Chapter 105: Quite a Plan
“All right, Ray-Ray, focus on your recovery. I won’t disturb you any further,” Harriet said softly, lowering her head. “Only you can save Samuel now. I hope you’ll at least think it over.”
Raylee’s response was firm and unwavering. “Sorry, but no.”
With tears glistening in their eyes, the mother and daughter left the ward. Surprisingly, in the days that followed, they didn’t approach her again. It was only when Shanice later mentioned it that Raylee learned Samuel had already been rescued. It was Alaric who had reached out to Victor, using a mix of gentle persuasion and firm insistence, ultimately forcing Jeremiah to release Samuel.
Five days later, Raylee’s swelling had completely subsided, and her recovery was progressing well. That day, Casimir and Samuel arrived together to visit her in the ward. Samuel hobbled along with an injured leg, relying on a cane for support. It appeared he had endured his share of hardship at Jeremiah’s hands. That was why Raylee hadn’t seen him the past few days. The thought of Raylee’s near-death experience had left Samuel terrified. Now, seeing her gradually regain her vitality, he let out a small sigh of relief.
“It’s good to see you awake. How are you feeling now?” he asked, his tone unusually calm, a stark contrast to his usual fiery demeanor. It was such a change that Raylee couldn’t help but feel startled. He was actually showing concern for her.
“Fortunate to be alive. Death couldn’t claim me this time,” Raylee responded nonchalantly.
“It was sheer luck that you escaped death this time. If you don’t call off this engagement, you may not be so fortunate next time,” Casimir said, furrowing his brows.
Samuel nodded seriously. “Yes, Caz and I will do whatever it takes to help you call off the engagement with that lunatic. Don’t worry!”
“Did I say I was to call off the engagement?” Raylee asked calmly, her gaze flicking between the two men. “And who are you two to discuss the matter of my engagement with me?”
Samuel stared at her in shock. “You were tricked into going to East Aploth by Jeremiah. You nearly lost your life, and you’re telling me you haven’t even considered calling off the engagement! Who am I, you ask? I’m your brother. Whether you acknowledge it or not, as long as you’re part of the Goodridge family, you’ll always have my protection. Stop being petty. Whatever differences we have, we can settle them privately. But against outside threats, we must stand together!”
Raylee looked up at him and responded placidly, “Whether I’m part of the family or not is none of your business. And whether I call off the engagement or not is also none of your concern.”
Samuel’s face flushed with frustration. “Are you seriously saying you intend to go through with this marriage? Have you lost your mind? You’re acting just as crazy as that lunatic!”
Casimir’s tone was solemn as he interjected, “Ray-Ray, this is a major life decision. You can’t let emotions cloud your judgment. You need to call off the wedding.”
Raylee frowned deeply. “Do you really think it’s up to me to call it off? You all know who he is—a murderer, a lunatic, and the crime boss of East Aploth. Do you honestly believe I’ll walk away unscathed if he doesn’t let me go?”
Samuel tried to reassure her. “You don’t need to be afraid of him. He’s just an illegitimate child; he’s not invincible—”
Samuel fell silent, unable to refute her. He knew how much his parents prioritized their interests, and insisting on helping Raylee break off her engagement would undoubtedly cause a heated confrontation.
Turning her gaze to Casimir, Raylee added, “And you. You’re just my ex-fiancé. What right or ability do you have to meddle in my affairs?”
“Even though we’re no longer engaged, we grew up together. If you ever face difficulties, I’m willing to protect you and look out for you,” Casimir swore.
“Protect me?” Raylee let out a sarcastic laugh. “How exactly do you plan to protect me, Mr. Sutherland? With words? Or do you actually have a plan? Go on, I’m listening.”
Casimir revealed his plan. “Samuel and I discussed sending you abroad to a place where Jeremiah won’t be able to find you. It’s the simplest and most effective solution. After some time, once he’s forgotten about you, you can return home. Don’t worry, I’ll arrange for bodyguards to protect you throughout the journey. I’ll also cover all your expenses.”
Raylee’s lips curled into a hint of a mocking smile. “That’s quite a plan, but I disagree.”
Samuel was filled with displeasure. “Why? Are you still unable to let go of Jeremiah? Even after everything he’s done to you, you still want to marry him?”