Just as her vision began to fade into black, the door finally creaked open.
Jackson's tall figure blocked the only light in the dark basement, his shadow stretching long across the floor. He looked down at the woman curled up on the cold ground, his expression devoid of even a trace of warmth.
"Remember this lesson," he said flatly. His voice was as cold and unfeeling as steel.
"If you dare to hurt Laica again, it won't end as easily as this."
That night, Helena was finally allowed back to her room.
The first thing she did was grab her phone.
The screen lit up, and a message popped into view.
It was from her brother, Henry.
Attached were a series of files and recordings—undeniable evidence.
Evidence proving how, three years ago, Laica had stolen another researcher's work and fabricated the award-winning thesis that made her famous.
A minute later, another encrypted email quietly appeared in her inbox.
Hands trembling, Helena opened it.
Inside was an investigation report from her senior at the research institute—and the truth struck her like lightning.
Jennelyn was innocent too.
Laica had been a corporate spy, but she had framed Jennelyn, destroying her career to cover her own crimes.