Chapter 94: Living Temptation

As Nikolai recounted fragments of his turbulent past, Ophelia listened in silence, absorbing the gravity of his experiences. His tale painted a chilling portrait of Tiana's manipulation through the blood pearl, a tool she used to force him into unspeakable acts and dominate his mind. The gravity of his suffering was not lost on Ophelia; a shiver traveled down her spine as she placed her hand gently over his. Nikolai grasped it firmly, his touch both reassuring and desperate. "I'm so sorry you had to endure all of that, Nikolai," Ophelia said, her voice laden with empathy. The thought of anyone going through such torment was heartbreaking. The weight of his trials tugged at her very soul. Nikolai’s story revealed a disturbing truth—his own family, the ones who should have nurtured him, had instead betrayed him with neglect and cruelty. Even his basic needs were used as a weapon against him. For a child so young, it was an unimaginable fate. "It's all over now," Nikolai murmured, his