?Chapter 1017:


    Katie’s reflection had long ceased to be a source of pride. Her illness had left her pale, hollow, and frail—a shadow of the woman in the photo. Seeing it now, she realized that Rnd must’ve been missing her while she was away.


    “I’m so sorry, Rnd. If I had known how they’d treat you, I would’ve taken you with me. Even if it meant selling everything and begging on the streets.”


    Rnd let out a soft grunt. He was eighteen now and couldn’t be bothered with things like that anymore.


    “I’ll check if your medicine is ready.”


    “Thank you.”


    Not long after, Katie doubled over in pain. Clutching her stomach, she staggered toward her bed. With each step, her legs wobbled like they might give out beneath her. Suddenly, a metallic taste filled her mouth, and blood surged up her throat.


    Her trembling hands shot to her mouth.


    The blood against her pale skin painted a cruel picture—her life slipping away, second after second.


    She just couldn’t bring herself to ept it.


    Why? Why did it have to be her? Why this wretched disease, this merciless end? She clenched her fists, fury coursing through her weakening veins. If her life was to be cut short, she would ensure no one else found peace.


    Rnd returned with a bowl of herbal medicine. Without a word, he spooned it to her lips. Katie sipped a few bitter mouthfuls before pushing it away. “It’s pointless. I know my body better than anyone. My days are numbered.” She paused, gauging Rnd’s reaction. His furrowed brow didn’t escape her notice. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to confirm that she still held a ce in his heart.


    “Rnd, I’m not afraid to die. What breaks my heart is leaving you behind. I know Joelle and Adrian—they’ll make your life a living hell once I’m gone.” Tears spilled down her cheeks, her frail hands tightening around his.


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    Her body was wracked with coughing, and when she opened her palm, it was stained with ckened blood.


    “Mom!”


    Katie shook her head weakly. “Don’t worry about me. This was bound to happen sooner orter. I just regret that we never had the chance to live a good life together.”


    Rnd’s thoughts drifted to Wade, who had also faced death with a resigned smile, telling him to live a good life. He sometimes dreamed of that scene.


    He couldn’t stand when people smiled at him; to him, it symbolized farewells, loss, and the end of everything.


    “Mom.” His voice cracked. “Is there anything I can do for you?”


    This was the moment Katie had been waiting for! She gripped his hand tighter. “Yes! Listen to me, Rnd. You are my son. Joelle and Adrian are your enemies. When I’m gone, you must avenge me. Take back everything that should’ve been ours. Everything!”


    Without hesitation, Rnd nodded. “I will.”


    After Aurora moved to college, the house felt quieter. Joelle found herself with more time to devote to her studio, pouring her energy into her craft.


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