Chapter 4

"Ashley, I swear you're so stupid and malicious. You're actually wishing death upon my mom just to trick me into coming home."

I tried to explain, but then I heard Chloe's sickeningly sweet voice in the background.

"Ryan, honey, come quickly! Buddy isn't doing well..."

Chloe's voice was so sugary-sweet and overly gentle, just hearing it made you want to pity her.

"I'm coming right now."

Ryan said, about to hang up.

I panicked, shouting, "Ryan Miller, I'm not lying! Please, just come back and see, okay?"

Ryan's voice came through the receiver again, each word dripping with venom, as if he was gritting his teeth.

"Ashley, if anything happens to Buddy, I swear I will never forgive you."

Then he hung up.

Listening to the dial tone, my tears finally broke free, streaming down my face.

When I tried to call again, Ryan had blocked me everywhere.

Arthur, my father-in-law, rushed in. Seeing me collapsed on the floor, he quickly helped me up.

Like a drowning person grabbing a lifeline, I clutched his arm.

"Dad, quickly, call Ryan! Please, before it's too late!"

Arthur didn't hesitate, immediately pulling out his phone to call Ryan.

It rang twice before he picked up.