Kayla's eyes reddened, and she dug her nails into her palms, suppressing the almost frenzied emotions threatening to erupt. She managed to restrain her anger, barely. "Arnie, my foot hurts. Can you carry me?" she asked, her voice vulnerable.

Their car had broken down, the driver remaining to arrange repairs. Kayla had traveled far; leaving wasn't an option. She would stay in Alverton with Arnold for a while.

Arnold felt helpless but didn't refuse. He examined her foot, finding nothing wrong, yet Kayla insisted on an injury, claiming inability to walk. "Arnie, I really can't walk anymore..." she whined.

Having already cried and been terrified all night, her pale, pitiful face made it hard for him to refuse. He bent, offering, "Get on my back. I'll carry you."

"You're the best, Arnie!" Kayla beamed, jumping onto his back and wrapping her arms around his neck.

Amidst curious glances, Arnold carried Kayla back to Alverton. The villagers were unconcerned, but the training program students offered teasing remarks about their apparent closeness. Kayla giggled, occasionally blushing.

Upon returning, Arnold intended to have the village head find another family for Kayla. However, with all houses full and Kayla refusing separation, he took her back to his farm. Only one room was empty.

"Alright, you rest well," Arnold said after the college doctor confirmed the foot injury was minor. Relieved, he placed her on the bed and turned to leave.

Kayla quickly grabbed his arm. "Arnie, where are you going? Are you really leaving me alone? I'm not familiar with this place, and I'm scared..." Arnold planned to find separate lodgings; sharing a room would be scandalous. He considered her reputation.

But Kayla wouldn't let it go, her shoulders trembling, eyes glistening with unshed tears. His heart softened, but he insisted, "Rest. I'll be in the living room. Call if you need anything." He left.

Tears finally fell, giving way to burgeoning anger. "Felicia!" she hissed, her crisis and jealousy intensifying. She was determined to eliminate Felicia at all costs.

With a cold expression, brows furrowed, she called Shawn. "Why haven't you arrived yet? It's been two days! Everything prepared? Don't you want the rest of the money?"

Shawn's distant voice, as if driving, replied, "It's all set! I'll be at Alverton in under twenty minutes!"

Kayla felt a reluctant satisfaction. The investment was considerable; Shawn's success would make it worthwhile.