She Rose from the Ashes

Ten years ago, Serena rushed into a burning lab to save Julian Thorne, inhaling the chemical gases that left her with irreversible lung fibrosis. He knelt by her bed and swore he would cure her. Now she lies in a hospital bed, her critical condition notice issued for the third time, while Julian celebrates a research breakthrough with Valerie Shaw.

The drug was ready a year ago, yet Serena is the only candidate denied access to it. Valerie warns Julian that Serena's collapses are calculated, and he agrees to give the next batch to a wealthier donor. When Serena confronts them, Julian calls her selfish and accuses her of emotional manipulation, shielding Valerie instead.

Then Valerie reveals that Serena's parents' medical fund is gone, spent on Julian's lab, a mansion, a luxury car, and an allowance for Valerie herself.