Jessica’s cries echoed in the room as Selene’s whip cracked against her skin, each lash a testament to the fury she had stirred. The room reeked of blood and pain, and Selene smirked as she stepped back, satisfied with her work.

“You’ll talk eventually,” Selene sneered, tossing the whip onto the table. “Even the strongest break.”

Jessica was left slumped in the chair, sobbing and gasping for air. Her defiance was waning, and fear seeped into her very bones. She glared at the door, hoping Andrew would return and put an end to her torment, but he was long gone, leaving her at Selene and Darren’s mercy.

Back at the Foster Mansion, the mood was a stark contrast to the horrors Jessica faced. Laughter spilled out of the kitchen, where Mia and Irene were busy under Matthew’s guidance. The scent of savory dishes filled the air as Irene attempted to learn how to make Tristan’s favorite meal, Moussaka.

Tristan entered the house, his usually stern face softening at the sound of Irene’s laughter. As he stepped into the kitchen unnoticed, he leaned against the doorframe, watching her fumble with a pan. Her determination brought an unbidden smile to his face, but he quickly masked it when Mia noticed him.

“Brother!” Mia greeted cheerfully. “When did you get here?”

“Just now,” he replied, keeping his gaze neutral as he watched Irene. “It smells good in here.”

Matthew grinned at Tristan, subtly nudging Mia toward the pantry. “We need more spices. Come, Mia.”

Mia caught her father’s wink and played along, leaving Tristan alone with Irene. Irene turned, her face brightening when she saw him, but her smile faltered at the seriousness in his expression.

“Irene,” Tristan said, his voice low but firm. “You should stop having feelings for me.”

The words hit her like a blow. “What?” she asked, her voice trembling.

“It won’t work between us,” Tristan continued, avoiding her wide, tear-filled eyes. “It’s best if you move on.”

Her tears spilled over, and she hastily wiped them away, trying to keep her composure. “Why are you saying this now?” she asked, her voice cracking. “I’ve never hidden my feelings. Do you think I don’t know you care about me too?”

Tristan exhaled sharply, brushing a thumb across her cheek to wipe away a tear. “It doesn’t matter how I feel. I can’t give you what you deserve. I can’t let my weakness hurt you.”

Anger flashed in Irene’s tear-streaked eyes. “Weakness? You think love is weakness? Fine,” she snapped, stepping back. “If you don’t want me, I’ll move on. But don’t regret this, Tristan Foster.”

Her words echoed in the kitchen as she stormed out, leaving Tristan standing there, his chest tight with emotions he refused to name.

Meanwhile back at the Dragon Clan base, morning had risen and Jessica’s screams filled the air again as Selene returned with renewed vigor. Darren leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his face impassive. Selene’s whip lashed out, leaving new wounds on Jessica’s already battered body.

“I’ll ask you again,” Selene hissed. “Why did you target Eva? What did you gain?”

Jessica glared at her captors through the pain, her voice weak but defiant. “Revenge. I wanted to ruin Andrew’s life. Taking Eva down was just a bonus.”

Selene’s eyes narrowed, and she raised the whip again, ready to strike, when the door swung open. Andrew stood there, his presence like a storm brewing on the horizon.

“Selene, leave us,” he ordered.

Selene nodded, stepping back and leaving Jessica alone with Andrew. Jessica’s defiance faltered as Andrew approached, his dark eyes locking onto hers.

“Let’s talk,” he said, pulling up a chair and sitting across from her. His voice was calm, but the danger in it was unmistakable. “Why did you do all of this? What did you hope to gain?”

Jessica’s breathing quickened, fear overtaking her bravado. “I—”

“Don’t lie,” Andrew interrupted, leaning closer. “I’ll know.”

Jessica swallowed hard, realizing there was no escape. She began to speak, her voice trembling as she revealed the truth, knowing it wouldn’t save her from the hell she had unleashed.