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.”

left the police station with

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

cars also escorted them, making up a formidable party.

one was foolish enough to attempt

suite. The police officers carried their luggage to the room and stood

expressionless faces, and statue-like stillness struck fear

into bed, he said to the officers, “We don’t need guards outside the door. You’re too eye-catching here, and your presence will frighten the other hotel guests. Scatter your men

“Sure.”

officer stepped forward and left his phone number with Cedrick. Then, he led

its

door behind him. He approached the bed and gazed at

gaze roamed over her bandaged elbow and the bruise on her head as

bed and watched her quietly for nearly two hours.

some grilled vegetables from the five-star kitchen of the hotel and had them. delivered to their

as the hotel staff

signs of waking up even after Cedrick had laid the table

bed and gently coaxed her, “It’s time to eat, Darling. You must be tired after the whole fiasco this morning. I bet you’re starving. Gwenny?”

twice more, but

and he placed his shaking fingers

remained steady.

up.

under her head, planning to help her sticky coated his

intensified, and he carefully swept

and saw

was no minor

were in the hotel. “Gwenny’s situation worsened. I

hanging up, he carried Gwendolyn

face against his will. E had

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