Chapter 15 Doris clenched her fists so tightly that her nails bit into her palms , her teeth grinding as she endured the punishment meted out by Jimmy .
Do you admit you were wrong ? Are you going to pay the debt or not ? Jimmy bellowed , his voice shaking the walls .
Gritting her teeth , Doris said , I did nothing wrong , and I wont pay Ruperts debt .
Jimmys fury burned hotter , his temper flaring like a firestorm Fine .
Lets just say I raised an ungrateful wretch .
Today , Ill beat the conscience back into you , or Ill beat you to death .
Seeing that Doris refused to hack down even under his blows , he swung the cane with renewed force , each strike harder than the last Peyton , unable to bear the sight , threw herself between them , shielding Doris with her body .
Jimmy , stop .
Youll kill her if you keep this up , she pleaded desperately .
If she dies , Ill go to prison .
And if we cant pay the money back , Ill also go to jail .
Whats the difference ? Either way , Im doomed .
Now back off .
Jimmy snarled , his voice laced with venom .
He shoved Peyton aside with a rough push , his rage unrelenting .
Peyton clung to his leg in a final , desperate attempt to stop him .
Doris , run .
Get out of here .
Stop going against your father , she urged , her voice cracking with fear .
Tears welled in Doriss eyes , glinting like broken glass .
Mom … Go .
Now ! Peyton yelled , her tone both commanding and protective .
Doris hesitated for only a moment before scrambling to her feet and bolting out of the house .
Once she was gone , Jimmy , exhausted and drenched in sweat , threw the cane onto the floor and collapsed onto the sofa .
Peyton picked up the cane , placing it carefully back into place .
You went too far , Jimmy .
What if you really hurt her badly ? We have to go all in and take the risk , Jimmy shot back , grabbing a glass of water and downing it in large gulps .
You stood up for her just now .
Lets see if that soft heart of hers comes around .
Keep reminding her how much weve sacrificed .
She has to repay that money .
If she doesnt , itll ruin us and Rupert .
So stop being so softhearted .
I … I understand , Peyton murmured , though unease churned in her stomach like a stormy sea .
Doris hailed a cab to Greenlake Hill , her back stinging with the fire of fresh welts , the pain seeping into her very bones .
He really went all out today .
If it werent for Mom stepping in , I mightve been seriously injured .
Did he really want to kill me ? she wondered .
The thought coiled around her heart like thorny vines , squeezing until she could barely breathe .
By the time she reached Lewiss apartment building , she felt as if she were suffocating .
She collapsed onto a bench near the entrance , the streetlamp above casting a dim golden glow over her tear streaked face .
The tears she had held back for so long finally spilled over , coursing down her cheeks in silent streams .
She bit down on her hand , stifling her sobs , her shoulders trembling uncontrollably .
What happened ? A smooth , melodic voice broke through the stillness , startling her .
She looked up to see Lewis standing nearby , his face shadowed but unmistakably concerned , Ivan had given him a ride 1/4 Chapter 15 home .
Lewis had just gotten out of Ivans cat at the gate of the complex , walking through the neighborhood when he spotted her crying here Doris lowered her head and quickly wiped her face with the back of her hand , her movements hurried and clumsy .
Why are you here ? she asked , her voice thick with emotion Under the faint glow of the streetlight , her tear streaked face , framed by loose strands of hair , was heartbreakingly delicate like a flower in a storm , fragile yet hauntingly beautiful .
Lewiss gare lingered on her for a moment , his eyes filled with an emotion she couldnt place .
Answer my question first , he replied , his tone steady yet probing Doris sniffles , forcing herself to sound steady .
I , I got something in my eye , she lied , her voice hoarse and unconvincing .
Is that so ? Lewiss sharp gaze lingered on her pasty face and pale lips .
Something felt off , though he couldnt quite put his finger on it .
Why would I lie to you ? Doris mustered what little strength she had , straightening her back to feign composure .
Just go on upstairs .
Ill sit here for a while longer Lewis hesitated for a beat before shrugging .
Suit yourself , he said , pushing open the apartment buildings door and disappearing inside .
Upstairs .
Lewis went about his routine showering , changing into comfortable clothes , and settling in the living room book .
Time ticked by, and when the clock struck ten , he glanced at the door .
Doris still hadnt come up .
with a A faint crease formed between his brows .
He figured she shouldve been up by now .
Unable to shake the unease gnawing at him , he placed the book down , slipped on his shoes , and headed back downstairs .
What he found made him sigh , half in annoyance and half in disbelief .
Doris was sprawled out on the bench , fast asleep .
Unbelievable , he muttered , shaking his head .
Youve got some nerve .
Falling asleep out here like its a five star hotel He approached her and leaned down , his voice low but firm .
Doris , if you want to sleep , do it at home .
Her face , however , betrayed no peace .
Her brows were knit tightly together , and beads of cold sweat dotted her forehead .
No … dont hit me .
It hurts … she whimpered , her voice faint yet trembling with raw fear .
Lewiss expression darkened .
Shes having a nightmare ? And shes dreaming of being hit ? he thought .
Doris , wake up , he said softly , placing a steady hand on her shoulder .
When she didnt respond , he shook her gently but firmly , his voice laced with urgency .
Youre dreaming .
No ones hitting you .
Wake up .
A pained gasp escaped her lips as if his touch had caused her physical agony .
Her eyelids fluttered , and slowly , she opened .
her eyes , blinking .
Her blurry vision focused on Lewiss handsome face hovering close to hers .
Whats wrong ? Lewis asked , his tone more serious now , L… Im fine .
Doris whispered weakly , but her eyes shut again before the words even fully left her lips , as if she were slipping into a darker abyss , It felt like she was trapped in an endless dream .
In that dream , Doris was no longer the Doris of now .
She was the beloved daughter of a wealthy couple , growing up in a home filled with love and laughter ..
Her parents adored her , treating her like the apple of their eye .
She even had an older brother , one who doted on her and shielded her from every storm 2/4 13:05 Wed , 26 Feb Chapter 15 But dreams were nothing but fleeting illusions .
When she woke , all that remained was cold , gray thality .
Her their fate hollow , as if the warmth of the dream had been ripped away , leaving only a bitter chill .
a The morning sun poured through the window , its rays bright and unyielding .
Dorn squinted , raising had to childber eyes from the blinding light Youre awake .
Lewiss voice came from nearby , calm but unmistakably relieved .
He placed a thermon on the bedude cable standing tall and composed as always Doris turned her head to him , her voice raspy as she asked , Why am I in a hospital You fainted last night , Lewis explained , realizing that she probably didnt remember anything You were burning up with a fever .
Do you have any idea how scary you looked ? Like you were knocking on deaths door .
Sorry , Doris murmured , her throat parched and raw .
I brought you chicken broth .
Have some , Lewis said , his tone firm yet oddly gentle as he opened the thermos and poured the golden liquid into a bowl .
Placing a spoon in the bowl , he handed it to Doris , his movements smooth and efficient ab Doris took the bowl , her fingers brushing the warmth of the ceramic , and sipped tentatively .
The savory richness of the broth spread across her tongue , comforting yet complex .
This is delicious , she remarked , her voice tinged with genuine surprise .
Of course it is , Lewis smirked , almost smugly .
I had a chef … 1 had a chef I know teach me how to make it .
I cooked it myself , so naturally , its good .
His words might have sounded impressive if he hadnt nearly let the truth slip this was the work of his private gourmet chef , someone whose culinary skills rivaled that of a five star restaurant ..
Thank you , Doris said with a faint smile .
Once Im better , Ill find a way to repay you Just finish it all .
Dont waste a drop , he instructed , his sharp gaze softening briefly as he nudged the bowl closer to her .
After finishing the meal , Doris picked up her phone to call her boss and request leave for the day .
But as she set the phone down , she noticed something strange Lewis still hadnt left .
He stood there , composed and unhurried , as though he had all the time in the world .
Arent you going to work ? Doris asked , her brows knitting in confusion .
Its not time yet , Lewis replied , glancing at the clock .
It was already 8:20 am , and his nonchalance was almost unnerving The air between them shifted .
Doris could feel the weight of his gaze , scrutinizing and unrelenting .
He clearly had something to say .
Lewis didnt beat around the bush .
Where did those injuries come from ? From the fragments of her sleep talking the night before , hed gleaned that someone had hit her .
But he didnt know who il was .
Doris lowered her head , her lashes casting long shadows over her cheeks .
Sadness darkened her eyes , and her lips pressed together tightly You dont want to talk about it ? Lewiss sharp intuition picked up on her expression , his tone making it clear he already understood her reluctance .
I appreciate what youve done for me , Doris finally said , her voice quiet but resolute .
But this is personal .
Its my business .
She wasnt ready to peel back the layers of her pain to expose the raw , ugly truth to him .
That misery part of her life was a a 13:05 Wed , 26 Feb EXEREB Chapter 15 wound she didnt want him to see .
It was all she had left of her dignity .
Lewiss expression turned cold , his eyes narrowin Chapter 15 Doris clenched her fists so tightly that her nails bit into her palms , her teeth grinding as she endured the punishment meted out by Jimmy .
Do you admit you were wrong ? Are you going to pay the debt or not ? Jimmy bellowed , his voice shaking the walls .
Gritting her teeth , Doris said , I did nothing wrong , and I wont pay Ruperts debt .
Jimmys fury burned hotter , his temper flaring like a firestorm Fine .
Lets just say I raised an ungrateful wretch .
Today , Ill beat the conscience back into you , or Ill beat you to death .
Seeing that Doris refused to hack down even under his blows , he swung the cane with renewed force , each strike harder than the last Peyton , unable to bear the sight , threw herself between them , shielding Doris with her body .
Jimmy , stop .
Youll kill her if you keep this up , she pleaded desperately .
If she dies , Ill go to prison .
And if we cant pay the money back , Ill also go to jail .
Whats the difference ? Either way , Im doomed .
Now back off .
Jimmy snarled , his voice laced with venom .
He shoved Peyton aside with a rough push , his rage unrelenting .
Peyton clung to his leg in a final , desperate attempt to stop him .
Doris , run .
Get out of here .
Stop going against your father , she urged , her voice cracking with fear .
Tears welled in Doriss eyes , glinting like broken glass .
Mom … Go .
Now ! Peyton yelled , her tone both commanding and protective .
Doris hesitated for only a moment before scrambling to her feet and bolting out of the house .
Once she was gone , Jimmy , exhausted and drenched in sweat , threw the cane onto the floor and collapsed onto the sofa .
Peyton picked up the cane , placing it carefully back into place .
You went too far , Jimmy .
What if you really hurt her badly ? We have to go all in and take the risk , Jimmy shot back , grabbing a glass of water and downing it in large gulps .
You stood up for her just now .
Lets see if that soft heart of hers comes around .
Keep reminding her how much weve sacrificed .
She has to repay that money .
If she doesnt , itll ruin us and Rupert .
So stop being so softhearted .
I … I understand , Peyton murmured , though unease churned in her stomach like a stormy sea .
Doris hailed a cab to Greenlake Hill , her back stinging with the fire of fresh welts , the pain seeping into her very bones .
He really went all out today .
If it werent for Mom stepping in , I mightve been seriously injured .
Did he really want to kill me ? she wondered .
The thought coiled around her heart like thorny vines , squeezing until she could barely breathe .
By the time she reached Lewiss apartment building , she felt as if she were suffocating .
She collapsed onto a bench near the entrance , the streetlamp above casting a dim golden glow over her tear streaked face .
The tears she had held back for so long finally spilled over , coursing down her cheeks in silent streams .
She bit down on her hand , stifling her sobs , her shoulders trembling uncontrollably .
What happened ? A smooth , melodic voice broke through the stillness , startling her .
She looked up to see Lewis standing nearby , his face shadowed but unmistakably concerned , Ivan had given him a ride 1/4 Chapter 15 home .
Lewis had just gotten out of Ivans cat at the gate of the complex , walking through the neighborhood when he spotted her crying here Doris lowered her head and quickly wiped her face with the back of her hand , her movements hurried and clumsy .
Why are you here ? she asked , her voice thick with emotion Under the faint glow of the streetlight , her tear streaked face , framed by loose strands of hair , was heartbreakingly delicate like a flower in a storm , fragile yet hauntingly beautiful .
Lewiss gare lingered on her for a moment , his eyes filled with an emotion she couldnt place .
Answer my question first , he replied , his tone steady yet probing Doris sniffles , forcing herself to sound steady .
I , I got something in my eye , she lied , her voice hoarse and unconvincing .
Is that so ? Lewiss sharp gaze lingered on her pasty face and pale lips .
Something felt off , though he couldnt quite put his finger on it .
Why would I lie to you ? Doris mustered what little strength she had , straightening her back to feign composure .
Just go on upstairs .
Ill sit here for a while longer Lewis hesitated for a beat before shrugging .
Suit yourself , he said , pushing open the apartment buildings door and disappearing inside .
Upstairs .
Lewis went about his routine showering , changing into comfortable clothes , and settling in the living room book .
Time ticked by, and when the clock struck ten , he glanced at the door .
Doris still hadnt come up .
with a A faint crease formed between his brows .
He figured she shouldve been up by now .
Unable to shake the unease gnawing at him , he placed the book down , slipped on his shoes , and headed back downstairs .
What he found made him sigh , half in annoyance and half in disbelief .
Doris was sprawled out on the bench , fast asleep .
Unbelievable , he muttered , shaking his head .
Youve got some nerve .
Falling asleep out here like its a five star hotel He approached her and leaned down , his voice low but firm .
Doris , if you want to sleep , do it at home .
Her face , however , betrayed no peace .
Her brows were knit tightly together , and beads of cold sweat dotted her forehead .
No … dont hit me .
It hurts … she whimpered , her voice faint yet trembling with raw fear .
Lewiss expression darkened .
Shes having a nightmare ? And shes dreaming of being hit ? he thought .
Doris , wake up , he said softly , placing a steady hand on her shoulder .
When she didnt respond , he shook her gently but firmly , his voice laced with urgency .
Youre dreaming .
No ones hitting you .
Wake up .
A pained gasp escaped her lips as if his touch had caused her physical agony .
Her eyelids fluttered , and slowly , she opened .
her eyes , blinking .
Her blurry vision focused on Lewiss handsome face hovering close to hers .
Whats wrong ? Lewis asked , his tone more serious now , L… Im fine .
Doris whispered weakly , but her eyes shut again before the words even fully left her lips , as if she were slipping into a darker abyss , It felt like she was trapped in an endless dream .
In that dream , Doris was no longer the Doris of now .
She was the beloved daughter of a wealthy couple , growing up in a home filled with love and laughter ..
Her parents adored her , treating her like the apple of their eye .
She even had an older brother , one who doted on her and shielded her from every storm 2/4 13:05 Wed , 26 Feb Chapter 15 But dreams were nothing but fleeting illusions .
When she woke , all that remained was cold , gray thality .
Her their fate hollow , as if the warmth of the dream had been ripped away , leaving only a bitter chill .
a The morning sun poured through the window , its rays bright and unyielding .
Dorn squinted , raising had to childber eyes from the blinding light Youre awake .
Lewiss voice came from nearby , calm but unmistakably relieved .
He placed a thermon on the bedude cable standing tall and composed as always Doris turned her head to him , her voice raspy as she asked , Why am I in a hospital You fainted last night , Lewis explained , realizing that she probably didnt remember anything You were burning up with a fever .
Do you have any idea how scary you looked ? Like you were knocking on deaths door .
Sorry , Doris murmured , her throat parched and raw .
I brought you chicken broth .
Have some , Lewis said , his tone firm yet oddly gentle as he opened the thermos and poured the golden liquid into a bowl .
Placing a spoon in the bowl , he handed it to Doris , his movements smooth and efficient ab Doris took the bowl , her fingers brushing the warmth of the ceramic , and sipped tentatively .
The savory richness of the broth spread across her tongue , comforting yet complex .
This is delicious , she remarked , her voice tinged with genuine surprise .
Of course it is , Lewis smirked , almost smugly .
I had a chef … 1 had a chef I know teach me how to make it .
I cooked it myself , so naturally , its good .
His words might have sounded impressive if he hadnt nearly let the truth slip this was the work of his private gourmet chef , someone whose culinary skills rivaled that of a five star restaurant ..
Thank you , Doris said with a faint smile .
Once Im better , Ill find a way to repay you Just finish it all .
Dont waste a drop , he instructed , his sharp gaze softening briefly as he nudged the bowl closer to her .
After finishing the meal , Doris picked up her phone to call her boss and request leave for the day .
But as she set the phone down , she noticed something strange Lewis still hadnt left .
He stood there , composed and unhurried , as though he had all the time in the world .
Arent you going to work ? Doris asked , her brows knitting in confusion .
Its not time yet , Lewis replied , glancing at the clock .
It was already 8:20 am , and his nonchalance was almost unnerving The air between them shifted .
Doris could feel the weight of his gaze , scrutinizing and unrelenting .
He clearly had something to say .
Lewis didnt beat around the bush .
Where did those injuries come from ? From the fragments of her sleep talking the night before , hed gleaned that someone had hit her .
But he didnt know who il was .
Doris lowered her head , her lashes casting long shadows over her cheeks .
Sadness darkened her eyes , and her lips pressed together tightly You dont want to talk about it ? Lewiss sharp intuition picked up on her expression , his tone making it clear he already understood her reluctance .
I appreciate what youve done for me , Doris finally said , her voice quiet but resolute .
But this is personal .
Its my business .
She wasnt ready to peel back the layers of her pain to expose the raw , ugly truth to him .
That misery part of her life was a a 13:05 Wed , 26 Feb EXEREB Chapter 15 wound she didnt want him to see .
It was all she had left of her dignity .
Lewiss expression turned cold , his eyes narrowing dangerously .
Doris , were married .
Helping you isnt some grand gesture ; its what Im supposed to do .
If you die , Ill be the first one people would suspect .
And if I ever find out youre doing something you shouldnt be behind my back … He leaned in slightly , his voice dropp to an icy whisper .
Youll pay for it .
Mark my words , I wouldnt .
Doris hurriedly said , shaking her head in a frantic attempt to dispel his suspicion .
Better not , he interrupted , his tone calm but menacing .
Because trust me , Doris , the cost is more than you can afford He grabbed his suit jacket and draped it over his arm , his posture as composed as ever , though his words still hung heavy in the air .
Get some rest .
Im going to work .
g dangerously .
Doris , were married .
Helping you isnt some grand gesture ; its what Im supposed to do .
If you die , Ill be the first one people would suspect .
And if I ever find out youre doing something you shouldnt be behind my back … He leaned in slightly , his voice dropp to an icy whisper .
Youll pay for it .
Mark my words , I wouldnt .
Doris hurriedly said , shaking her head in a frantic attempt to dispel his suspicion .
Better not , he interrupted , his tone calm but menacing .
Because trust me , Doris , the cost is more than you can afford He grabbed his suit jacket and draped it over his arm , his posture as composed as ever , though his words still hung heavy in the air .

Follow new episodes on the CrushnovelS.Com

Get some rest .
Im going to work .