Chapter 964: Search His Workplace

As soon as Cory finished speaking, he heard a rustle. He cautiously lifted his head and saw Lucian rising from his desk, approaching him. Lucian's domineering aura, already palpable when seated, intensified as he stood. Cory felt suffocated.

Lucian stood before Cory, his face impassive. In an icy voice, he said, “It’s a simple oversight on my part. You're a private investigator; payment warrants an explanation.”

Lucian then glanced at Cayden, who immediately understood. He retrieved a check and handed it to Lucian. Cory only heard the soft sound of footsteps, then saw a slender hand waving a check before his eyes.

“Tell me who did it, and this check is yours. Write any amount you wish,” Lucian said, his tone softening.

Cory's eyes fixed on the check. Years as a private investigator had honed his focus on financial gain. He knew the amount Lucian offered was virtually limitless. Had yesterday's events not transpired, he would have betrayed Aubree without hesitation. However, Lucian's anger over those events gave him pause.

In moments, Cory weighed the possibilities. Betraying Aubree risked her retaliation; she might reveal his knowledge of Roxanne's whereabouts, or even his inaction regarding her actions. Aubree, despite her flaws, maintained connections to the Farwell Group and possessed considerable family influence. As long as Lucian valued the Pearsons' reputation, Cory would be the sole victim.

This realization solidified his decision. He and Aubree were in the same predicament. He wouldn't risk everything for money.

Cory tore his gaze from the check. Affecting calmness, he said, “I truly have no idea what you’re talking about, Mr. Farwell. No one instructed me, and I'm unaware of anyone tampering with Ms. Jarvis' drink.”

Lucian ceased waving the check. Cory felt his heart pound; he feared Lucian's wrath. Yet, Lucian only studied him, a hint of impatience in his eyes. The private investigator knows everything, but he's stubbornly silent.

“Think carefully. Farwell Group offers better compensation than your previous employer. Confess now, and I’ll overlook this. However, continued stubbornness, followed by any further discoveries, will change everything,” Lucian stated.

He gave Cayden the check, then returned to his desk. Cory trembled. He cautiously glanced up, then quickly lowered his head again. Even in that fleeting moment, he saw the chilling intensity in Lucian's gaze. The possibility that Lucian's words masked his true intentions terrified him.

“There’s truly no one else. Search my workplace if you doubt me,” Cory said, forcing composure.

Lucian’s eyes darkened as he scrutinized Cory. Only one explanation for his suggestion… He's prepared. And stubbornly defiant. Lucian knew further pressure would be futile, so he accepted Cory’s suggestion. Turning to Cayden, he said, “Search his workplace.”

Cayden readily agreed, ordering Cory's escort.