Trouble in Paradise



Chapter 0563

The cries of "Nick" over the phone grew increasingly desperate. Yet, Nicholas just listened with a blank expression. He didn't offer any response or decision.

I didn't feel much sympathy for Claudia. But in that moment, I understood the hope laced in her voice.

Because I, too, was once someone who couldn't stop calling him "Honey". I had also been through the moments when no matter how many times I called, it didn't make a difference.

Through Claudia's voice, I saw a reflection of my former self. Was he just as indifferent back then, standing cold and motionless while I yearned for him?

I closed my eyes, overwhelmed by the memories. This kind of bleak, hopeless love was something I never wanted to endure again.

"You should go see her. She needs you," I said softly.

Nicholas hesitated briefly before chuckling bitterly. His expression was dark as he replied, "Alright. If that's what you want."

This time, he didn't look back as he left. Moments later, the sound of an engine starting echoed from the courtyard.

Nicholas had once again left because of Claudia's call. Feeling numb, I'd lost count of how many times this had happened.

I returned to bed, hoping to recover some of my drained strength. Staring at the ceiling, I was struck by an unfamiliar sense of emptiness.

I was exhausted, but just as I was about to fall asleep, Neal called.

We hadn't spoken in years, but this wasn't a personal call. He needed me to come to the hospital to cooperate with an investigation.

"Got it. I'll head over now."

Neal noticed something off in my voice. "What's wrong with your throat? Are you sick? If you're unwell, I can talk to my superiors and arrange for you to come to the station tomorrow instead."

"It's nothing. Don't worry about it. Claudia's already accused me outright. If I don't show up, won't that just make it easier for her to spin her story?"

I couldn't help but pity her. If she ever learned that everything was orchestrated by the brother she loved, could Nicholas still remain her beacon of faith?

Neal's tone softened. "Don't worry. Claudia's condition is severe, so the meeting will take place in the hospital. It's just a confrontation and a statement. Your friend's here too, so you'll have support."

"My friend?"

*Yes. Someone named Yasmine. She's brought along a few lawyers."

A wave of warmth surged through me. No wonder Yasmine hadn't contacted me despite my phone being on for a while. She had been working behind the scenes to help.

Driving to the hospital, I couldn't go too fast. My body was still weak, and focusing on the road sapped my energy. By the time I arrived, my clothes were damp with a thin layer of sweat.

Neal was waiting for me outside the hospital. Seeing me step out of the car, he immediately came over and steadied my arm.

"It's been years, but I never imagined seeing you so worn out. I've followed your news. You seemed to be doing well abroad. Why does everything seem different now? Is it because of Nicholas?"

'I'm fine. I attended an event a couple of nights ago, drank too much, and caught a cold," I cut him off quickly. ignoring the concern and probing in his eyes.

I forced a casual tone and said, "I'm doing great otherwise. But this isn't the time for catching up. Once I've recovered, I'll treat you to dinner."

Neal nodded and helped me toward the hospital. "Have you seen a doctor? If not, I can get you an appointment to check things out. Claudia isn't going anywhere. She's in no condition to leave the hospital."Text © by N0ve/lDrama.Org.

I declined his offer. "No need. Let's go to Claudia's ward. How is she?"

"She was in a car accident. The driver has been caught drunk driving. But Claudia insists you orchestrated it. If it weren't related to you, I wouldn't even bother with her nonsense. It's a waste of time.'

"You never doubted me?"

Neal shook his head, his gaze briefly meeting mine before shifting to the tiled floor. "The Ariana I know wouldn't do something like that."

His words touched me. "Thank you for believing in me.'

As we approached Claudia's ward, the door was slightly ajar. Inside, a familiar figure stood by her bed, frowning deeply.