Chapter 155

Dominic remained silent in response to Lily's words, but an unshakable determination crystallized in his thoughts.

He needed to become stronger. More formidable.

He had to shield his sister, his mother, and his grandmother from harm!

When Monday arrived, Evelyn met with her divorce attorney.

After finalizing the divorce documents, the lawyer slid another contract across the table. "Miss Thorne, I've prepared the purchase agreement for the building you wanted."

Evelyn's eyebrows shot up. "He asked you to handle this?"

The lawyer nodded, tapping the document. "Please review it carefully. The price is the crucial detail here."

Evelyn's gaze immediately dropped to the purchase amount.

Forty million dollars.

The exact sum Dominic had originally paid for Thornfield Tower.

He'd be taking a massive loss selling it back at this price!

In four years, forty million could have earned substantial interest in any high-yield account.

"What's his game?" Evelyn demanded, suspicion lacing her voice.

The lawyer adjusted his glasses. "I believe Mr. Blackwood is offering this price out of consideration for your previous marital relationship."

"I don't need his charity. Current market value puts that building at one hundred twenty million," Evelyn countered sharply. "I won't let him take a loss. I'll pay one hundred million."

"Shall I consult Mr. Blackwood about this?"

"Unnecessary." Evelyn pushed the contract back. "Just amend the price. We'll sign separately. There are no ties between us anymore. He's a businessman - profit matters. He won't object."

After brief consideration, the lawyer agreed. "Very well. I'll contact you when the revised contract is ready."

Meanwhile, at Willowbrook Academy, a disturbing scene unfolded within its picturesque castle-like walls.

"Stop that sniveling! My patience is wearing thin!"

"Your parents died last month! They prepaid thirty years, but no one's coming for you! Keep crying and you'll skip meals today!"

Harsh reprimands mixed with a girl's sobs. Henry happened to pass by and peered through the doorway.

Inside, staff berated a teenage girl with cerebral palsy who'd spilled breakfast on herself.

Henry settled on the floor outside and flipped open his laptop.

His fingers flew across the keyboard with practiced precision.

Seconds later, panicked shrieks erupted from the room.

"Why is the roomba attacking me?!"

"What's wrong with the microwave?! It's turning on by itself!"

"This place is haunted! Aaaah!"

Both caretakers bolted from the room, pursued by the rogue cleaning device.

Henry stretched lazily and closed his computer.

As he stood, he found himself staring into the most innocent, luminous eyes he'd ever seen.

Their owner was a stunning woman.

Her hime-cut hair framed delicate features, and her pink tulle dress gave her an ethereal quality.

Like some woodland sprite who'd lost her way.

"You're amazing, Big Brother!" Sophia Blackwood blinked her enormous, tear-filled eyes. "Can you help me escape? They want to cut open my brain... It'll hurt so much... I'm terrified..."

Henry's brow furrowed.

This woman appeared at least thirty years old!

Yet she called him "Big Brother" with the mental capacity of a toddler.