Chapter 25

Carolina sat alone in the dim room, the moon’s soft glow occasionally peeking through the clouds. She lost track of time as she waited, but she knew the door would open again eventually.

She was almost sleeping when she heard the door open and heavy footsteps approaching her. She opened her eyes abruptly, seeing Red before her.

Mustering up her courage, she dared to ask: “Red, why do you treat me like this? What have I done to deserve this from you?”

She knew he had saved her in the past, and his current overbearing attitude was not out of affection. He didn’t love her. She could see it in his eyes.

Red sat beside her and lifted her chin, saying, “That’s right, you did wrong me once, but it’s pointless to discuss it now. You’ll find out eventually.” His gaze held a malevolent cruelty, carrying a deep-seated hatred.

He stood up and walked away, leaving behind a final remark, “I will grant you freedom, but you must adhere to the conditions I’ve laid out.