Chapter 22 Australian sunlight streamed through the bakery's glass window, falling across Sophia's fingers as they smooth marble countertop. "My surname is Davis. Just call me Michael Davis." "All this equipment was replaced last month." The owner adjusted his glasses. "Wouldn't sell if not for family troubles." Gerald stood behind Sophia, naturally taking the brochure from her hands. "You said this place specializes in French desserts?" "Right. Trained in Paris for three years." Michael smiled, suddenly noticing Sophia's rigid posture. "Lady, are you alright?" Sophia snapped back, forcing a smile. "Fine. It's just... you said your surname is Davis?" "Yeah, the Davis family in New York. Heard of it?" The owner sighed. "Though I'm just a branch relative. Always loved traveling..." Gerald's gaze sharpened instantly. "The rush back home-did something happen to the Davis family?" Michael hesitated, then pulled out chairs like finding confidants. "Sit. I'll brew coffee." As the coffee machine hummed, his voice lowered. "The Davises... crossed paths with a madman." Sophia's fingertip unconsciously traced her cup rim. "My cousin Emily." 0.0 % 288 Vouchers Chapter 22 Michael gave a bitter laugh. "Dragged onto an operating table by that Lee heir. Forced her to have surgery... to prove parentage." The coffee cup slipped from Sophia's hands. Brown liquid splattered across white tiles. "My apologies! Wasn't intentional!" She scrambled to wipe it, but Gerald stopped her. "Let me." He gently held her trembling hands, passing her a tissue. Michael continued. "That lunatic discovered my cousin faked pregnancy. Forced the surgery. Now she's..." He tapped his temple. "...unwell. Rambling nonsense daily at the mental institution." Outside, a seagull shrieked sharply. Sophia stared at her reflection in the coffee puddle, seeing her past shivering self. "Alexander truly lost his mind." Michael shook his head. "All for some woman. Tanked his family business-stock prices plummeted. Even committed his parents and sister to the asylum..." "Asylum?" Gerald frowned. "Call it countryside recuperation, but everyone knows what that sanatorium does." Michael dropped his voice. "Healthy folks enter; few leave intact." Sophia's face paled further. She stood abruptly. "Need the restroom." The restroom mirror showed her waxen face. Cold water hit her skin before she realized she was crying. Not for Alexander, but for her foolish past self who thought she could escape. 28.4 % 10:56 Chapter 22 He's insane. If... if he ever chased her down recklessly, what then? A soft knock sounded at the door. "Sophia?" Gerald's voice held gentle firmness. "You okay? Can I be here for you?" She inhaled deeply, yanked the door open, and threw herself into his arms. The scent of mint enveloped her, bringing comfort. "I'm fine." She mumbled. "It's just...unexpected to hear their ending this way." 288 Vouchers "Even though they later treated me coldly because of Olivia...those first twenty years, they truly cherished me like their own daughter." Gerald gently stroked her back. "But they don't deserve your pity, Sophia. Your excellence brought them immense pride all those years. You owe them nothing..." "Will you buy this place now?" Sophia looked up, meeting his concerned gaze. Sunlight streamed from behind him, gilding his outline in gold. "Yes." A sudden smile touched her lips, eyes growing resolute. "I won't run anymore. Whether he traces me through this or not, I'm done hiding." "I did nothing wrong. Besides," her voice softened, "I have you now, don't I?" Returning to the front hall, Michael was organizing documents. "Made your decision?" He asked, forcing alertness. 60.3 % 10:56 Chapter 22 Gerald's arm settled around Sophia's shoulders. "We'll take it. However..." "This figure exceeds your asking price by 20%. The condition: once you're back home, never menti identity." Michael paused, his eyes scanning Sophia's signature on the contract before a knowing smile emerged. "It seems my confidante today...is rather extraordinary." "Rest assured," he added lightly, "forgetting things happens to be my greatest talent." 89.1 % Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!