The Ex and Her Riches

Startled by Cedrick’s claim, the police officer instinctively looked toward Neal.

Isn’t that Neal’s esteemed guest? Is he suspecting a fellow guest? The count of Ospea?

The officer dared not voice his doubt and quietly wrote down Cedrick’s words.

Neal remained expressionless, as though he had predicted Cedrick’s words after Gwendolyn’s persistent questions about Paul earlier.

“We will definitely investigate the suspect you’ve just mentioned, but could you share your reasons for suspecting his involvement?” asked the police officer.

Cedrick replied frostily, “We’ve never been on good terms, and we happened to run into him and Annie while we were out shopping yesterday. He immediately questioned my wife’s collaboration project with Dovil Group and wanted her to surrender her rights to the project to him. I refused his request and put him in his place. He might’ve thought of killing us in the heat of the moment.”

The officer carefully recorded his statement before declaring. “All right. I will share your suspicions with my chief and launch an investigation.”

Neal, who had quietly listened to their exchange, spoke up after the officer left the lounge. “I somewhat understand Paul’s character, and I don’t believe he’s malicious enough to organize an assassination over a small argument. Could there be some misunderstanding?”

“Maybe not, but someone could manipulate him. You said it yourself. He’s infatuated with his current girlfriend, and it’s possible that someone is using this fact to sway his actions. Of course, I admit that these are my hypotheses, and we need a proper investigation and solid evidence before accusing anyone,” said Cedrick.

Neal nodded, agreeing with the latter half of Cedrick’s words. He proposed, “Why don’t you and Ms. Harris stay here for the next two days? At least until the investigation is complete to prevent the perpetrator from striking again. I’ll arrange for more security around your hotel. They’ll move discreetly

“Sure.”

Cedrick had no reason to refuse Neal’s invitation. It was true that the situation had their return to Chanaea more complicated.

Still, they needed to return soon so that Joshua could examine the extent of Gwendolyn’s injury.

With that thought in mind, Cedrick added, “Settle the investigation as soon as possible. I can’t afford any delays.”

Neal vowed, “Don’t worry. It’s all hands on deck for this investigation. I will personally monitor the police.

Cedrick carefully lifted Gwendolyn, planning to return to their hotel.

Right before he left, he turned and reminded Neal, “Do not publicize the ambush on Gwenny and me. The diplomatic relations between our countries could crumble if any international media caught wind of this. You know better than anyone else that there’ll be hell to pay if that happens.”

“Of course. I was already planning to keep the news under wraps.”

nothing more to add and left the police station with Gwendolyn in

danger, Neal had them driven back to the hotel in an armored police

police cars also escorted them, making

was foolish enough to attempt to ram a police car.

police officers carried their luggage to the room and

faces, and statue-like stillness struck fear in anyone who saw them.

outside the door. You’re too eye-catching here, and your presence will frighten the other hotel guests.

“Sure.”

phone number with Cedrick. Then, he led the other officers.

corridor regained its

locking the door behind him. He approached the bed and

the bruise on her head as guilt swelled in his

the edge of the bed and watched her quietly for nearly two

ordered some grilled vegetables from the five-star kitchen

stir once as the

no signs of waking up even after Cedrick had

returned to the bed and gently coaxed her, “It’s time to eat, Darling. You must be tired after the whole fiasco

called out her name twice more, but Gwendolyn did not

feeling washed over Cedrick, and he placed his shaking

remained

up. Stop

under her head, planning to help her

intensified, and he carefully swept away the

down and saw blood on his

was bleeding. It was

officers who were in the

he carried Gwendolyn and sped downstairs.

devastated to see his wife unconscious. His tears streamed down his face against his will. E

hospital, Cedrick pleaded, “You have to be safe, Gwenny! Please! Or I’ll never forgi myself…”