Chapter 1316:
Rhysâ lips tightened, a silent acknowledgment of her statement, though he was convinced she would set off anyway.
Harlee knew that Rhys often felt neglected due to her demanding schedule. She tried to soften his mood by tugging at his sleeve, but he turned away, sulking like a child.
Feeling somewhat helpless, Harlee simply leaned against him, thinking back over the past.
âThis situation with the Fletcher family needs to be resolved. I owe Paulina for a past kindness, and that red string is a symbol of my promise,â Harlee said quietly, her thoughts tinged with nostalgia. âShe came to me with that red string, claiming it represents her only wish. I cannot turn my back on her. Moreover, Serenaâs ties to the Fletcher family compel me to act this time.â
While Harleeâs relationship with Serena might not be as deep as her bond with Tonya, their decade-long friendship gave Harlee insights into Serenaâs feelings. Past issues didnât just disappear. The past with the Fletcher family continued to weigh heavily on Serena. Without addressing these issues, Serena would never find peace.
âItâs not difficult to assist the Fletcher family,â Rhys said dismissively. âBut why do you have to make a special trip to Vloustin City?â
Noel would be returning in a few days, adding another layer to consider. Rhys didnât want Harlee to set off to Vloustin City, a move that would delay Noel from delivering treatment to her.
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Harlee remained silent against his shoulder, feeling his protective concern but also his lack of understanding. If she compromised on her principles and avoided difficult situations, she would lose a part of herself.
The following day, Harlee entered the ICU clad in protective gear and found Serena holding Paulinaâs hand, tears streaking her face, an expression of deep sorrow marking her features.
Surrounded by medical equipment and wearing an oxygen mask, Paulina seemed to sense Harleeâs presence, making an effort to open her eyes while her breath quickened in apparent excitement.
Harlee took a seat calmly beside Serena without addressing Paulina directly. Instead, she asked Serena, âHave you decided yet?â
Serena responded with a nod.
Harlee leaned in close to Paulina, speaking in a voice that was soft yet resolute. âPaulina, Iâm prepared to assist you, but you need to be completely honest with me about the Fletcher family. Any falsehood will terminate our agreement tied to this red string. Do you understand?â Her words were clear, and her tone was cool, leaving her feelings ambiguous.
Paulina, appearing quite pale, listened and then nodded weakly, her breath now controlled.
âAlright.â Harlee nodded slightly. âGiven your delicate health, letâs keep this succinct. Iâll pose the questions, and you respond. For simple answers, just blink.â
Paulina blinked in compliance.
âDid your injuries come from the Fletcher family or someone opposed to them?â Harlee questioned.
Tears filled Paulinaâs eyes, and she shut them, letting the tears escape down her cheeks.
âDonât stress yourself. Stay calm,â Serena interjected softly.
Harlee handed a tissue to Serena before sitting back down. âFrom your response, it appears the Fletcher family is to blame, not outsiders, correct? Yet, how could that be when you were once deeply valued by them? How could such abuse persist over such a long period? Since Serenaâs departure, did the Fletcher family encounter any difficulties?â
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