Chapter 196:Shattered Illusions

(Scarlett's POV) I sat in stunned silence, struggling to process what I'd just learned. The healing center I'd been so proud of—my supposed independence—had all been carefully orchestrated by Roman. The realization left me feeling hollow. "Northern Medical Supplies," I said finally, my voice barely audible. "That was you too, wasn't it?" Roman's ice-blue eyes met mine without flinching. "Yes. It's one of the Shadow Organization's subsidiaries." The confirmation hit me like a physical blow. Northern Medical Supplies had been my largest supplier, providing rare herbs and healing materials at prices I'd considered fortunate. Now I understood why. "So everything was fake," I whispered, unable to keep the hurt from my voice. "All my supposed achievements—just an illusion you created." "No," Roman said firmly, taking my hands in his. "Your healing techniques, your dedication to your patients, the respect you earned—those are real, Scarlett. The money was just a tool." Aiden cleared hi