Felicia had no intention of remaining idle. Meanwhile, Stephan and Imogen laid a trap for Archie, orchestrating an elaborate performance that depicted the Russell family as leaderless and embroiled in a chaotic power struggle. Archie fell for the bait almost immediately. He swiftly contacted his backer, urging Pete to provide reinforcements to seize control of the Russell family. By nightfall, the conflict was expected to erupt. Confident in the Cartell family's support, Archie planned to forcibly acquire the family seal and assume control. What he didn't anticipate, however, was Stephan's simultaneous takedown of the Cartell family. But that is a story for another time.
Felicia had no intention of participating in this operation. The following afternoon, after lunch, she borrowed a car from Stephan. She made no secret of her intentions, explaining the details of the missing persons case. With Monkey, her operative, missing, she felt a responsibility to search for him. Stephan didn't dissuade her, simply asking, "Do you need more manpower?"
"No. That would attract too much attention. Besides, I have Scarlet and five other mercenaries. I'll be safe." Felicia preferred discretion, especially in situations where a low profile was crucial.
"Be careful," Stephan said, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. His dark eyes held an intense gaze. Felicia raised an eyebrow; she'd expected his objection. His unhesitating agreement saved her the trouble of persuasion. Just as she was about to leave, Stephan pulled her back, holding her waist and kissing her quickly. Before she could react, she felt something cold and metallic in her hand—a pistol.
"There are six bullets inside. Stay safe," Stephan said casually, ruffling her hair. His deep, tranquil eyes, however, held tenderness.
Felicia carefully stowed the gun. After a moment's hesitation, she stood on tiptoe and kissed his cheek. "Here's your reward," she said mischievously, flashing a sly smile. It was a rare display of initiative. Stephan chuckled softly, his fingers threading through her hair as he deepened the kiss. When they finally parted, both were breathless.
His gaze darkened with desire, his voice laced with amusement: "My dear, I think I've changed my mind. What should I do?"
Felicia was speechless. She quickly escaped his embrace, suppressing the urge to curse him as a shameless rogue. Hadn't last night's activities been enough? Her waist had been sore for days because of him!
She retreated a safe distance, glaring at him. However, upon closer inspection, she found his face breathtaking—angelic, stern, and alluring. Expressionless, he seemed sharp and cold. But when he smiled, it was as if winter had passed, bringing everything to life.
Feeling momentarily captivated, she softened her tone. "Wait until I come back, okay?"
"Alright," Stephan murmured, his lips curving into a faint smile as he nodded gently. From his expression, Felicia knew what he was thinking—he was likely planning new tricks for her return.