Nadine's reaction was immediate. Her face contorted with disapproval as she absorbed the news. How could fate be so cruel as to bind her to Marcus once again?

"Are you serious?" Nadine inquired, unable to conceal her disdain.

Etienne affirmed the truth, explaining the circumstances of their rebirth and the challenges they would face. Nadine couldn't help but wonder why Etienne had chosen to awaken after her death in her first life. Why hadn't she been there to help when Nadine was bound on that operating table?

"What happened, Etienne? Why were you not available in my past life?" Nadine's voice carried a mix of confusion and frustration.

"It was...