Chapter 31 Chapter 31 Rachel slept deeply after the emotional turmoil, exhausted from the day's confrontations. When she woke the next morning, she found Nicolas had left Matt to protect her-a gesture that touched her more than she expected. She sat by the window watching a father and daughter playing in the hospital garden, remembering happier imes when David had lifted her to pick magnolia blossoms at age eight. 'Miss Leroix, Mrs. Leroix is here," Matt announced. 'Tell her I'm not feeling well," Rachel replied without hesitation. But Joanne had already pushed through the door, wearing an elegant cream-colored cashmere sweater with he pearl brooch Rachel had once given her, carrying a thermos of homemade chicken soup. Rachel... I made your favorite chicken noodle soup," Joanne said, tears already forming. The steam rising from the bowl triggered a memory-at fourteen, during her first period, Joanne had held her through the pain, making her hot chocolate with marshmallows and singing soft lullabies all night. But that was the past. Now Rachel couldn't trust any sudden kindness. Just leave it there." You used to love when I added honey because you hated the salty taste," Rachel said flatly. oanne's hands shook as she fumbled for the honey she'd brought. "I remembered! It's right here!" 'No need. You always said I needed to toughen up and eat what was given to me. Funny how you're weetening things now." Joanne broke down, kneeling beside the bed in her designer jeans. "Rachel, why must you be so harsh? I know you don't like Sophie, but she's orphaned! Without our protection, how would she survive?" Rachel jerked her hand away, remembering how Sophie had once made her a strawberry cake knowing she was allergic, and how Joanne had called Rachel "trouble" when she broke out in hives, Joanne produced a jewelry box containing Rachel's missing pearl earring-a family heirloom their grandmother had left her. Rachel took back what was rightfully hers without ceremony. When Joanne tried to brush her hair like old times," Rachel stepped away. "I learned to do my own hair a 16.12 He Stole My Ticket, 1 Fiew Private Revenge Served sky-High- 27.09 Chapter 31 long time ago." Through 1,095 nights in prison, braiding wet hair after being dunked in cold water. Joanne desperately pulled down her sweater collar, exposing an old burn scar. "Look! You gave me this when you were three spilling hot coffee! I never blamed you!" "Playing the guilt card won't work here." "What will it take for you to forgive us? You've already torn this family apart!" Rachel's laugh was bitter and long. "You should go check on Sophie. I heard she's having a breakdown upstairs." Joanne rushed out in panic, dropping her pill bottle. Rachel noticed the label: Fluoxetine. Antidepressants. This whole tearful performance was drug-induced. Seconds later, Joanne collided with Sophie and Arthur in the hallway-Sophie looking perfectly healthy in er designer hospital gown. Sophie immediately played victim: "Mom, did sister make you cry again? It's all my fault!" Arthur exploded. "Rachel! What did you do to Mom now?" When Matt emerged first, Arthur's rage faltered. Then Rachel appeared. 'Keep your voice down. This is a hospital, not a bar fight," Rachel said calmly. Sophie continued her act: "Sister, I'll do anything if you'll forgive Mom!" Arthur declared Rachel was just jealous, which she found laughable. "You never gave a damn about my suffering, but the moment someone whispers poison in your ear, you come after me." 'I bullied Mom? Who just tricked her into running off like a crazy person?" Rachel shot back. Sophie claimed she'd been punished with "hours of timeout," but Matt stepped forward with his professional smile. I happened to notice Sophie leaving the hospital last night and returning this morning..." Sophie panicked while Arthur demanded proof. "You're making shit up!" "Actually, the burden of proof is on you," Matt replied smoothly. Arthur was confident in Sophie's innocence. "Tine! Let's check the nursing records and clear her name completely." "Don't worry, Sophie. We'll ask about the room checks and get you justice." 16:12 He Stole My Ticket. I Flew Private: Revenge Served Sky High 27.5% Title: ReelTalk EP 40 - Contract Lovers & Heartbreak CrushReel's ongoing romance series, Miss You After Goodbye, continues to captivate on the latest ReelTalk episode. Haley Lohrli dives into her daring new character, while Ben and Josh share insights into their own memorable roles, promising a blend of laughter and heartwarming moments. Exploring themes of love, loss, and unexpected connections, this episode delves deep into the intricate relationships that drive the narrative forward. As the stars reveal their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie, viewers are in for a treat with each unfolding scene. What sets this episode apart is its ability to balance humor with poignant storytelling, offering a refreshing take on modern romance dynamics. Dive into the world of Contract Lovers & Heartbreak, available to read at CrushReel for a journey that promises both entertainment and emotional resonance.