Chapter 209 Atlas didnt return to his room ; instead , he sat alone in the yard .
As he pondered everything that had happened recently , it felt as though he was in a different world .
Nothing seemed real , like a dream .
Since Odalys had taken Sophias place , everything had changed .
The Bennen family was in chaos , and at times , he even found Sophia repulsive .
He didnt know why he was feeling this way .
Alas , why arent you asleep yet ? After much internal hesitation , Sophia finally draped a robe over herself and stepped outside .
She found Atlas sitting alone in the yard , the cigarette in his hand burning down to the filter , yet he seemed unaware of the flames that were already close enough to scorch his skin .
When she spoke , Atlas looked up , his brows furrowing in confusion .
Seeing her face made him feel disoriented this was his little princess whom he had raised , but in that moment , she looked as unfamiliar as a stranger .
Sophia , why do you look so different ? Atlas asked , puzzled .
Her face seemed so foreign to him .
If it werent for the fact that they had been on the same reality show together , he mightve thought she was just an ordinary passerby .
Sophia froze in panic .
What nonsense are you talking about ? I just didnt put on any makeup .
Since shed coughed up blood at the hospital , her face had changed .
Though she always covered it with makeup , she couldnt help but be scared .
Now that Atlas had questioned her , her heart began to race Ive seen you without makeup before .
You didnt look like this .
I noticed something was off when we were tre at the hospital , but now ⦠when I look at you , your face seems like it belongs to someone else .
You didnt have time for plastic surgery , so who are you really ! You cant be Sophia .
My sister is smart and kind , but youre vicious and calculating .
Youve stirred up trouble and made everyone miserable .
Atlas got to his feet and walked toward her .
Every word he spoke felt like a knife stabbing into Sophias heart .
Her lips trembled , and she instinctively took a few steps back , as if struck by a heavy blow .
She stared at Atlas , tears welling up in her eyes , and whispered .
Atlas , why are you hurting me like they did ? Tim Sophia , your beloved little princess , the one youve cherished since childhood .
Why would you doubt met Was everything you did for me a lie ? Or do you think Odalys is now your favorite , so you want to get close to her , to gain popularity ? Do you think I have no value left , and that youre just looking for an excuse to throw me away ? Sophias voice cracked as she turned , heartbroken , and walked back .
Her steps faltered , her pace frantic as she rushed back to her room .
She couldnt understand why Atlas had said such things .
Her face was the source of her anxiety .
No one had mentioned it for days , and she had thought everything was back to normal .
But Atlass words had shaken her .
She was terrified , What am I going to do ? Whats happened to my face ? Sophia murmured softly , her hands cupping her face , rubbing it in frustration .
The anxiety gnawed at her , threatening to crush her .
As she fled , Atlas watched her go .
He knew it was Sophia , but for some reason , his gut rejected her now .
The sight of her standing in front of him made him feel physically uncomfortable .
I must be sick , Atlas muttered , regret creeping into his voice .
How could I have said that to her ! 1/2 6:23 PM c Chapter 209 Recently , hed felt increasingly irritable .
He had openly clashed with Odalys , kicked Francis out of the house , verbally attacked Sophia , and even dated to offend Stellan .
Fach action seemed like he was pushing himself closer to a breaking point , but he couldnt stop himself .
It felt as if some unseen force was guiding him I have to go home and see a magician ..
maybe Ive picked up some bad energy .
Atlas whispered to himself.
He was shaken by his own behavior , feeling a sense of dread as he turned back toward his room , determined not to stay outside any longer .
Meanwhile , Stellan had witnessed the whole scene while walking to refill his glass of water .
She looks different ! Stellan frowned , mulling over the conversation he had just overheard .
As he headed back , he almost collided with Odalys .
who was also carrying a glass of water .
Sorry , are you okay ? Stellan asked , startled , stepping back quickly to make sure he hadnt spilled any water .
Im fine .
Odalys replied calmly , then looked up at the sky , which appeared closer than it did in the city .
The stars twinkled brightly above them , almost within reach Cant sleep Stellan asked , noticing her stillness .
He approached and stood beside her , following her gaze to the sky , his thoughts wandering .
No , just thirsty .
I came out to get some water , Odalys replied , but there was more to it than just that .
She had been meaning to talk to Stellan , and since everyone else was asleep and the hidden cameras were off , it was the perfect opportunity .
By the way , when you call your father tomorrow , remind him .
If he doesnt listen , call me , Odalys said quietly .
At the mention of this , Stellans anxiety returned .
It was the reason he couldnt sleep earlier .
So , my dad is definitely going to be in trouble , right ? Stellan asked , his voice hoarse , trying to conceal his emotions , but his hand holding the glass trembled Many things are part of a cycle .
Magic isnt all powerful ; its about belief .
If you believe , it works ; if you dont , it doesnt .
Your father is someone who only believes in himself , not in fate , Odalys explained softly .
Everyones existence has its meaning , and for some , their downfall is inevitable , she said .
Stellan wasnt as cold as he appeared ; Odalys could see through him , and that was why she chose to warn him .
She pulled out a calisman and handed it to him .
Take this .
If something happens , give it to your father to wear .
Stellan was stunned , staring at the talisman .
It was folded into a triangle shape , and a faint magical aura seemed to emanate from it .
He quickly gripped it in his hand , unsure why , but he trusted Odalys inexplicably .
Thank you , Stellan muttered , his voice still rough .
Odalys shrugged and pointed to the talisman .
Thatll cost you , though .
When you have internet , dont forget to pay .
With that , she turned and walked back inside , her glass of water in hand .
Stellan stood there , watching her retreating figure , feeling a tightness in his chest .
He quickly followed her , his voice low , I will .
Once I have internet , Ill definitely pay you