Kourtney’s frustration boiled over. “I don’t want his lifeline! I want to stand on my own two feet! I’ve worked too hard to let someone else dictate my life!”

Lilian’s expression turned even more serious. “Okay, but let’s not forget that....”

The loud and incessant ringing of Kourtney’s phone cut her off midway.

Kourtney's frustration simmered beneath the surface as she glared at her phone.

The number was strange yet familiar, like an old song that played in the back of her mind. She hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of Lilian's eyes on her.

“Just answer it,” Lilian urged, her voice laced with curiosity. “What’s the worst that...