Chapter 487

Sophia Blanchet linked arms with her sister as they strolled down the bustling shopping street. Knowing Evelyn had been under immense work pressure lately, she'd deliberately brought her out to unwind.

Evelyn Roland cradled a freshly bought portion of crispy tofu, its steaming aroma wafting up. She took a bite, the crunchy exterior giving way to silky softness as spicy flavors exploded on her tongue, momentarily pushing her worries aside.

"Look! Cotton candy!" Sophia's eyes lit up as she pointed to a roadside stall. The vintage bicycle cart displayed rainbow-hued spun sugar glinting in the sunlight.

With a smile, Evelyn bought her sister a pink heart-shaped cloud. Sophia accepted it with childlike delight, transporting Evelyn back to their childhood days of sharing sweets.

"Let's get hotpot," Evelyn suggested. "There's a new Sichuan-style place in the back alley."

Sophia frowned. "But Gabrielle said you're on a restricted diet—"

"Just for today." Evelyn winked. "I haven't had spicy food in ages."

Inside the steamy restaurant, crimson broth bubbled violently. Evelyn swished a slice of tripe through the boiling oil—seven dips up, eight dips down. The numbing heat made her sigh contentedly.

Emerging later, both women reeked of spices. Sophia sniffed her sleeve. "Gabrielle's going to smell this from a mile away."

"No spare clothes in the car?"

"Zachary took it today."

As night deepened, they walked slowly to let the breeze dissipate the scent. Neon lights bathed the streets in artificial daylight. Evelyn glanced at the smoggy sky, lamenting the absent stars.

Suddenly, she froze. Squinting down a dim alley, she caught movement—two shadowy figures dragging a woman. The victim's faint whimper carried on the wind: "H-help..."

Sophia followed her sister's gaze. "What's wrong?"

"Someone's being abducted." Evelyn was already striding toward the alley.

The desperate cry came again, clearer now. Sophia's pulse spiked as she sprinted after Evelyn toward the danger.