Chapter 549

“It’s probably an unidentified alien species,” Shermaine said. “A powerful one. It can take us through dimensions, but it needs aura stones to recharge.” This time around, Dave had devoured half a mountain’s worth of aura stones to refuel and had just about finished digesting them.

Thankfully, they had stocked up plenty in the Apocalypse. That stash alone could power Dave through at least two more round trips.

Shermaine had promised Jasmine she would return to visit.

Dave didn’t argue because she was right. Ever since it left its home planet, arrived in the Kingdom of Xypería, and then later found its way to Earth, it had unexpectedly grown attached to this world. The thought of going back had never really crossed its mind.

With its small, childlike voice, it piped up, “Sheary, I’m hungry. I want fried chicken.”

Ruth offered with a coaxing smile, “Come over here, I’ll order you some.”

Without a second thought, Dave zipped across the room. For fried chicken, it feared nothing.

As night fell, the reunion felt like it was going by way too fast.

Richard showed up at Jean Villa. He’d originally come to pick up Ruth for their dinner plans, but when he realized Shermaine and Joshua were back, he canceled without hesitation and stayed for dinner with the whole Jean family.

Henry, Lily, and the others were invited as well.

The only one missing was Roy.

Henry, still single, blamed it all on Roy. He had traveled across continents chasing after Molly, only to disappear off the grid himself. With Joshua gone, Henry had stepped up as the one person who refused to let Roy fall off the map.

Of everyone, he had been the most committed to the search.

Last year, he spent nearly the entire twelve months abroad. This year had been no different, until just a few days ago when he was forced to return home as the new year approached.

After all the sun and travel, Henry had gone from a pampered playboy to a tanned, rugged man. His once–flawless looks? Long gone.

At the dinner table, Shermaine was chatting with Lily, asking about the current state of Oliger Company.

Oliger had expanded dramatically over the past two years. Several powerful families had tried to take it over during that time, but with Jean Group and York Group backing them, they managed to survive more than one close call.

It hadn’t been easy. With Shermaine gone, Lily had shouldered the full weight of the company. Now that Shermaine was back, she could finally exhale.

The table was full, and everyone was enjoying dinner together.

Midway through the meal, Ross’ phone rang. He stepped away to answer. “Hello, this is Ross Jean.”

A voice replied, “Mr. Jean, this is Officer Cole from the East End precinct. Are you acquainted with Emma Holland? There was an assassination attempt on her at her hotel. She’s unstable and not in a good condition. We need you to come down if you can.”

Ross’ brow furrowed at the word assassination. “I’m on my way.”

“Please come as soon as possible.”

Back at the table, Danielle looked up. “What happened?”

“Emma’s in trouble. I need to go check on her.”

Chapter 550

Danielle immediately set down her silverware. “I’ll come with you.”

Ross shook his head. “Let me go first. Sheary just got back. You should stay here, catch up, and enjoy the night.” The Hilton was no longer safe. He couldn’t risk Danielle being exposed.

She pouted slightly. “Then come back soon.”

“I will,” Ross promised and then left.

After he was gone, Shermaine asked, “Who’s Emma?”

Danielle explained, “The woman who saved Ross’ life. She just came back from overseas and has been staying at the Hilton.”

“How’s she doing?” Shermaine asked.

Danielle picked up her utensils again. “She came to the hospital the other day and found me. We talked for a bit. She’s sharp. Really sharp. Whatever she’s planning, I can’t read her.”

Shermaine raised a brow. “So what? If she makes a move, we’ll handle it.”

Danielle smiled. “I was nervous before, but now that you’re back, I’m not afraid of anything she might try.”

Shermaine had always been that kind of woman, someone who made everyone around her feel safe.