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

It

said he could get

heart skipped a beat. "No,

Finished

had barely escaped the

the Carlyns are really gone. If you go to that event, it might ruin Taylor's perfect chance to act.

her head down, not meeting my eyes. She twirled her fingers nervously, and when she spoke, her voice was barely above a whisper. "I know you're trying to protect me. But I can't just sit back while he

"What

"Luther likes me."

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

the

odd behavior toward me. I'd drawn lines with him right away. And now,

Whitney, even if Luther likes you, I can't let 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

I've finally found you. You can call me selfish if you want, but I'm not letting you go. Taylor's life doesn't

gasp escaping her

Stay with the Boltons for now. I'm not letting you leave. I know Taylor agrees with me. He wouldn't

on the role of

I had left. I

her eyes pleading. "Carter, you understand,

steady, met her gaze. "Listen to your

to increase security.

"Yes, ma'am," Damian

"plied,

it was the only way. "Don't hate me. I can't let you take that

you have to trust Taylor. He'll handle

red, filled with

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16:01 Thu, Feb 6

486 All It Takes Is One

cut her off, my tone cold,

G

fine. Luther won't be on guard around me. I'll make

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accidents happen. No one can predict what 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."

my eyes, catching the tears, and gave a

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

on her growing

a dangerous choice. I won't let her follow her love to the end. She needs to be kept safe. By the way,

Aunt Chloe. The

a relief." I noticed the pale tint to her skin. "You've been looking a bit worn out. I'm concerned. You've got to take care

ran her hand gently over her belly, her eyes clouding

advancements are strong, no doctor can guarantee everything will

good shape, Aunt Chloe. The

at my stomach, a cold shiver ran up my