Chapter 869

Skylar couldn't shake her worry about Simona. Uneasy since Aiken's call, she remained silent throughout the drive to the hospital. During the journey, she scrolled through Simona's Instagram. Recent posts showed her making friends after returning to school, frequenting the library, and socializing after classes. A few hours earlier, just after school, Simona had posted a photo of herself playing tennis with classmates, a bright smile on her face. Skylar frowned, troubled by the contrast. Joe rolled down the car window, the cool evening air clearing his thoughts.

Soon, they arrived at Apollo Hospital. Skylar hurried to Simona's ward. Approaching, she saw two police officers emerging.

One officer addressed Aiken, "We've apprehended those who harmed your sister. Evidence has been collected, and justice will be served."

Aiken, his back to Skylar, replied, "I demand severe punishment. They're all over sixteen."

"Okay," the officer acknowledged, understanding the family's anger. Anyone would want retribution for such a crime. The officers couldn't help but reflect on the escalating violence among young people.

After the officers left, Skylar and Joe exchanged a look. Skylar approached Aiken. "How is Simona?"

"She won't let me near her," Aiken said, his voice hoarse, his eyes red and bloodshot. "Several classmates raped her and another girl. Skye, please help me. She's my only sister."

Rape.

Skylar trembled violently, her face paling, tears welling in her eyes. She was speechless, her throat aching, and could only nod stiffly.

Aiken continued, "I'm leaving Simona in your care. I need to handle some things." Though the perpetrators were in custody, legal proceedings remained. But Aiken wouldn't let them off easily. Those who harmed his sister wouldn't be absolved by a few years in prison. He would ensure they understood the true depths of their actions.

Turning away, a grim determination darkened his face. He acknowledged Joe with a polite nod, even with Joe's presence now a secondary thought. Joe returned the nod.

After learning of Simona's ordeal, any jealousy Joe harbored toward Aiken seemed insignificant. "I'll stay here as well. Go do what you need to," he said, understanding Aiken's intentions.

Aiken paused, glanced at Joe, and left.

After Aiken departed, Skylar gently knocked. "Simona, it's me."

Silence. Skylar continued softly, "Simona, may I come in?"

"Skylar…" Simona's tearful voice responded.

Skylar opened the door, finding Simona not in bed, but huddled in a corner, her back against the wall. The bright, fearless girl Skylar knew was gone, replaced by a figure streaked with tears and bearing visible injuries. The extent of the trauma inflicted was evident.