Chapter 9 I found that Urban Slum . At the end of a dark , damp alley , I found his rented room . The door wasn't locked . I pushed it open . A heavy smell of medicine and mildew hit me . The room was tiny , practically empty . Benjamin lay on the bed , one leg in a cast , suspended high . He'd grown painfully thin , lips chapped , face ghostly pale . Seeing me , he struggled to sit up but gasped in pain as his wound protested . I walked over and stood by the bed , looking at him . We just stared at each other , neither speaking . Only his labored breathing filled the room . After a long while , my voice came out hoarse : " Why ? " " No reason . " His eyes dodged mine . " Just glad you're okay . " " Was it worth it ? For someone who's been out of your life ? " " Worth it . " He didn't hesitate . My tears splashed , one by one , onto his cast . " Benjamin , you're an idiot . " He smiled - the first time I'd seen him smile in so long . " People always said I was smart . But after meeting you ... I realized how stupid I really am . " Stupid enough ... to almost lose you . " I didn't reply . Turning , I left and returned with groceries and medicine . I cleaned his wounds , changed his bandages , made him a bowl of Hot Noodle Soup . 0.00 % 08:45 : Chapter 9 He ate slowly . After finishing , he looked at me : " Elizabeth ... are you pitying me ? " " No. " I met his gaze . " I'm thanking my lifesaver . " He fell silent . From that day , I came every day . I brought meals , tended to him , kept him company . We talked about my job , Jack's antics - but never the past or future . Like two strangers getting acquainted . His injuries gradually healed . The ice between us began to thaw . One sunny afternoon , I wheeled him downstairs for sunlight . He suddenly asked : " Jack ... is he doing alright ? " " He's great . Shows real talent for drawing . " " Like you . " " His math scores are top too . " " Like me . " His voice dropped . We both went quiet . " Benjamin , " I said , studying him . " Do you ... want to be his father ? " His whole body jerked . He looked up , disbelief flooding his eyes . 288 iVouchers I continued before he could answer : " Jack's kindergarten is holding a parent - child sports day . They require fathers to attend . He's ... refused twice now . Benjamin's eyes reddened . He reached out as if to grab my hand , but froze mid - air , not daring to touch . " Can I ... really ? " His voice trembled violently . 48.54 % 08:45 288 iVouchers up , and it's gone forever . " Chapter 9 " You get one chance . " My tone held no compromise . " Mess it He nodded hard , tears streaming down like a child getting candy . 93.70 % In the world of "Crimson Heiress" by CrushReel, business magnate Zelda falls victim to a treacherous plot orchestrated by her own brother and husband, unwittingly surrendering her empire to the cunning Yasmina. As Yasmina's sinister intentions unravel, Zelda meets a tragic fate. However, a twist of fate brings Zelda back to life, setting the stage for a riveting saga of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. Exploring themes of deceit, power struggles, and the complexities of relationships, "Crimson Heiress" delves into the intertwined lives of its characters against the backdrop of a captivating blend of CEO dynamics, time travel elements, and mysterious reincarnations. The narrative unfolds within the opulent setting of a grand mansion, where secrets are as abundant as the characters' ambitions. As Zelda navigates through her journey of transformation and retribution, readers are drawn into a web of drama that promises unexpected twists at every turn. What sets "Crimson Heiress" apart is its seamless fusion of suspenseful storytelling with elements of glow-up narratives and intricate character developments. With its gripping plotline and immersive exploration of vengeance and second chances, this ongoing tale captivates audiences seeking a compelling blend of mystery and drama. Discover the allure of "Crimson Heiress" for yourself; available to read online at CrushReel.