Deep Pool

Part 1

The first time I met Samuel Blake was at the home of my dad's friend, Sean Blake.

It was a snowy day, which I liked the most because it gave me an excuse not to play with those rowdy kids so that I could curl up on the sofa to watch TV.

However, there were always some kids who tried making a scene, making it impossible for me to watch TV in peace!

"Get out of here!"

Understand?"

"Hit him!

Don't be afraid!"

The noise from the yard was unbearable. As soon as I opened the door, a snowball hit me, and I pursed my lips, ready to lose my temper.

But having been brought up very strictly, I ended up just covering my head with my hand, tugging at my sleeve, and grumbling.

"Can't you all stop making such a racket?"

Leading the group was Sean's son, a chubby boy with a fierce look. He turned around and frowned.

"This is my house, you aren't qualified to tell me what to do!"

I was stunned.

"Neil!

What are you doing?

Apologize to her!

Hurry up!"

Before I could get mad, Sean appeared, and Neil instantly turned into a coward.

"I'm sorry!"

I secretly chuckled.

"Alright."

Then all the kids went inside, and I was about to follow in when I caught sight of a boy quietly brushing snow off himself.

He seemed about my height, with delicate features, covered in snow after they pelted him with snowballs, yet his face showed no sign of anger. When our eyes accidentally met, he forced a dry smile.

His smile was faint, but seeing it made me feel a little sorry for him.

"Karlee Ellis, come inside.

It's too cold out there."

It was Sean calling me. I hesitated, looking at the boy still at the yard, and whispered.

"Mr. Blake, there's someone still outside!"

"Come in."

Sean called out to the boy in a casual tone

Sean's words felt dismissive to me, but the boy seemed happy and quickly walked over.

His fresh, cool presence mixed with the cold air as he approached, his clean features becoming clearer. As he reached the door, his clear eyes met mine.

Only then did I realize I was standing at the door. I smiled awkwardly and stepped inside with him.

Part 2

That night, the snow fell even heavier.

The Blake Family gathered, and Sean organized a dinner party, which my dad attended too.

But I wasn't fond of socializing and preferred to stay at home alone, so my dad didn't force me, and Sean arranged for someone to look after me.

"Miss.

Would you like something to eat?"

That person asked.

"I'm not hungry, I just want to sleep.

You can go rest too."

I lay on the bed with my eyes closed, ready to sleep, but my stomach growled in the middle of the night, forcing me to head to the kitchen for food.

"Ah."

Oh..."

"Don't do it so hard!

Slow down please...

Ah..."

Obscene noises came from the dimly-lit living room, sending a chill down my spine. I quickly drew back my hand from the light switch and turned to run back to my room, only to bump into someone!

In that instant, I felt like screaming, but thankfully, the other person covered my mouth with his hand.

Part 3

"Did I scare you?"

That person asked.

In the hallway corner, I heard the boy's gentle voice and looked up to meet his exquisite, deep eyes.

My heart started to beat more quickly.

"No."

I replied in a low voice.

"You should go back to rest.

It's very late now."

His tone was soft.

Even in the dim light, his striking features were undeniable. I couldn't help but glance at him again until he looked over.

Then I awkwardly looked away.

"Karlee!"

I turned to see my brother walking over, and I happily bounced over to him. But he unceremoniously dragged me away, leaving me to awkwardly wave goodbye to the boy.

"Gerard!

What are you doing?"

I questioned.

"Stay away from people who might be trouble!"

He warned.

"What kind of people?"

I pouted, "He's really good-looking!

Isn't he?"

My brother raised his hand and playfully smacked me on the head.

"You just know he is good-looking but is unaware of anything about him!"

I was speechless.

My brother continued.

"That guy is someone the Blake Family brings up for business."

I was momentarily confused, then whispered thoughtfully.

"Is he studying finance like you?"

Another smack was given by him.

"You hit me again!

I'm telling Dad!"

I said angrily.

"If I don't set you straight, you'll never learn!"

My brother said angrily too.

...

I started whining, engaging in a playful scuffle with Gerard Ellis all the way back.

I was too naive back then. It wasn't until later that I understood what Gerard really meant.

Part 4

The next day, the snow was still heavy. For someone like me who liked to be lazy on the pretext of snow, it was perfect. But Gerard was quite troubled by it.

He had come over to see me last night, not expecting the snow to get heavier today, making it impossible to return in time for his girlfriend's birthday.

"Hello!

We're all at Mr. Blake's place!

Yeah, at Sean's house."

I said on the phone.

"Sean's house?"

She asked in surprise.

On the other end of the call, my sister-in-law sounded surprised, but her disappointment on the face faded, and a faint smile appeared. I figured it was my words that cheered her up.

While talking to her on the phone, I watched Gerard's helpless expression and couldn't help but want to laugh.

"Why are you looking at me like that? You came here on your own!

It has nothing to do with me!"

"Honey, I'll make it back today for sure.

I promise."

Gerard glanced at me, took the phone, and talked to his girlfriend for a while before turning to look at me.

"Go home with me."

"No way!"

I refused immediately.

With the snow so heavy and the coldness so biting, wasn't the warmth of the heating more appealing?

But Gerard clearly wasn't interested in negotiating with me, pulling me along to leave.

Luckily, I was quick-witted and called Dad.

Dad showed up swiftly, though he seemed a bit tipsy and not fully sober. He pulled Gerard aside and whispered a lot to him, then nodded seriously after Gerard said something.

"Karlee, you'll go to school in Yusweton from now on!

I've even bought you a house.

You can choose to stay on campus or live outside."

Brent Ellis showed me pictures of the new apartment, and I felt a bit down.

I knew the apartment wasn't the main point; the school was.

And I could guess which school I would study in...

It must be the university Sean invested in.

However, I didn't want to study there. I'd heard about that school. There were many outstanding people, but also a lot of pretentious troublemakers...

"I don't want to go there."

I tried to refuse.

Brent said unhappily.

"You don't want to?

Then what do you want to do? Just do as I say!"

I was speechless.

Part 5

But I guessed wrong.

Dad arranged for me to go to another school, not as prestigious a the one invested by Sean, but with good facilities too.

After a week of classes there, I ran into that young man again.

"Everyone, this student has transferred here from Evergreen University.

Let's welcome him."

The teacher introduced him first before starting the class.

Hearing the name of the school invested by Sean, I instinctively looked up and saw him.

His good looks stood out no matter where he was. As soon as he appeared, I felt that even the blackboard seemed more pleasing to the eye...

"Hello everyone, my name is Samuel Blake.

I feel very proud to be a part of the class."

His voice was gentle, and his gaze sincere, instantly livening things up in the class.

His last name was also Blake, so he must be related to Sean by blood.

I was really clueless back then, never thinking about why he transferred to our school.

Part 6

The advisor casually assigned Samuel a seat, which happened to be right next to mine.

Since I wasn't very familiar with Samuel, I only gave him a polite smile when he sat down, and hadn't spoken to him afterward.

From his conversations with others, I learned he was younger than me, but only by a day.

It wasn't that I didn't want to talk to him; I just didn't know what to say. When staying with a friend I was more familiar with, I could chat about what to eat for lunch, but they only wanted to talk about how handsome Samuel was.

"I think he looks like a kid from a wealthy family."

She said.

"What about me?"

I asked.

I said that casually, but my friend said I looked like a cool, aloof lady, not like a kid!

"How could I be like that?!" I felt a bit aggrieved.

I wasn't aloof; I just didn't know what to talk about and wasn't good at socializing, preferring to be alone.

"Karlee, I think Samuel was staring at you earlier.

Ha ha."

My friend teased me while poking me.

I didn't pay much attention to her excitement and replied.

"What are you talking about?"

After school, I walked alone and headed straight to a hole-in-the-wall restaurant for some fried snacks.

Fish cakes and fried chicken legs were my favorites!

Suddenly someone asked.

"Have you brought the wallet with you?"

I knew the voice belonged to one of the school bullies.

Not long after school started, they had already caused me trouble, and now they were here to ask for money again.

I was really nervous at the time. Trying to appear calm, I took out a hundred-dollar bill and was about to say, "Don't bother me again," but before I could speak, my wallet was searched by them once more.

Yes, I only had a hundred in cash, and the balance on my phone account was just a few dollars because I had transferred the money to the account of my card used to eat at school canteen.

I confessed honestly, and seeing my sincerity, they really didn't bother me again. They left with the hundred dollars after threatening me not to snitch on them to others!

Honestly, I was furious!

But I immediately agreed...

Later, they probably thought I was genuinely poor, so they never came picking on me again. I didn't want to stir up trouble with them over a hundred dollars.

After all, my dad doted on me. If he knew I was threatened and bullied by them, he'd definitely teach them a good lesson.

I didn't know if I was just cowardly or plain stupid.

I only knew that I didn't want my family to worry too much because of my matters.

Part 7

This time, they targeted Samuel.

It happened in the alley.

The hole-in-the-wall restaurant was at the alley entrance.

The alley was dimly lit. I wanted to check it out, but when I heard the sounds of a fight, I got scared. However, the landlady, who had seen her fair share of street fights, shouted.

"Which kids are fighting here?"

The noises stopped instantly, and after a while, Samuel came over.

The corner of his mouth had a bit of blood, and the rims of his eyes were red. He lowered his head slightly, his tousled hair covering his pale skin, looking a bit pitiful.

The landlady felt sorry for him and asked.

"Kid, want something to eat?"

I was silent.

I was standing there with a plate, munching on the fried chicken leg...

Samuel turned to look at me.

I was stunned.

"Want some?"

I suddenly asked.

That was the first thing I said to Samuel after our third meeting, and it was awkward beyond belief.

Samuel shook his head, only saying.

"Don't tell it to anyone, okay?"

"Uh...

Sure.

O-okay."

Samuel nodded and didn't say anything more, probably because the corner of his mouth hurt. I felt like the rims of his eyes reddened again, as if he was about to cry.

I thought for a moment, then fished out a band-aid from my bag and handed it to him, speaking in a sisterly tone.

"Don't cry.

Crying won't fix anything."

Samuel paused, then looked at me with his clear eyes.

I thought he was comforted, but later he showed me through his actions that crying indeed couldn't solve problems and only doing something could.

Part 8

Samuel took the band-aid and thanked me.

I thought that was the end of it.

But the next day, during the class, a teacher came looking for him, asking why he got into a fight.

I was stunned. As someone who knew what had happened, it seemed like I was the most likely to have snitched on him to the school, but I really hadn't said anything.

Samuel didn't explain much, just admitted he had got into a fist fight and was called out by the teacher for a lecture.

I sat by the window, watching him get scolded in the hallway for a whole class, wanting to go out and testify that someone tried to extort money from him, but I didn't dare do it in front of everyone...

If I just spoke up, the issue could be resolved, but I was a coward.

So, as soon as class ended, I went to find Samuel.

"Samuel, I didn't snitch on you to them."

I said in a hurry.

I felt a bit self-important, but I really wanted to explain.

Samuel turned his gaze to me, his eyes clear and gentle.

"I know.

Thank you for your help yesterday."

I breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a bit embarrassed.

"I'll go explain to the teacher for you later."

"Explain what?"

He asked.

"It's the bullies who extorted money from you..."

I mumbled.

Then I felt it was too late to say that. Then I awkwardly added.

"I..."

"It's okay.

I'm used to it. It's over now."

Used to it?

Samuel smiled gently, with a hint of vulnerability, especially with the wound at the corner of his mouth...

I felt embarrassed and guilty...

At that time, I had no idea that Samuel had predicted it all. According to his plan, I would go into the alley to save him, and then he would have a reason to get close to me.

But I was more cowardly than he expected, and more reckless too.

Part 9

I went to find the teacher, but not our class teacher. I went straight to the teacher of the classroom where those bullies were staying.

After snitching on them to that teacher, I saw that him went to deal with those bullies and even got my hundred dollars back.

Later, our class teacher also apologized to Samuel...

A friend exclaimed.

"Karlee!

You're done for!"

I was speechless.

The joy of getting my hundred dollars back vanished instantly.

I knew I was in trouble. Those bullies probably guessed it was me who snitched on them to their teacher and would definitely stir up trouble with me...

But I wouldn't allow them to bully me at will...

I checked the bullies' class timetable and planned to skip class and go home early because I knew they wouldn't dare skip their teacher's class, which always were started very late in the afternoon.

It was like a stroke of luck!

I excitedly shared my escape plan with my friend. Samuel, who had returned to the classroom, lowered his voice and said.

"No need to skip class. I'll send you home from now on."

"Oh wow, Samuel, you're so thoughtful!

I feel relieved now!

I'll leave Karlee to you from now on!"

My friend said.

My friend's words were too suggestive, making my heart skip a beat. My ears turned red, and I quickly pulled her away.

Samuel placed the bottle of juice on my desk, his attitude serious.

"Don't worry."

I was stunned.

I didn't say anything, feeling my heart pounding.

Little did I know, this was the beginning of my nightmare.

Part 10

I started to get to know Samuel better, and the more I interacted with him, the more I felt he was a gentle and polite good boy!

He was exactly like the ideal younger brother I had imagined!

After all, Gerard, that guy, always bullied me because he was older than me. Back then, I thought if Mom had another son, I'd definitely treat him well.

I had begged Mom to give birth to a younger brother.

But when she really get pregnant with my brother, he took Mom away from the world too.

Back then, I was so spoiled that just a little grievance at school would make me cry and call home. Mom, worried about me, went out with her swollen belly and had an accident on the way to see me...

Sometimes, I thought if I could put back the clock, even if I had been badly battered about the head and face, I would have never made that call...

If my brother had survived, he would probably be almost the same height as my shoulder by now.

I pursed my lips, involuntarily turning to look at Samuel, who was half a head taller than me.

Not yet twenty, he was already so strikingly handsome that it was hard for women to look away. Compared to me, who could only be considered passably good-looking, he was clearly a child from a wealthy family, exuding a special kind of refined elegance.

"Karlee?"

He suddenly called my name.

"Hmm?

What's up?"

I came down to earth, not completely reacting before Samuel ran to the roadside.

It was still the landlady's hole-in-the-wall restaurant.

Samuel bought fish cakes and a fried chicken leg.

His hands were fair and slender, like those of a novel's hero, though holding a plate of food instead of a wine glass like the hero did.

"Thank you!"

I was a bit surprised, and my stomach was indeed growling.

I hesitated, wanting to refuse, but Samuel had already handed the fish cake to my mouth.

Could I refuse being fed by a handsome guy?

I really refused, feeling a bit uncomfortable with such intimate gestures, and took the cake myself.

My fingers accidentally brushed against his hand.

We both tacitly didn't react.

And I just focused on eating.

"Karlee."

It was Gerard's voice.

I didn't expect him to have time to come over. I turned and smiled at him, but Gerard was clearly not happy. He walked over, pulled me away, and said to Samuel.

"Keep your distance from her."

I was a bit confused, frowning.

"Gerard!

What are you talking about?

He's my classmate!"

Gerard was angry, ignoring my words, pulling me along while saying.

"How many times have I told you not to eat the food of the hole-in-the-wall restaurant?"

Gerard's gaze suddenly turned fierce, and I got a little scared.

Samuel spoke up at this moment.

"Sorry, I bought it."

Gerard said coldly.

"You better listen to what I just said."

Samuel's face darkened slightly as he remained silent.

Part 11

As soon as my brother showed up, those bullies removed from the school and moved out of Yusweton overnight. Samuel was also transferred to another class by Gerard.

I was furious and didn't speak to Gerard for a long time. Gerard had his own matters to deal with and soon left.

Before leaving, he told me that if anyone bullied me, I should call him, and also not to have any contact with Samuel.

However, I hadn't seen Samuel for a long time, even though we were in the same campus.

I was quite upset, but it only lasted for a while before I returned to my usual routine of studying and occasionally video chatted with my sister-in-law and Gerard.

After all, he was my brother. Even though I didn't understand why he treated Samuel that way, I still missed him despite my anger. He and Dad meant everything to me.

"Gerard, come over and talk to Karlee."

Gerard's girlfriend said.

"Alright, remember to study hard, okay?"

Gerard came over reluctantly and said this.

I pouted unhappily.

Gerard ignored me on the screen and walked away.

My sister-in-law sighed and said.

"Karlee, Gerard is doing this for your own good. That Samuel is really not a good person."

"Huh?

What do you mean?"

I asked in confusion.

"Samuel was adopted by the Blake Family from an orphanage and was trained to be a toy boy who could only rely on women for support for the rest of his life."

I was a bit stunned, and suddenly the obscene noises in the living room that night flashed through my mind.

"Do you have any evidence?"

I asked again.

"I haven't found out about his current dealings yet..."

My sister-in-law didn't continue.

And her expression seemed a bit off. When I turned around, I found Samuel standing right behind me.

Samuel just looked at me, squinted his eyes, smiled slightly with the rims of his eyes turning slightly red, and then turned and left.

I was speechless.

Part 12

Samuel started avoiding me. Even when I tried to find him, he was nowhere to be seen until one day when I stayed late at school helping a teacher sort out materials. As I arrived home, I saw him.

It turned out he lived right opposite my apartment, and I had no idea of it at all before.

Samuel seemed drunk, sitting at his door, squinting at me before turning his face away.

I was taken aback, ran home, grabbed some apple cider vinegar, a traditional remedy for hangovers, and bumped into Samuel as soon as I stepped out of my door.

"Sam... Samuel..."

I began haltingly.

"Karlee."

He called my name.

I noticed his skin was fair with a hint of pink, and the rims of his eyes were red, as if he'd been through a lot. Feeling a deep sense of empathy for him, I said.

"Have some cider vinegar. It'll help with the hangover."

Samuel was silent, then suddenly reached out and hugged me. Instinctively, I wanted to push him away, but he started crying.

I felt sorry for him as I recalled his expression from that day. Considering he had just come of age, I wondered how he could do that kind of thing.

Feeling a bit sorry for him, I gently rubbed his hair to comfort him. Samuel seemed startled, and I felt a bit awkward, quickly drawing back my hand and gently pushing him away.

"I...

I regard you as a younger brother."

Samuel loosened his grip on me slightly but remained silent.

I took the opportunity to hand him the cider vinegar.

His drunken eyes showed a hint of confusion. After hesitating for a moment, he obediently drank it.

Part 13

The drunk Samuel was quite adorable, even endearing.

Watching him drink the cider vinegar and occasionally make a face at its sourness made me realize how good it was to be an older sister!

"Samuel, are you feeling a bit better?

If so, go home, take a shower, and go to bed!"

I said with concern.

Samuel held the bottle with his slender fingers, looked down at me, and asked.

"Do you really see me as a brother?"

I was momentarily stunned, feeling he was too close, and replied with a smile.

"If you don't like it, just pretend I didn't say anything..."

"I like it."

Samuel answered seriously.

He looked at me with a hint of a smile in his dark eyes. Samuel added.

"At least there's someone in this world willing to have some connection with me in the end."

His words were so poignant that I didn't think about his meaning carefully, just felt a bit sorry for him.

"Don't say that. You're outstanding, and more people will want to connect with you!"

I wasn't lying. Samuel was indeed exceptional, with impressive educational performance and looks, and even hid height was outstanding.

Samuel just looked at me, paused for a long time, and then said gently.

"As long as you're willing, that's enough."

"If you regard me as your elder sister, I'll be willing.

Understand?"

I blurted out.

Samuel squinted his eyes, smiled, and seemed genuinely happy. His voice was slightly hoarse as he leaned closer and whispered.

"Okay."

Part 14

I wasn't sure if Samuel liked being treated like that, but every time he called me intimately, he would lean close to my ear and say it in a voice only the two of us could hear.

The softly voice kept ringing in my ear. Initially, I wasn't used to it, but over time, I grew to like it.

It felt like in this unfamiliar city, I truly had a younger brother.

Just like what I had imagined before.

He would wait for me after school and walk home with me, just like what I used to do with Gerard.

At seven in the evening.

It was time for evening classes, and our department was organizing a campus activity. The advisor heard I had learned to paint and temporarily assigned me to the publicity department to draw a promotional poster, which could earn me an opportunity to get additional academic credits.

"Karlee, take charge of this part."

I nodded and took the canvas.

Seeing that the male student had mixed the colors, I smiled.

"Thank you!"

The male student was from the art department, invited by my advisor. I felt a bit embarrassed to guide him, so I focused on the canvas, pondering where to start.

I thought he was just there to choose a design for the painting, but he had already mixed the colors so perfectly!

I pushed the stool, preparing to stand up on it and continue painting, but the school's stool was of poor quality and almost caused me to fall. Fortunately, the male student supported me in time.

"Thank you!"

I said immediately.

"You're welcome."

The male student smiled.

The feeling of losing balance made me a bit nervous.

But I quickly steadied myself and continued painting.

"Hey."

I turned to look in the direction of the voice and noticed Samuel standing not far away, slightly surprised.

"Samuel.

I have to finish this tonight.

You should head back first."

Standing on the stool with chalk in hand, I looked at Samuel, who was carrying a backpack, and quickly said to him.

Samuel squinted his eyes.

"Karlee, who is this?"

The male student asked.

"Oh, he's my..."

I was about to answer.

"I'll wait for you."

Samuel interrupted me suddenly.

He walked slowly to my side.

I asked.

"Have you finished your thesis?"

Samuel was silent.

Obviously he hadn't.

"Hey, you should head back early.

I'll accompany Karlee."

The male student spoke up at the right moment.

I thought that Samuel's thesis was more important, so I said.

"Sam, you should go back and finish your thesis first."

Samuel's tense expression seemed to soften instantly, and he replied softly.

"Okay."

With that, Samuel left.

By the time I finished painting, it was completely dark. The male student and I left the campus together.

"Karlee, are you sure you don't need me to send you home?

I don't feel at ease if you walk alone."

The student said worriedly.

I looked outside, noticing there were rarely cars driving on the road, and the surroundings looked a bit desolate. After hesitating, I said. "If it's not too much trouble."

"If it's not too much trouble."

The male student nodded politely and escorted me home.

Out of gratitude, I chatted with him at the door for a while, though it was mostly awkward small chat. Once he left, I finally dared to open the door.

I hadn't expected the door to be unlocked, and Samuel was standing right there.

"W-why are you in my house?"

I was stunned.

Samuel's expression wasn't good, his eyes staring intently at me.

It was the first time Samuel had scared me, and I remembered I had locked the door when I left.

How did he get in?

"I wanted to make sure you got home safely."

He replied.

That was Samuel's answer.

I was taken aback.

"Where did you get the key?"

Samuel said.

"Is that all you want to ask?"

I was silent.

I felt something was off, sensing that Samuel's attitude was a bit cold, unlike his usual gentle demeanor.

"Have you had dinner?

What do you want to eat?

I'll make it for you!"

He said again.

I thought it was best to run, but as soon as I entered the door, Samuel grabbed my wrist.

I sensed Samuel might be upset that I hadn't told him about the poster earlier, so I quickly said.

"I'm sorry, the teacher gave me a last-minute task, and I forgot to tell you."

His grip on my wrist loosened a bit, and I hurried into the kitchen, sending a message to the property management company of the building.

"Hello, I remember my family signed an agreement with you to keep a spare key.

Did you give the key to someone else?"

"We gave it to a man who claimed to be your younger brother."

I looked at the text reply, feeling a bit speechless.

Then I continued to reply.

"Please take the key back."

The other party didn't reply for a long time, and after a while, he responded.

"Why."

I said.

"No reason."

There was no reply again.

After thinking for a while, I sent another message.

"I don't want anyone entering my private space without permission."

Click.

The kitchen door opened, and I instinctively put away my phone, opened the fridge, and pretended to look for something.

"Samuel, give me the key.

I'll return it to the property management company tomorrow."

I looked at the contents of the fridge, thought for a moment, and spoke to Samuel in the end.

Samuel came over, standing a bit too close.

I turned to look at him and smiled, "Okay?"

Samuel looked down at me, smiling gently, and obediently handed me the key.

"Okay."

Seeing how well-behaved he was, I fried him an egg.

At the dinner table, I set the plates and glanced at the message from that male classmate on my phone, instinctively clicking on it.

The classmate said.

"Karlee, I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Conor Scott."

I replied.

"Alright, I'll make a note of it."

Conor asked.

"Haven't you gone to bed yet?"

I replied.

"Having a late supper."

Conor said.

"What a coincidence, me too. But this curry is a bit spicy."

I pursed my lips and continued replying to him on my phone.

"Drink some milk, it can help soothe the spice."

Conor sent a message in surprise.

"I didn't expect you to know about these things besides being good at drawing."

I couldn't help but be amused.

Ah, who didn't know how to flatter?

I continued replying.

"It's mainly because the colors you choose are so good!"

Conor sent another message, "By the way, there's an art exhibition this weekend. Want to go and see it together?"

I hesitated for a moment, thinking I hadn't really explored Yusweton much, and happily agreed.

After sending the messages and making an appointment with him, I was a bit excited, rubbing my hands together as I picked up my knife and fork to continue eating, completely unaware that Samuel's dark eyes seemed to be watching somewhere.

Part 15

On Saturday, since it was my first time going out, I dressed up carefully. Just as I was about to leave, I received a message from Gerard.

He had transferred money to my account.

Seeing the large sum of money, I was startled and quickly called Gerard, laughing.

"Did I prick your conscience that you suddenly transfer money to my account?"

"Can't you speak properly?"

Gerard rolled his eyes, smirking.

"Today is a special day."

I pouted, suddenly remembering it was my birthday today.

Suddenly there was a knock at the door.

I instinctively went to open it.

Seeing Samuel standing at the door, I quickly said goodbye to my brother and hung up the phone.

I didn't want Gerard to know Samuel came to see me, or he'd cause trouble for Samuel again.

Samuel looked at me gently and softly said.

"Karlee, would you like to go to the movies with me today?"

Looking into Samuel's clear eyes, I felt a bit awkward.

"I might not be free today, I..."

Remembering that tomorrow was Samuel's birthday, I smiled and said.

"How about tomorrow? Tomorrow is your birthday, and I'll spend the whole day with you, okay?"

Samuel pursed his lips, looking at me.

I glanced at my dress and smiled.

"Does it look good?"

Samuel lowered his eyes to look at me and said.

"Everything you wear looks good, Karlee."

"You're really honey-lipped."

I said with a smile.

Conor was quite a gentleman. Since his major was painting and I also liked painting, we got along well without any awkwardness throughout the day when watching the exhibition.

I was quite happy, but the weather wasn't on our side, as the storm broke suddenly.

Without umbrellas, we had to go into a mall to buy them. Seeing many cake shops inside, I thought of Samuel's birthday tomorrow and ordered a cake, which would be delivered to my apartment tomorrow.

"Samuel Blake?

Is he the guy who appeared when we painted last time?"

Conor asked curiously, seeing the name I wrote.

"Yeah."

I replied casually.

Then I continued, looking at Conor.

"He's just a day younger than me."

Conor quickly reacted.

"So it's your birthday today?"

I answered.

"Yes."

I said it casually, but I didn't expect Conor to tell me to wait there and then he ran out into the rain.

He went to buy flowers.

The water droplets on the petals made the flowers look even more vibrant.

Apart from Gerard and my sister-in-law, he was the first to buy me flowers!

I bit my lip, unable to hide the joy in my heart.

"Thank you!"

I said happily.

"I'm glad you like it."

He replied with a smile.

"I like it!

Very much!"

I giggled, touching the flower buds, and when the rain had eased off, Conor took me home with the flowers in my arms.

Just as we got home, it rained heavily again.

Out of courtesy, I invited Conor inside to wait out the rain.

"Thank you for hanging out with me at the art show today, Karlee."

Conor said.

I placed the bouquet on the table and poured Conor a cup of coffee.

"I should be the one thanking you."

The conversation stopped suddenly, a bit awkwardly.

Suddenly, Conor and I fell silent, and I didn't dare get too close to him, so I asked if he was hungry and made him some food.

There were only two place settings at home, and thinking Samuel wouldn't come here for the meal today, I used them for Conor.

"Are these matching bowls for couples?"

He suddenly asked.

"Huh?"

I was taken aback.

Then I looked at the pink and blue bowls, remembering that when Samuel picked them, I also asked the same thing. I couldn't help but smile.

"I bought them when they were sold at a discount."

Conor smiled regretfully and began praising my cooking.

I wasn't good at cooking before, but I felt awkward in always letting Samuel cook, so I started learning myself.

Part 16

As soon as the rain stopped, Conor left.

After cleaning up the dishes, I went upstairs with the bouquet.

After a day out, I glanced at the watch and realized it was almost midnight. Exhausted, I found a vase for the flowers and went to take a shower.

The shower was refreshing, but then I heard the sudden sound of something breaking.

"Who's there?"

I asked in shock.

My heart jolted, and I bravely opened the bathroom door.

The room was empty, except for the broken vase and water reflecting the dim light.

It sent a chill down my spine, and I instinctively wanted to find a weapon, but after fumbling around, all I found was a belt.

Fear slowly magnified in my mind, and I panicked, not seeing anyone, so I headed downstairs and found the kitchen door open, with broken plates and bowls inside.

Terrified, I quickly searched for my phone and dialed the number of the property management company, anxiously gripping the phone as it rang.

The next second, a ringtone sounded behind me.

I felt like I was about to have a mental breakdown, turning sharply to see Samuel's vague face hidden in the dim light, startling me!

"Samuel!

Why are you here?

You...

You're so scary...

I..."

I looked at Samuel's phone screen still lit up, then at my phone still ringing, confused.

"Are you working in the property management company?"

Samuel just stared at me, his dark pupils making me scared.

I suddenly realized something was wrong and frowned.

"It's getting late, you should go back and rest."

"It's 12 now."

He said in a horrifying tone.

"What?"

I was a bit dazed.

I watched Samuel approach, instinctively stepping back, only to have him grab my wrist.

"You promised to spend the day with me."

"It's too late now!"

I shouted.

I was panicking, trembling instinctively, and pulled my hand free, running towards the door.

But Samuel reacted faster, grabbing my hand again and throwing me on the sofa.

"Samuel Blake!

What are you doing!"

I shouted in fear.

"Why do you call me like that?"

He asked calmly.

Samuel began unbuttoning his shirt slowly, and seeing his exposed collarbone and fair skin sent a chill down my spine.

I stammered.

"Samuel, it's too late. I'll watch a movie with you tomorrow, okay?

And we will watch the movie the day after tomorrow too..."

Seeing him taking off his clothes, I was terrified, seizing the chance to run upstairs, slamming the door behind me and locking it.

I thought I was safe, hiding in the room trying to call my brother, my hands shaking.

"Gerard!

Answer the phone...

Please..."

Instinctively, I called Gerard, watching the phone still dialing, panicking.

Click, the sound of the lock being opened startled me, and I rushed to stop the door from being open, but it was futile. Samuel came in, shirtless.

"Are you so afraid of me?"

He said calmly.

Samuel looked at me, his expression as gentle as ever, but to me now, it was terrifying.

"Samuel, what's wrong today?

Can we have a good talk?"

I was genuinely scared, knowing I wasn't a match for Samuel, my heart racing, and I tried to calm down.

"Samuel, don't be like this, I'm scared."

I said pitifully.

When I watched Samuel approach, my legs felt weak, but maybe my words worked, as Samuel stopped.

I turned calm for a moment, but didn't expect Gerard's call to connect then.

"Karlee?

What's up?"

Gerard's voice came through the phone, and I held it, unsure what to say, just watching Samuel kneel to pick up the vase fragments.

"N-nothing.

I dialed it by accident."

I answered softly.

Gerard chuckled. "Posting online about the art exhibition, who did you go out with today?

Are you dizzy after that?"

I stayed silent, not answering, when suddenly a cool breath approached, cold skin pressing against my back and a hand slipping under my clothes.

I froze, instinctively trying to push Samuel away.

Upon touching him, I felt his hand was ice-cold, sending a shiver down my spine.

"Gerard!"

I shouted abruptly.

"What's wrong?"

Gerard still smiled.

"Cat got your tongue?

Ha ha."

I glanced at Samuel, unable to decipher the emotions in his eyes. I knew I had only two choices: tell Gerard or make Samuel stop.

But if I told Gerard, I wasn't sure if Samuel would hurt me immediately...

My head was spinning, leaving me utterly lost.

Samuel held me tightly, his hands fondling my body.

"Gerard...

Good night."

A chill ran down my spine. I lowered my voice, hung up the phone, and pushed against Samuel's hand, my voice trembling.

"Samuel!

Just leave, and I'll pretend nothing happened!"

"Huh."

Samuel let out a cold laugh, "Karlee, whether you tell Gerard or not, it can't change what will happen today.

Understand?"

I didn't know where I got the strength, but I suddenly pushed Samuel away and ran towards the door. Yet, it was as if Samuel had anticipated it, and he grabbed me in an instant.

I screamed frantically, scratching him hard.

Samuel ignored it, pinning my wrists and leaning in to kiss me.

I had never kissed anyone before, and I never imagined my first kiss would be like this. I was terrified to shed tears.

"Samuel!

Stop!

Don't do this!

I'm begging you!

Please...

No..."

I kept sobbing, my nails desperately scratching him, as if in a final struggle.

Samuel squinted at me, whispering.

"Be good.

I won't make you feel too uncomfortable."

"Why, Samuel...

Why do you have to do this to me..."

I shouted at him in despair.

Samuel remained cold-faced, holding me close.

I was dazed, tears kept streaming down my cheeks, and I clenched my hands, trembling.

The night was silent, the room filled with my sobs, tears soaking into my hair until I felt numb.

I didn't know when the morning came. I looked at him sleeping beside me, wanting to get up, but was suddenly held tightly.

"Where are you going?"

He asked.

"To shower."

I said weakly.

I heard Samuel laugh, pulling me closer, whispering.

"You said you'd spend the whole day with me."

I stayed with him for a whole day, indeed, and every day after that, I was like his plaything.

He did everything to me except for sex.

Part 17

It was nearing noon.

The bakery delivered the cake. I lay weakly on the bed, unable to get up, and it was Samuel who went to get it.

As soon as he left, I couldn't help but cry.

I recalled Gerard's words and started to regret it. Trembling, I got up to send Gerard a message.

"Gerard, I want to change schools.

I want to go home to study."

"What?

Stop acting like spoiled children!"

I knelt on the floor, crying, watching tears fall onto the phone screen, and sobbed as I wiped them away, trembling as I continued to send him the message.

"Where's your home?"

Suddenly Samuel's voice was heard.

I was startled, looking up at Samuel standing behind me, and all words died on my lips.

Samuel just smiled, gazing at me gently.

"Is the cake specially for me?"

I didn't respond.

"You're so kind.

Karlee."

Samuel leaned down, his shadow enveloping me, smiling softly.

Part 18

"Karlee, it's not cold yet, and you're already wearing a turtleneck?

What happened?"

The friend tugged at my collar, making me shiver and quickly grab it.

"What's wrong, Karlee?"

She asked.

"N...

Nothing..."

I mumbled, keeping my head down.

My friend asked again with concern.

"Are you feeling unwell?"

I shook my head instinctively.

My friend chuckled, "The promotional poster for this activity was praised by the leaders.

The publicity department plans to treat you and Conor to a meal.

Other classmates can join it for some fun."

"I won't go.

You can have the meal yourselves."

"Why not?

You don't need to pay the bill."

My friend seemed a bit helpless, "Come on, you're the backbone of the painting.

If you don't go, it won't be as fun for us."

I was momentarily confused, pausing for a long time before speaking softly.

"Have you set a time?

Can we meet during free time in gym class?"

Samuel followed me every day, and outside of school, I had no time to myself.

I had thought about escaping, but every time I was caught and forced to go home with him, it brought endless torture.

Another classmate wasn't too happy about waiting until gym class, but my friend readily agreed.

"It's on the third floor of the cafeteria, there's a private room."

The time was set for this afternoon during gym class.

When I followed them, I felt a bit out of mind, wrapping my clothes tightly around me, standing in the school hallway waiting for everyone to gather.

"Samuel, let's go!

Come here!"

I heard someone call Samuel, my body stiffened, and I turned instinctively

Someone walked past, the cool scent making my heart tremble.

"Karlee, over here!"

My friend suddenly called me.

I looked with fear in the direction Samuel had gone, seeing no one in the hallway, and then walked towards my friend.

The dinner party was for celebration, and everyone started playing games, asking some daring questions.

"Karlee, do you have someone you like?"

Someone asked.

I froze, as if someone hit me on the head, my heart aching. Did I even have the qualification to like someone?

"Karlee, you don't have to answer."

Conor spoke up at the right moment.

I knew Conor was helping me out of the trouble.

"Oh, Conor, if she doesn't answer, she has to drink wine!

Will you drink it for Karlee?"

That person said.

The wine was very alcoholic. I knew it, and instinctively wanted to stop Conor, but he had already drunk it.

The room immediately filled with teasing laughter, and my heart sank.

Conor was looking at me.

I bit my lip, remembering the vase Samuel had smashed, feeling a surge of tears. I couldn't hold it back and got up to leave the room.

I wanted to come forth to take the air.

Part 19

"Come here."

It was Samuel's voice.

I looked over instinctively.

I met his gentle smile, feeling a chill in my heart.

"This is school."

Samuel smirked, walking over, his voice light.

"So, Karlee, do you want me to kiss you here?"

My body went limp, my voice trembling.

"Are you crazy?"

Samuel asked.

"Kiss here, or go with me?"

I had to make a choice again.

My voice was stiff.

"I'm in class."

Samuel just smiled, reaching out, and I instinctively grabbed his hand. He held my hand, squeezing it.

"It's soft like that part of your body."

"You're shameless!"

I said angrily.

I tried to pull my arm free, but Samuel held it tightly, staring at me.

I felt my eyes sting, tears threatening to fall, and followed Samuel into a nearby storage room.

"Open your mouth."

He said.

Samuel leaned in close.

I glared at him.

"Aren't you afraid of going to jail?"

Samuel asked.

"Would you really be willing to send me to jail?"

I clenched my hands tightly, nails sinking into my palms, staying silent.

Samuel whispered gently.

"Open your mouth."

I ignored him, choosing silence.

Samuel chuckled, his long fingers brushing my hair aside, leaning down to bite my neck.

I stared at the small sliver of light coming through the storage room, feeling like I was Samuel's toy.

"Open your mouth.

Or I'll keep biting."

I choked back a sob, trembling.

"When will you stop acting like this?"

Samuel might not have expected me to ask that, but he just repeated.

"Open your mouth."

I didn't respond, but Samuel suddenly raised his hand, as if to tear my clothes.

"No!"

I cried out, grabbing his hand, tears streaming down.

Samuel looked at me with gentle eyes.

I trembled, leaning closer, slightly opening my mouth.

He kissed me.

I felt like I would be suffocated to death sooner or later because of him.

"Where's Karlee?

Why does she disappear?"

I heard my friend's voice outside the door. I wanted to call her, but I didn't dare.

Because Samuel was still kissing me.

That day, I didn't know how I got through it. I only knew that in the storage room, I thought about committing suicide.

Part 20

The Samuel who smiled at me in the snow was gone, and the Samuel who fed me fish cake disappeared too.

I couldn't escape.

Because I was afraid others would laugh at me if I told it to them.

Samuel now, on the surface, was as gentle as ever, but everything he did disgusted me.

He brazenly entered my home, pressing me down to kiss me whenever he wanted, forcing me to make choices.

I knew I couldn't just do nothing and wait for things to change, but with half a year left before graduation, using the excuse of preparing for graduate school to avoid Samuel, I feared I wouldn't last long.

I felt Samuel was reaching his limit, and I was scared to be raped by him.

"Still awake?"

He asked.

Feeling Samuel wrap his arms around my waist, I kept my head down, not responding.

"Do you plan to never speak to me again?"

He asked again.

I didn't know when it started, but I began to dislike speaking more and more, whether it was to Samuel or to others.

"Karlee, I want to hear you call me Samuel."

He said in a low voice.

I lowered my eyes and remained silent.

He started touching me again, and I was like a lifeless doll in his arms, complying without resistance.

"It's late.

Let's sleep."

Samuel suddenly stopped, patted my head gently, and said softly.

"Good girl."

I was already being obedient, letting him hold me as if I had truly become a doll.

"Karlee, call me Samuel.

Okay?"

After a moment of quiet, he held me again, repeatedly calling me "Karlee," his lips and tongue brushing against my skin, where his bite marks still existed.

I turned around, nestled in his arms, and whispered.

"Samuel."

"Karlee..."

Samuel suddenly became very happy, leaning in close to my lips but stopping.

Samuel just held me in the end.

I clutched his shirt.

He looked at me.

I leaned in and kissed him, and Samuel froze, immediately rolling over to pin me down.

"Karlee..."

He called me intimately.

I whispered.

"I'm so sleepy..."

Samuel pursed his lips, holding me and looking upset, not forcing me again, enveloping me in his embrace.

Before, I could never sleep well, but now I was truly exhausted. I just wanted to hide in a dream without Samuel's existence.

Part 21

As the end of the semester approached, Samuel got busier. As long as I initiated to kiss him, he wouldn't make things too difficult for me at night.

I was enduring it, unsure how long I could endure it. Many times, I wanted to tell Gerard, but I knew if I did, Gerard would see the photos and videos on Samuel's phone, those where I cried and begged him.

Gerard would go mad.

I felt trapped in quicksand, unable to extricate myself.

Conor reappeared after the semester ended.

He was as friendly and polite as ever, smiling when he saw me.

"Karlee."

He greeted.

"Hello."

I greeted too.

I was momentarily stunned, barely recognizing him.

Conor looked at my dazed expression, a bit shocked.

"Why have you lost so much weight?"

I tugged at my high-collared sweater, speaking softly.

"Maybe I haven't had eaten much these days."

Conor said.

"That's so unhealthy. You were originally fine before."

I nodded.

Seeing my silence, Conor spoke softly.

"Karlee, which graduate school are you planning to apply to?"

I was slightly taken aback. This was a secret I couldn't tell anyone. I wanted to leave alone, to a place where no one knew me.

Conor said again.

"Karlee, can you tell me?

I want to be at the same school as you."

"Karlee."

Suddenly someone called me.

It was Samuel's voice.

Samuel walked over directly, pulling me away. I was a bit dazed, looking back at Conor.

At night, Samuel kissed me, his cool hands intertwining with mine, our fingers tightly clasped.

"Karlee, which school are you applying to?"

He asked.

I didn't respond.

"I'll do it for you."

He said again.

I was slightly stunned, instinctively looking at him. I meant to refuse, and he seemed to see through it, giving a cold laugh before holding me again.

I feared him, choosing to appease.

"I'll tell you after I apply."

"Karlee, don't leave me."

He suddenly said.

"Okay."

I agreed so directly that Samuel was momentarily stunned.

Then he smiled, leaning close to my ear.

"Karlee, let me tell you a secret."

I closed my eyes, not wanting to listen.

He said.

"Karlee, I want to watch you apply to it, using my computer."

I felt a sense of despair, looking at him intently.

"Karlee.

Don't leave me."

Samuel held me, nuzzling my neck like a cat.

Tears welled up in my eyes.

"Otherwise..."

Part 22

That sentence felt like a nightmare.

I seemed to have reached a dead end, and I finally put my hope for help on Conor.

I knew Conor was my hope.

Everything went smoothly, just as I had anticipated. Samuel filled out the application forms for both of us to the same school.

But I wasn't going to go there.

Samuel, after all, was raised by the Blake Family. He couldn't leave them and would eventually return to his path, a path that didn't include me.

"Karlee, I'm so happy.

We can be together in the future."

Samuel was overjoyed. I watched his happiness and just smiled.

I cooperated with his sex demands, lowering his guard against me until the day the admission letters arrived.

He succeeded in getting into the graduate school, and so did I.

But our goals were different.

On the day the admission list was released, I had already left with the diploma and degree certificates Conor had helped me get from the teacher in advance.

I left that house and didn't go to the school. I bought a plane ticket, waiting to leave with Conor.

I must leave this nightmare behind.

Sitting alone on the hotel bed, I felt everything had happened a long time ago.

That night, for the first time in so long, I slept without Samuel.

"Ding-dong."

Suddenly.

The doorbell kept ringing.

A chill ran down my spine as I instinctively walked barefoot to the door. But as soon as I reached it, the sound stopped. Peering through the peephole, I saw no one outside.

Letting out a long breath, I returned to the bed, curled up under the covers, and gradually fell asleep.

I dreamed of Samuel again.

He appeared before me with a wild, frantic look, startling me awake. I sat up quickly, looking at the dark room, ready to go back to sleep, only to see someone approaching in the darkness.

"Karlee."

It was Samuel's voice.

I instinctively got up to run, but Samuel pinned me down on the bed, his voice harsh.

"Why did you lie to me?"

"Why can't I lie to you?"

I stared at him, unable to suppress my laughter.

"It's a done deal. You can't change it."

It was the first time I showed such a tough attitude, and Samuel was visibly surprised, then he laughed.

"How cute."

I kept a straight face.

"If you leave now, I'll pretend you never came."

Samuel sneered.

I dodged Samuel, grabbing an ashtray and smashing it against his head without hesitation.

Samuel looked down at me, letting the blood trickle down his forehead without any intention of wiping it away.

I tightened my grip on the ashtray, looking into his deep eyes, as if realizing what I was about to face.

"Beg me."

Samuel pressed against me.

With his chest against my back, he said in a cold tone.

"And I'll be gentle."

"Samuel."

I never thought I couldn't escape this ordeal.

"If you dare, go ahead and kill me."

For a moment, I thought I was really going to die.

Samuel showed me through his actions not to anger him easily, because he could truly make my life a living hell.

I never knew there could be something so unbearable...

I didn't know when I started begging for mercy. I just knew I couldn't take it anymore.

But Samuel turned a deaf ear.

"Please..."

I pleaded.

The next morning, Samuel left, giving me one last warning.

"If you let him sleep with you, I cut off his prick."

I didn't respond.

Part 23

Fortunately, my health was too poor at the time, and I didn't get pregnant, but I developed severe depression.

In the end, I didn't have the energy to continue my studies and completely hid myself.

But I was still found by him.

To be precise, I was tricked into coming back by him.

"Karlee."

He called me.

After the sex was over, Samuel held me, clasping my hand, smiling gently.

The night was too long.

Just as Samuel said, I was completely his plaything.

"Karlee."

Samuel called me gently.

In the dim room, I closed my eyes, not avoiding his kisses.

"So obedient?"

He asked.

"I want to see my brother."

I said.

The family business had problems, Gerard had a car accident, and recently everything seemed to have been going wrong.

Samuel smiled, his well-defined fingers brushing aside the hair by my ear, looking at me.

He didn't need to speak that I already knew what he was thinking.

I felt a bit tired.

"I'll come back tonight..."

Samuel said.

"Karlee, do you not blink when you lie?"

I hesitated and looked at him. He didn't seem in a hurry, nor did he pressure me, just waiting patiently.

After another sex, I hid alone in the bathroom.

The bathroom door suddenly swung open.

I froze as I watched him walk in, wrapping a towel around myself.

Samuel glanced at me, then picked up the razor from the sink and left.

Part 24

Gerard's injuries weren't severe, but my sister-in-law cried for a long time.

"It must have been someone who did it on purpose!

Definitively!"

She sobbed uncontrollably.

I looked at her and thought of Samuel. Was it him?

Gerard said.

"Alright, it was my fault. I wasn't paying attention when I tried to avoid someone and hit the car.

Babe, stop crying.

It's not good for the baby."

My sister-in-law paused, and so did I.

She looked embarrassed.

"Stop it."

"Karlee, my sister-in-law and I have already got our marriage certificate in advance."

My brother said.

I knew she didn't want to marry so soon, but now her expression seemed shy and happy.

"Congratulations."

I said calmly.

"You should hurry up too. It's been three years, and all you do is wander around."

He urged.

I was speechless.

I didn't want to get married.

But Gerard was really pushing me, even suggesting introducing someone to me.

I refused them all.

Part 25

That evening, I returned to Samuel's villa.

I had no idea what he was up to these days. He didn't seem busy at all. As soon as I got back, I saw him sitting there, looking quite pleased.

"Karlee."

He pulled me into his arms, his voice soft.

"You did well today."

I didn't understand what he meant.

He continued.

"I'm a better match for you than anyone Gerard could introduce.

You know that, right? You can only marry me, understand?"

I was taken aback, recalling what Gerard had said earlier. It was chilling.

How did he know?

"Did you install a bug on me.

Right?"

Samuel chuckled, not answering directly, his hands fondling my body.

"Karlee."

I was a bit stunned, then snapped back, cursing him.

"You're insane."

Samuel's expression turned cold.

I looked at him, sensing his displeasure, and smirked.

"You're just a psychopath."

"Karlee, watch your words."

Samuel was warning me.

Three years ago, I would have been terrified when hearing that.

But now, looking at him, I just wanted to speak the truth.

"Are you desperate for love?"

"Karlee Ellis!"

This was the first time Samuel called me by the full name.

It was really effective.

I knew I hit the mark.

I looked at him, remembering my nightmares over the past three years, finding a way to release my emotions and feeling a twisted satisfaction.

"I would rather live with a dog than love you."

I tried to provoke him.

Samuel's expression was terrifyingly cold, and I felt like he might strangle me at any moment.

"You make me sick."

I continued.

Samuel suddenly grabbed my neck, looking at me with an unfamiliar gaze.

I didn't struggle, letting him gradually strangle me.

I remembered what the private doctor had said.

"Every time he gives you a choice, it's because he sees through your thoughts, knows your fears, and uses choices to give you a false sense of security to achieve his goals.

You have the avoidant personality developed later in life, likely after your mother's accident.

If you don't choose to call the police, it's best to tell the truth to him if you're not afraid.

"But I warn you.

Based on his behavior, once you fall out with him, he may become more unhinged or just leave.

It will be as if when you discover his unsavory identity.""

I said that to him because I couldn't bear it anymore.

But seeing Samuel get up and leave, I felt I did the right thing, even if it meant my neck would be red for days.

Part 26

Samuel didn't appear again.

My life seemed to return to normal.

After three years of depression treatment, I no longer relied on medication and could communicate normally. But Gerard was relentless in introducing me to potential partners.

I refused them all.

For some reason, I sometimes wondered if things would have been different now if I had been braver at eighteen.

"Karlee, why didn't you tell me you were back?"

My father asked.

"I was preparing your birthday gift."

I answered.

I was indeed preparing a birthday gift. Missing Dad's birthday for three years, I felt regretful.

Brent paused on the phone, then laughed.

"Come to Serenity Sands Hotel for dinner tonight."

I checked the location and went there.

As soon as I walked in, I saw a young boy with a delicate face.

The boy seemed to see me too, greeting reluctantly.

"Karlee."

It caught me off guard. I nodded.

"And you are?"

"Neil Blake."

He replied.

I was speechless.

Neil was five years younger than me, only sixteen now, but he was completely different from before.

"Where's my dad?"

I asked.

Seeing only him here, I was a bit annoyed and instinctively looked for my dad.

Neil raised an eyebrow, pouting.

"Looks like you don't know why you're here."

I was puzzled.

Neil said.

"It's a blind date."

I was stunned.

"With whom?"

Neil was silent.

"Me."

He still replied.

Neil grumbled, turning to scrutinize my loose clothing, seemingly wanting to find shortcomings, but finally just muttered.

"You're so thin."

I was speechless.

I kept a straight face.

"Can you be more polite? You've been like this since you were a kid."

Neil retorted.

"That's not your concern."

I activated my sarcasm.

"You're also too fat."

Neil was stunned.

Neil then was furious.

"I'm slim now."

I replied.

"It has nothing to do with me."

Neil insisted.

"I'm your blind date subject."

I said.

"Too young.

Not interested."

Neil said.

"You will know I'm young or not after doing that with me."

I was speechless.

Feeling something was off, I frowned and stopped the subject.

"Let's not talk about it. I'm hungry, let's eat."

Neil wouldn't let it go.

"Is this how women who've never dated behave?"

I didn't know what to say. How did he know I hadn't dated?

I pouted.

"You talk as if you've been watching me."

Neil chuckled proudly.

"I haven't, but my dad had someone watch you."

As soon as he said it, Neil instinctively covered his mouth.

I paused, thinking of Samuel.

Neil probably wanted to make amends, "I haven't dated either

As soon as he said it, Neil instinctively covered his mouth.

We're both tied down by our families."

I looked at him.

"Was Samuel arranged by your family to watch me?"

Neil said.

"Don't be mad, it's just to keep an eye on you.

So you won't go out with others."

I gripped my fork tightly.

With Samuel around, I indeed hadn't been going out with anyone else.

"Karlee, don't be mad."

He hurriedly said.

I didn't know what to say.

Later, Sean and Dad arrived, and with them, Samuel...

He avoided my gaze.

Sean smiled warmly, just like before.

"Karlee, it's rare to see you back."

"Karlee."

They greeted me one by one.

Brent sat down, but unlike before, he didn't take the main seat.

Our family was on a decline, but the Blake Family was thriving.

"Why did you bring him here?"

Neil complained to Sean.

Sean was displeased.

Sean reprimanded.

"Is that how you speak to your brother?"

Neil said angrily.

"He's not my brother!

He's an illegitimate child!"

I tightened my grip on the fork, instinctively looking at Samuel, but his expression was calm, even gentle, like the boy who quietly brushed off snow back then.

Brent was stunned, just like me, saying nothing.

Samuel's voice was soft.

"Dad, he's still young, it's fine."

Sean looked at Samuel with an affectionate expression, a stark contrast to the indifference he had showed when I first saw them.

Sean said.

"Don't take his words to heart."

This change caught me off guard, as if Samuel really was Sean's illegitimate child.

Later, I learned that after Bella Blake fell ill, Samuel was brought back to the Blake Family, and the blind date between Neil and me was arranged by Sean when she went abroad for treatment and begged him.

Now, was Bella still alive?

I didn't know.