Chapter 164

Chase's gaze flickered between clarity and confusion. He'd been on edge lately, searching for me, sometimes seeing me as Amelia, other times as Amanda.

In a daze, he nodded to my request. "Okay."

I offered a sweet smile. "Thanks. By the way, Chase, I haven't seen your wife."

The mention of Amanda sharpened Chase's focus; he hesitated, unsure how to respond.

"Amelia, there's been a family situation with my sister. It's getting late. Let's go to dinner," Nicole interjected warmly, linking her arm with mine and guiding me toward the dining room.

I gently disengaged myself and returned to Derek's side. "Derek, let's go."

In public, I always addressed him sweetly, showcasing our close bond. Derek never corrected me, but his eyes remained cold and piercing, making my heart race each time we met gazes.

Ryan's mood visibly improved upon seeing my treatment of Derek. After all, Derek was his son, and what father wouldn't cherish his son, even with his challenges? He always wanted the best for him.

Knowing Derek's struggles, I served him soup and other dishes. Since we were in this together, it felt right to treat him well. Besides, he'd saved my life more than once.

In this life, I believed in repaying kindness and settling accounts.

"Derek, just let me know what you like, and I'll make sure you get it," I offered.

He gave me a long, considering look before nodding. "Thank you."

Chase watched, perhaps remembering how I used to serve him, remembering his favorite dishes and avoiding his dislikes.

Nicole wouldn't dare misbehave in front of Ryan, leaving Chase to serve himself.

I noticed the rosary on his wrist. "Chase, that rosary is unique."

Chase instinctively stroked the beads, a recent habit. "Yes, a priest made it."

After cremation, the DNA from my ashes was destroyed, becoming inorganic matter, making DNA extraction from the beads or the porcelain bowl impossible. The only options were the statue or the human skin book in Grandma's possession. But regardless, I wouldn't let my ashes keep him company day and night.

"I admire those beads, and that necklace is exquisite. Would you consider selling it to me? I'll pay whatever you ask."

Chase, previously uninterested in such things, likely wouldn't refuse such an easy way to smooth things over.

Before he could respond, Nicole interjected, "Amelia, you like these too? I have a necklace in my room. Consider it a welcome gift from Chase. No need to discuss money among family."

I complied. "Thank you, then."

After dinner, Nicole suggested retrieving the bracelet upstairs, and I insisted on accompanying her, leaving her no choice.

"Nicole, you and Chase must be very close. Even siblings aren't always this tight. Seeing you together, I almost thought..."