?Chapter 1625:


    Ste sank onto the sofa and held out her bandaged arm toward him. “If we’re going to uncover the truth within three days, we’ll have to force Merrick to confess. Do you have a way to make that happen?”


    Jewell settled into the seat across from her, bnced the medical kit on his knees, and began working on her wound with practiced efficiency. “The most straightforward approach would be to call the police. With the evidence we’ve gathered, he’d be behind bars for years.”


    She withdrew her arm once he’d finished rewrapping it. “Calling the police would be quick, but I’m worried Arlo would simply dispatch someone else the moment he finds out. Besides, taking down Merrick alone won’t be enough to shake Arlo’s position.”


    Jewell’s brows drew together, understanding dawning in his expression. “Then what are you nning?”


    “Merrick must know countless details about Arlo’s secrets — and more importantly, Arlo still ces his trust in him.” A sharp glimmer of calction flickered in Ste’s eyes. Simply getting rid of Merrick wouldn’t serve their interests. Turning him into a crucial piece in their strategy would prove far more effective.


    Jewell immediately shook his head. “This isn’t just some business rivalry. Arlomands mercenaries, and we have no idea how much blood is on his hands. It’s far too dangerous.”


    She met his gaze without flinching, determination radiating from every line of her posture. “What Arlo wants are the memories of my mother that are locked away in my mind. From the moment he targeted me, I was already pulled into this game.” Even if she wanted to walk away, Arlo would never permit it. She was tangled up in this whether she liked it or not — especially with William involved. Stepping back was no longer a possibility.


    Jewell studied her face, helplessness etched inly across his features. He understood that once she had set her mind on something — particrly a matter like this — she seldom changed course. In the end, he could only surrender to her resolve. “So what are you nning to do next?”


    Ste lowered her gaze, lost in thought for a moment. “Let’s hold off for now and see if we cane to terms with Merrick.” A man like Merrick was motivated by nothing more than money — he would side with whoever made the most lucrative offer. Ste doubted he harbored any real loyalty to Arlo. Apart from this strategy, no better alternatives presented themselves.


    Jewell nodded his agreement. “Steven and I will arrange a meeting with him.”


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    No sooner had he spoken than his phone began to vibrate. ncing down at the screen, his expression darkened. “Something urgent’se up. I need to go.”


    Ste acknowledged with a small nod and rose to walk him to the door.


    Once Jewell had gone, the expansive vi settled into silence again. She drifted toward the window and stared out at the meticulously maintained yet strangely deste garden, her mind wandering to whether William mighte home that evening.


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