The Day Our Promise Breaks

After venting her frustration, Dahlia snapped back to her real mission. She had used the threat of self-harm as a temporary shield to keep Charles and Wesley at bay. But deep down, she knew this was a short-lived solution. If Wesley truly had incriminating evidence and passed it on to anyone, she'd be done for. She'd lose Charles and possibly end up behind bars.

Dahlia had grown accustomed to a life of luxury over the years; the thought of prison was unbearable, a nightmare she couldn't face. She had to avoid it at all costs. The only person who could still influence Wesley was Sandy.

"Sandy," Dahlia's voice softened, switching to a gentler tone.

Sandy's eyes brightened. "Mom."

"Sandy, Wesley has evidence that could mean losing me. You need to call him now and tell him that if he dares to give the evidence to your father, Charles, you'll threaten to end your life, making him lose you forever."

Sandy shrank back at the mention of "end," visibly uncomfortable. She didn't want to die; she still wanted a good life.

"I'm not asking you to actually do it, just to threaten him, okay?" Dahlia said, pulling Sandy closer, her patience wearing thin.

"Got it," Sandy nodded, obediently under Dahlia's intense gaze.

"Good girl." Pleased with Sandy's compliance, Dahlia hugged her tight and kissed her cheek. She reassured Sandy and coached her on exactly what to say to Wesley over the phone. This wasn't Sandy's first lesson in manipulation.

Sandy memorized every word, repeating them back flawlessly. Dahlia was satisfied, rewarding her with another kiss. "Well done. Now, go ahead and call Wesley."

"Okay, Mom." Sandy dutifully used her smartwatch to call Wesley.

The phone rang just outside the hospital room door. Both Dahlia and Sandy turned to see Wesley standing there, having slipped in unnoticed.noveldrama

Realizing Wesley had overheard her coaching Sandy, Dahlia panicked. Her plan would unravel if he knew.

"Wesley, let me explain..." Dahlia started instinctively, nudging Sandy forward.

Sandy glanced at her mother. Even without eye contact, she seemed to understand Dahlia's unspoken directive. She dashed over to Wesley, reaching out, "Daddy~”

swnovel

Wesley didn't move. He took Sandy's hand, looked down at her small face, and bent to lift her up.

"Did you hurt your ankle?" he asked, noting her limp.

It had happened when Dahlia had shoved her off the chair.

"No," Sandy quickly shook her head. But as Wesley removed her sock to reveal

the swollen ankle, he felt a pang of hurt.

Dahlia was on edge. The hospital

room wasn't secure. The nurse could return any moment, and Charles might drop by unexpectedly. If Charles saw Wesley there, her situation would become even more complicated. swnovel

Sandy caught Dahlia's signaling glance and turned back to Wesley, pleading, "Daddy, I'm okay."

"If you just give Mom the evidence she wants, Sandy won't hurt anymore."

"Daddy, please hand over the evidence to Mom, okay?" She even gave him a little peck on the cheek to sway him.

Wesley stayed silent, setting Sandy back on the sofa. He calmly dialed Evelyn's number right in front of Dahlia. "Ms. Evelyn, I'll give you the evidence."

Dahlia's eyes widened in disbelief. Just moments ago, she had been trying to play the helpless victim, but now her face twisted with anger!

"Wesley!" she shouted, but her fury didn't change Wesley's mind.

"Dahlia, I won't let Sandy stay with you any longer. Once you're taken in, I'll make sure she's looked after"

With

Wesley left the hospital

to retrieve the evidence. swnovel