Secrets 311

Chapter 311 The Plea

Micah stopped beneath Scarlett’s building, only then realizing what kind of place she lived in— the most expensive part of the city, where every inch of land was worth its weight in gold.

He was just an ordinary student. And she… she was the Lane family’s heiress.

The gap between them was too wide.

What reason did he have to ask her for help?

And if he did see her, what would he even say?

Ask her for a favor? He couldn’t bring himself to.

Apologize? A few words of “sorry” could never repay what he owed her.

Forget it.

With a long sigh, he turned and left.

Upstairs, Scarlett had just opened her window. By chance, she caught sight of Micah’s lonely figure retreating into the distance.

She gave only the briefest glance, then shut the window again.

Scarlett returned to school to collect her diploma and degree. She hadn’t expected Wayne to be waiting for her there.

Knowing he had rushed back from Jandale for her sake, she naturally remembered the favor.

“Principal, let’s talk in your office,” she said.

Wayne admired her composure and nodded, instructing the counselor to finish her paperwork.

…

The principal sat on a redwood sofa, steam curling from the porcelain teacup before him. The fragrance of the leaves could not soften the heaviness etched into his brow.

Facing him, Scarlett sat in a white blouse, quiet and steady.

Wayne didn’t mince words. “Scarlett, I know you hold a law license.”

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She blinked, surprised, then nodded. She had taken law as a minor and passed the exam just before graduation. Few knew of it.

“My granddaughter, Dora…” Wayne’s voice dipped, rough with strain. “She is suspected of murder. You’ve heard of it. Because she’s underage, she won’t face prison or sentencing, but the stigma will follow her for life…”

He paused, fatigue shadowing his eyes. “I know this comes suddenly. But I’m desperate.”

Scarlett’s breath caught. Did he want her to represent Dora?

This was no ordinary case. Children’s testimony carried legal complications. And according to Wendy’s description, even she suspected Dora truly killed the illegitimate girl–who by now had already been cremated.

Even the best lawyers would struggle.

“Your mother already secured Wendy the finest counsel,” Scarlett said quietly. “If they couldn’t manage, I’m even less likely.”

Wayne gave a weary smile.

“Since you hypnotized Dora, she’s been calmer. But in truth, she still can’t communicate normally with others. I don’t ask you to take the lead. Madam Dane has hired a top lawyer. I only hope you’ll assist―help keep Dora steady. Will you?”

He rose, bowing slightly, sincerity plain in his lined face.

Scarlett lowered her eyes. Helplessness pressed in.

She had always repaid her debts. Wayne had sacrificed his position at Jandale for her sake. She should answer him.

But Dora’s case… she wasn’t sure she could.

“I…”

Before she could finish, Wayne’s phone rang.

“Dora” flashed on the screen. He answered immediately, voice softening. “Dora, what is it?”

A girl’s sobs broke through, ragged and choked.

“Grandpa… they said I’m a murderer… I’m scared… I didn’t do it…”

Wayne’s eyes reddened at once. His hand shook as he gripped the phone, soothing her over and over. “Don’t be afraid. Grandpa will clear

your name.”

Scarlett watched the old man’s fragile composure, listened to the broken voice on the line. Something twisted inside her chest.

She remembered her own helplessness when she had once been accused.

After a silence, she spoke gently. “Principal… let me see the case.”

Wayne’s head jerked up, hope flaring in his eyes. “You’re willing…” Original content can be found at

“I can’t promise victory,” Scarlett said firmly. “But I’ll try.”

Light spilled through the blinds, scattering golden shards across the floor.

News of her decision somehow reached Jack.

That evening in a café, he slapped a packet of freshly printed documents onto the table, the edges creased from his grip.

“Are you insane?” His eyes blazed at Scarlett. “You’re really taking this case? Do you even know who the opposing lawyer is? Quinton—the ‘Black Glove.‘ He’s notorious for shielding dirty capital, ruthless to the bone.”

Jack jabbed a finger at the name on the page, voice low but sharp. “This case is no simple matter. Dora’s involvement makes it a nightmare. Even top lawyers may fail. If you take it and stumble, you’ll bear the blame.”