Chapter 519
Separated by a vast distance and hindered by Nina's hoarse voice, Cassie could only discern the movement of Nina's lips. "She said something, perhaps a warning for me to be cautious," Cassie mused aloud.
"Indeed," Laura confirmed, her mouth slightly agape as she mimicked Nina's silent message.
However, Cassie was not granted the luxury of time to ponder Nina's cryptic message. Nina's mother stood beside her, her tears flowing so freely that her head spun, threatening to topple her over.
Instantly, Cassie and Laura offered their support to Nina's mother. "Auntie, don't despair. As long as Nina draws breath, there is hope. We will stand by her side, whether it takes a year, two, or even three," they assured her.
"Thank you," Nina's mother expressed her gratitude, her voice choked with emotion.
"But Auntie, you and your husband must leave New York at once," Cassie urged, concern etched on her face. "Nina implored you to leave earlier. I suspect she knew of some impending danger."
Nina's mother looked bewildered. "We've never wronged anyone."
"Yet, Nina appeared gravely serious and frightened," Laura interjected. "You and your husband should relocate to Madison. My brother can assist you there."
"My dear, thank you," Nina's mother repeated her gratitude.
Cassie insisted, "Hurry home and pack your belongings. Nina will rest ea Cassier knowing you're safe."
After Nina's mother departed, Laura exhaled a heavy sigh. "The Zenith family once held considerable influence in New York. I never imagined their fortunes would change so drastically in mere days."
"Indeed," Cassie agreed, feeling a sense of helplessness.
Upon seeing Cassie's sigh, Laura voiced her concern, "Given how much weight you've lost, how can I possibly leave the country with a clear conscience?"
"Leave the country?" Cassie echoed, her brows furrowed in confusion.
"Yes, I've been blacklisted by Jude's family. My brother suggested I pursue further studies abroad," Laura explained, her gaze lowered in sadness. "I've realized how weak and ineffective I am. I've been unable to assist you or Nina. I need to become stronger. One day, I will uncover the evidence to overturn the verdict."
Cassie was taken aback. "Yes, we are all too weak." She admitted, reflecting on her own inability to leave the manor without the motivation provided by the children. She too yearned for strength, but was shackled by her lack of freedom.
"Laura, you should go," she urged, looking at Laura. "I'm aware of your dreams. Once I give birth, I will also strive to become stronger. Even though we'll be in different countries, we can still support each other. When do you plan to leave?"
"I haven't decided yet. At the latest, next month," Laura responded.
"Alright, inform me in advance. I'll organize a farewell for you." Cassie embraced her friend. In this vast city, Laura was her only pillar of support. Now, with Laura's impending departure, she would be left alone. Tears welled up in Laura's eyes.
Just then, a black car pulled up before them. Joseph emerged, his face twisted into a menacing scowl. Laura instinctively shielded Cassie.
"Step aside," Joseph commanded coldly. "Laura, I've tolerated you for far too long."
"Joseph, the feeling is mutual. Cassie is pregnant. Can't you show her some kindness? Is abandoning her in the mansion daily your idea of care? She needs someone to lean on," Laura retorted, her anger flaring. "Can't you stop being so inconsistent? Cassie is lonely and can't bear it."
"Shut up. You have no right to meddle in our affairs." Joseph roughly pulled Laura aside and ushered Cassie into the car.
Cassie closed her eyes, seething with anger at Joseph's blatant disrespect towards her friend. Perhaps in his self-perceived nobility, he had always looked down upon her and her friends.