Chapter 3

I tried my best to control it. I thought I wasn't afraid anymore. At the very least, I thought I wouldn't fear Scott. We had been together for eight years.

"What is wrong with you?" Scott let out a sneer. "I knew that sweet act was fake. No matter what, you're apologizing to Chloe today."

I didn't speak. I cowered against the door, struggling to draw a single breath.

Every word he said, every move he made, overlapped with the sickening sneers of those kidnappers.

Their cruel laughter, the sound of iron pipes scraping across concrete, the sharp, blinding agony that shattered every bone—it rushed back like an avalanche.

I had never truly escaped that cellar. I would never be free of it.

"I'm fine. Just tired."

"Summer, you're back! Please don't be mad. I already scolded Scott; he won't yell at you again."

I looked at Chloe sitting comfortably in the VIP hospital suite, dressed impeccably, her makeup completely flawless. She carried herself like the mistress of the house, smiling with victorious condescension.

After speaking, she tossed Scott a playful glare.

Scott gave a low chuckle, walked over to her bedside, picked up her pill bottle, and scolded gently, "You skipped your meds just because I wasn't here?"

"Just a little longer! It tastes so bitter," Chloe whined, tugging on his sleeve.

I stood there, watching the picture-perfect couple. They really were made for each other. Why hadn't I seen it before?

Scott, you should have rejected me back then.

You shouldn't have said yes when I confessed to you. You shouldn't have promised me forever.

Did it never cross your mind that I would actually believe you?

And you shouldn't have given me a child. Bringing him into this toxic mess was pure cruelty.

Noticing me, Chloe quickly pushed Scott away. "Look at you. Summer finally forgave you and came back. Instead of staying by her side, you ran to see me. You're so thoughtless."

She playfully swatted his arm. "Summer, don't be mad. I'll hit him for you."

Scott looked at me, a silent reminder of why I was brought here.

I stepped slowly in front of Chloe. "Miss Hayes, I crossed the line before. I'm sorry." My voice was calm, completely flat.

I caught the subtle smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. Fine. I won't fight you for him anymore. You can have him.

"I'm exhausted. I'm going home." Scott still held my hand, refusing to let go.

I looked at him blankly, motioning for him to release me.

Scott glanced at Chloe, then said, "I'll drive you back."

"No need. Stay here with Miss Hayes." I pulled my hand from his grip.

I didn't look back. For the first time in eight years, I walked away without looking back at Scott.

"Mommy! I missed you so much!" Before I could clear the doorway, a small figure squeezed through the crack.

Leo threw himself into my arms, sobbing hysterically.

My tears spilled over instantly. My poor baby. He was only four years old, yet he had to endure all of this.

"You bad woman! You hurt my mommy! I hate you!" Before I could even wrap my arms around him, Leo charged toward Chloe's bed, shoving her off the mattress with all his tiny might.