Chapter 81

Mark was completely lost in Chase's ramblings, especially when Derek's name emerged unexpectedly.

"Mr. Reyes, Gregory has worked hard to contact these criminal groups for you. Your wife might still be out there, suffering, waiting for you to rescue her…"

"I can't go!" Chase said resolutely. "Derek's already set a trap. He's just waiting for me to show up so he can ensnare me. I'm not falling for it."

Mark and I exchanged similar expressions; we both clearly thought Chase was irrational. If Derek truly wanted to bring him down, he had numerous ways to do so, especially within the business world. Chase, who had always relied on the Reyes family, was no match for Derek. Derek could easily create significant problems for Chase.

Why would Derek go to such elaborate lengths to scheme against him in this roundabout way, involving me? But Chase, swayed by Nicole's influence, seemed unable to think clearly. I had helped him secure several major deals. I knew he was easily influenced and indecisive, so I often assisted behind the scenes. Nicole knew this too, and could change his mind with a few words.

"What about your wife?" Mark asked, worried.

"Here's the plan: you go there yourself. I need to stay here and oversee the company. Plus, you can't arrive directly. Have Gregory find someone local to vouch for you, and be extra careful."

"But…" Mark hesitated. "What if something urgent happens and you're not here? I can't make decisions on my own."

"Everything should be about Amanda. Money doesn't matter. It's late, so you should get to the airport soon." Mark paused, then nodded. "Got it."

Before leaving, he gave Chase a long, disappointed look. He'd finally gotten a lead, only to see Chase give up due to rumors. Mark must have felt indignant on my behalf as well.

After Mark quietly closed the door, Chase took out a photo of us and placed it in a frame beside his computer. It was from my seventeenth birthday. In the photo, I was making a wish with my eyes closed, candlelight illuminating my young face, and he was watching me tenderly, smiling.

Were we meant for each other if Nicole hadn't entered the picture? Now that I'd seen the real Chase, I know we wouldn't have lasted. If not Nicole, someone else would have come along. All the joy of my life was encapsulated in that seventeenth year.

I reached out to touch the frame, my fingers unexpectedly passing through it, and I could only offer a bittersweet smile.

A gust of wind blew in through the window, making the curtains dance. Watching them flutter, I wondered what Derek was doing overseas. Could he possibly be coming for me? It seemed unlikely. We had barely any connection, and given his mobility issues, why would he bother making the trip? I quickly dismissed the thought.

Chase's day was agonizing. Mark's flight was in the afternoon, arriving at night. The destination was so remote that transport was difficult, requiring several transfers. At best, they wouldn't receive any news until the next day. Chase couldn't sleep that night, his fingers repeatedly tracing the rosary in his hands.

"Amanda, don't be afraid. You'll be home soon."

Hearing his muttering, I couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. My ashes were already resting beside him; what was he still looking for?