Chapter 390

Sophia Evans stood at the villa's entrance, her manicured finger pressing the doorbell.

"Dr. Laurent, I haven't been feeling well lately." She flashed a carefully crafted smile. "The medication you prescribed last time worked wonders. Could you examine me again?"

Vivian Laurent opened the door, her gaze icy.

"My apologies. That was a one-time exception." She rested one hand against the doorframe. "I recommend visiting a proper hospital."

A shadow flickered in Sophia's eyes.

"Doctor, are you rejecting me because..." She deliberately trailed off. "You're jealous of something?"

Vivian let out a soft laugh.

"Your imagination is quite vivid, Miss Evans." Her eyes skimmed over Sophia's meticulously applied makeup. "Perhaps you should consider seeing a psychiatrist."

Sophia's expression stiffened.

"This is my private residence." Vivian's voice turned frosty. "If you continue harassing me, I won't hesitate to call security."

Sophia's grip tightened around her handbag.

"How cold of you, Doctor." She forced another smile as she turned away. "I'll visit another time, then."

The black sedan slowly drove out of the gated community but stopped at the corner.

Sophia stared into the rearview mirror, waiting. Vivian never emerged from the villa.

"Just as I thought." Her eyes narrowed. "Who exactly is she hiding inside?"

Upstairs, the curtains trembled slightly.

Fiona Grandelle remained curled by the window until Sophia's car disappeared from view. Only then did she exhale in relief.

"She's gone." Vivian stepped into the room. "Don't worry."

Fiona nodded, her fingers still clutching the curtain fabric.

Vivian gently took her trembling hand.

"No one will hurt you while I'm here."

Three days later, at the comic convention.

Emily Garnache burst into the villa carrying a makeup case.

"Natalie! Today, I'm going to make you the star of the show!" She spun excitedly. "Just wait until I transform you into the most dazzling cosplayer!"

Fiona nervously twisted the hem of her shirt.

"Are you... sure this will work?"

Emily had already unzipped her kit.

"Trust me!" She brandished a foundation brush. "Stage makeup will completely cover the scars."

Vivian leaned against the doorframe, watching Emily work her magic on Fiona's face.

"Relax." She met Fiona's anxious gaze. "I'll be right beside you the whole time."

Layer by layer, the theatrical makeup concealed the marks. The mirror reflected a stunning stranger.

Fiona stared at her reflection in disbelief.

"Is that... really me?"

Emily planted her hands on her hips triumphantly.

"Of course!" She glanced at Vivian. "Though I'm not sure about later..."

Vivian gave a knowing nod.

"I'll handle any unexpected situations."

Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating Fiona's transformed face—a face reborn.