully at her ear. He delighted in provoking Lyla, enjoying the unease it caused her.

"Let go of me!" Lyla demanded as the crowd around them began to grow. Not wanting to draw attention, she tried to pull away and head toward the house.

"Mrs. Carlson, wait—you forgot something," Cameron said, pulling her back and wrapping an arm around her waist with a mischievous grin.

"Cameron, what are you doing? We’re in front of everyone!" Lyla protested. But before she could finish, Cameron kissed her. She was taken aback; he was kissing her in front of everyone.

"Because I want everyone to know you're my Lyla," Cameron murmured, brushing her nose playfully. "You've been away from home since marrying me, and now you're back without even wearing your wedding ring. Your father would be disappointed if he saw."

From his pocket, Cameron produced a small, ornate box. He opened it to reveal a dazzling diamond ring, slipping it onto her finger amidst the crowd's gasps.

"Cameron, what is this?" Lyla's eyes widened, bewildered by the sudden attention. This was the first time he had given her a ring, let alone one so extravagant.

Facing his determined gaze, Lyla realized he had planned this from the start. She knew better than to question him further; he might do something even bolder. Silently, she dropped the subject, allowing Cameron to lead her by the hand into the house.

Cameron's presence created a stir at the Greene family gathering. The guests were awestruck, eagerly approaching him. As the head of Pure Wing, the famous jewelry empire, Cameron Carlson was renowned for his sharp business skills and striking good looks, making him the most sought-after bachelor. His arrival had single-handedly elevated the event to its peak.

Thanks to Cameron, Lyla also found herself in the spotlight.

"Jude! If you want to leave, go, but I won't," Lyla declared, ignoring Jude Holmes' pleas. She hurried to Emerie Adams, drawn by the strong scent of blood. Kneeling beside the woman, she gently lifted her, horrified at the blood-soaked face. "Emerie, wake up! It's Lyla. You hate me, don't you? Here I am. Get up and yell at me!"

Lyla didn't care about past wrongs; she just wanted Emerie to wake up. As cruel as Emerie had been, Lyla couldn’t bring herself to harbor resentment.

"Lyla..." Emerie groaned in agony, Lyla's voice piercing through her haze.

"Yes, it's me! Don't move, just talk to me. The ambulance is on its way," Lyla cried with relief at the response. Her mind was singularly focused on saving Emerie.

Emerie's barely-there consciousness didn't stop her from expressing bitterness, "Lyla, you must be happy now, seeing me like this."

"Emerie, stop it! We don’t have to fight anymore. You're my sister, no matter what. Please, just hold on," Lyla begged, tears flowing freely.

"You're a fool..." Emerie murmured, touched by Lyla's sincerity. As she lay there, she couldn't help but feel the warmth from their shared past—something she hadn’t felt since her parents' tragic accident.

"You don’t hate me? After everything?" Emerie asked, her defenses crumbling.

"I've never hated you. I understand your pain and resentment. Let’s be sisters again, okay?" Lyla pleaded, clutching Emerie tighter as her strength waned.

"I'm sorry for everything. I deserve this," Emerie confessed, her voice fading as she surrendered to her fate.

"I have a son... just six months old. He... he's innocent. Promise me, Lyla, go to the orphanage, look after him. Don't let him know about me," Emerie begged with what little strength she had left.

"I promise, I will," Lyla assured, her heart breaking for the child Emerie would leave behind.

"Thank you... And one last thing... Chaim... it wasn't..." Emerie struggled to speak, desperate to reveal the truth about Chaim Greene’s death. But before she could finish, a violent cough wracked her body, and she passed away in Lyla’s arms, leaving her words unspoken.

"Emerie, no! Wake up!" Lyla screamed, holding the lifeless body. Emerie's death felt like the world collapsing around her.

"She’s gone," Jude observed from a distance, knowing Lyla's compassion would drag her into deep grief.

From afar, Cameron watched Lyla through the car window. This woman, who had been absent from his life for days, was crying. And he was the reason for her pain.

Lyla felt darkness closing in. Cameron knew about Keily, their child, but what would he do?

Sitting by the bed, Lyla watched the sleeping Keily, gently stroking his head. She had protected him with all her heart, understanding all too well the challenges he had faced since birth.

At times, Lyla blamed herself, wishing she had been stronger to reject this fate. But in the quiet moments when Keily whispered "Mommy" in his sleep, her resolve to protect him strengthened.

"Mommy, help... the witch... bad people," Keily murmured, stirring anxiously, causing Lyla to worry about his nightmares.

"Keily, what's wrong?" Lyla whispered, leaning closer to hear him better.

"Lyla, we should leave with Keily now," Jude urged, having heard enough to know the danger Keily faced, especially from Destiny Holmes.

"But where can we go, Jude? He knows Keily is with Skyler. Where else can we hide?" Lyla asked, her voice laced with fear.

"We don't have to stay in Italy. Let’s go back to Florence," Jude suggested after much thought.

Lyla decided not to head to the police station, knowing Cameron wouldn’t stay there overnight. Even if he were in trouble, he’d find a way out.

She arrived at Cameron's villa, the door unlocking automatically as if expecting her. Shaking her head at the elaborate surveillance, she laughed dryly.

"Mrs. Carlson, you're here. The master just returned," Lennox Hill greeted her, relieved by her return. He had been worried since she left abruptly.

Lyla smirked at the thought of Cameron escaping yet another sticky situation. Her initial concern morphed into amusement at how she might tease him about it later.

Lennox led her to Cameron’s study. Knowing Cameron wouldn’t refuse Lyla, Lennox departed without informing him of her arrival.

Upon entering, the sharp smell of smoke hit her, making her cough. Cameron stood silhouetted against the window, lost in thought.

"Surprised to see me back so soon?" Cameron asked, turning toward her after putting out his cigarette.

"Impressed the law can't keep you. Maybe it's time you returned to your own planet," Lyla teased, opening a window to let out the smoke.

The fresh air invigorated Cameron, stirring a fleeting desire to embrace her. But he restrained himself, maintaining the distance between them.

"I'm not going anywhere, because you're here," Cameron said, a rare moment of vulnerability catching them both off guard.

Surprised, Lyla turned to see him, momentarily doubting her ears. Embarrassed, Cameron shifted his attention to his desk, hiding his face from her view.

The Greene family dinner was a grand event—a perfect opportunity for attendees to widen their commercial networks. At this gathering, Cameron Carlson was undeniably the star of the show, surrounded by people eager to strike a business deal. He navigated the crowd smoothly, confidently keeping an arm around Lyla Greene’s waist.

All of a sudden, a woman appeared at Cameron's side, taking everyone by surprise. The attendees watched the striking couple as though afraid to miss something extraordinary. All eyes were on Lyla, captivated not only by her connection to Cameron but also by her own stunning beauty. Speculation about her identity buzzed through the room.

Cameron rarely made appearances at public events, and when he did, it was never with a woman on his arm. It was known that his relationships never lasted more than a few days. Lyla felt the weight of the crowd’s stares, uncomfortable and tense, while Cameron remained at ease, casually introducing her to others.

"Mr. Carlson, who might this be?" came the bold question from Don Williams, a thin man and well-known gossip, owner of a prestigious media company. He started as a tabloid journalist, notorious for digging up celebrity secrets, and his skills were as sharp as ever.

"Can't you tell? She's my wife!" Cameron announced, showing off the ring he had recently placed on Lyla's finger.

A stunned silence fell over the room, quickly turning into a buzz of excited chatter. No one had expected Cameron to announce his marriage so suddenly. The ring on Lyla's finger was the most exquisite in the Pure Wings collection—a 25-carat gem called The Wanderer, known for its flawless oval shape and pristine clarity. Its purchase had made headlines when Cameron paid a fortune for it at auction.

"Mr. Carlson married—when did this happen?" Don, ever the opportunist, pressed for more, sensing a scoop.

Cameron raised an eyebrow at Don, then chuckled, "That's not your business, Don. I'd like to keep our private life private. Today’s a special day, and announcing our relationship to the world also makes things clear for the Greene family."

Don’s curiosity spiked further when he glanced at Lyla and gasped. A year prior, he had covered a shocking wedding in Haven City—it was impossible not to recognize the woman now beside Cameron as Lyla Greene. "Mrs. Carlson, you…”

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us for the joint celebration by the Greene and Thompson families. Today also marks the hundredth day of Master Thompson’s son, Alexander Thompson. Your presence is an honor! Please enjoy your time, and forgive any lapses in hospitality. Our young mistress has a few words to share; please lend her your attention," the Greene family’s butler announced, interrupting Don’s inquiry.

As the butler stepped aside, a woman with exquisite makeup took the stage, ready to express her gratitude. But upon spotting someone in the crowd, her smile froze. Her graceful fingers trembled, and her eyes narrowed threateningly.

Lyla saw Emerie Adams on stage, her expression as if she had swallowed a bitter pill. The sight was both ironic and distasteful, prompting Lyla to turn away with disdain. Emerie’s eyes scanned the crowd, finally landing on Lyla with visible shock. This woman? Hadn’t she been in a car accident long ago?

Emerie's composure cracked as she gripped the microphone tighter, her perfectly made-up eyes darkening with stormy emotions. She recognized the woman in the spotlight instantly. Lyla Greene, you’ve outdone yourself!

Practically escorted offstage by the butler, Emerie's façade slipped when in private. She hurried to a secluded corner, dialing a number with trembling hands, her eyes blazing with fury.

“Tell me the truth—did you kill her or not, you worthless fool? Spill it!” Her glossy lips, an innocent shade of pink, spewed words laced with unrestrained rage.

“You should have warned me. She’s back! What do we do now? I didn’t go to such lengths to eliminate her only for you to fail. You still think you can blackmail me over the child’s identity? Think again!” She slammed the phone down, her face a mask of fury. Lyla Greene, why won’t you die! How is it she always seems to have endless luck, with remarkable men drawn to her from childhood to the present? I painstakingly sabotaged her wedding, stole her childhood sweetheart, and yet, she still manages to captivate the world’s most exceptional man?

Emerie leaned against the balcony rail in defeat, her eyes fixed on the woman embraced by the seemingly untouchable man. Her fists clenched with frustration.

Lyla stayed beside Cameron, her gaze distractedly scanning the crowd. She wanted to pay respects to her father, Chaim Greene, but with Cameron’s watchful presence, slipping away unnoticed was impossible.

"Before you see your father, meet your lovely stepmother, my Cinderella," Cameron whispered, feeling Lyla's restless energy. He tightened his grip on her waist and led her toward the staircase.

“Changed your mind?” Nora James inquired from the backseat, observing Cameron’s furrowed brow in the rearview mirror. Her anger flared again.

“No! Lennox is on his way to bring her to you,” Cameron replied, his gaze fixed on the distraught woman, the sight piercing his heart.

“Will she be there when he arrives? Cameron, if you're truly unwilling, I won’t force you. I've lost an eye; who can I blame?” Nora longed to shove Lyla off the bridge herself but restrained her wrath, knowing Cameron would eventually comply, even if it took time.

“I get it.” Nora’s words only deepened Cameron’s resolve. He started the car, driving toward Lyla with a screech.

Suddenly, a deafening screech pierced the air as Cameron halted inches from Lyla. He jumped out, gathering the distraught woman in his arms, cradling her protectively, his grip encircling her waist, shielding her stomach. Cameron buried his head in her neck, inhaling her scent, a mix of soft fragrance and deep sorrow. It often haunted his dreams, unsettling him.

Only by holding Lyla did Cameron truly feel her presence.

Tears nearly obscured Lyla’s consciousness, and the sudden upheaval left her dizzy before she fell into a warm embrace...

Lyla raised her head in panic, blinking to see clearly. Unable to believe she’d swiftly fallen back into his grip, she instinctively tried to push Cameron away.

“Don’t move, don’t say a word. Come with me, Lyla. I’ll protect you—I’m sorry, don’t hate me!” Cameron sensed her resistance, noticing Jude Holmes approaching. He pulled Lyla’s arm and scooped her up, ready to usher her into the car.

“Let me go, let me go!” Lyla struggled fiercely, desperate to break free from this man who had upended her peace, clinging to the car door in defiance. Yet escaping his grasp was a daunting challenge.

Cameron swiftly locked Lyla inside.

“Cameron, release her!” Jude shouted, catching up just as Lyla was secured inside. He rushed forward, grabbing Cameron and landing a punch.

Cameron anticipated the blow, only lightly brushing his bruised lip—a familiar, fiery pain. His gaze remained lowered, yet a chilling aura emanated from him, causing Jude to pause momentarily.

Without warning, Cameron retaliated, his punch precise and forceful enough to send Jude reeling.

“A murderer, with time for someone else’s wife? Don’t you hear the sirens? Focus on your own escape, unless you want me testifying against you!” Cameron’s words cut deeper than his fists. Jude stood frozen, stunned by the heavy accusation.

As Cameron smirked cynically, he ignored Jude, swung the car door open, and drove away swiftly.

“A murderer... a murderer... I’m not, I’m not... I’m not a murderer!” Jude, deeply shaken, glanced at Emerie lying prone on the ground before fleeing the scene in his car.

~

Cameron drove recklessly, running several red lights.

“Cameron, even if you ran someone over, no cop would stop you. Is this childish attempt to rid yourself of her worth it?” A text message from Nora jolted Cameron from his thoughts. He glanced in the rearview at Nora’s impassive face, his lips pressed in irritation.

Cameron was uneasy. Were all traffic enforcers so spineless, or had someone warned them already?

“What do you want from me? Why do this to me?” Lyla’s voice trembled with hysteria. She was done—this man kept disrupting her life without pity, unsettling her existence.

“To do what? Tell me what you think I’m doing. Lyla, I’m blinded, and you feel no guilt? When you hit me with that ashtray, did you ever consider I’m an old woman?” Nora took the offensive, aware that Lyla’s protests would sound like excuses to Cameron—this injury was self-inflicted, and she wanted to frame Lyla, manipulating the situation shamelessly.

“Ha! As vile and deceitful as ever, Nora James!” Only when Nora spoke did Lyla notice the bandaged eye. She heard the intended manipulation in Nora’s words to gain Cameron's sympathy, yet found no energy to counter.

Lyla knew arguing with Cameron would yield no results. Whether she spoke or stayed silent, the outcome was unchanged. Why waste energy?

“Quiet!” Cameron snapped at Lyla’s insolence, alarmed by her indifference to Nora’s ire. Was she unafraid of death?

Cameron’s harsh command chilled Lyla. She cast him a sardonic glance, then closed her eyes, withdrawing. She realized any resistance was futile—they wouldn’t spare her.

She misjudged him as a blindly devoted son, unaware of his deeper motives.

Cameron's car maneuvered through a deserted industrial complex, desolate and eerie.

This was Nora’s plan, ensuring their actions remained unseen...

“No, not England… We return to Haven City!” Jude declared, resolved. He had long considered this—returning to Haven, where neither Cameron nor Destiny Holmes would expect. Crucially, a peculiar doctor resided there. With Keily, perhaps the child could grow healthily.

Jude’s words unnerved Lyla. She sat stunned at Keily’s bedside, speechless, as Jude looked entirely serious about returning. She wasn’t prepared.

“You mean ignoring business rivalries?” Lyla asked, incredulous. She doubted Jude would relinquish his vendetta against Cameron. The two had clashed in business for years—since she joined the company. The recent scandal was Jude’s perfect chance to oust Cameron.

“Forget those compared to you and Keily—it’s nothing!” Jude paused, surprised Lyla would mention the company now. He hadn’t truly abandoned his rivalry with Cameron, but the struggle seemed pointless.

Skyler Lopez had informed him that Cameron was soon to be ousted from Pure Wings. Without Cameron, defeating it held little value.

“Thank you, Jude. Having you as a friend reassures me!” Lyla smiled, grateful yet guilt-ridden toward Jude. She owed him so much she couldn’t repay…

“Lyla…” Jude sensed rejection again. Lyla’s simplicity masked clarity—a declaration of friendship defining their bond. Jude couldn’t ask for more. He’d known from the start it was impossible, but he persisted despite the inevitable outcome.

“Sorry for the trouble. Perhaps I’ll consult with Skyler, see his thoughts on returning to Haven. Honestly, I’m anxious about it,” Lyla suggested, shifting the focus away from Jude’s heartache.

“Skyler?” Jude's face shadowed at Lyla’s mention of Skyler—a man with a sinister streak Lyla seemed unaware of.

“Yeah, actually, Skyler’s Keily’s godfather. I never told you!” Lyla admitted, embarrassed by her omission.

“No problem—go ahead. I’ll watch Keily.” Jude shrugged, feigning indifference, as he patted Lyla’s shoulder reassuringly.

With a smile, Lyla left to find Skyler, needing to consult her savior from Haven. If returning, she sought Skyler’s counsel.

“Seems you missed the morning news, remaining so composed around me. Normally, you’d push me to hell by now!” Lyla noted, disliking the awkwardness between them and eager to break the tension.

“I saw it. You’re here for my signature on the surgical consent, right?” Cameron guessed Lyla’s purpose. Her seeking out Nora seemed natural, despite her skepticism of explanations Cameron could scarcely provide.

“So you know—how will you handle me?” Lyla asked, unsurprised at Cameron’s awareness. His reach always seemed boundless. She scoffed, watching him engrossed in documents.

“I’ll treat you well—don’t overthink. I have critical matters to resolve first. Once handled, I’ll explain everything from twenty years ago.” Cameron sighed, glancing at her before speaking softly.

“No need—I don’t want your kindness! I wonder how you left the police station so quickly—what did you use as bail?” Despite Cameron’s sincerity, Lyla’s heart stayed guarded, her words defiant.

“Don’t test my limits, Lyla. I promised you answers soon. Ensure the truth you find is reality before acting on it.” Cameron knew she provoked him knowingly, yet felt frustrated and helpless.

“Sign for the surgery; without it, she can't be questioned. I handle disputes directly, not through shady dealings. For clarity, I ask those involved,” Lyla replied, sensing Cameron's entanglement but avoiding further engagement. Her visit aimed to secure his signature for Nora's procedure.

“That’s my concern. I’ll handle it. After signing, I might leave for a bit—I trust you won’t exploit the situation. I know you loathe her and me, but believe you won’t take advantage. Please care for her.” Cameron put down his pen, regarding Lyla earnestly.

“Thanks for your trust. Your whereabouts aren’t my concern. As you see, the doctor requires a relative's signature. I’m unrelated, so another caregiver is needed.” Lyla felt their exchange was laced with tension, knowing their tangled past weighed heavily on every word.