Chapter 156: [Volume 1] Chapter 156- Sudden change.

In the corridor, she crossed paths with Kai, who had been turning away but paused at the sight of her. His brow furrowed, a mix of curiosity and concern etched across his features. He watched as Helga exited, noting the way Esme had so easily dismissed her, almost as if she were a mere footnote in a grander scheme.

"What just happened in there?" Kai asked, his voice low and probing. He leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, clearly intrigued by the shift in Helga's demeanor as she was going away without even notucing him.

Jay, who had been standing quietly in the corner, watched Esme with a growing sense of caution. His initial shock at her calm demeanor quickly turned to alarm when he noticed the blood dripping steadily from her hand. The towel she was using was soaked through with red, a sight that made his stomach twist.