Chapter 227

“Yes, I am,” Jade nodded. “I’m Quentin’s older cousin,” Rebecca lowered her voice.

Upon hearing her response, Jade’s expression changed drastically. Her eyes darted around, and her frail body trembled uncontrollably. The panic, fear, despair, and pain almost shattered her completely. These dark emotions seemed to consume her in an instant.

“Why… Why are you here… I already told the police everything I know… I really… I really don’t know anything. I didn’t see anything. Don’t ask me. Don’t ask me again.” Jade crouched on the ground, hugging her knees and burying her head in them. No one could hear what she said afterward, as she began mumbling to herself.

Vespera shook her head at Rebecca, indicating not to ask anything about Quentin for now. Even the mere mention of his name caused Jade such a breakdown. In her current state, she couldn’t handle another question about him.

“Jade, don’t be scared. We’re just here to visit you,” Rebecca knelt down and comforted Jade gently, patting her shivering figure. Jade was really thin—all skin and bones. Slowly, she began to calm down.

“Can we come in?” Rebecca asked softly.

Jade nodded. She wanted to stand up but lacked the strength. Rebecca had to help her up and lead her into the house. Vespera followed closely. Once inside the apartment, they shut the door.

Meanwhile, Rebecca led Jade to a couch in the living room. As soon as Vespera sat down, she noticed a strange smell. It was like the smell of rotten meat. Perhaps Jade hadn’t opened the windows in a long time, so the apartment wasn’t well-circulated. While Calvert swept his gaze across the room, Byron put on a mask, having also noticed the smell.

“Jade, do you live alone? Where’s your family?” Rebecca made small talk.

“I live with my grandma, but she’s gone now,” Jade answered weakly.

Rebecca was perplexed, wondering how to make sense of Jade’s words when the strange smell hit her. A chill ran down her spine. Vespera had the same thought. Byron quickly leaned toward Calvert, who barely reacted, merely crossing his arms and chewing gum. Vespera met Rebecca’s gaze. Could Jade’s grandma…

“Your grandma… Where did she go?” Vespera asked with a smile, though she was actually terrified.

“Grandma…” Jade weakly lifted her head. The terrifying scar on her face and the atmosphere in the house created a powerful emotional and visual impact—almost like something out of a horror movie.

Although Vespera and Rebecca’s hearts pounded, they did their best to remain calm.

“She’s staying with my Uncle Fred,” Jade said sorrowfully, looking down.

Vespera and Rebecca said nothing, clutching their chests in relief.