Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 729

Wayne's gaze darkened, heavy and cold. "Of course it matters."

If it weren't for Hayden, Wayne might've had his shot. Keira and Jace's breakup had been the perfect opening, but Hayden had slipped in before he could.

Wayne had always blamed himself for being just a step too late. If he'd come back sooner- been there when the cracks started between Keira and Jace-would Hayden have ever been part of the picture?

But life doesn't deal in what ifs. Wayne had missed his chance, and Hayden had taken it.

"How surprising-and what an honor-to be someone so important to you," Hayden quipped, his words sharp enough to draw blood.

Wayne smirked faintly. "Let's stop playing games and get to the point."

"To what exactly?" Hayden's tone was light, almost mocking.

"I know why you're pretending to be someone else," Wayne said, straight to the point. But you're not part of Blade Front anymore. That fight? It's not yours. If you keep this up, you'll just end up hurting yourself-and everyone around you." A warning, thinly veiled as advice.

Hayden's teasing façade dropped, replaced with cool focus. Wayne wasn't here to stir up trouble-this was a negotiation.

"Yeah, I've left Blade Front," Hayden said, his tone calm. "But when you all keep dragging me into your mess, what choice do I have but to play along?"

the confirmation

he really was.

you in because of who

dragged me in to get rid of me. But you didn't think to check what you were dealing with. That's on you for kicking a

time with Blade Front-a covert international

the group. It wasn't until Keira's brush with death in Houston-and Wayne's reckless choice to involve Herman-that Hayden called on his old contacts, exposing himself in the process. Wayne let

Hayden didn't deny it.

Chapter 729

+25 BONUS

terms. What will it take

"someone," he meant

like I need money?" Hayden tilted his head slightly, the faint

Keira's kiss-catching the light.

replaced by a cold glare. "Hayden, wake up. If you

Another thinly

a small nod, acknowledging

want her-because she's your trophy.

face darkened instantly. 'How dare Hayden say that?" Of