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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16:01 Thu, Feb

486 All It Takes is

could

heart skipped a beat. "No, you

Finished

but Whitney had

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

"I know you're trying to protect me. But I can't just sit back while he risks everything on his own. I'm not reckless. ve

puzzled. "What do you

"Luther likes me."

skipped. That wasn't the answer I'd expected.

part of the same group. We should've known each other, but I forgot that part of my past. He hasn't,

sense, like how I'd noticed Sergio's odd behavior toward me. I'd drawn lines with him right

I can't let you go. He invited you, but it's obvious he wants to take you

for 20 years. I've finally found you. You can call me selfish if you want, but

gasp

have to say anything more. Stay with the Boltons for now. I'm not letting you leave. I know Taylor agrees with me. He wouldn't want me sending you

took on the role

was all I had left.

looked at Carter, her eyes pleading. "Carter, you

and steady, met her gaze.

to increase security.

"Yes, ma'am," Damian

locked Whitney, "plied, his expression

was the only way. "Don't hate me.

to trust Taylor.

red, filled

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All It Takes Is

my tone cold,

G

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

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life will throw at them. This is a gamble, and in every gamble, there are losers. In fact, most gamblers lose. Even if you win, I wouldn't let you take that risk. One loss could mean everything." I cupped her face gently. "Whitney, please.

into my eyes, catching the tears, and

despite her promise, I still couldn't shake the anxiety gnawing at me. I immediately arranged for extra security

her growing belly,

I won't let her follow her love to the end. She needs to be kept safe. By the way, how did your last prenatal checkup go? Everything's

Aunt Chloe.

her skin. "You've been looking a bit 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

ran her hand gently over her belly, her eyes clouding with a touch

advancements are strong, no doctor can guarantee

like you're in good shape, Aunt Chloe.

she glanced at my stomach, a cold