Chapter 56

The woman in the photograph was just over fifty, yet time had been kind, leaving few marks on her face. Her fair skin and sapphire blue V-neck dress accentuated her exceptional grace. It was clear she had been a top-tier beauty in her youth. With this in mind, Elysia took a sheet of white paper from her drawer and began to sketch.

The next morning, the atmosphere at Milton School was unusually lively, the entire campus filled with joyous anticipation. This was due to the news that Vincent, a renowned painting master, would be visiting the following week to select a student as his final apprentice. Vincent was a towering figure in the country, a luminary in the world of painting. To become his apprentice meant a future of limitless potential.

Students talented in painting were overjoyed at the news and redoubled their efforts, hoping to be chosen.

Ava's face lit up. "If I could become Vincent's apprentice," she said, "I would be the luckiest person in the world."

"You're just daydreaming," Eric teased. "Where's the hint of art in you?"

"Don't underestimate me," Ava retorted. "I do have a foundation in painting." Turning to Elysia, she asked, "Elysia, will you join me?"

Elysia shook her head. "I'm not interested."

Ava, having heard rumors about Elysia's past—a life of simplicity and poverty in a poor village—understood her refusal. Although carefree, Ava wasn't stupid; she wouldn't expose someone's shortcomings.

"Elysia, someone's looking for you outside," a student called from the doorway.

Elysia furrowed her brows, wondering who it could be. Seeing Elena outside, she was surprised. "How come you have time to come over?" she asked.

Elena raised an eyebrow. "Is someone giving you a hard time because of Mia's matter?"

Elysia immediately understood. It must have been about last night's request for Elena's vouching. Thinking this over, Elysia felt warmth. Elena had always been there for her. "Just a little family drama," she said. "It's all taken care of now, and I owe it all to you."

Elena nodded, hesitant to ask about the Rosewood family's treatment of Elysia. It was Elysia's family business, and Elena wouldn't interfere. Elena's visit stemmed from last night's phone call; she suspected the Smith family had caused trouble, and the Rosewoods didn't believe Elysia.

After Elena left, Ava, who had been watching from the doorway, darted out and hugged Elysia. "What did Elena want?" she asked.

"About yesterday," Elysia replied. "She came to check on the situation."

"Elena is nice to you," Ava said.

Elysia thought, Indeed.

At eight o'clock that evening, Elysia arrived at room A5302 in the Glory Hotel, using the room key Emma had given her. As soon as she opened the door, she was hit by the strong smell of smoke and alcohol. The floor was a mess, and four or five men, each holding a cigarette, sat on the bed. They were all in their early thirties and drunk.

Elysia snorted inwardly. Emma really thought highly of me, sending me this kind of scum.

The men noticed her. Their eyes lit up. "She's really good-looking," one remarked. "A high-quality girl. We haven't seen one like this in a long time."

A creepy middle-aged man stroked his chin. "This girl's got something going on."

Another middle-aged man began unbuckling his belt. The others followed suit, closing in on Elysia.

"Hold her down for me," one said. "Let me have some fun first."

"Why should you go first?" another protested, reaching for Elysia. Before his hand touched her, she grabbed it. His dark hand, with grime under his fingernails, contrasted sharply with her pale, delicate hand. He revealed a mouthful of yellow teeth.

"Hold your horses, babe," he said, trying to reach her with his other hand.

Elysia tightened her grip. His face contorted. He hadn't expected such strength from someone so delicate. The others snickered. "Can you even do it? If not, let me take over!"

He shouted, "Screw you! Get over here and help!" A crunch sounded from his wrist; his face paled, and cold sweat poured down. Elysia forcefully shook off his hand. His face grew even paler. He clutched his injured wrist and barked at the others, "What are you waiting for? Get her!"

The other men wiped their mouths and advanced.

"Don't you worry, sweetheart," one said. "I'll be gentle."

"Damn it! I can't hold back any longer!" another shouted.

Elysia kicked one man, sending him clutching his crotch in tears. With a swift move, she twisted another's hand, causing a crunch, and kicked him away.

Looking at the last man, Elysia stretched. Before she could move, he dropped to his knees. "Mam, I didn't know who I was messing with," he pleaded. "Please, let bygones be bygones. Spare me."

Elysia said nothing. She took tissues from her pocket and carefully wiped her hands. The men on the floor were too scared to make a sound.

After what seemed like ages, Elysia dropped the tissues, her eyes cold. "How much did she pay you?" she asked.

The kneeling man said, "Thirty thousand dollars."

"Thirty thousand dollars!" Elysia repeated.

"Yes," he stammered, his face draining of color. He had been pushed around before, but never felt this humiliated. It's all because of that damn woman, he cursed inwardly. Why did she send someone like this? Is she trying to get us killed?

Elysia said, "I'll give you ten times that. Do to her what you were planning to do to me."