Chapter 281
As Garrick retreated to his bedroom, Gina and Camellia stepped outside together.
No sooner had they crossed the threshold than Gina struck Carrellia sharply across the face. “Talways believed you to be a sensible girl, but your audacity is shocking
“Let me be clear: you better return Hannia safe and sound. If anything happens to her, I will hold you completely responsible.
“The fortune teller’s words ring true–you are a born bringer of misfortune. You have already claimed your father, now you want to bring calamity upon your sister?”
With one last fierce glare at Camellia, Gina stormed off.
Left alone, Camellia pressed her elongated lingers against her bleeding lip, offering a bittersweet laugh, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.
When Camellia was just jeh years old, their father passed away. A fortune teller’s ominous proclamation Camellia is destined to bring misfortune–set into motion the unraveling of her life for fourteen long years.
Her youth was marred by the disapproving gazes of her family.
No matter how exceptional or diligent Camellia became, she could never overshadow Hannia.
Tears now fell unbidden from the corners of her eyes, which she allowed to flow freely.
Tilting her head skyward, Camellia laughed, wiping away the tears that stained her cheeks. I vow, from this moment on, to live not for others, but solely for myself.”
Unbeknownst to Hannia, the Hawkins family harbored plans that would drastically alter her life. Her thoughts were entirely occupied with mastering architectural design and inching closer to her idol, Duskson, also known as Cherise.
She remained blissfully unaware of the danger lurking ahead.
After a moment’s reflection, Hannia decided against returning to the apartment; being alone in a situation akin to the one she faced yesterday would be disastrous without anyone there to rescue her
The Hawkins family was a place she sought to escape, devoid of any warmth or belonging
Currently, having just moved her belongings into the dormitory, Hannia set about arranging her living space.
Betrico University offered a pleasant dormitory environment–standard four–person rooms. She was already familiar with her three roommates, making the dynamic feel comfortable.
The afternoon unfolded smoothly, marked by the rhythm of classes and breaks. As school let out, one of her roommates. suggested, “To celebrate Hannia moving back into the dorm, let’s treat ourselves to a meal at the cafeteria.”
I’m in–let’s go!” another roommate chimed in.
Hannia smiled to herself, finding delight in the camaraderie of dorm life.
They left class later than most, with almost all the other students already at the cafeteria.
Just as they stepped outside the building, an unmistakably familiar voice called out, “Hannia.”
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Chapter 281
Startled, Hannia hesitated; while she had expected Camellia to seek her out again, she hadn’t anticipated such an early
encounter.
The three roommates turned to face the source of the voice and were greeted by the strikingly vibrant Camellia.
“Hannia, who’s this?” one roommate asked.
Camellia flashed a radiant smile. Hannia, aren’t you going to introduce your classmates to your dear sister?
“Ah, so you are Hannia’s sister! You are absolutely stunning, another roommate remarked,
Camellia beamed at the compliments, clearly pleased. “Thanks!
Hannia maintained her composure and addressed her roommates, “You all go on ahead, I’ll catch up with you shortly
In a hushed tone, she whispered to one of her roommates, Selene, “Check your phone.”
Her roommates hesitated. Yet, faced with the imposing presence of Hannia’s sister, they reluctantly agreed and departed.
As they reached the entrance of the cafeteria, Selene suddenly remembered Hannia’s request regarding her phone. Upon checking it, Selene discovered a message from Hannia: (I am not back in ten minutes, please inform Ms. Leach from the Traditional Medicine Department that I have been taken away by my sister.]
At the entrance of the architectural building, Camellia and Hannia stood facing each other.
Camellia fixed her gaze on Hannia, a smirk playing on her lips. “Let’s go; Grandpa has important matters to discuss with
you.”
“I will not return. It has been a year since I last set foot there, and you never sought me out. What’s changed now? Do you suddenly need me after all this time?” Hannia’s tone remained defiant.
Camellia let out a cold chuckle. Those are your roommates, I presume? It seems your bonds have flourished nicely. But it’s such a pity… how shall I put it?”
Realizing Camellia’s insinuation, Hannia shot her an angry glare. You’re despicable. Fine, I will go with you.”
