Chapter 408

"Evelyn, the deadline approaches. Do you have the billion dors ready?" Juliette's voice dripped with mock concern through the phone.

Evelyn exhaled sharply through her nose. "Why the urgency, Ms. Blackwood? A mere billion dors shouldn't trouble someone of your... caliber."

Amused laughter crackled through the receiver. "The Kingsley heiress never disappoints. But remember - if the funds don't clear by midnight, don't blame me for what follows."

Evelyn's gaze flicked to her diamond-encrusted watch. "Fifteen hours remain. Patience is a virtue you might consider cultivating."

"Then I'll await your... generous contribution." The line went dead with finality.

Evelyn's grip tightened around the phone. "Harrison, we're returning to Pamore."

This charade with the imposter would end tonight.

"Ms. Carter, I've disclosed everything. If there's nothing further..." Adelaide made to leave.

Harrison intercepted smoothly. "Rest assured, Ms. Montgomery. Our promise stands." He produced a platinum business card. "Contact Callum when the time comes. He'll resolve everything."

Adelaide accepted it with trembling fingers. "Thank you... thank you both."

As Evelyn and Harrison's car disappeared around the corner, Adelaide emerged from the shadows. A masked figure materialized beside her, extending a check. "Your compensation. More than enough for several lifetimes."

Adelaide stared at the numbers without blinking.

"Take it and vanish," the man snapped. "Never return."

Her lips pressed into a bloodless line as she accepted. "Understood."

The masked figure nodded approvingly before melting into the night.

—

At the private helipad, rotor blades sliced through the evening air. Callum clutched Harrison's arm dramatically. "Abandoning me so soon? How shall I endure this cruel separation?"

Harrison rolled his eyes. "Focus on the task, Cal. As for reunions—" His gaze softened toward Evelyn. "Pamore's gates remain open."

"Though," Harrison added with feigned solemnity, "it would please us greatly if you arrived with a significant other next time."

Callum staggered back as if struck. "Et tu, Harrison? This betrayal cuts deepest!"

Evelyn barely suppressed her laughter. "Love finds everyone eventually. Perhaps yours will literally fall from the sky."

Seizing the opportunity, Callum pulled Evelyn aside. "When I visit, you simply must introduce me to your society friends." His grin turned wolfish. "No objections permitted."

Evelyn opened her mouth—

"Excellent! Consider it settled." Callum winked before either could protest.