Restarting Life: Back From the Dead novel Chapter 18

After being pushed down the stairs repeatedly, Zoey finally lost consciousness, overwhelmed by despair. In the fleeting moments before darkness claimed her, a painful clarity dawned upon her—Sebastian was nothing but a madman.

He had never harbored any genuine feelings for her. She had been foolish, confusing his affection for Fiona with what she mistakenly believed was his love for her.

She felt utterly stupid.

Days passed as she lay in the hospital, slowly regaining her strength. Throughout her stay, Sebastian’s bodyguard remained stationed by her side. But it wasn’t out of kindness or concern—he was there simply to witness her suffering, to watch her endure every moment of pain without offering comfort.

When Zoey was finally well enough, the medical staff began drawing her blood. They took sample after sample, pushing her to the brink until she fainted. Only after she regained consciousness would they resume the process. This grueling routine continued for several more days, until at last, the bodyguard left.

Now, Zoey lay in her hospital bed, fragile and hollow. Her once radiant complexion had faded into a dull pallor, and her body was so weakened that even a gentle breeze might topple her. She drifted in a haze, barely aware of her surroundings.

Before she could fully gather her thoughts, a nurse entered the room carrying a thick stack of papers. She handed them to Zoey with a professional yet indifferent expression.

“Ms. Little, these are the hospital bills for your stay. Please review them, and if everything is in order, you can sign and arrange payment.”

Zoey’s eyes widened as she glanced over the figures. The total was staggering—millions.

Confused and disbelieving, she frowned and asked, “I’ve only been here a few months to recover. Why is the cost so high?”

The nurse replied calmly, “You were accommodated in a private room and had a personal caretaker attending to you. Plus, the meals provided were of premium quality.”

She added quietly, “Mr. Fuller arranged all of this for you, but he hasn’t paid. He said it’s part of your punishment.”

A cold wave of dread washed over Zoey’s face. She felt trapped and helpless, anger simmering beneath her skin, yet there was nothing she could do. Taking a deep breath, she forced herself to stay calm. In the end, she had no choice but to pay the enormous sum.

Her bank account was nearly drained in an instant. Though she had received a substantial amount of money during her time with Sebastian, her expenses had been just as high.

He gazed at each photo, a bittersweet smile breaking through his tears.

“Felicia, I miss you so much. You’re gone now, and there’s no one left for me to argue with. Life feels so empty and dull without you.”

He paused, voice thick with emotion.

“I promised to take care of your parents. I’ve kept that promise, but without you, they’re struggling. I might have to break my word soon.”

He swallowed hard before continuing.

“When your parents are gone, I’ll come to be with you, okay? Will you wait for me? We’ll be together again in the next life.”

Since the photos couldn’t respond, he silently accepted the answer he wished to hear on Felicia’s behalf. Holding onto his promise, he rose and went to check on Richard and Marissa, determined to honor his vow.