Even after Her Death by Rita Bond

Even after Her Death

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Chapter 486 All It Takes Is One Loss

Sergio offered his hand. "Mr. Bolton, it's a pleasure."

Both men stood tall, but Carter's presence radiated the case of someone accustomed to command. Sergio, on the other hand, carried himself with an undeniable intensity. Their handshake, simple at first, felt more like a charged meeting between two powerful figures as if the slightest spark could ignite a confrontation.

As they pulled away, I noticed Sergio's lack of interest Carter.

"I have matters to attend to. Mr. Bolton, please make yourself at home."

Though Sergio maintained a cool exterior, he always made an effort to personally welcome me, offering snacks, fruit, and drinks.

Yet, with Carter, there was no hospitality, no attempt to mask the tension.

I tried to smooth things over, "Carl, don't take it personally. Dr. Zimmer's just... well, he's not the most open person."

Carter didn't reply, though his eyes spoke volumes.

Once Whitney's session ended, I walked to Sergio's office to say goodbye. He was wiping his hands again with a wet wipe, each motion slow and deliberate.

"Um... I'll head out now," I said, unsure how to respond to his strange behavior.

Without looking up, he dropped the wipe in the trash. Alright."

I turned and left, trying to convince myself that it was just his need for cleanliness and not anything personal toward Carter.

The car ride felt tense, and Whitney broke the silence, The academy is hosting an event soon, Chloe."

"What kind of event?"

"A student exchange for top performers."

Carter and I exchanged a glance. This event was held a few times each year, advertised as a chance for students to network and gain career opportunities. But every time, a few students left for the event and never came back. After Carter looked into it, we discovered that some of those students had disappeared into a web of black- market dealings and financial fraud.

This was Taylor's chance to move.

It was an inside operation. If we could get evidence at the event, it would be the perfect moment to dismantle everything.

"You'll need senior membership for this event, right? You're a junior member. You probably won't be able

to go...

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All It Takes

said he could get

beat.

Finished

goal was, but Whitney had barely escaped the organization. If

use you to confirm whether the Carlyns are really gone. If you go to that event, it might ruin Taylor's

She twirled her fingers nervously, and when she spoke, her voice was barely above a whisper. "I

"What do

"Luther likes me."

wasn't

look. Luther's part of the same

Sergio's odd behavior toward me. I'd drawn lines with him right away.

you go. He invited you, but it's obvious he wants to take you away from us. Once you're out there, we won't be able to

can call me

gasp escaping her

Boltons for now. I'm not letting you leave.

the first time, I took on the role

had left. I

her eyes pleading.

calm and steady, met her gaze. "Listen

ordered Damian to increase security. No matter

"Yes, ma'am," Damian

locked Whitney, "plied,

It hurt, but it was the only way. "Don't hate me. I can't let you

trust Taylor.

filled with

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486 All It Takes

tone cold, "Then it's his bad

G

looked desperate. "I'll be fine. Luther won't be on

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most gamblers lose. Even if you win, I wouldn't let you take that risk. One loss could mean

my eyes, catching the tears, and

couldn't shake the anxiety gnawing at me. I immediately arranged for

resting on her growing belly,

reply, "I can't risk her making a dangerous choice. I won't let her follow her love to the end. She needs to be kept safe. By

Chloe. The

worn out. I'm concerned. You've got to take care of yourself, especially with this being the Boltons' first child. Your dad will be so happy

ran her hand gently over her belly, her eyes

are strong, no doctor can guarantee everything will be

in good shape, Aunt Chloe. The baby

glanced at my stomach, a cold shiver