Dumpling dashed back to his nest, leaving her alone in the cabin. The darkness seemed to swallow her whole, triggering memories of her selfless past. She reflected on her childhood, realizing she'd always given without receiving.
Her thoughts wandered to her parents, who had always prioritized her sister's success. Her brother Ryker's disdain and Sophia's indifference stung anew. Even her best friend Lena's family had turned against her.
Feelings of suffocation resurfaced as she tried calling Lena again. But Lena's brother answered, his voice dripping with malice. "Stay away from my sister. You're toxic." She iasked about Lena's whereabouts, but he hung up.
Desperation clawed at her. She felt utterly alone, forgotten by those she trusted. Lena's parents' rejection echoed in her mind. "You're no longer welcome here." The words cut deep.
In a moment of sheer despair, she forgot Dumpling's promise to help. Forgotten was his unwavering loyalty.
With shaking hands, she scribbled a heartfelt letter on a scrap of paper:
"Dear Little Dumpling,
I've failed. I can't fight anymore. The weight of their words, the sting of their rejection, has crushed me. I've given up so much, but it's never enough.
I remember the laughter, the tears, and the late-night conversations. You were my rock, my safe haven. But I've lost myself in trying to please everyone else.
Please forgive me for leaving. I don't want to burden you anymore. You deserve a life free from my drama.
Have a good life, Little Dumpling. Chase your dreams, make friends who truly care, and never let anyone dull your sparkle.
Don't search for me; I'm not worth it. I'm just a shadow of my former self.
Your little sister
Farewell.
P.S. Thank you for believing in me, for seeing the real me when no one else would.
Tears streamed down her face as she folded the paper, leaving it on the table.
Without looking back, she slipped into the night, disappearing into the shadows.
Meanwhile, Dumpling returned to the cabin, his arms laden with gadgets and files. A determined smile spread across his face as he uploaded the evidence online.
Social media, the fastest way to spread the truth, would clear her name. Documents, videos, voice notes, bank statements, and screenshots – irrefutable proof of her innocence – flooded the internet.
The news spread like wildfire:
"Breaking: Embezzlement Accusations Against ceo markins Proven False!"
Reporters and news channels swarmed, eager to cover the sensational reversal. "Where is she now?" CNN asked. "What's next for the wrongly accused the female ceo?" NBC inquired. Fox News pondered, "How did this miscarriage of justice occur?" Social media buzzed with hashtags #JusticeFormarkins and #TruthRevealed.
But as the truth dawned on the public, a haunting question lingered:
Where was she?
Dumpling's eyes scanned the empty cabin, his heart sinking.
"No...she can't be gone."
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