Chapter 292: Chapter 292



When Callan stepped out of Katie’s house, he couldn’t contain himself any longer.

“Mr. Miller, do you still think of Katie as your cousin?”

“Do you have an issue with that?”

With a serious expression, Callan said, “I just think your mother won’t be happy if she discovers you’re being so lenient.” Adrian responded calmly, “I was simply reasoning with her. Keep a close watch on Katie. If she does anything rash, report her fraud to the authorities.”

Hearing this, Callan exhaled in relief, admiring Adrian’s approach. Katie and Lyla’s deceit was undeniable. Regardless of how much money Katie kept, the amount they had swindled was enough to land them in prison for life. Soon after, Adrian received a call from Katie.

“Adrian, what should I do? I’ll do whatever you say,” she promised.

After that call, Katie made her way to Gina’s house.

“I’ve set up a meeting with Joelle. Just as we expected, she’s very concerned now that I told her Ryland is my son. We’ve agreed on the time and place.”

At the kitchen counter, Gina poured herself a glass of red wine, nodded, and walked over to sit on the sofa. Katie watched her intently. “But shouldn’t you share your plan with me?”

“You don’t need to be informed about that.”

“What if something happens to me? Have you considered my safety?”

Gina glanced at Katie. Truthfully, she hadn’t thought about Katie’s well-being when forming the plan. To her, Katie was just a pawn. But telling her that would surely cause the plan to fail.

“You’ll be safe, and my plan won’t fail.”

Katie marched up to Gina. “Why should I trust you? If you don’t tell me what you’re going to do about Joelle, I’m not lifting a finger to help you!”

Gina, visibly irritated, set her wine glass down. “You’re refusing to help? Perhaps you’ve forgotten your place. Remember what I have over you? If the videos and the news of your secret child leak, your dreams of marrying rich are over!”

Katie’s hands shook with anger. “What is the point of marrying into wealth if I’m dead?”

She slumped onto the sofa. “I’m not going anywhere until you share your plan today!”

“Are you trying to intimidate me?”

Katie raised her voice, knowing she had to push back. There was nothing left for her to lose, and if that was the case, why should she be afraid?

“I’m not threatening you. I just want to survive!”

The room went quiet for a few moments. Katie masked her uncertainty, knowing that any sign of weakness could cost her everything. Sensing Katie’s resolve, Gina exhaled and motioned her closer. “Come here; I’ll fill you in.”

Katie wasn’t sure if she could trust her, but this time, Gina didn’t play any tricks and shared the plan. Katie’s eyes widened as she heard it. “That’s too cruel!”

“A woman has to be cruel to stay in control.” Gina lightly tapped Katie’s cheek. “Now you know everything. If you even think about backing out, I’ve got plenty of ways to destroy you.”

Katie gulped. “Understood.”

Once Katie was gone, Gina made her way to the balcony. Two men were waiting there, one reclining on a sun lounger with a large Maine Coon in his arms, his fingers smoothly brushing over its head.

When Gina got closer, the man handed the cat to Leo, who was standing nearby. Gina sat down gracefully and poured him some coffee. “Jonathan, did you come all this way just to give me this cat?” The man’s heritage gave him strikingly handsome features, though his expression was stern and unwelcoming, casting an air of distance.

“Here’s a little something for you, just for fun.”

Gina found herself unable to look away from him. Jonathan was clearly meant for more than the mundane. His aura felt more oppressive than the gloomy skies overhead. Luckily, this formidable yet distinguished man was devoted to her.

Jonathan fiddled with a ring on his thumb, adorned with a high-grade green gemstone. As the wind stirred, he asked dispassionately, “You told her your plan just like that?”

Gina grinned. “No worries. I have something on her; she wouldn’t dare cross me.”

Jonathan laughed. “The Watson family raised you for so long. You’re so ungrateful.”

Gina faced forward. “I’m only seeking what’s fair. Is that so wrong?”

Jonathan merely offered a smile and, after a brief silence, turned to look forward with Gina.

“Gina, you’ve changed. You weren’t like this back in your younger days.”

Gina’s fingers tightened slightly, her face tensing.

“People change over time, right?” She sought reassurance, glancing at Jonathan. The man remained unmoved.

“I have things to take care of. I’m heading out.”

Gina stood up alongside him. “Jonathan, can’t you stay for dinner?”

“I have something to do.”

Gina took a brave step closer. “I don’t want to eat alone.” A hint of amusement flickered in Jonathan’s eyes. He picked up the cat by the scruff and handed it to Gina. “That’s why I gave you the cat, isn’t it?”

Gina was at a loss for words. Jonathan gently patted her head, keeping his tone distant. “I’m leaving now. Take care.”

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