Tears streamed down Carly’s face as Isabella arrived at the hospital. Isabella had never seen her so broken. Even after the court case years ago, Carly had never seemed this vulnerable. Heartbreak twisting in her chest, Isabella rushed to embrace her.

Carly clung to Isabella, sobs wracking her body. Isabella fought back tears, her own heart aching for her sister. "Carly, how's Ronald?" she whispered, worried. Carly couldn't answer, her gaze fixed on the unopened operating room door.

Adrian arrived moments later, his face grim. "I'm sorry," he mumbled, guilt heavy in his voice.

Carly and Isabella exchanged confused glances. What did Adrian have to do with this?

"It was my fault," Adrian explained. "I shouldn't have let the bodyguards leave so soon."

Carly shook her head. She'd dismissed them herself; she couldn't afford the Carter family's expensive protection. She hadn't anticipated this.

They waited. An hour later, the door opened, and Ronald was wheeled out. Carly, legs weak with anxiety, could only cling to Isabella. Adrian immediately approached the doctor. "How is Ronald?"

"The surgery was successful," the doctor announced. "Five stitches, but he'll be fine."

Relief washed over them, but Carly's heart clenched at the mention of stitches. It was her fault. She should have left Hivalis with Ronald long ago. She should have protected him from Connor.

New tears fell. As soon as she could stand, she hurried to Ronald's side. Adrian arranged for Ronald's transfer to a VIP ward. Damian, already there, sat solemnly beside the boy, his small hand covering Ronald's.

Carly’s stomach rumbled. Adrian offered, "I'll get food." Isabella nodded, instructing him to watch Damian.

After Adrian left, Isabella said, "Carly, after Ronald wakes up, why don't you move back to my place?"

Carly shook her head. "Isabella," she said firmly, "I want to leave Hivalis."

Isabella gasped. "But where?"

"Anywhere Connor can't find us," Carly replied.

Isabella understood. The thought of being separated saddened her, but she said thoughtfully, "But you need to make arrangements before you go."

"Yes," Carly agreed.

"Stay at our mansion until then. It’s safer," Isabella offered.

Carly nodded. Isabella hugged her again, whispering, "Everything will be fine."

Carly wasn't sure, but knowing she was protecting Ronald from Connor gave her strength. "I'll try my best," she vowed.

Days later, the Carter family learned of the incident and offered their support. Carly attempted to resign from Carter’s Jewel, but they refused.

Patrick explained, "We have branches nationwide. You can work at any location you choose."

Carly was speechless.