Page 67

Miles moved from the window to sit on the arm of the couch beside me, his presence adding another layer of security. "What about her health records? The suppressants?"

A shadow crossed Mara's face. "That's where things get complicated. Your parents had you on suppressants far longer than medically advisable. If that information becomes public, it could trigger an investigation."

"Into them?" I asked, surprised.

"Yes," Mara confirmed

"But that would mean exposing their medical negligence," I said, trying to process what this might mean. "Wouldn't that damage their reputation?"

"Significantly," Mara nodded, her expression grim. "Which is precisely why they're trying to control this narrative before that aspect becomes public. They're building a defense—suggesting any health issues you experience are due to your current situation, not their years of over-medication."

I felt a chill run through me despite the warmth of Julian's hand on mine. "They'd really go that far? Rewrite medical history?"

"People who stand to lose everything often do," Mara replied simply. "The Waycliffes have built their social standing on presenting the perfect family image. A medical scandal would destroy that overnight."

Nicolaus leaned forward, his blue eyes intent.

"We have copies of all of Lilianna's medical records from the past five years," he said, his voice steady.

"Dr. Chen was thorough when she took over Lilianna's care.

The suppressant dosages were well beyond recommended levels for someone her age and presentation. "

Mara's eyebrows rose slightly. "That's excellent documentation.

Medical records don't lie, and they'll be nearly impossible for your parents to dispute.

" She made another note in her folder. "We'll need Dr. Chen to provide a formal assessment of the long-term effects of over-suppression, but that could be our strongest defense against any claims of instability. "

"Is that necessary?" I asked, my voice smaller than I intended. "Dragging Dr. Chen into this feels... invasive."

Julian's thumb continued its soothing circles on my hand. "Dr. Chen volunteered to help when Nicolaus first contacted her," he said gently. "She was concerned about the long-term effects of your previous treatment and wants to ensure you have the support you need."

Mara nodded in agreement. "Medical professionals take over-suppression very seriously. Dr. Chen understands that your parents' actions could have caused permanent damage—she wants to prevent that from happening to other omegas."

I swallowed hard, the weight of responsibility settling on my shoulders. "Other omegas?"

"Your case could set a precedent," Mara explained, her voice gentle but firm. "If we can prove medical negligence, it could lead to stricter regulations on suppressant prescriptions. You wouldn't just be protecting yourself—you'd be protecting others."

The room fell quiet as I processed this information.

I'd never thought of my situation as anything beyond personal family dysfunction.

The idea that my story could help prevent other young omegas from suffering similar manipulation was both empowering and terrifying.

I wasn't sure if I was ready to be that kind of symbol or advocate.

"It's a lot to consider," I finally said, my voice steadier than I expected. "But I don't want anyone else to go through what I did."

Mara nodded, her expression softening slightly. "You don't have to decide everything today. We're building contingencies, not committing to a single course of action."

"What's the immediate next step?" Julian asked, his voice pulling the conversation back to practical matters.

Mara closed her folder with deliberate precision.

"Document everything. Continue building Lilianna's authentic presence online.

I'd like to see those cooking lesson photos by tonight if possible.

Keep posting behind the scenes and any other posts you like.

And..." she paused, her eyes meeting mine directly, "prepare yourself for the possibility that your parents may try to contact you directly. "

My stomach dropped. "You think they will?"

"They're running out of indirect options," Mara confirmed, her voice taking on a sharper edge.

"When people feel cornered, they often abandon subtlety in favor of direct confrontation.

They may try to approach you in public, show up at places you frequent, or even attempt to gain access to the property. "

Julian's jaw tightened visibly. "We've already enhanced security protocols," he said, his voice carrying that quiet authority that brooked no argument. "They won't get near her."

"Good," Mara nodded approvingly. "But Lilianna, if they do manage to make contact, it's crucial that you don't engage. Any conversation could be recorded, twisted, or taken out of context. Simply walk away and contact one of these gentlemen immediately."

I felt a tremor of anxiety run through me at the thought of facing my parents again, especially after everything that had changed.

"I will," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. The thought of seeing my mother's cold, disapproving stare or my father's calculated manipulation made my chest tighten with familiar dread.

Miles's hand settled gently on my shoulder from where he perched on the couch's arm. "You're not the same person you were when you left their house," he said quietly. "Remember that."

"He's right," Christopher added, his usual playfulness replaced by fierce protectiveness. "You've found your voice, Lilianna. Don't let them take it away again."

Mara gathered her papers with efficient movements.

"I'll have my team monitor all major social platforms for any escalation in their campaign.

We'll also prepare response statements for various scenarios.

" She stood, smoothing her skirt. "In the meantime, live your life. Let people see you thriving."

After Mara departed with the same brisk efficiency with which she had arrived, leaving a trail of possibilities in her wake.

The house felt quieter somehow, as if the weight of her information had settled into the very walls.

I remained on the couch, Julian's warmth beside me, trying to process everything we'd discussed.

"Are you alright?" Julian asked, his voice gentle against the stillness.

I nodded slowly. "I think so. It's just... a lot. I never expected my parents to go this far."

"They're desperate," Miles said, still perched on the arm of the couch. "They've realized they can't control you anymore, and it terrifies them."

Christopher stood, stretching his long frame before coming to kneel in front of me. "How about we focus on something fun now?" His gray eyes sparkled with mischief, driving away some of the heaviness.

"That cooking lesson sounds perfect right now," I admitted, smiling at his enthusiasm. "What are we making?"

"I was thinking of pasta from scratch," Christopher said, his eyes brightening. "There's something therapeutic about kneading dough. Plus, you get to hit things and call it cooking."

Julian chuckled beside me, the sound vibrating through his chest. "Just try not to destroy the kitchen entirely."

"No promises," Christopher replied with a wink, standing and offering me his hand. "Come on, wildflower. Let's create some culinary chaos."

I took his hand, allowing him to pull me to my feet. The weight of Mara's visit still lingered, but the prospect of doing something normal—something fun—felt like exactly what I needed.