The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 146

The Institute.

“This is the elite treatment wing,” Nathaniel said, guiding Serena to the empty lounge where patients were meant to wait for their appointments.

It was Serena’s first time at the Thorne Neurological Sciences Institute.

Seeing how much Nathaniel had achieved, Serena could not help but look at him with admiration.

Gavin, who was following behind them, also smiled, looking proud.

Although she was still pissed about Tina, Serena set it aside. There were more important matters to attend to. She hadn’t told Nathaniel yet, so they could focus on the day’s agenda. Moreover, Tina had tasks of her own to accomplish.

The institute was only a four-storey building, but it sat on two acres of land. The main wing housed the research institute itself. It was quiet, modern, and tightly secured.

On the right wing was the elite treatment area, secluded and discreet, reserved for high-profile patients and specialized care. Separate access points ensured privacy, while the layout allowed medical, psychological, and security teams to work seamlessly without crossing into the foundation’s safe spaces.

To its left stood the EverThorne Foundation, a charitable institute dedicated to aiding victims of crime and abuse.

Nathaniel and Gavin walked with her to the east wing of the building. Unlike the stark precision of the research wing, this side of the building was designed for healing. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in natural light, private counseling rooms overlooked landscaped gardens, and soundproofed corridors ensured discretion and calm. The spaces were intentionally warm, with soft colors, open lounges, and therapy rooms meant to make survivors feel safe rather than examined.

“Miss Vander, this foundation has helped over ten thousand family victims of crime and abuse,” Gavin shared. “Eligibility is based on need. The foundation accepts cases involving individuals or families who lack the financial means, legal access, or a safe environment to recover properly, regardless of location.”

Serena glanced at Nathaniel with a faint smile. “That’s very impressive. How does it feel to have achieved this?”

Nathaniel replied calmly, “It’s very fulfilling.”

“I’m here. Sorry, I’m late,” a woman’s voice rang from behind them.

When Serena turned, she saw it was Doctor Lin.

Though she had aged, she was still recognizable.

“Doctor Lin?” Serena smiled.

“Oh, Serena. It’s been such a long time,” the doctor said, pulling her into a hug. “When Nathan told me he’d found you, I cried.”

When they pulled apart, her eyes were wet. “I’m glad you’re back. I heard you’ve found your family.”

Serena couldn’t explain how she felt. Emotions swirled inside her. This was the woman who had helped her through her childhood trauma. Of course, she was happy to see her.

As the conference room emptied, Nathaniel turned to Serena and asked, “Are you sure about your plans?”

Serena nodded. “I’m certain.”

With a sigh, he said, “Then Dennis will be with you, along with security.”

“That’s fine,” Serena said.

A minute later, Nathaniel added, “Dennis is here.”

“I’ll just head to the restroom real quick,” Serena said. She walked briskly to the ladies’ room and took care of her business. After that, she reapplied her makeup.

If she was going to face Vanessa again, she had to look her best. She had even worn her favorite business suit that day.

Just then, the restroom door opened, and Tina walked in.

Serena’s eyes landed on her, but she ignored her all the same.

“So you told him, but he didn’t fire me. He didn’t reprimand me either,” Tina said with a smug look. She laughed triumphantly as she added, “Mr. Thorne probably didn’t believe you, and you’ve probably guessed how important I am to him.”