Chapter 1101

Hannah was momentarily stunned by the unexpected question. She blinked, as if unsure who Heather was referring to.

"Drop the act," Heather snorted, a disgruntled grumble escaping her lips. "I don't believe you've forgotten Ralph after just a few days. I'm just asking; you don't have to panic."

"No, it's not that," Hannah said quickly, shaking her head. "He just didn't come to mind. I haven't forgotten him, but he's not important. I was interested, but on reflection, perhaps that's because I haven't met many men. He was eloquent, and I… I was confused."

"You were right, Heather," Hannah continued, her voice hurried, as if afraid of disbelief. "We only have each other. You're the most important thing to me. He's nothing—I don't like him anymore."

Heather raised an eyebrow. "Really?"

"I swear!" Hannah swore, raising her hand. Then, after a moment's thought, she added, "Heather, if you don't believe me, send me home. Then I'll never see him again. All I want is to devote my life to you!"

Heather seemed convinced, a laugh escaping her. "I was just asking a question. Look how nervous you are! It's good you've thought things through. Your life is destined to be different. You'll never marry, have children, or even live as yourself, but remember, that's how you've survived. Without me, you would have died long ago."

Heather repeated this emphasis, wanting Hannah to fully accept her dependence. It was, she stressed, Hannah's greatest honor to be alive.

Hannah nodded. "Yes! You gave me a chance at life! I live for you!"

This pleased Heather; it was precisely what she wanted Hannah to believe. "Okay. Pack your things. We'll leave soon."

"Where are we going?" Hannah asked, momentarily bewildered.

"Didn't you say you don't mind going home? Well, your wish is granted." Heather had obtained most of what she desired and saw no reason to remain.

"Go home?" Hannah hesitated before nodding profusely. "Okay! Let's go home! As long as I'm with you, where I go doesn't matter!"

Heather suddenly coughed, a sharp pain in her chest causing her to frown. "Go settle any remaining company business. Remember, don't talk too much, and avoid unnecessary conversations."

"Okay!" Hannah replied.

"Also, if—and I'm just saying if—you bump into Ralph…"

"I'll ignore him!" Hannah interrupted.

Heather nodded thoughtfully. "Go pack. Now!" While distrust lingered, there was no better course of action. She longed to return home, to focus on her practice while Hannah was away, allowing her sister's feelings to subside and fade. As for Heather's marriage to Ralph—it meant nothing unless she chose to acknowledge it.

Meanwhile, Ralph prepared for the Saturday family meeting.