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?"

smirked. That was all the confirmation he needed-Hayden

he really was.

who you are," Wayne replied, tilting his

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

just some ex-soldier. His time with Blade Front-a covert international task

It wasn't until Keira's brush with death in Houston-and Wayne's reckless choice to involve Herman-that

Hayden didn't deny it.

Chapter 729

+25 BONUS

Wayne said, shifting gears. "Let's talk terms. What will it take for you to stay

"someone," he meant

I need money?" Hayden tilted his head

Keira's kiss-catching the light.

up. If

Another thinly veiled

a small nod, acknowledging

Johnston, you don't love Keira. You want her-because she's your trophy. This isn't about her; it's about beating Jace. Having her proves you're not second

Of course, he loved Keira.