22. Whispers of Betrayal

“What have you done?” Lia, on the brink of consciousness, strains to make sense of her surroundings. In her disoriented state, a familiar voice pierces the confusion. Fear grips her as she recognizes the voice, linking it to her dad. “It was an accident Walton.” Barely conscious and bewildered, Lia grapples with the revelation. The voice, initially perceived as a threat, unravels into an unexpected source of comfort – her dad. It dawns on her that the accident involving Walton wasn't a deliberate act but a tragic incident. “I thought it was one of the guards.” Her initial fear, mistaking the voice for one of the guards, now dissipates, replaced by a flood of conflicting emotions. The unexpected turn of events leaves Lia grappling with confusion, realization, and an underlying sense of relief. Opening her eyes, Lia finally managed to croak out, "Dad." "Lia." Walton hurried over, reaching out to touch his daughter's face. However, at this moment, a bodyguard entered and side-block