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 . 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 . 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 . Get some rest . Im going to work . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!