Chapter 229

　　Derek's POV 　　Elena met my gaze straight on, her eyes reflecting profound fatigue and despair. 　　"Yes, I've had enough of this life, so I escaped, wanting to see the outside world. But back then, I was still naive. I thought everyone else, apart from my mother, was kind..." 　　Then, her voice trailed off. 　　I asked, "Even if your mother hurt you, what grudge do you have against Tabitha? Why did you treat her like that?" 　　"Tabitha." When this name was brought up, Elena's eyes suddenly turned cold. 　　Her emotions surged as she grabbed my collar. 　　"Do you think that I never went to you? However, back then, did you show any concern for me, your childhood sweetheart? You only had her in your mind. I saw you smile at her, dote on her, just like you used to do with me. She smiled so happily..." 　　Tears, which she had fought to hold back, now streamed down her face. 　　Elena cried out, "Do you know what kind of life I have been living all these years? What have I gone through just to see you