Chapter 1008

Of course, he was feisty! Heather was annoyed that Ralph couldn't distinguish between her and Hannah. "Do Hannah and I resemble each other that much? Besides our faces, how are we alike?" Hannah was inferior to Heather in temperament, character, and ability, so Heather wondered how Ralph could mistake them.

"Ah!" Hannah gasped as a sharp pain shot through her lips from Heather's sudden, forceful hand. Tears welled in her eyes. "Do men like your soft look?" Heather asked, finding her sister's face—a perfect mirror of her own—annoying. She abruptly released her grip, turning away. "You'll return home tomorrow!"

The tingling in Hannah's lips lingered, but her surprise was even more profound. "H-Heather?" she stammered. What did she say? She wants me to go home?! Hannah didn't want to return yet. Although she'd initially refused to follow Heather, she'd come to appreciate her newfound freedom. She no longer wished to be a nameless prisoner in her family's home, a shameful, identity-less existence on that island. Here, she could shop, breathe fresh air, and have something of her own, including "Ralphy"—a private nickname, a secret shared only between them, mirroring his own endearing term for her, "Annie." This small sweetness was now threatened by Heather's decree.

"What's wrong? You don't want to?" Heather's scrutinizing gaze met Hannah's as she turned back. Fearful of Heather's reaction if she knew about her feelings for Ralph, Hannah swallowed hard and whispered, "No. I'm just wondering if you've finished your work here. Are you returning home with me?"

"Since when do you take care of my affairs?" Heather snarled.

"Don't be angry, Heather. I'm afraid it'll be inconvenient for you if I'm not here when you need me." Hannah continued slowly, "It doesn't matter if I go home or stay; it depends on your needs."

"Really?" Heather's anger subsided upon hearing Hannah's explanation. Her initial outburst had stemmed from the image of Hannah with Ralph, but Hannah's words made sense. Staying at home meant facing Ralph and the Russell family, along with various other complications. She needed Hannah to help. She’d grown accustomed to having a "copy" of herself at her side. Recalling Hannah would be inconvenient; their comings and goings were always together. Hannah's solitary return home risked discovery. Heather hesitated.

"Heather, I'll be obedient. I'll stay wherever you want and do whatever you ask!" Hannah, understanding Heather's unspoken concerns, added, "I exist only for you!"

The words struck Heather. She pursed her lips. "Really?" Though framed as a question, her tone reflected growing belief.

"Heather, I live because of you. With your protection, I can live comfortably without worries. I'm happy to assist you!" Hannah emphasized each word.