"You’re an adult now, aren’t you? The Cumberland Family has already done enough for you. If you have any self-respect, you’ll leave on your own. Spare us all the unnecessary drama."
Clara’s feet felt like they were nailed to the ground. She stood frozen for a moment before finally forcing out a dry response, "Don't worry. The day after tomorrow, I'll be gone."
She had lowered herself as much as possible, yet Rea still refused to let her go.
"Why the day after tomorrow? Can't you leave tomorrow?"
Clara's throat tightened. She didn’t know how to explain to her that the day after tomorrow wasn’t just the day she planned to move out of the Cumberland Family home, it was also the day she intended to leave this world entirely.
She remained silent, but Rea's expression turned even more displeased.
Just then, an unexpected accident occurred. On the second floor, a maid was cleaning the chandelier. No one knew what she had touched, but suddenly, the heavy fixture swayed dangerously before plummeting straight down and heading directly for Rea.
Clara stood frozen in shock and unable to react but a force from behind shoved her aside with incredible strength. It was Ian.
He rushed forward and caught Rea in his arms, his face tense with lingering fear.
"What happened?!"
Before Ian could even gather herself to speak, she saw Rea trembling in Ian’s embrace with tears welling up in her eyes.
"Don't blame Clara. It's my fault for upsetting her. Thankfully, I'm okay. She's still young, don’t be too harsh on her ..."
Her voice trembled as if she had been truly frightened, tears falling pitifully down her delicate face.
The surrounding guests looked at Clara with subtle glances. Especially Ian. His brows were furrowed and his eyes were filled with anger.
"I would never try to harm her! Even if I wanted to, how could I possibly make a chandelier fall …." Clara tried to explain, but then she caught sight of the slight smirk playing on Rea's lips. She understood instantly. This was a trap.
"Clara! There are witnesses and evidence. What more do you have to say for yourself?" Ian shouted at her.
"I used to think you were just childish and spoiled. However, now, you’re willing to drop a chandelier on someone? This is beyond immature … it's despicable!"
The words sliced into her like a knife.