Family on Their Knees Heart Turned to Ice novel Chapter 1373

"It wasn't easy for them to leave that life and build something respectable. I thought you had enough wealth to weather the storm, but instead, I accidentally pushed you into the arms of loan sharks. Now, it's time for them to return the favor. Don't worry, our future is still bright. Whether you secure your massive divorce settlement or Lillian Mercer returns to the Mercer family, we will be unstoppable socialites in Northwyn. Just remember to show your appreciation to Sabrina's Old Guard when the time comes."

Bella didn't believe she would be unlucky forever. The most crucial thing was surviving this current crisis. Once she did, she would ascend to the top tier of the ultra-wealthy, just as her mother promised.

Letting go of her reservations, Bella nodded and hugged Sabrina. "Thanks, Mom. And thank them for me."

"Of course," Sabrina replied. "I never forgot them when I struck it rich. Now, pull yourself together and get back to the office. Brandon Mercer looked furious this morning. Even if you can't focus on work, just sit at your desk and play the part."

Bella nodded and got up to wash her face.

Sabrina needed to secure the funds, so she left the hotel.

Bella smiled as she walked her mother out, but the moment the door clicked shut, her expression crumbled. Only she knew the sheer terror she had endured these past few days. One wrong move, and she would lose everything, including her own life.

She slapped her cheeks hard, forcing herself to snap out of it. She had come too far to back down. The money was already in Debbie Harris's account. How could she simply walk away?

"Bella, what am I going to do? I'm exhausted, but I can't sleep. Every time I close my eyes, I see Elias Ashford's severed head flying into the back seat. Did you know..."

"Shut up!" Bella snapped, cutting off his panicked rambling.

Bella had barely slept herself, relying heavily on sleeping pills. She had never seen real violence before this week, and the fact that she hadn't had a total mental breakdown was a testament to her resilience. Lucas describing a decapitation was the last thing she needed.

She scolded him, "If you can't sleep, take a pill. Do I have to explain everything? And did I tell you to rest? The casino enforcers were sent to the hospital. Couldn't you ask around and find out if Debbie Harris is dead or alive?"