Chapter 199 " You're hurt , " he said softly , his voice tinged with concern . Dark , heavy clouds split open with a blinding flash of lightning , thunder rumbling . Sarah flinched and pressed herself into Zachary's arms , trembling . She had always been terrified of thunderstorms . Zachary held her close , one arm wrapped around her waist , his other hand gently stroking her hair . She didn't notice the flicker of guilt and subtle anxiety in his eyes . Sarah breathed in his comforting scent , feeling completely secure . He must be apologizing for not reaching her sooner during the storm . The next morning , the night's rain had completely vanished . Golden sunlight radiated intense warmth , as if the previous night's tempest had never occurred . Sarah opened her amber eyes to find the bed empty . The pillow was still warm - he had left quite some time ago . Dressed and ready , she walked into the kitchen . Breakfast was already prepared , a small note beside her plate . " Good morning , I've gone to work . " Below the words , he had drawn a tiny heart - a trademark of his playful side . She snapped a photo and posted it on social media . Mia was the first to like it , commenting : "Sarah , I know who drew this ! " Scarlett responded : " Who is it ? Is it who I'm thinking of ? " " Who are you thinking of ? " Mia teased back . Steven suddenly chimed in , " Are you two playing a word game ? " Scarlett and Mia simultaneously replied , " Go away ! Stupid chef ! " Sarah laughed while finishing her breakfast and scrolling through their banter . Zachary suddenly replied to Scarlett's comment : " It was me . " Mia exploded with excitement , " Zac ! I'm totally supporting you ! Keep trying ! " Scarlett also erupted , " I knew it was you ! You must treat me to dinner , and have that chef cook ! " Steven frantically typed a long response , " … Boss , are you going to do something ? They're all bullying me ! " Sarah put away her phone and headed to work . Chapter 199 +15 Bonus At the university , she was writing her thesis . After Jane sent her the latest conference materials , she suddenly found inspiration . Her previous paper had been published in the Psychological Journal , establishing her as a rising psychology expert . This research was even more cutting - edge , and the required materials were extensive . She had to rely on Jane's help . After writing part of her paper , three students entered her consultation room . One seemed timid and withdrawn , while the other two were lively and chatty . " Miss Sanders , " they explained , " this is my roommate . Her family has been so critical that she's become withdrawn . She even received a phone call threatening to kill her . We saw her in the dorm room playing with a small knife near her wrist , which was terrifying, so we brought her here . " Sarah took the girl to her office and began carefully questioning her . Most psychological issues stemming from family dynamics could be alleviated through suggestive techniques . As she was helping the girl , she accidentally overheard Zachary's name being mentioned by two female students . " I'll probably never attend an auction that Zachary participates in ! " " This auction is quite significant . Did you know there's a huge , rare red diamond ? " " A red diamond ? I'm so regretful . My mom even asked this morning if I wanted to go , and I refused … " Sarah smiled softly and told the girl who was still looking down , " Don't pay attention to others ' opinions . When you don't want to listen , remember to cover your ears . "