A Journey from Bitterness to Truth

Chapter 159

“Really?” Criss squinted, trying to gauge any hint of discomfort on her face, but Matlida delivered her line with such smoothness that there wasn’t even a hint of awkwardness.

Sheesh, women are as mysterious as the ocean’s depths!

Criss unfolded his legs and propped his chin lazily. “What’s taking your friend so long? Shoot her the diner’s address and tell her to start getting dolled up.”

“Probably tied up with something.”

As Declan’s personal assistant, Chloe had to be available for him at the drop of a dime, which meant her hours were anything but typical. Even though it was the weekend, she might still be caught up helping Declan with work matters.

“No way Declan’s working her to the bone on a weekend. Doesn’t the guy ever take a break?” Criss tapped his fingers on the table. “Give her a ring: at least let her know.”

Matilda figured it was a good idea, so she casually dialed Chloe’s number. But as soon as the call connected, a faint groan came through the line.

of unease through Matilda. “Chloe, where are you? You coming for brunch?” she

no reply, just a man’s cold chuckle before the call

wasn’t like Chloe to be unresponsive: she was usually upbeat and outgoing. This was highly unusual.

safety spiked. She

raced with worry. “I’m afraid

check it out. It’s not like her to not answer calls on a weekend. Could be

left the diner in a hurry, clutching their cell phones. They flagged down a cab outside the mall, and Matilda gave the driver the name of an upscale

wha” Cric

a nice place, huh?” Criss remarked when he heard the address. “Is it her own, or did

unsure whether Declan

unpredictable, and with his powerful background, Matilda had her concerns when Chloe became his personal

upon arriving at Chloe’s doorstep, they

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