Calvin's actions had irrevocably damaged Carmen's reputation, exposing her to cruel gossip and relentless bullying. The sheer vileness of spreading such rumors was compounded by his nauseating excuse: "I like you, that's why I want you." She sneered, taking a deep breath. "Did you ever consider the consequences of your slander? I'm merely returning the favor. I've been remarkably merciful!"
People had plastered her doorstep with photos, tormented her at school, and ultimately, those rumors had driven her to a suicide attempt. Compared to that, his fate seemed inconsequential.
His eyes flashed with malice. "Bitch! It was you! How did you find a hacker to expose me? I underestimated you!" Carmen found his outrage laughable. Those who commit evil rarely reflect on their wrongdoing; they only focus on the retaliation. Words were useless; only action would suffice.
She kicked him. Already kneeling, Calvin received a swift, fierce blow to the shoulder, sending him sprawling across the floor. Unsatisfied, she drew a shining knife and lunged. "You disgusting pervert! Get lost!"
Terror seized Calvin. He scrambled backward, bumping into walls before finally reaching the stairs and fleeing in panic.
"Hmph!" Carmen sheathed the knife, catching her breath before returning to Felicia's house.
Felicia, having finished cleaning, asked, "What happened outside?"
"I dealt with a pest," Carmen smiled.
Felicia guessed, "Did that pervert come looking for you? Need help?"
"No thanks. You've already helped immensely. I can handle it." Carmen omitted Calvin's repeated harassment, each attempt more repulsive than the last. The last time, he'd suggested she should be with him, given her ruined reputation. This had enraged her, prompting her to grab a kitchen knife. He was utterly useless, except for inspiring disgust.
She wasn't afraid.
Felicia nodded silently. They quickly packed and set off hiking. Unbeknownst to Felicia, as they reached the mountaintop, a sleek convoy arrived, parking arrogantly before Harmony Medical Center. Union Clinic's growing reputation had noticeably diminished Harmony's patient numbers.
Across the street, Harvey watched, his jealousy palpable. His pride wouldn't allow Felicia to overshadow him. For days, he'd been at Harmony Medical Center, relentlessly boasting about his skills. Today was no different.
A Jaguar arrived, its passenger—a high-status individual in a wheelchair—helped out. Harvey's eyes gleamed; this was an opportunity too good to miss. He ushered the man into Harmony, launching into a boastful recitation of his lineage, claiming to be Clive's grandson and Harmony's rightful heir.