Chapter 9

Three days later, Sophia was discharged from the hospital.

She returned to the Cross villa and immediately began packing her things.

Actually, there wasn't much to pack.

She had very little.

A few old clothes, a pair of canvas shoes she'd worn for two years, and the silver ring she'd retrieved from the trash.

She hesitated, then left the ring on the nightstand.

Claire leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, a victorious smile on her lips.

"Finally seeing sense? You should have left ages ago. What's the point of staying at the Cross house? You're just a housekeeper."

Sophia ignored her and continued packing.

Claire spoke again.

"Oh, by the way, I know about the contract you signed with Damien. Basically just using you as a tool, right? Now that he's tired of playing, it's time for a replacement."

Sophia's movements stopped.

She slowly straightened and turned to look at Claire.

"Claire."

"Yes?"

"Do you really like Damien that much?"

Claire raised an eyebrow.

"Of course."

"Then do you know why he broke up with you back then?"

Claire's smile stiffened.

"What are you talking about?"

Sophia looked at her coolly.

"He didn't break up with you because you went abroad."

"It was because you slept with his best friend."

Claire's expression changed instantly.

"You're talking nonsense!"

"Whether I'm talking nonsense or not, go ask Damien."

Sophia's tone remained calm, as if discussing ancient history that had nothing to do with her.

"You think he loves you that much? He's only in pain from being betrayed, so he idealized you into a perfect phantom."

"He doesn't love you. He loves the Claire Bennett in his imagination.""

Sophia zipped up her suitcase. The sound was especially clear in the quiet room.

"I'm giving Damien to you. I wish you both happiness."

She dragged her suitcase and walked past Claire.

When she reached the door, she paused.

She didn't turn back.

"Oh, and when you two get married, remember to send me an invitation."

Her voice was as light as a breeze.

"I won't be coming."

Then she pushed open the door and walked out.

In the living room, Damien stood there.

He watched her drag her suitcase. His chest felt like someone had punched it hard.

"Sophia."

He called her name.

Sophia didn't stop.

As she passed by him, Damien reached out and grabbed her arm.

"Don't go."

His voice was hoarse.

Sophia looked down at his hand gripping her arm, then raised her head to meet his eyes.

"Damien, the contract has expired."

She pried his fingers open one by one.

After all these years, she finally saw something indescribable in Damien's face. Panic.