Chapter 36

I smiled and casually said I'd just bumped into something; he didn't press for details. The earthquake claimed many lives, but he escaped with only a minor scratch and the loss of his wallet—a loss that only later revealed the true value of the amulet it contained.

Grandma caught him glancing at her amulet and quickly tucked it away. "What are you looking at? This was a gift from Amanda," she said with pride.

Chase chuckled, a bit exasperated. "Grandma, you're reading too much into it. I had one just like it. Anyway, I brought you this special book and a bracelet, hoping they'll keep you healthy."

He handed her the book, and Grandma examined it with a strange look in her eyes. "This book looks different," she remarked. Chase explained, "It was crafted by a high priest. He used special materials and blessed it just for you. It's bound to help you recover quickly."

As Grandma ran her fingers over the book, I felt a desperate urge to stop her. "Grandma, no, you can't accept it," I pleaded silently. I was already gone, indifferent to the outcome, but the thought of Grandma discovering it was made from my skin would break her heart. At her age, such a revelation would be unbearable.

Nicole knew how much Grandma loved me and used this cruel method to torment her. I wished I could have dragged Nicole down with me when I had the chance. In this moment, I longed for another life, to fulfill my duties and settle my scores. But I was powerless, only able to watch as Grandma tenderly traced the scripture in the book.

Grandma seemed drawn to it, touching it as she used to pat my head when I was little. Over and over, I murmured, "Grandma..."

Grandma put the book aside and handed the bracelet back to Chase. "I'll keep the book, but you should take this back. Remember your promise before God to cherish, love, and protect Amanda always."

Chase made a solemn vow, "Grandma, I will. I promise."

His earnest face made me sick. Thanks to Nicole's twisted plan, Grandma received the book, and my spirit could linger by her side for a while.

As evening settled, Grandma called Marian. "Amanda should be back soon. Bring out the outfit she gave me and fix my hair nicely. I can't let her see me in this state."

"Don't worry, ma'am. I'll make sure you look elegant and full of life," Marian assured her.

Grandma struggled into the outfit and added a fur coat, looking classy and refined. I always said Grandma was a stunner in her younger days, and she'd always reply that I took after her. But with her strength fading, she had to sit in a wheelchair. Marian added a blanket and skillfully combed Grandma's silver hair.

"Let's go with those opal earrings Amanda gave me," Grandma suggested.

"Of course," Marian nodded.

Grandma's face lit up. "I believe Chase still cares for her."

"Definitely. They've been childhood sweethearts for so long," Marian agreed.

"When Amanda gets back, they should hurry and have a child. I'd like to live a few more years just to see her become a mother. As long as she's happy, I'll be at peace."

Outside, the snow started to fall again, like tears I could no longer shed.

Grandma, I'm sorry. You won't be able to wait for...