Chapter 178

Grandma's eyes widened in shock as she stared at me, clearly trying to determine if I was a ghost or truly alive. I gave her a cheeky wink and said, "Grandma, I've been reborn in someone else's body. I'm all human, I promise."

I pressed a finger to my lips and whispered, "This stays between us, okay?"

Those few words were enough. Grandma, ever sharp, instantly understood my desire for retribution.

I didn't fully comprehend my rebirth; the ghostly existence was bizarre enough. Yet, here I stood before her. Grandma didn't dwell on the logic. Her granddaughter's presence was all that mattered. All that mattered was that her granddaughter was alive and well; everything else was insignificant.

Her eyes welled with tears as she blinked at me, overwhelmed. Despite her attempts to control them, the tears flowed freely.

Ava entered with a tray of fruit, witnessing the scene. "Oh my, what's gotten you so emotional, ma'am?" she asked quickly.

"I think seeing me reminded her of her real granddaughter," I chimed in.

Ava, bless her kind heart, didn't question it further.

I grabbed a tissue and gently wiped Grandma's tears, assuring her, "Grandma, your granddaughter will be fine. Don't worry." I gave her hand a gentle squeeze, letting her feel my warmth.

Grandma, clearly touched, listened as I comforted her. "You need to get some rest and get better soon."

She blinked at me, signifying understanding. "It's getting late, Grandma. You should get some sleep."

Ava walked me to the door, suggesting, "If you have some free time, drop by and visit her more often. It could really help her."

"Definitely," I replied. Exactly what I wanted to hear.

Leaving Grandma's room, I exhaled a sigh of relief, feeling lighter. For now, my mind was at ease. Tonight's showdown between the Hoffman and Su families was bound to be a spectacle. And I, nestled in Evan's arms, finally had my first good night's sleep in two years. Because starting today, I would be the one lurking in the shadows!

After a sound sleep, I woke the next day looking healthier, my skin losing its ghostly pallor. Mom had prepared a delicious breakfast. Seeing me awake, she said softly, "I didn't wake you, you were sleeping so soundly. I made this myself, to boost your energy and health."

I hugged Evan's waist and cooed, "Thanks, Mom. You're the best."

Evan, surprised by my appearance, smiled. "Hurry up and eat before it gets cold."

"Okay," I replied.

I was in such a good mood my appetite was enormous, and Mom watched me eat with a loving smile.

"Mom, you should eat too," I said.

"Sure," she replied.

With no interruptions, the morning was blissfully peaceful. I had to postpone the Hoffman family drama; more pressing matters demanded my attention.

"Mom, I'm heading back to the Reyes family now."

Evan looked worried. "But the Reyes family isn't exactly known for being nice, Amelia. I know you went there out of spite after your attempt. I didn't stop you then because I didn't want to upset you further. Mr. Reyes seems reasonable, but marriage is a lifelong commitment. If you've had a change of heart, I'd do anything to get this marriage annulled."

Looking into my mom's determined eyes, I saw her initial timidity replaced by fierce resolve to protect me.

I hugged Evan tightly. "Thanks for loving me, Mom. I wasn't being impulsive. Derek is mature and loyal, already better than 99% of guys out there."

"But his leg…"

"I don't care. Even if he never stands again, I want to marry him." If it weren't for his trust in me, my death might not have been exposed so quickly. He helped me again, and I owe him greatly.

"Are you really sure?"

"Yes."

Mom sighed. "Alright, if Mr. Reyes treats you well, give it a shot. If things go south, I'll do everything to help you."

"I love you so much, Mom." I nuzzled her cheek affectionately, then had the driver take me to the Reyes residence.

I couldn't miss this drama, could I? But now, as Derek's wife, it wouldn't be right to openly enjoy Chase's misfortune. So, I decided to find Derek first.

The staff, knowing who I was, didn't stop me. Jack blocked my way at the door. "Ms. Amelia, Mr. Reyes isn't available for visitors right now."

I smiled. "Visitor? I'm his wife, not a guest."

I gently pushed past Jack's hand, and after a moment's hesitation, he let me through. "Alright," he muttered.

I opened the suite door to a room draped in darkness, save for a sliver of light. Empty bottles littered the floor, and the air was thick with the scent of alcohol. Approaching the figure slumped in the wheelchair, I saw the once formidable man looking utterly drained.

"You…" I began, and he turned towards me.

Standing in the dim light, Derek's face lit up with disbelief when he saw me. His voice, hoarse and full of emotion, "You… you're back…"

"Yes, I'm back," I replied.

As I considered explaining my past actions, moving bottles aside, he suddenly lunged at me.

Chapter 79