Chapter 704
“Gareth showed signs of betrayal long before the incident. My father was the first to notice, and he planned to intervene before it was too late,” Yolanda said.
Caden narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing her with suspicion.
She steadied her breath. “My father never intended for things to escalate so drastically. He resented you for hurting me, Caden. That’s why he manipulated Gareth to pressure you. But he was trying to protect you, to free you from a harmful influence.”
Caden’s expression remained guarded. “If that’s true, I need proof.”
Yolanda was prepared. “I anticipated that. Someone meticulously documented Gareth’s early embezzlement and secret alliances. I can bring him to you now, if you wish.”
Caden held her gaze. Years of navigating deception in their ruthless industry had sharpened his instincts. Her words, though calculated, seemed genuine. He’d suspected Gareth’s betrayal was more than simple cowardice. If it weren’t, why hadn’t Gareth sought his help when things began to unravel?
After a tense moment, Caden nodded. “Take me to him.”
Relief washed over Yolanda; a hopeful smile touched her lips. “Caden, you should have seen this sooner. In this world, strong alliances are everything. Self-sacrifice only leads to ruin.”
Caden stood, his commanding presence filling the room. Yolanda’s pulse quickened as she reached for him, her hand hovering near his arm.
“Caden—”
He sidestepped her touch without speaking, striding into the hallway. Yolanda’s heart sank briefly, but anticipation rekindled her resolve. She followed, determined.
They arrived at Dorian’s stronghold. A guard approached, his tone respectful but firm. “Mr. Ward, we require you to surrender any devices. I hope you understand.”
Caden’s sole focus was a swift resolution so he could return to Alicia. He complied without resistance. This was Warrington; Dorian wouldn't risk harming him here. Once inside the dimly lit room, the heavy door closed behind them. Yolanda emerged from the shadows, approaching the guard who handed Caden’s phone to her.
A subtle smile played on her lips as she retreated to a quiet corner, examining the device. Bypassing the password was effortless for a skilled tech researcher like her; Caden’s phone, lacking intricate security, unlocked easily. She navigated to WhatsApp. A pinned contact appeared at the top: Lucky.
Lucky?