Chapter 97: Breaking Free Adrian’s POV I was looking at the ruins of my life in an eerily silent museum. In such a short period of time, I was unable to digest my mother's betrayal, the revelation of her dishonesty, and the dismantling of all my preconceived notions about my family. But here I was, confronted with the unimaginable: my own mother had attempted to ruin all I had put so much effort into creating. My hands clinched at my sides as I felt a wave of rage wash over me. It wasn't simply rage, however. I was overcome with feelings of betrayal, sorrow, and a profound, nagging grief. How did this happen? How could I have missed it? Elena's words cut through my thoughts, "You don't have to do this." She took a stride in my direction and grounded me in the confusion with a gentle to

