Chapter 74

Nikita paused. “I had just gotten off the phone with the woman who claimed to be my best friend."

Latisha listened silently. Nikita's voice was hoarse, stripped of its former carefree swagger and rebellious spirit. All that remained was bitterness and desolation. She was grieving not only for the lives lost but also for the betrayal of those she had once called friends. And Latisha knew she was to blame for Nikita's current state.

Nikita laughed again, a hollow sound. "She sold me out. Latisha... why is it like this?"

By the end, Latisha could clearly hear the choked sobs and despair in her voice.

A lump formed in Latisha's throat, and tears welled in her eyes. She gripped the phone tightly, her mouth opening and closing, but still, no sound came out.

After a long pause, Nikita's voice returned to normal. "I'm going to turn myself in. Do you want to see me one last time? If you're coming, just tap the screen once. If not... just hang up."

She couldn't take the torment anymore. She would rather atone in prison than continue living in misery, dragging more people down with her.

Latisha held the phone, but she didn't hang up, nor did she tap the screen.

Nikita was a victim, too. She didn't deserve any of this. But for a person with a conscience, making a mistake meant a lifetime of guilt.

"What does that mean?” Nikita asked with a sad laugh.

Latisha raised a trembling hand, her heart torn. After a long, agonizing moment, she lightly tapped the screen.

Nikita finally laughed, and for a fleeting second, it sounded as bright and genuine as it used to.

Latisha hung up, shot up from the sofa, and ran out of the house.

When Mrs. Dashiell came out with the hot broth, she was already gone.

Latisha hailed a cab and headed straight for the police station, terrified that if she

was late, she would miss her chance to see Nikita.

She got out across the street from the station and immediately spotted the familiar motorcycle. Nikita was dressed in her usual casual clothes, stradding the motorcycle and smoking a cigarette.

Latisha paid the driver and rushed over to her.

Nikita stubbed out her cigarette and grinned, looking her up and down.

This Nikita seemed like a different person from the one on the phone. She was still radiant and effortlessly cool.

“Did you get all dressed up just to see me?" Nikita teased.

Latisha looked down at her white sweater and white pants. It was what she always wore.

"Just kidding." Nikita playfully pinched her cheek, then her gaze drifted down to Latisha's stomach, She reached out and gently touched it Is he behaving?" fo

Latisha stared at her, speechless.

Nikita wasn't blaming her. She was talking to her like nothing had

changed, which hurt more than any accusation would have. Meeting Nikita's hopeful gaze Latisha forced a smile and nodded slightly.

Yes, her baby was being very good. When he was taken away, he didn't make a sound.

Nikita wiped a tear from the corner of Latisha's eye. "What are you crying for? It's not good for the baby. When I get out, will he be walking by then?"

Latisha pressed her lips together as more tears streamed down her face.

The man she loved most had dealt her two cruel farewells.

One was her children.

The other was her best friend.

Both were leaving her.