?Chapter 14:


    Christina knew Dn wouldn’t have revealed his role as the mysterious owner of the Morfort Restaurant unless he needed something from her.


    “I do need a favor,” Dn said without hesitation, cutting straight to the point.


    For a moment, his eyes lingered on Christina, and the usual frost in his stare softened just enough to reveal something gentler. People often pegged her as a simple housewife, someone forgettable. But even without the Rose identity or that trophy from the shootingpetition, she had an undeniable presence. There was a quiet poise in her, the kind one couldn’t fake.


    “So, what exactly do you want from me?” Christina asked, her tone steady.


    With unwavering focus, Dn replied, “I need the King’s treatment opportunity to save someone. I don’t care what it takes—I’ll pay whatever it costs.”


    A single brow lifted as Christina smirked. “Anything at all?”


    “Every cent, every favor. Name it,” he said without missing a beat.


    Augh slipped out of her. “Even your life?”


    That question hung in the air, teasing and sharp. Before Dn could respond, Ralphy strolled in just in time to catch the tail end. With a chuckle, he interjected, “You’ve got guts, Miss Jones.”


    While his words carried amusement, his eyes told a different story. He scrutinized her, intrigued. This woman didn’t flinch or stumble. Whatever softness she showed was surface-level. He’d never seen anyone—let alone a woman—speak to Dn that way. And to do it with such ease? Unheard of.


    “Not really,” Christina said, shing aposed smile.


    Davina mumbled with food in her mouth, “Christina’s the best.”


    Ralphy, catching only part of it, looked curious. “What was that?”


    “I said, Christina’s the best,” Davina repeated between bites, not bothering to look up.


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    Ralphy chuckled, genuinely entertained by Davina’s confidence. “You sure do hype your friend up.”


    Without missing a beat, Davina lifted her head, her face alight with excitement. “Why wouldn’t I? Christina’s amazing.”


    That look in her eyes said it all—pure, unshaken pride in her friend.


    “Don’t forget Dn’s got a pretty solid reputation too,” Ralphy remarked, grinning as he leaned back slightly.


    Ralphy brushed off her enthusiasm, chalking it up to friendly loyalty. Christina’s talents in various fields hadn’t struck him yet. Onlyter, after one reveal led to another like falling dominoes, would he realize just how wrong he’d been.


    “Please,” Davina sneered, rolling her eyes before returning her attention to her te. No matter what anyone said, in her world, Christina stood at the top. No contest.


    Rather than feeling slighted, Ralphy found Davina’s sass a little charming. She was refreshingly bold—nothing like the polished women he usually met.


    Christina turned her gaze to Dn. “So, have you decided?” Her voice was casual, but her eyes missed nothing.


    With no hint of hesitation, Dn nodded. “If that’s the only way to secure King’s treatment, I’m willing to give my life.” There was no bluff in his tone. He meant every word.


    Christina stared at him, noticing the steel in his expression. It was the look of someone who’d already epted the cost. Who could possibly mean so much to Dn that he’d be willing toy down his life without a second thought? Something about it tugged at her curiosity. Who exactly was worth all this effort from him?


    “I’m not saying that to impress you,” Dn added, thinking she might not believe him.


    Christina’s lips curled into a faint smile. “I know you’re serious. But death isn’t the currency I’m after. I’ve got other terms in mind.”


    Interest sparked in Dn’s voice. “What kind of terms?”


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