Chapter 514



Johnson continued, “It’s because you have never truly let go of Verena.”

At that, Lucas instinctively began to object, saying, “That’s not true. I—”

Before Lucas could finish speaking, Johnson interjected, “Don’t deny it, Lucas. When you heard about Verena’s attempt, you were at the hospital in a heartbeat. That’s not how you should act toward someone you’ve let go of. Even if it’s not love, there’s a sense of duty you feel toward Verena. Especially after what Harold did to her, you feel you owe her. You can’t just ignore her.”

As Johnson spoke, his tone softened. “As outsiders, we understand why you feel that way. You’re trying to do what you believe is morally right. But…” Johnson’s voice grew quieter as he exhaled deeply. “That responsibility you’re clinging to is only hurting Belinda more. Verena will always be a shadow between you and Belinda. It creates a chasm that won’t simply close. Unless you resolve this, you can’t fully commit to Belinda.”

Johnson paused, his gaze steady. “That’s why Belinda refuses to give you another chance. As her friend, I understand her and support her decision.”

With those final words, Johnson clapped Lucas on the shoulder and walked away.

Lucas remained still, his features betraying nothing as he processed Johnson’s words. His mind swirled with thoughts, the clarity of the moment settling on him with weight. Johnson’s blunt honesty had forced him to confront a truth he had long avoided.

For the first time, Lucas understood the depth of the pain his actions had caused Belinda. He had been blind to it before.

A heavy weight pressed down on his chest, making each breath feel laborious.

Meanwhile, Belinda had stepped out of the private room to use the restroom. After a while, as she washed her hands, she came face to face with Kylee, who was just exiting another stall.

Upon spotting Kylee, Belinda barely lifted her eyes, swiftly averting her gaze as she continued washing her hands.

“Belinda,” Kylee called out, approaching her.

Belinda remained silent, uninterested in engaging with Kylee. She was not in the mood for conversation. Thankfully, the scarf wrapped around her neck today concealed the bandages beneath, keeping them out of Kylee’s view.

Unfazed by Belinda’s silence, Kylee continued, “Guess who I’m having lunch with?” Without waiting for an answer, she added, “Lyle. He’s transferring to the Owathe Police Department soon.”

The mention of Lyle made Belinda’s brow furrow. Lyle was in Owathe now?

Kylee noticed the subtle change in Belinda’s expression and smiled slightly. “You had quite the fondness for Lyle before, didn’t you? Want to come with me and say hi?”

Kylee’s reference to “fondness” was not romantic. Belinda had always envied Kylee, who had two cousins that doted on her and offered her protection. Lyle, in particular, was someone Belinda had greatly admired. At the time, she had longed for someone like him to care for and protect her.

She had hoped to form a strong connection with them, seeking the familial bond she lacked. For a while, she believed their kindness meant they saw her as family, too. It wasn’t until after that incident that Belinda realized how naïve she had been. She had been a fool.

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