Chapter 18 : silent goodbye
George's words pierced through Leo's heart.
"Drop Realiana at my house."
Michel supported him calmly.
"Yes. That's the best decision. She'll be safer there."
When Leo returned home with Realiana, everyone was waiting.
As she was about to say something, Smith stopped her and asked about dinner. Leo looked distant… almost broken.
At the dinner table, a pin-drop silence filled the room.
Suddenly, Leo spoke.
"How was your day today?"
She smiled softly and began, "You know, I met my best friend today. She was so happy to see me. Then we went out… had lunch… talked for hours…"
Who knew these walls were hearing her laughter for the last time?
Even her smile healed everyone at that table.
Soon, everyone started chatting—everyone except Leo. He simply watched them, watching their happiness… and realizing it was all because of her.
After dinner, without looking at anyone, he said coldly,
"Pack your luggage. You're leaving tomorrow."
She blinked in confusion. "We're going somewhere?"
His voice lowered.
"You're going home."
And he walked away.
Everyone was confused. What was happening?
Smith's expression turned cold.
"Don't ask questions. Just do what he said."
It was the first time Realiana had seen smith this cold. He had always spoken gently to her.
Without another word, she went to her room and began packing her clothes.
Meanwhile, Smith followed Leo.
"What happened?" he asked.
"We failed," Leo said bitterly. "George decided to take her home… acting like he cares."
Leo punched the wall.
"She's happier here than there."
Smith sighed. "I'll say only one thing. His decision was right. Don't you see? We're getting attached."
Leo stayed silent.
"And attachment makes people weak."
He turned to leave, then added quietly,
"We're all sad right now… but this is best for us."
Back in her room, Natasha came to help Realiana pack.
"Stop giggling, ma'am," Natasha said softly.
Realiana scoffed lightly. "Whenever he wants, he brings me here. And when he wants, he sends me away. What does he think he is?"
"Mind your language," Natasha replied gently. "And it wasn't his decision."
They finished packing and lay down to sleep.
But no one in that house truly slept that night.
Their little entertainer was leaving.
And perhaps the one who was hurt the most—more than even Leo—was Jhosan, the crybaby.
He never spoke much with her, but he always enjoyed her presence.
He would miss her deeply.
The next morning, everyone gathered quietly.
Leo and Realiana stood near the car.
She said goodbye to everyone… and left.
The house felt unbearably silent after she was gone.
In the car, silence followed them.
They both wanted to speak.
But neither did.
When they arrived, she stepped out of the car and walked away
without looking back.