The Tower Reversed: Back to 18 (Venus) novel Chapter 35

**TITLE: One Step Changes Everything**
**By Ruby Parker**
**Chapter 35: Talking With a “Genius”**

As Venus spoke, her keen eyes discreetly assessed Drake’s condition. The sight before her was more alarming than she had anticipated.

Drake’s body appeared frail, almost ghostly, as if the life force had been drained from him. The loss of blood had rendered him weak, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy she remembered.

“Saul, make a note of this,” Venus instructed, her voice steady as she listed a series of herbs that would aid in Drake’s recovery.

Saul, quick on the uptake, whipped out his phone, fingers flying across the screen. “Ms. Oracle, is this the prescription for Mr. Drake?” he inquired, his expression a mix of concern and professionalism.

She nodded affirmatively. “This is crucial for his internal recovery. In addition to the herbs, he should incorporate some yoga and breathing exercises into his routine. They will help him regain his strength.”

“Got it, I’ll ensure he sticks to it,” Saul replied, determination etched on his face.

Drake, his gaze piercing and serious, broke the silence. “Am I going to die?”

The question hung in the air, heavy with unspoken fears.

“Everyone dies. We are not immortal beings destined to roam the earth for a thousand years,” Venus replied, her tone calm yet firm.

Drake’s expression shifted to one of disbelief.

“What I mean is…” he continued, his voice steady but laced with anxiety, “Am I not going to live past thirty? My grandfather mentioned that your mentor, Skylor, predicted that.”

Venus met his gaze, her eyes reflecting a depth of understanding. “You can plan your life all you want, but remember, fate has the final say. The fact that my mentor guided you to me signifies that your journey isn’t over yet.”

“If I pull through this, I promise to thank you properly,” Drake vowed, a flicker of hope igniting in his weary eyes.

“There’s no need for that. You already have,” she replied, a hint of warmth creeping into her voice.

As their eyes locked, a complex mix of emotions swirled within her.

Drake had repeatedly put himself in harm’s way to protect her, sometimes driven by sheer stubbornness. To her, those acts were not just favors; they forged a bond that transcended mere friendship.

In this lifetime, she resolved to save him, no matter the cost.

Yet, once he was out of danger, she would keep her distance.

Skylor had once warned her about the dangers of forming close connections; those she cared for often found themselves in peril.

It was safer to remain solitary—no entanglements, no heart-wrenching attachments.

Drake, sensing a shift in the conversation, asked with a hint of curiosity, “Did I already thank you? You mean that 3,000?”

“You!” Neil’s face flushed with rage. He took a deep breath, pointing an accusatory finger at her. “If I hadn’t caught you, were you planning to hurt Lumi again? How can you be so heartless?”

Venus regarded him with disbelief. “Really? Since you keep insisting that Lumi is the victim—tell me, what exactly has she endured?”

“She lived under my identity for 18 years, living in luxury at the Burn Mansion. You never mistreated her.”

“Back when she was oblivious to the truth, fine. But after discovering her reality? All she does is talk about wanting to return the identity—without lifting a finger to do it.”

“And yet, she continues to act as if she’s the one suffering. So I’ll ask again: what exactly is she suffering from?”

“Is she miserable because her brothers pay her more attention now? Miserable because her allowance increased? Miserable because her adoptive parents treat her with even more kindness?”

Neil’s frown deepened. “Because of you, Lumi feels like she’s no longer a Burn, like she’s an outsider! Of course she’s miserable! She’s the most innocent one, and now, thanks to you, she lives in fear every day, terrified of being cast out!”

Venus scoffed. “So who actually got kicked out of the house? You all would never throw her out, would you?”

“Neil, your arrogance is suffocating. Ugh! It’s revolting.”

Neil’s anger flared. “Then why are you here at this hour? If it’s not to harm Lumi, what other reason could you possibly have?”

With a cold snort, Venus ignored him entirely. As the elevator doors slid open, she stepped inside, leaving him with nothing more to say.