The Return of the Cannon Fodder Trillion Heiress - Chapter 54

Chapter 54: Chapter 54 Exit
Hera experienced a moment of clarity as she reflected on recent events. She realized that all the main and side characters were tethered to predetermined fates within the storyline, unable to break free from their narrative constraints. However, those not mentioned in the novel possessed the freedom to shape their destinies as they wished, just like how Athena could shape her own life. Despite her reluctance to accept it, Hera understood that she was inevitably drawn into the struggles of the story, compelled to play her part.

However, she also came to a realization: she wasn’t necessarily bound to her own fate; she could potentially seize someone else’s and make it her own.

This notion unsettled her, especially when she initially mistook her experiences for mere butterfly effects, only to realize they were the workings of the storyline itself. It struck her as peculiar that she encountered Zhane before taking drastic actions against Alexi and Minerva, considering meeting him had seemed nearly impossible from the start.

However, her actions rendered her an anomaly within the storyline, granting her an unexpected sense of freedom. Perhaps it was her encounter with Athena that triggered this change. Unlike the other characters in the novel, Hera had gained enlightenment about the true nature of their world—it was merely a fragment of reality from Athena’s original world. This realization likely played a role in her liberation from the shackles of the storyline.

Alternatively, it’s possible that the world they inhabited possesses a consciousness ensuring all characters adhere to their predetermined roles. This possibility may extend beyond mere oversight. Perhaps Hera’s actions have yet to yield significant consequences, explaining the absence of drastic developments thus far. However, these assumptions warrant careful consideration, prompting Hera to think more clearly and take note of potential backlashes.

Hera pushed her thoughts aside and addressed Rafael through the phone. “How do you intend to handle this situation?”

Rafael’s response was resolute. “How else? It appears President White failed to instill proper values in his daughter, and I refuse to associate with individuals of such nature. Therefore, it is only fitting to terminate my family’s collaboration with the Whites.”

Claire’s complexion paled upon hearing the verdict, realizing the dire consequences of her actions. Having just escaped her father’s wrath, she now faced another impending punishment. Regret flooded her as she reflected on her decision to frame Hera, a move that had landed her in trouble once again, mere hours after leaving their mansion. Fear gripped her as she contemplated returning home, uncertain of what awaited her there.

Honestly, Hera harbored no remorse for Claire, nor did she feel any sympathy for being instrumental in her downfall. After enduring years of bullying at Claire’s hands and those of her friends, Hera had already extended forgiveness once before. However, she firmly believed in offering others opportunities for redemption. Yet, Hera also recognized the dangers of giving too many chances, as it often led to individuals taking them for granted and feeling entitled without any regard for the consequences of their actions.

Having witnessed repeated disappointments in individuals who failed to change despite being given chances, Hera had grown weary of offering opportunities to those undeserving. She preferred to reserve such chances for those who truly merited them. Thus, she voiced her support for Rafael’s decision. “We stand behind your decision, Mr. Briley,” Hera affirmed. “Claire’s actions have crossed a line this time. She not only offended Miss Avery previously but now you as well. If we let this slide, who knows who’ll be her next target?”

Hera deliberately highlighted Claire’s offense against the Avery heiress to underscore the severity of Claire’s actions. While some might perceive Hera’s action as vindictive, her decision stemmed from years of witnessing Claire’s repeated transgressions. Hera understood that Claire wouldn’t grasp the gravity of her behavior until faced with a significant consequence.

Sure, Hera experienced a twinge of guilt, but she couldn’t ignore the implications of what she had uncovered about their world and the influence of the storyline. Did this mean she needed to elevate her efforts to avoid succumbing to the fate outlined for her in the novel?

Gerald, grasping her sentiment, chimed in. “You have my full support, Mr. Briley. I’ve been lenient in the past, but sometimes good intentions reach their limit.”

Claire crumbled where she stood, muttering incoherently, unable to plead her case as she was escorted out of the venue. The rest of the attendees remained frozen in place, rooted to the spot, unsure of how to react.

With a gracious smile, Hera addressed the group. “Thank you for the invitation today, but it seems such occasions aren’t my cup of tea. Nonetheless, rest assured that the expenses for the food and venue have been taken care of. Please, feel free to stay and enjoy the remainder of the day.” With that, she confidently strode out of the private room, Athena trailing behind her. With that, Hera confidently strode out of the private room, Athena following closely behind.

Unbeknownst to Hera, Zhane remained at her side, providing subtle support by gently holding her waist. His presence was so natural and his touch so seamless that Hera didn’t even notice until Athena brought it to her attention.

“Babe, how long do you plan on clinging to Mr. Everett?” she quipped playfully, bringing a moment of humor to the tense atmosphere.

Initially puzzled, Hera’s confusion dissolved as she felt Zhane’s gentle support around her waist. A faint blush tinted her cheeks as she turned to Zhane with gratitude. “Thank you for your assistance, Zhane,” she said, her voice slightly hesitant. “I believe I can manage to walk on my own now. But I appreciate your kindness.”

“It was certainly a dangerous situation,” Gerald remarked as he guided them to the penthouse to attend to Hera’s now reddened wrist.

“Thank you for this, Mr. Troy,” Zhane expressed his gratitude to Gerald for allowing them access to the penthouse, despite it being reserved for the private use of the Avery Heiress, he thought that Gerald took them into consideration since the commotion happened in his territory and made an exemption.

He guided Hera to the couch while Athena retrieved the first aid kit from the bathroom cabinet. Upon her return, Athena inquired, “What happened while I was away?”

As Zhane tended to Hera’s wrist, she recounted the events that unfolded after Athena had left to seek assistance.

As Hera recounted the events, Athena couldn’t help but feel a sense of apprehension. Hera tactfully dropped hints to convey her concerns to Athena without revealing too much in front of Zhane. Though Athena didn’t fully grasp the details, she understood the underlying message Hera was trying to convey. They both acknowledged the need to discuss the matter further in private, away from Zhane’s presence.

However, it was enough for Athena to sense the tension Hera had endured firsthand. She offered comfort to her best friend and gently checked for any additional bruises, thankfully finding only the one on her wrist. After tending to Hera’s injury, Zhane tidied up the items he had used and returned them to the box.

Hera, seizing the opportunity, posed a question to Zhane. “By the way, Zhane, what brought you here with Gerald earlier?”

Once Zhane finished tidying up, he met Hera’s gaze and responded, “I was returning to the private room for my meeting…” He paused, the realization dawning on him that he had abandoned his business meeting upon noticing Athena’s frantic dash. Curiosity piqued by Athena’s urgent demeanor, he inadvertently overheard her informing Gerald about Hera’s predicament, prompting him to offer assistance.

Before he realized it, Zhane found himself sprinting faster than Gerald toward the private room. Reflecting on it now, he believed it was the best decision he could’ve made, as he dreaded to think what might have occurred if he hadn’t arrived in time, especially for Hera.

Yet, dwelling on such thoughts was unsettling. Zhane pushed them aside, focusing instead on the meeting he still had to return to. Hoping his colleagues were still waiting, he excused himself after ensuring Hera was in good condition.

As Hera bid Zhane farewell at the elevator door, her sweet smile and sincere gratitude warmed his heart. Seeing her smile caused an unconscious smile to spread across his face, leaving Hera momentarily stunned before she composed herself.

“The male lead halo is truly dangerous,” Hera mused silently as the elevator doors closed. Zhane’s simple smile had sent her heart racing, leaving her feeling as if she were floating to the moon and back. She even felt literally seeing a halo shining brightly behind his head.

She decided to set the matter aside and returned to Athena, who was waiting inside the penthouse. Gerald departed to attend to the aftermath of the incident. Left alone together, Hera began sharing her assumptions and speculations with Athena, although they remained somewhat unclear and fragmented. Nevertheless, it was enough to spark a conversation between them. Athena patiently listened as Hera articulated her thoughts before offering her own insights and exploring various possibilities together.

She didn’t overlook the wealth of knowledge gleaned from novels in her previous world. Even though Athena’s life wasn’t directly impacted by Hera’s experiences, they embarked on a brainstorming session that extended into the night. Eventually, Gerald brought them food to make sure they wouldn’t get hungry while they continuing their discussion.