Chapter 409:

“Who can say?” Kaelyn responded with a mocking laugh. “Your family’s fortunes have plummeted, haven’t they? Rumors are swirling about your father liquidating assets, with the company teetering on the brink of collapse. Did this all start when Elyse got married?”

Mabel felt a cold shiver as she realized how drastically her life had changed since Elyse’s marriage.

Kaelyn’s voice softened slightly. “I wouldn’t forgive Elyse so readily if I were you.”

Mabel’s lips parted as she pondered in silence, her face setting into a determined expression. “You’re absolutely right,” she asserted. “Elyse will face consequences for her actions.”

Kaelyn’s grin widened, pleased with the reaction she’d provoked. “Should you require assistance, you know how to reach me.”

Filled with gratitude and appreciation, Mabel ended the call. Kaelyn casually tossed the phone aside.

She wore a tight black leather jacket that sharply outlined her curvaceous figure and dipped daringly at the neckline.

“You’re benched, and the entertainment sector is now off-limits. You’re no longer of any use to us for laundering money, but we pulled every string to get you out of jail,” Eich Baton said, taking a deep drag on his cigarette and exhaling a slow stream of smoke. His look was one of severe impatience and disdain.

Kaelyn poured a glass of whiskey, her spirits sinking. The mission was a failure, and she was haunted by the ominous feeling that the organization might not let her off easily.

Eich’s complaints continued unabated. “Your actions caused Baxter’s death at sea, you insufferable woman! Do you want to put me in danger next?” he accused.

“That settles it. Go ahead, rush into danger if that’s what you want,” Kaelyn snapped back, irritation bubbling up as she downed her whiskey in one gulp.

The whiskey provided brief solace, and she reclined in her chair, feeling a mild euphoria. “Has the big boss said anything about my next task?” she asked.

Eich replied tersely, “Stay under the radar for now. We will be in touch after things settle down.”

Kaelyn responded with venom, “That’s very convenient. I have my own issues to resolve.”

Eich showed clear disapproval. “I’ve already advised you to maintain a low profile. Why insist on handling this yourself? Do you find it impossible to stay out of trouble?”

Kaelyn massaged her forehead, annoyed by Eich’s persistent criticism. “Why do you bother me incessantly like a nagging elder? I’m not taking direct action. I’ll delegate the dirty work.”

Eich responded nonchalantly, “Do as you wish.”

Kaelyn’s gaze intensified. She knew she would need to recruit another operative, besides Mabel, to confront Elyse.

In Blue Sea Music Studio, Gavin, who had once been a gentleman to Elyse and Fiona, now acted as a rigorous conductor, closely overseeing their violin rehearsal.

During a quiet moment, Elyse looked out the window. The growing darkness outside made the soft rumbling of her stomach seem louder.

The sound immediately drew Gavin and Fiona’s attention. Flushing with embarrassment, Elyse quickly averted her gaze and muttered, “It wasn’t me.”

From the couch, where he had been lounging and playing video games, Irving suddenly sat upright and joked, “Oh sure. Blame me. I’m actually the hungry one here.”

Elyse’s cheeks turned a deep red as she glared at Irving, too hungry to reply.

Gavin exhaled wearily, “Finish your last piece, and you can head home.”

Elyse mustered a small smile. “Maybe just a little longer.”

Gavin gently shook his head. “Take a rest. We’ll continue tomorrow.”

Elyse nodded, accepting his advice. She then noticed Fiona packing up. “Fiona, where are you going?” she asked.

“I’ve finished for the day,” Fiona said, her voice carrying a hint of embarrassment. “I’m heading home now.”

Elyse looked puzzled. They had been practicing together; how could Fiona be finished so quickly?

Fiona offered Elyse a smile before walking out, her cheeks rosy with a mix of pleasure and triumph, which Elyse found enviable.

Leaving the studio, Fiona strolled along a path toward the street to hail a taxi. Turning a corner, she saw a man staggering toward her from a short distance.

At first, Fiona ignored him. The neighborhood, filled with office buildings, often had people around after hours.

As the man approached, it was clear he was drunk. His eyes boldly followed Fiona, making her uncomfortable.

She quickened her pace, eager to avoid him. But despite her vigilance, she didn’t see the real threat until it was too late. Suddenly, the man grabbed her from behind. A scream escaped Fiona’s lips as she felt his tight grip. The strong smell of alcohol on his breath made her stomach churn.

“Help! Someone please help me!” Fiona shouted, desperate for help. ...