Chapter 441 Madeline's POV Our cabin was warm and cozy when we regrouped after the activity. The fireplace crackled softly, creating a welcoming atmosphere that stood in sharp contrast to the tension from earlier. Christian sat in an armchair with Zoey curled against him, while Olivia took the smaller couch. Marcus and I settled onto the main sofa, and I could feel the collective relief of finally being in a private space where we could speak freely.

"So," Christian said, breaking the contemplative silence that had settled in, "tell us exactly what happened in that room." I took a deep breath, organizing my thoughts about the bizarre conversation I'd had with Vivian. "She was searching for the suitcase when I arrived," I began. "But when I asked why she was here in Valentia, she said she'd separated from Dominic." "Separated?" Olivia straightened, clearly skeptical. "And you believe that?" "I don't believe a single word she says, " I replied firmly. "Vivian lies as easily as she breathes.

But she spun this whole story about Dominic getting involved with Francesca Montgomery, and how she stole their company as revenge." "Francesca?" Christian frowned. "According to Vivian, she got involved with Dominic. And when Vivian found out, she pretended to broker the Montgomery acquisition, but put everything in her own name." "That would be... smart," Olivia admitted reluctantly. "If it's true." Marcus, who had stayed quiet throughout my account, finally spoke. "Do you think she's still with Dominic?" he asked, genuine concern in his voice. "Honestly?" I considered the question.

company right under his nose? I don't buy it." "Then what do you think his plan is?" Marcus pressed, leaning slightly toward me. I sighed, feeling the weight of the uncertainty. "I don't know," I admitted. "But he definitely has one. Things were way too calm until now to

just wants to show us he can reach us whenever he wants," I suggested. "That we're

admiration, "that was incredible. The way you smashed the bottle? Everyone was in shock." "It was a

possible motives and what precautions we should take. Eventually, though, the exhaustion of the day caught up with everyone, and one by one, our guests said their goodbyes. "Let's keep our eyes open," Christian said as he left. "And Madeline, if you notice anything strange, any move she makes toward you, let us know

in through the large panoramic windows. Outside, the mountain was nearly silent, broken only by the soft crackle of burning wood. Snow had begun to fall, creating a quiet white blanket that cut our cabin off from the rest of the world. "This is kind of romantic," I whispered, gazing out the window, "if there wasn't a psychopath out there keeping an eye on me." Marcus let out a

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