Lucas's eyes widened with shock and anger. "What? They did that to you?" His voice shook with barely controlled rage and I could see the muscles in his jaw clenching tightly.
I nodded, tears welling up in my eyes as the memories of that horrific night resurfaced. "I had no choice, Lucas. They wouldn't stop. I was so scared and there was no one to help me."
His grip on my shoulders tightened, his knuckles turning white. "Helena, why didn't you tell me? Why didn't you call for help?"
"I did," I whispered, my voice breaking. "I called you. I begged for your help, but you hung up. After that, I lost all hope."
The hands gripping my waist tightened into fists, anger blazing in his eyes.
“Lucas, don’t be angry.” I pleaded, “I know I was wrong. I really don’t want to go back there.”
Lucas released me, grabbed his phone and walked out to the balcony. Through the door, I couldn’t make out his words, but I heard him roar, “Sharon, you broke your promise!”
When he returned, he looked even angrier. I shrank back in fear. Seeing my reaction, his expression softened a bit and he pulled me back into his arms.
“Helena, don’t worry. I’ll make sure you get justice.”
“No need.” I shook my head. “I just want to find a place without you and live quietly.”
But Lucas seemed determined to help me. He kept making phone calls and while he was distracted, I slipped out of the hospital and returned to work. The manager wanted to fire me, citing my mental instability, but after begging her for a long time, she reluctantly let me stay.
After a long day, I limped back home, only to find Lucas waiting at my door. Before I could turn away, he grabbed my wrist and dragged me to his car.
“Lucas, where are you taking me?” I asked stiffly.
“You’ll live with me from now on,” he said calmly while driving. “I’ve arranged a light job for you at the company. You can start tomorrow.”
His domineering attitude left no room for negotiation. But I wanted to stay as far away from him as possible. I declined his offer firmly. He finally turned to me, his eyes serious.
“Helena, you’re the adopted daughter of the Specter. Think about the family’s reputation.”
He meant that my job as a cleaner was an embarrassment to the Specter family. It was true; everyone knew I was their adopted daughter. But this time, I was resolute in keeping my distance from him.