Ch. 1321..1330

Chapter 1321

Chapter 1321

Lena looked at him, then quickly finished her salad in large bites.

Even though it was time to wash the dishes, Chris remained deep in thought. The water ran loudly, yet he just stood by the sink, his hands in the cold water. He was motionless like a puppet. Lena came over and turned off the tap, scolding him lightly, "Do you think the water bill is cheap?"

Startled, Chris seemed to snap back to reality. When he looked at her, she was already moving away with her crutch, not seeming to care.

Chris felt a bit sad. He had never really opened up to anyone before, except Lena now. He hadn't expected...

But if one liked someone, they should accept everything about them.

Chris sighed, grabbed a sponge, and kept washing the dishes. He cleaned the kitchen and cut some fresh fruit for Lena.

That was when Zuko called.

Upon seeing Zuko's name on his phone, Chris' frustration shifted to him. He answered, sounding annoyed, "Hello."

There was a pause on Zuko's side, probably finding this attitude strange.

"Do you want something?" Chris said sharply, "If you have something to say, say it. If not, I'm hanging up!"

"No, I...," Zuko hesitated, then decided not to ask, "Are you acting crazy?" like he originally planned.

"How are you two doing? Do you have enough to spend?" After a brief pause, Zuko added. "Lina's... quite concerned about Lena."

Zuko meant to express his concern for Chris and Lena, but he accidentally touched a nerve.

At that very mention, Chris finally exploded. "Why do you keep worrying?! What's there not to be reassured about with me taking care of her?"

"Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed today?" Zuko fired back.

"If you don't have anything important, don't bother calling me!" With this, Chris ended the call and switched off his phone.

On the other end, Zuko was very puzzled, looking at the dark screen for a while.

As night arrived, the temperature dropped, making it cooler. Still, Lena remained seated in the courtyard, wearing a thin shirt, her gaze fixed on the starry sky. This clear and beautiful night sky was a rare sight in the heavily polluted city.

A gust of wind made her shiver. Suddenly, warm hands covered her with clothing from behind. She turned and saw a pair of eyes as clear as the night sky.

"Here." Chris offered her a strawberry, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. "I tasted one. It's really sweet."

Lena looked at him quietly, not reaching for the strawberry.

"Even though it's not strawberry season, they're still... pretty delicious," Chris grinned. "Want to give it a try?"

Taking it from him, Lena then set it back on the plate, her expression unchanged. "If they're out of season, it means they were grown artificially and probably have things like hormones. Don't buy them next time. They're costly and not healthy at all! It's money paid for a lesson!"

Her response rendered Chris speechless. Feeling a bit like a dejected househusband, he stared at her for a while, and murmured, "You definitely wouldn't say that if Lina bought them for you..."

"Hmm? Lina sent them?"

"Well..."

Lena picked up a strawberry and popped it into her mouth directly.

"Wow, it's really sweet!" She smiled and ate six more, her mouth full as she mumbled, "Hmm, Lina knows how to buy things. She knows I love strawberries the most!"

"Lena!" Chris yelled.

Lena looked at him.

"...Why does your name sound so pleasant..."

Lena continued to eat strawberries nonchalantly. These sweet strawberries healed the sour jealousy in her heart.

"Oh, by the way, shouldn't we be heading back to Centrolis?" Lena asked Chris.

Chapter 1322

Chapter 1322

Chris was surprised. They had been staying in this village for almost a month, letting Lena regain her health.

Lena was pretty healthy to start with. While she hadn't fully recovered, she didn't need his constant help anymore. He understood why she wanted to go back to Centrolis.

She wasn't one to ignore things. She would want to investigate thoroughly because she thought Kaitlyn was planning something. Plus, Kaitlyn might be a danger to the Thompsons.

The Thompsons and Lina were like sensitive points for her. Anyone who tried to harm them would suffer serious consequences.

Chris felt a pang of bitterness. Suddenly, he recalled a question "Have you ever risked your life for someone?"

This question could not be more appropriate for Lena.

He looked at her from the side, his sharp eyes revealing a mix of complex feelings like resentment, sorrow, dissatisfaction, and jealousy.

Lena felt tense as he observed her. She had just mentioned returning to Centrolis, so why was his behavior so odd?

"Hey, what's up with you?" She waved her hand in front of him.

"Nothing," Chris said, turning his head away. "I just think it's not the right time to go back."

"Why?"

"Aren't you still suspicious of Kaitlyn? Zuko and Lina have been investigating her secretly for a month. If she indeed sent those people who harmed you, they might assume you're dead. This could make them act more recklessly in Centrolis.

"Once they become bolder, they'll get closer to their own downfall."

Chris' tone grew serious. "So, it's best if you don't return now. Let the enemy play their game."

Lena frowned and considered for a moment. It seemed logical.

Chris added, "Also, your body hasn't fully healed. Even if you go back, you won't be able to protect the person you like..."

"What?" Lena was stunned.

What person she liked was he talking about? Why was he so cryptic?

"Isn't Lina the person you like?" Chris furrowed his brow. "There's no need to hide it..."

It suddenly dawned on Lena that she had said something impulsive in a fit of her tantrum. She had not expected him to take it seriously.

Chris said softly with his head lowered, "Lena, do you really like girls like Lina?"

"I..."

"Have you ever thought about liking men?"

Lena's heart raced. When their eyes met, it felt like fireworks bloomed before her.

After work, Zuko reached Lina's office. Inside, a few men dressed in black were present. They were capable subordinates who worked under lan. Lina had informed lan about her needs, and he readily assigned these individuals to assist her.

The investigation was progressing smoothly.

Lina's face displayed seriousness as she examined the information on the table. Zuko walked up and gently placed his hand on her shoulder.

The leader of the men in black spoke up. "From our surveillance during this period, we've outlined Kaitlyn's daily activities and routine. Most days are uneventful, but she consistently visits this location every Saturday afternoon..."

He indicated the spot on the documents.

The street lay within the old city zone, lined by aged houses on both sides. With the development of the new city zone, the old area had faded from prominence. Now, when people mentioned it, they envisioned small, antiquated homes and elderly residents.

"Do you know what she does there?"

The group exchanged glances and replied softly, "We don't follow her too closely and just watch from far away. Kaitlyn goes to an old house. When she goes in, everything seems normal. But when she comes out, she looks strange, and her movements are slow, like... she has been in a fight or fallen."

"That's strange." Lina gazed at Zuko, who was equally puzzled. "Does anyone live in that old house?"

"We checked, and no one lives there."

"So, she goes into an empty house, stays a while, then leaves?" Lina couldn't understand. "What does this mean?"

The group fell silent, with no answer to offer.

The leader added, "Also, we've identified the people who attacked Ms. Harding. They're from a small gang. Not very strong, they commit small crimes. Even other gangs in the area don't respect them."

Chapter 1323

Chapter 1323

"Okay, I understand," Lina said softly, "Keep following her. If anything unusual happens, inform us immediately."

"Understood. About this... Should Ms. Renee be informed?"

Lina had kept these people silent from the beginning of the investigation, fearing it might strain their relationship.

The leader appeared troubled. "Ms. Thompson, um... Ms. Renee has spotted us. We encountered her following Kaitlyn as we tracked her..." Zuko replied seriously, "You must ensure her safety. If Kaitlyn is genuinely a threat, she might target her own daughter without hesitation."

"Yes!"

With a bow, the men left the room, leaving only Zuko and Lina.

Both of them carried heavy concerns and worries.

"Zuko, I have something to tell you."

"Same here, I want to discuss something too." Zuko smiled at her. "Is it about Kaitlyn?"

"Yes."

"Then let's say it together."

"I suspect..." Lina's eyebrows knitted a bit.

In unison, they uttered, "She's not Kaitlyn!"

After speaking, they gazed into each other's eyes and softly chuckled.

"I thought you might think I'm overreaching," Lina said softly as she leaned against him. "I didn't expect you to share the same view."

"How could a person's demeanor and character change so dramatically?" Zuko gently stroked her hair. "There's only one possibility-she's not the real Kaitlyn."

He recounted the story from Zephyr and Cordelia's youth.

"My dad married my mom with someone else's identity in the past, and that man was a thug who had been in fights and prison. Just because he looked like my dad, my uncles used him in an attempt to seize the Hamertons' assets. Luckily, my parents were prepared, and their scheme failed.

"I suspect Kaitlyn has a twin sister." Zuko lowered his head to look at Lina. "But Uncle lan's men said that Kaitlyn goes into that old house for a while then comes out, and there's no one in the old house... That does seem a bit hard to explain."

"Anyway, our views are aligned." Lina said firmly, "This woman is definitely not Renee's birth mother! But where is the real Aunt Kaitlyn... and has she suffered a lot?"

"If I recall correctly, Renee mentioned that Kaitlyn started acting strange after the surgery?"

"Yes!"

Zuko blinked. "Then we should ask Professor Adam about it!"

Renee had noticed that Kaitlyn would always leave mysteriously on Saturday afternoons. At first, Kaitlyn would say she was going for a walk, and Renee would kindly offer to go with her. But each time, Kaitlyn coldly declined.

Sensing something odd, Renee decided to secretly follow her that day.

Kaitlyn wore a black cloak with the hood covering most of her face, moving briskly. Renee wore a sunhat and a mask to avoid notice, staying a couple of meters away.

They used buses and subways, arriving at the old city area. Under the gray sky, the place seemed desolate. The once busy streets were quiet now, except for the colorful graffiti on the walls, which held a trace of the area's past liveliness.

With few people around, Renee kept her distance. She stayed back, not wanting to get too close. Eventually, Kaitlyn halted in front of an old house. Renee quickly hid behind a large tree, observing as Kaitlyn scanned the surroundings. After that, Kaitlyn hastily pushed the door open and went inside. Renee wanted to follow, but she did not dare approach. However, Kaitlyn came out not long after, pacing at the entrance and muttering something. Suddenly, she crouched down, clutching her head and emitting painful low growls.

Renee's heart clenched, and she could not care to stay hidden any longer. She rushed over to help her mother.

"Mom, what's wrong?"

"Renee?" Kaitlyn widened her eyes, her gaze filled with an unusual fear.

"Mom, are you feeling unwell somewhere?" Renee nervously inquired, "And what... What is this place? Is there a bed inside? Let me help you lie down..." Suddenly, Kaitlyn grabbed Renee's delicate wrist!

"Ah..."

"Renee, you're truly my good girl!" Kaitlyn revealed an eerie smile.

Renee was startled. Before she could react, Kaitlyn forcefully dragged her into the house.

Kaitlyn's strong grip caused Renee to stumble and hit the wall forcefully. Still recovering from the shock, Renee glanced around the room. It appeared run-down, with few furnishings and peeling walls.

Renee had no idea what her mother intended to do.

Kaitlyn reminded her of those evil stepmothers in fairy tales who wanted to harm the female lead.

"Mom, what... What are you doing?" Renee's voice carried a hint of sob. "I'm Renee..."

Kaitlyn grinned and pounced on her. Just as she was about to reach Renee, she suddenly stiffened. Her eyes rolled back, and she trembled for a moment before collapsing to her knees.

"Mom!"

"Renee..." Kaitlyn's gaze was pained when she looked at her daughter again. She struggled to grasp Renee's hand. "Renee, hurry, run!"

"What?"

"Leave!" Kaitlyn was hysterical. "She'll kill you! Leave now!"

"Mom, what are you talking about?" Renee was terrified. "Who is she?"

Chapter 1324

Chapter 1324

"S-She is..."

Kaitlyn locked eyes with Renee, her gaze revealing an indescribable mix of pain and distress.

"Mom, don't be afraid." Renee rushed to embrace her mother, feeling the familiar softness of Kaitlyn's hand.

But then Renee pulled back, studying Kaitlyn. There was no change-even the white hair by her temples remained the same.

"Renee, you are in danger. Run, quickly!"

"Mom?"

Kaitlyn's smile remained, but her eyes turned frigid as if she had transformed into someone else. She stared at Renee with a sinister grin, her voice chilling. "Renee, what's the matter?" Renee let go suddenly, retreating several steps.

"Talk!" Kaitlyn closed in slowly. "So, did you follow me to find this place?"

"Mom, I..." An icy shiver shot down Renee's spine, her skin prickling with goosebumps. "I was just worried. You hadn't taken your medicine today, so I thought..."

Kaitlyn's lips twitched briefly before she resumed her smile. "Ah, I understand."

"Mom, when did you get this house? How come I didn't know about it?"

"Your useless father handed it over!" Kaitlyn's tone was nonchalant.

Renee jolted, eyes widening. It took a moment for the realization to sink in.

"D-Dad... You're in touch with him?"

"You naive child, we're your parents. If not him, then who?" Kaitlyn's smile was eerie. "He transferred this old shack to my name while you were pretending to be Pamela Thompson. He wanted to silence me... Heh! That sly old fox tricked me! No one would take this place even if they were paid!"

Renee stepped back, her back against the wall. A shiver crawled up her skin, and her blood ran cold.

Kaitlyn turned to look at Renee. "Your birthday is in two days. What kind of birthday present do you want?"

Renee could not catch her breath.

In spite of it, Kaitlyn was right-her birthday was approaching soon. Apart from her biological mother, who else would remember her birthday so clearly?

Renee was confused about her mother's situation. Right now, she just wanted to cry.

Suddenly, Kaitlyn's phone rang. She picked up, and Renee heard the voice from the receiver in the quiet room.

The voice on the other side said, "Kaitlyn, your explanation wasn't clear the last time. Apart from dealing with Lena, who else needs close watching? Is there any other task we don't know about?" "Foolish idiots!" Kaitlyn shouted into the phone, "Didn't I give you the address?!"

"Kaitlyn, are you certain? That address leads to an empty house! Also, you visit it occasionally, but no one else is there. Who needs our surveillance?"

Renee stared at her mother.

Kaitlyn's expression shifted to shock. She stepped back, her face twisted in pain as if her head was about to split open!

It was as if two people were tearing her apart from within!

"Argh!" She flung the phone away, falling to her knees. Clutching her head, she screamed, "It hurts... Ah! The pain is unbearable!"

"Mom!" Renee rushed over, concerned, but Kaitlyn pushed her away.

"Renee, run!"

Renee cried, her breath uneven.

"Mom... What's wrong with you? What's happening?"

Kaitlyn's face twitched. Suddenly, she turned extremely hostile, but her expression quickly changed to deep despair.

"No... You can't stay in this body..." She weakly uttered, "Renee is my daughter, not yours!"

"Hah, really?!" Kaitlyn muttered, switching between cruelty and kindness, "I apologize, but she'll serve me her whole life!"

Chapter 1325

Chapter 1325

"No! I won't let you harm my daughter!

"You foolish woman! When Melvin had her impersonate Pamela, why didn't you let her take over the Thompsons' wealth? You missed such a great opportunity. You should just die!

"No! It's all Melvin's fault. It has nothing to do with my daughter! You can't... I know, I know you've been wronged! You have grievances, but please don't let this hatred continue!"

Renee was stunned.

Suddenly, Kaitlyn rushed toward her, grabbing her shoulders and shaking her forcefully.

"Renee, run! Hurry and run!

"Don't let that person hurt you... Run!"

Renee did not have time to react. Kaitlyn pushed her aside and slammed her own head against the wall!

Lena's injuries had improved, and the time spent in the small village became a rare rainbow in her bleak life.

Chris made a wooden rifle for her.

Lena burst into laughter as she accepted it. "Do you think of me as a child?"

"A child's toy isn't as exquisite as this!" Chris quickly defended himself.

Lena toyed with the rifle. It was finely crafted like he said-smooth and not at all rough to the touch.

'Is every man who has been in the military a multi-talented person? They can go to the battlefield, cook, and do carpentry work!

'How impressive would a young boy look holding such a fun rifle? And Chris is so patient he will probably make a good father in the future...' Lena's heart jolted violently!

She shook her head, trying to shake off the wild thoughts.

"Lena, what's wrong with you?"

Lena kept her head lowered, her cheeks flushed as though she had a fever.

"Are you not feeling well?"

"No."

"Do you not like this rifle?"

Lena looked slightly flustered, clutching the gun tightly with her heartbeat racing.

Chris moved behind her, gently grasping her arms to help her adjust her sniper stance.

"How's this?" His voice was deep near her ear. "Back when I was in the special forces, I thought this sniper stance was the coolest thing. It must look even cooler when a girl pulls it off." Lena's breath became uneven. Her limbs tensed up, and her thoughts tangled into a mess.

Chris was always well-groomed, and his T-shirts carried a subtle fragrance.

She inhaled deeply, struggling to steady her pounding heart.

"Okay, just like this. Relax..."

Lena bit her lip, regaining her composure. Anything between them was impossible. He was a Hamerton heir, a decorated soldier, and exceptionally intelligent.

And her? She was the offspring of a human trafficker, an illegitimate child. Even if she found her biological family, she would not dare to acknowledge them.

What about her could match him?

Suddenly, Lena pushed him away abruptly and dashed into the house, clutching the wooden gun to her chest.

Chris stood bewildered, unable to understand what had just occurred.

He racked his brain, trying to recall any wrong words or actions. The more he pondered, the more distant he felt from an answer. Eventually, he even recollected Zuko's remarks about giving her a shot. He definitely had not done anything wrong!

Even though it was a wooden gun, he still technically "gave her a shot", right?

Chapter 1326

Chapter 1326

Chris followed Lena into the house. When he saw her locking herself in a room, he secretly went around outside and watched her through the window.

He observed her holding the wooden rifle, unwilling to take her eyes off it. Then she took a piece of cloth and carefully wiped it, treating the rifle as a precious treasure.

A warm feeling suddenly welled up in Chris' heart, and he smiled unconsciously.

At that moment, his phone vibrated, and he hurriedly went away to answer the call.

Zuko's deep voice came from the other end. "Professor Adam's in Centrolis. I've contacted him through Uncle Seth and Aunt Zennie, and we'll meet in the afternoon the day after tomorrow. I'll go with Lina... and the truth will likely be revealed soon.

"The day after tomorrow?" Chris found it a little late. "Why can't he speed things up and make it tomorrow since he's close to Aunt Zennie?"

"He has a patient tomorrow," Zuko explained. "Doesn't really have the time for us."

"A patient?" Chris was surprised and joked, "I see he's acquainted with others in Centrolis aside from us! I thought he only knew the Hamertons!"

Zuko chuckled, sharing the same thought. Zennie and Seth were Adam's only two students in Centrolis. Other than the Hamertons, no one else could persuade him to accept a case.

It was worth wondering who the patient was since they were so capable.

"Never mind, we'll solve the mystery sooner or later."

Chris nodded, hesitating for a moment as he considered his words. "Zuko, your idea is really good, but I'm unsure what to do next."

Zuko was confused. "What idea?"

"What you said about giving her a shot the last time..."

Zuko was rendered speechless, his astonishment evident.

"W-What?" He raised his voice. "You really gave her a shot?"

"Yeah. It's wood, but it's an effort from me!"

What was Chris talking about?"

"I can see that she really likes my gun!"

Zuko nearly choked on his coffee.

"But she was a little upset just now." Chris continued. "Zuko, do you think I shouldn't have shown off shooting poses and my skills in front of her?" Zuko coughed violently.

"What's up with you? Caught a cold?"

"It's nothing." Zuko did his best to hold everything in. "Go on."

He really wondered what other surprises Mr. Special Forces had for him.

"Zuko, I get it!" Chris said excitedly, "I should make another gun and play with her!"

"Alright... Enough!"

Before Chris could speak, Zuko hung up.

Chris did not mind but smiled.

It seemed he was right. He should make another gun and play with Lena. Boys loved playing with guns in groups since it was more fun when there were more people!

With this in mind, Chris walked out of the yard and headed toward the forest in light steps. He had to find better-quality wood! He would make a small, exquisite pistol and play cops and robbers with Lena. That would definitely make her happy!

In Adam's special emergency room, a pale woman lay quietly. Her forehead bore a serious wound, wrapped in layers of gauze, with various cables connected to her body.

Renee sat near the door, trembling, clenching her fists, and biting her knuckles.

After a while, Adam emerged, and Renee quickly approached him.

Following Kaitlyn's head injury, she had promptly called Adam, not expecting him to answer or even be in Centrolis.

Renee had turned to this kind professor as her first choice.

Adam was mildly surprised by her presence but stayed composed. He had even postponed his meeting with Zuko and Lina.

As Renee approached Adam, tears streamed down her cheeks before she could speak.

Adam looked at her affectionately and comforted her, "Don't cry, my child."

"I... My mom..." Renee choked up. "What's wrong with her?"

Adam adjusted his glasses. "Based on my preliminary assessment, Madam Carmichael seems to be suffering from a dissociative identity disorder."

"What?" Renee's eyes widened, and she asked after a moment, "But my mom's hands..."

"Do you mean her hands have become plumper and softer?"

Renee nodded.

"That's most likely a side effect of the medication," Adam explained. "The special medication she's been taking contains hormones, which can have side effects on the body. So, you may have seen that she looked better, gained some weight, and seemed more radiant after the surgery, but in reality... she doesn't appear as well as she seems.

"As for the symptoms of dissociative identity disorder, perhaps she had shown signs of it before, but it wasn't evident. As such, you didn't notice."

Renee's mind went blank.

Adam continued. "There are many causes for dissociative identity disorder. It's a type of mental illness that's closely related to the patient's past experiences. For instance, if the patient was originally introverted and experienced unbearable torment or pain, the repressed emotions in her could accumulate over time and eventually manifest as a split personality.

"This secondary personality is often stronger than the original one. Creating this secondary personality is, in fact, a form of self-protection."

Renee leaned against the wall. Her knees went weak, and she collapsed to the floor with a thud.

Adam quickly helped her up and had a nurse attend to her.

Renee's eyes lost their luster, but they were filled with tears. As she moved, teardrops rolled down her cheeks. She covered her face with both hands, starting from quietly sobbing and eventually breaking into loud wails.

The nurse was used to this situation and could only offer feeble comfort.

"Ms. Thompson, you need to start making plans for your mother as soon as possible," Adam said softly. "It's best for her to be admitted to a specialized care facility for treatment. There might still be hope for her recovery.

"But if she doesn't receive proper treatment, she might... harm others!"

Chapter 1327

Chapter 1327

Renee bit her lip, her restless hands tugging at the corner of her clothes.

Adam recommended several mental health treatment facilities to her, writing them down on a piece of paper, his gaze filled with compassion.

"This kind of illness can't be delayed," he said in a low voice. "The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to cure. For the sake of your mother and the safety of others, it's best to send her there as soon as possible."

Renee took the note and bowed to the professor, thanking him softly.

She then visited those places in person.

They were all well-equipped hospitals, both public and private, with serene and clean environments. The nurses were diligent and responsible, so the places were suitable for treatment.

However, Renee saw another side to these hospitals.

Some patients appeared dazed, while others were frantic. As soon as she entered the corridors, she could hear constant cries and screams echoing back and forth.

She knew that the nurses and caregivers there would not mistreat the patients like those unethical care facilities, and these sounds were simply uncontrollable manifestations of the patients' conditions. Nevertheless, it was still eerie.

The nurse beside Renee calmly explained things, speaking gently and smiling kindly. But then, someone abruptly dashed out in front of them!

A woman screamed wildly, her face twisted in a terrifying expression. She shouted about exterminating everyone here.

Renee was taken aback and stepped away. Soon, a strong caregiver subdued the patient and secured him with a rope. The caregiver's actions seemed a bit forceful, and Renee noticed deep red marks on the woman's wrists.

Her heart tightened as she considered that her mother might also suffer such injuries, causing her to hesitate again.

"Ms. Thompson, don't be afraid," the nurse said. She was already used to these situations.

Renee nodded and asked, "What's wrong with this patient?"

"Oh, she's a dissociative identity disorder patient," the nurse explained. "It's a relatively rare mental illness. This patient has seven to eight different personalities, each with their own unique traits. The one just now was one of the personalities, a murderer."

"A murderer?"

"Yes." The nurse glanced at her. "She has attempted murder several times. The police have strict control over her. However, due to her mental illness, she's placed under supervision here." Renee looked blankly down the corridor.

The woman had already been taken away.

'According to the treatment method, the doctor might use electroconvulsive therapy...' Renee's heart jolted once again upon thinking that.

"What if..." She looked up at the nurse, struggling to ask, "What if I take care of the patient at home instead of sending her here?"

"Miss, are you joking? This kind of condition requires professional treatment. If you don't send her here, imagine the consequences if she causes harm to society. It would be unthinkable!"

After returning from the care facility, Renee was restless.

Fortunately, Kaitlyn had been calm these past few days, barely leaving the house and staying in her bedroom.

Renee cooked and brought her meals on time, seeing her lonely figure and feeling a sense of desolation in her heart.

"Renee, don't feel troubled," Kaitlyn told her. "Since Professor Adam has said so, let's send me to a specialized treatment facility. Whether they use restraints or electroconvulsive therapy, I can endure it." "Mom..." As soon as Renee heard that, tears immediately fell from her eyes.

Kaitlyn's eyes turned red as she held Renee's hand tightly. She was also reluctant, but she had to let go of herself for the sake of her daughter's future.

"Renee, take good care of yourself after I'm gone.

"Don't tell Toph about this. Mom knows he's a good kid, but I'm afraid... this matter will become an obstacle between you two."

Chapter 1328

Chapter 1328

Renee was already sobbing uncontrollably as she threw herself into her mother's embrace. Kaitlyn's hug was as warm as it used to be, and her hands caressed Renee's hair with the same gentleness. "I'm sorry..." Kaitlyn said tearfully, "Mom didn't do that on purpose... I can't control myself."

Renee looked at her, and they clung to each other for a long time.

In the following days, Renee frequently visited Adam.

In addition to preparing to send Kaitlyn to the mental health care facility, she also asked him some nursing-related questions. She had a vague idea in her mind-to personally take care of Kaitlyn. "Ms. Thompson, you have to think it through." Adam frowned. "Patients like this need professional caregivers. Going there might only add troubles."

"I won't..."

"It's not as simple as you think," Adam's deep blue eyes held a touch of sympathy and helplessness. "You might think you can stay composed, but when you witness your mother in pain from the treatments, you'll likely lose control of your emotions. At that point, you could end up being more of a burden to the doctors!"

Renee nervously nibbled her lip. "Professor Adam, I can't bear the thought of leaving my mother to face this pain alone. I have the power to look after her. I don't want future regrets."

Adam sighed and patted her shoulder.

Downstairs, Lina and Zuko coincidentally arrived at the same place without any prior agreement. When their eyes met, they exchanged a knowing smile.

"Why are you here?"

"Aren't you here too?"

Zuko smiled and approached her, taking her hand.

They had been here a few days ago, but Adam hadn't shared much about Kaitlyn's condition due to professional ethics.

"I've always thought we should ask the professor again," Lina said, looking at Zuko. "He might have left out something important."

Zuko said quietly, "But keeping a patient's condition private is a basic ethical rule for a doctor."

"This is really important. We need this information."

While they were talking, Renee walked over with a serious expression.

Lina was surprised, and Renee stopped, staring at them in confusion.

"Both of you..."

"Renee?"

Renee's look turned sad. "You're here to ask Professor Adam about my mother's condition, right?"

"Well..." Zuko and Lina exchanged glances, unsure of what to say.

Investigating someone's mother without their knowledge didn't seem very honorable.

But, as Lina had mentioned, this was crucial. They wouldn't have been suspicious if Kaitlyn hadn't started acting strangely.

Renee spoke softly. "Lina, Zuko, please stop suspecting her. She's my mother, no doubt about it."

"Renee, is there a misunderstanding?"

Renee's eyes teared up, and she hurried away, head down.

Lina sensed something was amiss and immediately approached Adam to find out what was happening. This time, she went straight to the point.

Adam gazed at her, pausing for a moment, then slowly began to reveal the truth.

Chapter 1329

Chapter 1329

Lina and Zuko couldn't believe what they heard: "dissociative personality disorder." Zuko was particularly shocked. When he was young, he used to play in Jim's study.

Jim was a mystery writer who often wrote about split personality disorder. Back then, Zuko didn't really understand it, so Jim patiently explained.

"It's a mental disorder where a person sees themselves as different individuals, each with their own personalities, and they do things that don't make sense."

Zuko had thought this only existed in stories. He never expected...

His brows knitted as he remembered the night Albert kidnapped Janine. How could Albert have sneaked a gun into the heavily guarded Hamertons'? Later, they discovered there was a spy involved.

Security footage showed a slim woman acting suspiciously at the event. She wore a hoodie and a hat, making identification difficult. At the time, they suspected it might be Kaitlyn due to her body shape, but they didn't want to jump to conclusions.

They worried that baseless accusations could strain family relations, especially since Toph was engaged to Renee.

Now, it seemed likely that the person was Kaitlyn. Or rather, another personality of Kaitlyn.

Lena paced the courtyard early in the morning, her steps steady and purposeful. Even during her recovery, she never ceased to exercise. She firmly believed that movement was essential for life and quicker healing.

Chris found this theory amusing and exasperating.

Surprisingly, this approach seemed to truly work for Lena. She no longer relied on a crutch and walked with confidence.

The gentle morning light embraced the surroundings. Lena reached the courtyard gate and glanced back, convinced that Chris was still asleep. She departed from the small courtyard with a hint of sadness in her eyes.

Chris heard her leaving and was startled awake from his dream. He hastily put on some clothes and chased after her. Luckily, Lena's pace was moderate, eventually allowing him to catch up. Yet, he made sure to keep his distance, staying unnoticed.

Initially, he worried she might leave without a word. In recent days, Lena had been resolute about returning to Centrolis to guard someone dear to her.

Chris always used her injury as an excuse to refuse, but he had selfish reasons in reality-he was even a little jealous of Lina.

Despite that, Lena had left without any luggage, suggesting a long journey. Moreover, Centrolis was to the east, while Lena was walking north.

Chris remained vigilant, unable to relax. As they walked north, the population thinned out. Just as he was pondering this, Lena suddenly found an open space. She knelt down, facing north, with a thud. With wide-open eyes, Chris hid behind a tree.

Lena stared at the distant sky, tears streaming down her face. Starting with silent tears, her weeping grew more audible until she eventually collapsed on the ground, wailing loudly...

Each sob tore at Chris' heart. This was a girl who never cried, not even when she was seriously hurt. She maintained such a cold gaze that kept people at bay. Yet, there she was, breaking down.

He had no idea what had transpired. In his memory, their time in the village had been happy and harmonious. He couldn't comprehend why.

Chris emerged from hiding, rushing over to support her shoulders.

Lena was surprised. She looked up into his warm eyes, trying to speak, but no words came out.

"Why are you crying alone here?" Chris asked gently, "What's wrong?"

Sniffling, Lena lowered her gaze.

Chapter 1330

Chapter 1330

"Lena..." He paused. "I don't want you to carry all this alone. I—"

Before he could finish, Lena's voice of despair reached his ears. "I don't have a mother anymore, starting today."

Chris was taken aback. "What?"

Lena shut her eyes, tears streaming down.

Later, Chris learned that this was the day Lena's mother was executed.

Krystal, known as Madame Krys in the criminal world, was involved in human trafficking and had committed numerous crimes. Despite everything, she remained Lena's only mother in her eyes. Chris held her tightly, gently stroking her hair.

"I don't have a mother now," Lena whispered. "I really don't. I couldn't even see her one last time. She's gone now..."

Chris deeply felt her pain. "Lena, even though you've lost your mother, you still have me."

Lena snapped out of her trance, realizing Chris was holding her. She craved his embrace, his scent, the comfort of being near him...

But fear surged within her, and she pushed him away, struggling to stand.

"No, I don't want you!"

"Lena?"

"I don't need you!" Lena avoided his gaze. "I can handle things alone. I don't need your help!"

Yet, the more she resisted, the more Chris wanted to be there for her. His closeness only deepened her feelings of inadequacy.

She reminded herself that they came from different worlds, that she wasn't worthy of him.

Now that he knew her mother had received the death sentence, he should realize they could never be a couple.

"Lena, don't force a strong front..."

"I'm not!" Lena clenched her teeth. "Chris, let's be clear! I'm grateful you saved me and for your support. I owe you my life now. If you face any problems, I'll do my best to assist you. "But... our relationship ends here."

Chris stood there, his mind blank. After Lena finished, she turned and fled.

The morning sun intensified. Chris blinked, feeling his eyes moisten.

Maybe the sunlight was too bright...

Chris forced a bitter smile, turned, and retraced his steps, heading back slowly.

Lina and Zuko left Adam's office, both burdened by heavy thoughts. After walking for an unknown duration, Lina broke the silence. "We need to inform Toph about this as soon as we can. "But it's clear that Toph is unaware at the moment, and it's also clear that Renee hasn't informed him."

Zuko stayed quiet, his eyes reflecting deep contemplation.

"I get where Renee is coming from." Lina frowned. "She doesn't want her mother's condition to become public knowledge. But this is a significant matter!"

She looked at Zuko. "It's crucial that Toph hears this directly from Renee. It's better than him hearing it from someone else, which could lead to a trust issue between them."