Chapter 1514

We can ensure she never returns, and if she does, we can arrest her immediately. That sounded rather tempting to Frieda. It meant finally escaping Aubree's clutches. Her expression changed visibly; Jonathan saw her wavering. He seized the opportunity. “Has she fled Horington?”

Frieda lowered her head and nodded silently. A flash of anger crossed Jonathan's face, quickly suppressed. “Given Aubree's capabilities, escape from the Farwell family and police surveillance—even with your help—was impossible. How did she do it?”

Frieda hesitated, a pleading look in her eyes. “Jonathan, if I tell you, promise you won't tell anyone else?”

Jonathan’s gaze remained fixed on his sister. “Lucian can't know I didn't inform him. He won't let me off! Our entire family might be affected…”

Panic etched Frieda's face as she tugged at his sleeves. Jonathan's gaze softened at her family's worry. Instead of answering directly, he said, “So, how did she escape?”

Taking his silence as agreement, Frieda said softly, “She had help from a man—the one with her at the hotel. He seems powerful. He sent Aubree away the night of the incident.”

Anger flooded Jonathan, but he maintained a poker face. “That's all I know,” Frieda said. “Even if you ask again.”

Jonathan frowned. “When is she returning?”

Frieda shook her head. “I don't know. I left the room; when I returned, Aubree was leaving.” Hopefully, she added, “Didn't you say you'd prevent her return?”

Assured she'd told him everything, Jonathan unleashed his fury. “Are you finally worried she might return? You should have taken me seriously!”

Frieda's eyes brimmed with grievance and nervousness at his sudden change. “Why did you help her? Were you involved in her previous actions?” he asked sternly, recalling certain things.

Frieda guiltily released his sleeves. “No. That's all. I had no idea what she wanted when she came. I didn't expect…” She sounded as if Aubree had deceived her.

Jonathan eyed her suspiciously as she kept her head bowed. “Keep this between us. Don't ask Grandpa or Mom and Dad for help. I don't want them to collapse from anger!” After a silence, he continued coldly, “Stay home. You're not allowed out without my permission!”

Without waiting for a reply, Jonathan left the room. “Keep an eye on her. Don't let her leave without my permission!” Even through the slammed door, Frieda heard him instructing the housekeeper. She felt as if a pail of ice water had been dumped on her.