The Wrong Woman

Lucas' tearful smile lingered as Cole and his men approached to detain him.

During the search, they discovered a firearm in Lucas' possession.

The sight of the gun stirred something within Cole, momentarily disrupting his thoughts. In truth, if Lucas had drawn the weapon and attempted to flee, he might have had a chance. Cole found himself fixated on the gun, lost in contemplation.

In a low voice, Lucas confessed, "I've considered taking out General Morrison, but I never once thought about harming you. You've been the closest thing to a brother I've ever had." Tears welled up in Cole's eyes at Lucas' declaration.

Handing the firearm to one of his subordinates, Cole drew a deep breath to steady himself before addressing Lucas. "It's too late now," he said firmly.

"How did you manage to identify me?" Lucas asked, his curiosity piqued. "After all, I've undergone extensive plastic surgery to the point where not even my mother could recognize me."

Cole replied, "I didn't recognize you. It was General Morrison who saw through your disguise in an instant."

"General Morrison?"

Cole's smile held a hint of bitterness. "Isn't it ironic? The superior you were willing to eliminate at any cost reads you like an open book-your mannerisms, gestures, speech patterns-with just a glance." Lucas could only manage a wry smile in response, falling silent.

Cole's words were heavy with sorrow, his grief evident. "Lucas, you were once General Morrison's most trusted and capable assistant.

a brother, covering your father's medical expenses and often instructing me to send money to your family in

to get married, he would have gladly arranged everything without

you chose to betray General Morrison. Money blinded you, and you've

head, his eyes brimming

of his actions. Redemption appeared

left in you, you'll reveal Oliver's location and expose Nightshade's plans and operatives in Norvania," Cole

gritted his teeth. "I can't do that. If

Cole thundered. "Get him out

restrained Lucas and

enough, headlines across major news outlets and trending discussions were flooded with reports

Norvania's wealthiest magnate ignited a nationwide frenzy, prompting reporters

the days that followed, Zach regained control of

Avery and Lucas found themselves incarcerated, confronting the prospect of spending the rest of

posing as Sally Hoffis, and the two swiftly forged

interaction,

tell you this: Oliver's affection lies solely with his niece,

women are mere pawns, easily discarded once they've served their purpose. Don't cling

the harsh reality, isn't it? I've been nothing more than a pawn all this time, and even my marriage was just another piece