Chapter 338: Danger, Get Out Now!

I have absolutely no desire to watch what's happening. Even though Whitney and Taylor are far more appealing in looks and physique than Monica, the whole thing feels incredibly uncomfortable.

Right at that moment, Carter sent me a message, asking how I was holding up. I explained the uncomfortable predicament I was in. A moment later, Carter's response came through: "Danger—get out of there now!"

“I know,” I replied.

“Chloe, Whitney isn't going to hurt you, but she understands Taylor's personality better than you do. If she’s already trying to hide you, it means that if he discovers you, things could get messy—possibly even dangerous. Make sure he doesn’t catch you. I’m on my way to get you now.”

Noticing how concerned Carter was, I knew better than to take the situation lightly. His reasoning was flawless—Whitney wasn’t a threat, but Taylor could be dangerous! Even if Whitney didn’t want to, he still coerced her into being with him.

I pressed my hands over my ears; hearing Whitney’s voice brought an unbearable ache to my heart. After roughly 20 minutes, the commotion finally subsided. Taylor playfully bit Whitney’s earlobe and teased, “Why are you extra sensitive today?” With a pale expression, Whitney responded, “Carry me to clean up.” Without hesitation, Taylor picked her up and carried her to the bathroom, and I realized this was the chance Whitney had arranged for me.

The moment they stepped into the bathroom and the sound of running water began, I quietly opened the door and slipped out. Fearing I might get caught, I avoided the elevator entirely and hurried down the stairs instead. Maybe it’s because I’ve faced so many horrifying situations before, but I’ve only encountered Taylor a handful of times and don’t really know much about him. Yet, just moments ago, it felt as though I had narrowly escaped with my life. My legs felt like jelly, barely holding me up.

In my haste, I rounded the corner on the second floor and crashed straight into someone’s arms.

“Watch out,” Yael said, his hand steadying me by the waist to keep me from falling.

“Th—thank you…” I stammered, still shaken.

His gaze lingered on me, sharp and probing. “Zoey, where were you? I couldn’t find you anywhere earlier.”

“I just went to use the restroom on the first floor, but it was occupied, so I came up here to look for another one. Sorry about that.” I quickly stepped out of his hold, trying to steady my nerves.

“It’s on me for not being a more attentive host,” he said with a faint smile.

Curious, I asked, “For a house this large, why are there few servants around?” The elaborate pastries downstairs seemed like they’d need a whole team to arrange. Yet, whether on the first or second floor, I didn’t see a single servant, and the dim lighting throughout only added to the eerie atmosphere. As I hurried down the staircase earlier, it felt like fleeing for my life through an abandoned castle. It was as if an unseen demon lurked within this rose-adorned mansion, silently observing our every move.

“My brother prefers a quiet environment. The servants usually finish their tasks and stay in the smaller building out back—they rarely come into the main house.”

“I see. It’s obvious that you and your brother have very different personalities,” I remarked.

Yael rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. “Yeah, people say that all the time. Maybe it’s because my brother started working earlier than I did, so he’s more mature. Zoey, do you think I’m childish?”

“Not at all. You’re a warm-hearted and nice person,” I replied casually.

“Do you really think I’m a nice person?” His eyes brightened. “By the way, I really loved the pen you gave me, and I have a gift for you.” He opened his hand, revealing a finely carved wooden figure of a small dog.

“I carved it myself.”

I was taken aback. I hadn’t expected this guy to have such talent. “How did you get into woodworking?”

He smiled softly. “I think when you carve clay and wood, two lifeless materials, into something perfect, it’s as if they come to life. I hope you like it, Zoey.”

“You did an excellent job carving this. It’s the first time I’ve ever received a gift like this.”

He gave a small smile. “I’m glad you like it. Zoey, are you coming to school tomorrow?”

“You know, as Mrs. Bolton, I have a lot to handle, so I might not be able to come to school every day.”

“Actually, our department is hosting a music feast, and each class needs to put on a performance. If you’re too busy, I can send you your part to practice at home, and you can just come to school for a few rehearsals.”

“Thanks, Yael. By the way, my husband is here to pick me up, so I should head out now.”

A brief look of disappointment crossed his face. “You’re leaving already?”

“Thanks for having me,” I replied. My task was halfway done—I had confirmed Whitney was here and left my contact details in the closet, just in case she needed to reach me. “Happy birthday.”

“I’ll walk you out,” he said.

He stood there, watching as I got into Carter’s car, the door closing with a soft click. It wasn’t until I was safely in Carter’s arms that I felt my tension ease.

“Are you alright?” he asked, concern in his voice.

I shook my head. “I’m just grateful Whitney gave me a chance to get away. I could hardly breathe when he showed up.”

“Chloe, stay away from him from now on,” he warned.

“Alright, but his brother might be a better way in,” I replied.

He gently pried my fingers open and noticed the wooden carving in my hand.

“Hand me the knife.”

Without a second thought, I gave it to him. Carter quickly sliced into the carving, but luckily, there was no hidden listening device inside. He seemed sorry. “I’m sorry, Chloe. I was just concerned…”

I casually threw the wooden dog in the trash and wrapped my arms around Carter. “It’s only a carving, how can it compare to you? If it’s broken, then it’s broken.” Such a caring man… He gently cupped my head and drew me into his embrace.

As the car began to move, I couldn’t help but glance back. I spotted a man standing on the fourth-floor balcony, dressed in a bathrobe, watching us leave. The darkness of the night made it impossible to read his expression. I couldn’t shake the thought of a vampire lurking in the shadows, hungrily watching his prey.