Chapter 202
Matthew and Lindey had always been so good to me—so good that doubting them felt intensely guilty. But now, even Lena suspected something. My heart plummeted, crashing into a pit of inescapable panic.
“I need to find out the truth.” The more uncertain things became, the more desperate I grew to know, not just for my dad, but to clear Matthew's name—if he was innocent. Lena offered a small nod. “Whatever happens, I’ve got your back.” Her words struck me harder than expected, as if she already knew what I might uncover. I couldn't stop until I found the truth.
Leaving the ER, I hailed a cab. To my surprise, Edward remained, a short distance away, clutching my medication, his phone pressed to his ear. “…Yeah, she accessed the car’s display… said she was just looking for music…”
My body went cold, despite the sun. I didn't need to ask who he was speaking to. It was clear—he was reporting this to someone, probably Matthew or Lindey. But why? Why did such a minor detail matter? If there was nothing to hide, why this reaction? My head spun with questions, doubts creeping in. I watched Edward walk away, my mind racing.
I couldn't wait. I flagged a taxi and instructed the driver to take me to Serenity Retreat. If I didn't act quickly, I feared any evidence would be erased or hidden. However, the place was far more secure than I anticipated. Security stopped me at the gate, demanding the name and room number of my intended visitor. I had a name—Thorsten Drago—but no room number. And I couldn't casually mention his name; verification would expose me instantly.
I lied, claiming I was inquiring about facilities for a family member. The guard swiftly refused entry, stating the center was reservation-only and didn't accept walk-ins. The message was clear: this wasn't a place one could simply enter. High-end wellness centers operated on a different level. I felt unworthy of even passing the gates.
As I contemplated entry, two cars arrived. The windows were down, and I recognized the occupant immediately. That shiny bald head—it was Darby, the same man who led the attack on Hayden.
“Here to see Mr. Drago,” Darby told the guard. The guard recognized him and opened the gate without hesitation. Drago. That surname wasn't common, confirming the visitor was Thorsten Drago. Darby worked for Thorsten. If Darby had targeted Hayden, then Hayden was investigating Thorsten too. Could Thorsten be connected to Hayden's father's death? It felt like more than coincidence.
I didn't see Thorsten, but spotting Darby was revealing enough. Leaving Serenity Retreat, I went straight home. En route, Lindey called.
“Rea, Edward told me you weren’t feeling well. How are you now?” Lindey’s voice was raspy, reminding me of her appearance when I left—shaken after witnessing Matthew's graying hair. She must have cried. Guilt stabbed me.
I was a mess, torn between doubt and loyalty. I didn't want to suspect them, but my mind strayed to dark places. Still, I suppressed those thoughts. “I’m fine, Lindey. Just a stomach thing. I took some meds, and I’m feeling better now.”
“That’s good to hear. Matthew and I were really worried. We almost came to the hospital to check on you,” she said. The guilt intensified. They were struggling, yet still worried about me.
“I’m really okay. Please, just focus on Matthew and yourself. And maybe try to comfort him a little more…” I said, the image of his gray hair lingering.
She sighed heavily. An uncomfortable silence followed.