Chapter 57

My brain was tired after the test. Now that I thought about it, it was odd that someone from the police department would contact me. Confused but curious, I decided to go. At the station, I was surprised to see a group of people I disliked.

“Mr. Blake claims to have uncovered the truth behind the false accusations against you. According to him, Ms. Harper and Mr. Payne are the masterminds,” the officer began, gesturing toward Julian. Thrownell shot an wary look. “What are you trying to pull this time?!”

Julian said quickly, stepping forward, “Serena, I’ve investigated everything. Kevin doctored the video on Elena’s orders. I didn’t have anything to do with it.” I crossed my arms and looked at the three.

Elena’s face was pale. “I… you said you forgave me back then, Serena. I didn’t know Kevin had someone secretly record the video to use against you.”

The entire scene felt like a ridiculous farce. I scoffed.

“Ms. Ashford, how would you like to proceed?” the officer asked, turning to me.

I glanced at the three of them. Julian looked hopeful and desperate, as if solving this would win me back. Elena was pale, her eyes filled with fear and regret. Kevin, however, glared at me with cold malice. “I knew you were Alex’s sister long before Elena ever approached me.”

A chill ran down my spine. Poor Elena. She thought she had hired Kevin as a pawn, but she’d been the real pawn all along.

I pulled out my phone. “I have video evidence of Kevin stalking me. I want him prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” Kevin immediately dropped his menacing demeanor; he even looked panicked.

As for the others… I glanced at Julian and Elena. “I won’t pursue charges. I have no interest in dragging this out any further.” After stating my decision, I left the station. Julian followed me with determination. He blocked my path and begged, “Serena, please, let’s get back together.”

“Not happening. I’ve made myself very clear—I’m not getting back together with you,” I replied, narrowing my eyes.

Elena appeared behind him, her eyes brimming with tears. “Serena, are you satisfied now?”

I stared at her, bewildered. “Satisfied with what?”

“Now, Julian belongs to you alone! Isn’t this exactly what you want?” she cried, wiping away her tears.

I gave her a confused glare. “Just because you value something doesn’t mean everyone else does. I’m letting this go, but I suggest you get your life together and stay out of mine.”

I turned to leave, but Julian trailed after me relentlessly. “Serena! Serena!”

“And you! I’ll call Alex if you don’t stop following me!” I snapped at Julian.

The threat worked; he froze in his tracks, looking frustrated and defeated. Then, I left without another word.

“Didn’t you have a test today? Why are you back so late? Your food’s getting cold,” Lila thrust the takeout she had bought for me into my hands.

“I went to the police station after the test,” I explained, taking the food. “Turns out that video was Kevin’s doing. Julian tracked down Elena and Kevin and handed them over to the police.”