Chapter 312

Ivy shot him a glance, her expression disapproving, but she had to admit–he did have a point.

On the drive toward the hotel, Ivy called Police Officer Gallagher.

Because the operation was sensitive and involved so many people, Gallagher couldn’t share much with her. He simply told them to check into the hotel once they reached town and wait for further instructions; the actual operation would likely begin the next day.

Ivy understood the nature of their work, so she didn’t press for details. After hanging up, she turned to Jamison and said, “Gallagher wants us to stay at the hotel tonight and wait for his call. Looks like we’ll head into the village tomorrow.”

Jamison nodded and glanced at his watch. “It’s over three hours to the county seat. By the time we get to the hotel, it’ll be close to dark. Let’s just rest for tonight.”

“Alright.”

“You tired? Do you want to lean on me and get some sleep?” Jamison’s voice was gentle, a touch of concern in his eyes.

Ivy shook her head. “I’m fine…”

But her pale face and lack of energy told a different story. She hadn’t eaten much on the plane, either.

Jamison knew she was struggling with unease. Even surrounded by so many people, fear still haunted her, refusing to let go.

He also knew that words of comfort were useless right now, so he just quietly took her hand and wrapped his arm around her shoulders, drawing her close. “You don’t have to actually sleep–just close your eyes and rest a little.”

Ivy didn’t resist. She let herself relax in his embrace, gaze drifting out, lost in the unfamiliar world passing by.

As dusk settled, their convoy pulled into the small county town near Silverfen.

“Mr. Jamison, this is the best hotel in town–brand new, too. Of course, it can’t compare to what you’re used to in Neo Haven, but I’ve had the staff replace everything in your room with new items. I hope you and Mrs. Jamison will be comfortable,” Derek said, ever attentive to the smallest details.

Ivy was quietly impressed.

Jamison nodded. “Thank you, Derek. You’ve thought of everything.”

Inside, the room was spotless. Even the bedding wasn’t the usual plain white sheets, but a soft blue set that gave the place a quiet, elegant feel.

Ivy had grown up in comfort, but never to this extent.

So this is what real wealth looks like, she thought. The truly rich don’t just book a hotel room–they replace everything, so nothing is ever shared with strangers.

“This whole trip feels like a military operation,” she murmured, sinking into the pristine armchair, a hint of wonder in her voice.

Jamison replied, “Small towns like this–the hotels just don’t sanitize things properly. This is safer.”

Ivy nodded. She understood.

Now she was even more certain: this man had never been the type for casual flings.

His obsession with cleanliness was probably severe. He’d never tolerate the messiness of random relationships.

And yet, he’d accepted her–a woman the world considered “tainted.”

Ivy couldn’t help but wonder: What did he see in her?

“What’s wrong? Still feeling down?” Jamison had just finished giving Derek a few last instructions. Seeing her lost in thought, he turned to her with concern.

Snapping out of her daze, Ivy managed a faint smile. “No, I was just thinking… being with you feels like stepping into a whole different world.”

“What do you mean?”

Jamison walked over, pulled her to her feet, then sat down and pulled her into his lap, locking her in his arms.

Ivy rolled her eyes. “There’s a perfectly good chair right next to you. Can’t you sit there?”

“Nope. I like having you right here,” he said shamelessly, his fingers tracing circles on her hand.