Their demeanor shifted to solemnity upon her declaration, convincing them of her delusion, and subjected her to a rigorous regime, two hours of daily "re-education" via film, designed to cement her supposed madness.

Over time, Lauren learned to play along with their treatment.

Yet, she clung to the idea of escape, consumed with the desire to confront Raegan, the woman she blamed for her plight. In her mind, had Raegan not interfered, she would have already been Mitchel's wife.

One day, the heavy iron door groaned open, and a shadowy figure entered with an effortless grace.

The room, sealed from the outside world, obscured his features, allowing Lauren only the faintest impression of his handsome silhouette.

Could it be Mitchel?

Overwhelmed, she rushed to embrace the silhouette, only to be repelled by a sharp kick from polished leather shoes.

Squeak! A small but shrill scream, coupled with the fluffy touch, made her roll on the ground like getting an electric shock.

Oh! Oh no! To her horror, she realized she had crushed a mouse.

Bloodied and soiled, Lauren shrieked uncontrollably, scrambling forward in despair.

“Mitchel, I beg you, free me... You owe me, Mitchel. Ignoring me for her will be your downfall... I will end Raegan, I swear it..."

Her ravings painted the picture of someone truly unhinged.

"Idiot," a disdainful voice cut through the darkness.

Frozen, Lauren registered the unfamiliar, yet melodic voice. It was not Mitchel's.

Regaining a shred of composure, she demanded, "You're not Mitchel.

Who are you then?"

"Me?" The man's voice carried a hint of amusement.

"I'm here to save you."

Lauren, puzzled, echoed, “Save me? But why?"

Instead of answering, the man posed a question, “Are you aware that you're pregnant?"