Chapter 9 "What do you mean?" Beatrice asked, puzzled. "When your mom called for help after you fainted, Caden rushed out, picked you up, and carried you away. If it hadn't been for Xander, you'd still be lying in his place." "What?" Beatrice tightened her grip on the blanket in shock. "Relax. Caden said he just didn't want you dying there. Bad for their reputation." "I see." That sounded like the Caden she knew. Beatrice gave a bitter smile. The events of last night felt like a dream. After taking her medication and resting for a while, Beatrice got up and packed a bag. She avoided Monica on her way out, knowing she'd be in tears otherwise. As she stepped out of the mansion, the maids averted their eyes, as though contact with her would bring bad luck. She stood under the portico, gazing at the darkening sky. The day was finally coming to an end. Autumn came early to Chicago, and the evening wind was brisk and chilling. Beatrice gripped the strap of her bag tighter and quickened her steps. The Baldwin's mansion was a sprawling garden-style mansion in the best part of Chicago. To avoid interference, the family had long since bought up the entire piece of land. They built a private park around it, sometimes opening it for events. No subway, no bus routes, and very few taxis, Even at a fast pace, it would take Beatrice twenty minutes to reach the nearest station. As she walked under the streetlights, a car horn sounded behind her. Instinctively, she moved to the side. But the car pulled up alongside her. "Ms. Lindsey, please get in the car." 11:32 0.4% < Chapter 9 The window rolled down, revealing a familiar face. It was Caden's assistant, Keith. Menu Beatrice froze for a moment, her gaze flicking to the back seat. A hand adorned with a red jade ring tapped on a knee-a gesture of impatience. Caden. Beatrice had no desire to get involved with him again. She shook her head."Thanks, but no. Safe travels, Caden." She adjusted her bag and kept walking. Behind her, Keith swiftly got out of the car and blocked her path. His polite smile was measured, his tone calm."Ms. Lindsey, please get in the car. This is for your own good. Mr. Caden said walking away with your luggage like this would be bad for everyone. If you refuse, I'll have to use my own methods." Beatrice tightened her grip on her bag and glanced at the darkened car window. She could see nothing. But she knew Caden was watching. His ruthless reputation in Chicago preceded him, and she had experienced it firsthand in her previous life. If she challenged him, the outcome was predictable. The heat drained from her body, leaving her cold and trembling. She had worked too hard for this second chance at life. She wouldn't risk angering Caden again. Beatrice nodded and moved toward the front seat. But Keith guided her into the back. Settling in, she caught the scent of alcohol lingering in the car. Suspicious, she glanced at Caden. His tall frame leaned against the seat, eyes half-closed. Most of his face was hidden in shadow. Cold. Dangerous. He lifted his eyelids slightly and murmured, "Leaving?" 11:32 32 0.4% < Chapter 9 His tone was emotionless, but it pressed down on Beatrice like a weight in her throat. It took her a moment to recognize the sensation. It was exactly how he had spoken when he punished her in her previous life."Leave? It won't be that easy." Menu Swallowing her hatred, Beatrice shifted slightly and was about to respond when her phone rang. It was Monica. Beatrice hesitated, fearing another lecture about missed opportunities. But Caden's gaze was already on her, his brow slightly furrowed. Reluctantly, she answered. "Beatrice! Are you trying to drive me crazy? Have I ever mistreated you? Why are you running away from home?" Monica's voice trembled with emotion, each word heavy with helplessness. She knew she couldn't protect her daughter. "Mom, I'll be fine. I'll take care of myself." "Just... be careful." Monica sighed in defeat."Beatrice, maybe Ryan could help set up a blind date. Having someone to rely on is better than being alone." And the lectures resumed. Beatrice cast a sideways glance at Caden, unable to make out his expression, though her anxiety mounted. Hurriedly, she mumbled a goodbye. "Don't dismiss me so easily. I'm doing this for your own good. It's settled. In a few days, you're going on a blind date..." "Mom! I'm hanging up now." Beatrice ended the call. In her previous life, Monica had tried to arrange dates, but everything had fallen apart after her entanglement with Caden. Speaking of Caden, had he overheard? If he had, it didn't matter. He wouldn't care. 11:32 0.4% < Chapter 9 Menu But the car grew unnervingly silent, the atmosphere so tense that a pin drop could be heard. Streetlights fractured through the branches, casting fragmented light across Caden's sharp features. Beatrice sat stiffly, her fingers clenched. A faint sneer broke the silence. "A blind date?" "Beatrice, was anything you said last night true?" Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!