Chapter 66: 66. Tangled Hearts Maria stared at Mrs. Spencer, her brows furrowed in confusion. "So what do I need to do for my safety, and why would anyone want me dead?" she asked, her voice low and strained.
"Firstly," Mrs. Spencer began, her gaze intense, "you need to be careful with what you share and with whom. We don’t know who your enemies are or why they’re after you. Don’t stay out late, and most importantly, never reveal anything you’re being told here. No one must know that you’re alive. If asked how you recovered, just say you woke up and found yourself on the street. Nothing more."
Maria nodded slowly, her mind racing. "Okay, ma’am. I’ll do exactly as you said. But... how will I come here if I need to again?"
Mrs. Spencer’s expression softened. "I’ll give you a ring. Keep it hidden from everyone, but close to you at all times. If you’re in danger or need to come here urgently, put the ring on your middle finger and rub it gently across your face. Help will come."
She reached into the bag she carried and pulled out a small, glistening ring covered in tiny, diamond-like stones. Holding it out, she smiled warmly. "Make sure you keep this safe, Maria. One day, you’ll need it. And when that day comes, just remember the instructions."
Maria took the ring carefully, gazing at it with wide, awestruck eyes. Despite everything she’d been told, she still felt the weight of uncertainty in her chest.
Mrs. Spencer must have noticed her unease. She placed a gentle hand on Maria’s back. "Whatever’s troubling you... it will be fine, Maria. Trust me."
Maria managed a small smile and lay back on the bed. The nurse, noticing her struggle, quickly moved to assist her.
"When will I be able to leave here?" Maria asked, looking up at the nurse.
"As soon as your wounds are nearly healed and we’re sure you’re strong enough to walk. But from what I see, two to three days, and you’ll be ready," the nurse said gently.
Maria’s face lit up at the news. The thought of being able to return to the outside world filled her with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She still didn’t know what happened after the night she was shot.
Mrs. Spencer and the nurse gave her a few more words of comfort before quietly exiting the room. Maria watched them leave, her mind still swirling.