Chapter 818 Reversal
Alice’s expression twisted in frustration as she lost control of her composure. Her grip on Minerva’s wrist tightened, making Minerva flinch in pain. With a sharp glance, Minerva quickly yanked her hand free and frowned, saying nothing. Instead, she turned and quietly walked toward Hera, gently reaching for her hand like a scolded puppy seeking comfort and reassurance.
When Minerva offered her hand, the red bruising on her wrist—where Alice had just grabbed her—was clearly visible. Hera frowned at the sight, her gaze shifting briefly to Alice before returning to Minerva. Gently patting Minerva’s head, she said with a soft voice, "Alright, let’s take care of your wrist first. You’re Rafael’s beloved sister—he wouldn’t even raise his voice at you, let alone his hand. You’re your family’s precious treasure, and yet your delicate skin is already this red from just being held."
Though Hera’s tone was kind and comforting, her words were carefully chosen to make sure Alice heard every bit of it. It was a subtle rebuke, not loud or harsh, but unmistakable. At the same time, Hera couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt. She had provoked Alice, fully aware of her feelings for Rafael and her likely attempt to use Minerva to get closer to him.
But how could Hera possibly let that happen? Rafael was her man now—and more than that, letting the male lead get close to Alice would be like handing a knife to a butcher. It would only help Alice reclaim her female lead halo—the very halo Hera had fought so hard to steal in order to rewrite her own fate.
Seeing Hera about to lead Minerva to the first-class cabin in another section of the plane—separated by a thin black embroidered curtain—Alice knew she couldn’t let Minerva leave with a misunderstanding.
Anyone with a brain could read between the lines of Hera’s words; she was clearly blaming Alice for being too rough, and for causing Minerva’s wrist to redden and swell. And the worst part? It was true. In her panic, Alice hadn’t realized how tightly she’d grabbed Minerva’s wrist.
Now, watching Minerva cling to Hera with a new sense of closeness and trust, Alice felt a wave of panic rise in her chest. She could feel the growing distance between her and Minerva, though she couldn’t pinpoint when it began. But deep down, she knew—this shift had everything to do with Hera.
’Hera! Hera! Hera! It’s always this bitch ruining everything!’ Alice’s thoughts spiraled in fury. ’It’s already impossible to get close to Xavier—he’s constantly flying overseas, buried in endorsement deals and ambassador duties like some overworked idol on a never-ending world tour. So I placed all my hopes on Rafael... but this damn Hera keeps getting in the way! Always!’
She clenched her fists at her sides, barely able to contain her frustration. ’I can’t accept this. I won’t let it continue. She must have said something to Minerva—something to turn her against me. Did that scheming bitch slander me behind my back?’