Chapter 5

Perhaps my current state was too frenzied, because the expressions on their faces morphed into terror.

I felt a continuous rush of metallic, sickly sweet fluid in my throat, but my laughter wouldn't stop.

Soon, the blankets on my bed were stained red.

"Bella Mason, you know perfectly well whether I harmed you or not."

"I hope you don't regret what you've done. Don't worry, even if I really die, I'll haunt you until the end of your days."

My expression was grotesque. Bella instinctively flinched, but still spoke defiantly.

"Sister Alice, making mistakes isn't scary, but it's important to face them. I'm not cruel like you. Rest now, we can talk about this later."

My eyes were fixed on Bella, my resentment seemingly solidifying.

Bella was so unnerved by my stare that she no longer had any desire to provoke me.

She clung closer to Liam, whining.

"Brother, Sister Alice's eyes are terrifying. My heart feels a little pain. Let's just go."

Liam's gaze flickered between Bella and me for a moment, then he finally made up his mind and spoke.

"We'll talk about everything once you're feeling better, Alice. Regardless, you owe Bella atonement."

"Don't think you can escape responsibility just because you're unwell. You went too far this time."

With that, his eyes didn't fall on me again. He lowered his head and spoke softly to Bella.

"Let's go. Brother will examine you properly."

"Your brother here is a prodigy in natural healing. I'll definitely restore your health."

A shy smile appeared on Bella's face as Liam embraced her and led her out.

After they left, Martha knocked and entered.

Seeing the messy state of my bed, her eyes instantly reddened.

She silently helped me change the bedding. After a long hesitation, she finally spoke.

"Ma'am, your health is getting worse by the day. Should I talk to Mr. Mason?"

I lay on the bed, my gaze fixed on the ceiling, murmuring.

"No need. It's too late."

Martha tried to persuade me a few more times, but seeing I remained unresponsive, she could only leave.

Unknowingly, I drifted into sleep.

In my dream, I saw the first time Liam and I met.

He was a shy young man then, his eyes holding an undeniable, careful affection for me.

How long had it been since I'd seen that look?

I don't know how long passed before I jolted awake.

As soon as I opened my eyes, I met Liam's bloodshot gaze.

He held a tray in his hands, scattered with several herbs.

I wanted to ask him what he was doing here, but a wave of exhaustion washed over me. I knew my time was short.

Seeing me just quietly staring at him, Liam spoke, his voice trembling.

"Alice, did you purposefully tell the brewmaster to omit one ingredient just to get my attention?"

"Do you know? Missing just one ingredient turns this blend into a potent poison."

I finally managed a genuine smile, the corner of my mouth bleeding again.

"You're the one who wrote this prescription, every single stroke."

"Liam Mason, remember this: my death is all thanks to you."