Chapter 301

She had no money. Her years of learning were useless to him; Reed Group's lawyers were far more experienced. All she possessed was herself—her penniless self.

Grace knelt before Jason, her eyes downcast. "I beg you," she pleaded. "Take me to Hadwin Stephenson. I want to see Lina with my own eyes."

His black eyes fixed on her, his face a mixture of shock and anger. "Do you know what you're doing?" he demanded, his chest heaving.

He knew her pride. Even when ridiculed, she clung to her dignity. Otherwise, she wouldn't have repeatedly refused him. But her willingness to kneel for Lina Sweeney implied Lina's greater importance. "if you'll take me to Lina and ensure her safety, I'll do whatever you want." This was her only offering.

He stared at her, an unnoticed unease in his gaze. "What if I refuse?" His voice was icy.

Her body trembled. Slowly, she raised her eyes to meet his. He pressed his lips together, his stare unwavering. Her face paled. She took a deep breath. "All right, I understand."

She rose, turned, and left the room, heading for the house's exit. Failing to strike a deal—her only recourse—she would face whatever came next. She wouldn't ask again; further pleading would only be humiliating, recalling her failed pleas to the judge and her desperate attempts to secure release from prison—experiences that had made her a laughingstock.

As she reached the door, a hand seized her arm, pulling her toward the waiting car. Stunned, Grace stared at Jason.

He opened the passenger door, almost throwing her inside before slamming it shut. He slid behind the wheel. "Fasten your seat belt," he growled, his face livid as he started the engine.