Chapter 83: Jeremiah and His Past

Raylee turned, shooting Shanice a chilling look. “Look at you,” she said, “asking for my help while speaking to me rudely. What’s the point of me being the good guy here?”

Shanice’s demeanor softened. “You’re right. We don’t have a deep-seated grudge, and you risked your life to save me. I shouldn’t be arguing.” She added, “My resentment began after Waverly returned to the Goodridge family. Her constant badmouthing intensified my hostility.”

Raylee smiled, crouching beside Shanice. “Quite insightful.” Since Shanice had offered an olive branch, Raylee would accept it. She wasn’t one to stubbornly hold a grudge. “I apologize,” Raylee said. “I wasn’t aware of your situation with your ex. If I had known, I wouldn’t have brought it up.”

Shanice shook her head. “I’m not blaming you, but could I ask a favor?”

“What is it?”

Overwhelmed, Shanice gripped Raylee’s hand. “Please, ask Mr. Lorimer to help me hunt that scoundrel down.”

“I’ll try, but the odds aren’t great. He might not listen.”

“It’s fine if he doesn’t agree. Thank you,” Shanice replied.

In that moment, the two women shook hands, making peace. A huge weight lifted from Raylee’s chest.

Shanice was a straightforward woman, known for her fiery personality. Waverly cleverly befriended and manipulated her, using her as a pawn. Waverly’s underhanded antics usually gave Raylee a headache, and adding the volatile Shanice often left Raylee feeling powerless. If Shanice and Waverly severed ties, Waverly would lose a key ally—which might not be a bad thing.

Later, Raylee fetched water for Shanice. While chatting, they waited for the rescue team. Raylee reflected on her past four years. If she’d been alone when she fell, the people above might not have tried so hard to save her. But with Shanice, the Sutherland heiress, they’d send an army. They had to know if she was alive or dead.

“Kaylee,” Shanice said, her expression serious, “you must be wary of Jeremiah. He’s done unsavory things abroad. I don’t mean to interfere, but caution is best.”

“What are his deeds?” Raylee asked earnestly.

“He had several potential marriage partners, all of whom died—purportedly of accidents. How can someone be so unlucky?” Shanice frowned. “And he’s obsessed with guns. In Jexburgh, few dare carry a gun like he does.”

Raylee replied simply, “I’ve heard this before.”

“You have? Aren’t you scared? Aren’t you afraid of meeting an untimely end like his fiancées?” Shanice exclaimed.

Raylee gave a bitter smile. “Years in prison couldn’t kill me. What else should I fear?”

“You’re not even scared? I respect that,” Shanice said, changing the subject. “If he suggests taking you abroad, refuse, especially East Aploth. That’s his turf!”

Shanice explained, “I heard rumors of his illegal businesses there. He even… disposed of his fiancées. I won’t detail it, but reconsider any marriage plans.”

Raylee nodded, though she didn’t take the rumors to heart. She did take the warning about East Aploth seriously; she had no intention of going there.

Suddenly, delighted exclamations interrupted them. Waverly had arrived with the rescue team. Raylee sighed in relief. “Ms. Sutherland, your ‘bestie’ has arrived. You’re saved.”

“Who the hell is her bestie?” Shanice spat. “She’s been toying with my feelings!”

Waverly ran over, but Shanice pushed her away. “Stay away from me!” Rejection was etched on Shanice’s face.

“Shanice, what’s wrong? Don’t you recognize me?” Waverly asked, confused.

“Who do you think you are? Do I even know you?” Shanice’s disdain was evident.