James was at a loss for words. He didn’t refute or explain.

Thea pinched his ear, making him grit his teeth in pain. He quickly begged for mercy.

“We can take our time to settle the scores.” Thea said, “As for now, you must listen to me, or else we can’t get through the Solemnity Tribulation.”

James felt helpless. “I’ve always listened to you.”

“You didn’t listen to me before,” Thea said sharply, “Did you think I wouldn’t recognize you because you were possessed?”

James was speechless.

“I didn’t expose you because we were being watched,” Thea continued. “I let you leave not because I wanted you to leave me behind but to let you temporarily leave the Fortieth Heaven. That way, they couldn’t activate their trap and the Solemnity Tribulation.

“If you’re outside, even if they’re bold, they can’t do anything to me.

“On the other hand, you’re infatuated. Why must you die with me? Now, your wish might come true.”

At this time, James was like a child who had done something wrong and