?<strong>Chapter 409:</strong>


    “Who can say?” Kaelyn responded with a mockingugh. “Your family’s fortunes have plummeted, haven’t they? Rumors are swirling about your father liquidating assets with thepany teetering on copse. Did this all start when Elyse got married?”


    Mabel felt a cold shiver as she realized how drastically her life had changed since Elyse’s marriage.


    Kaelyn’s voice softened slightly. “I wouldn’t forgive Elyse so readily if I were you.”


    Mabel’s lips parted as she pondered in silence, her face setting into a determined expression. “You’re absolutely right,” she asserted. “Elyse will face consequences for her actions.”


    Kaelyn’s grin widened, pleased with the reaction she had provoked. “Should you require assistance, you know how to reach me.”


    With gratitude and appreciation filling Mabel, she ended the call. Kaelyn casually tossed the phone aside.


    She was dressed in a tight ck leather jacket that sharply outlined her curvaceous figure and dipped daringly at the neckline.


    “You’re benched, and the entertainment sector is now off-limits. You’re no longer of any use to us forundering money, but we pulled every string to spring you from jail,” Eich Baton took a deep drag on his cigarette, exhaling a slow stream of smoke. His look was one of severe impatience and disdain.


    Kaelyn poured a ss of whiskey, her spirits sinking. The mission was a failure, and she was haunted by the ominous feeling that the organization might not let her off easily.


    Eich’sints continued unabated. “Your actions caused Baxter to die at sea, you insufferable woman! Do you want to put me in danger next?” he used.


    “That settles it. Go ahead, rush into danger if that’s what you want,” Kaelyn snapped back, irritation bubbling up as she downed her whiskey in one quick swallow.


    The whiskey provided a brief sce, and she reclined in her chair, feeling a mild euphoria. “Has the big boss said anything about my next task?” she asked.


    Eich replied tersely, “Stay under the radar for now. We will get in touch after things settle.”


    Kaelyn responded with venom, “That’s very convenient. I have my own issues to resolve.”


    Eich showed clear disapproval. “I’ve already advised you to maintain a low profile. Why insist on handling this yourself? Do you find it impossible to stay out of trouble?”


    Kaelyn massaged her forehead, annoyed by Eich’s persistent criticism. “Why do you bother me incessantly like a nagging elder? I’m not taking direct action. I’ll delegate the dirty work.”


    Eich responded nonchntly, “Do as you wish.”


    Kaelyn’s gaze intensified. She knew she would need to recruit another operative, besides Mabel, to confront Elyse.


    In Blue Sea Music Studio, Gavin, who had once been a gentleman to Elyse and Fiona, now assumed the role of a rigorous conductor, closely overseeing their violin rehearsal.


    As a quiet moment settled, Elyse looked out the window. The growing darkness outside made the soft rumbling from her stomach seem louder.


    The sound immediately shifted Gavin and Fiona’s focus to her. Flushing with embarrassment, Elyse quickly averted her gaze and muttered, “It wasn’t me.”


    From the couch, where he had been lounging with his video game, Irving suddenly sat upright and joked, “Oh sure. me me. I’m actually the hungry one here.”


    Elyse’s cheeks turned a deep red as she red at Irving, too hungry toe up with a reply.


    Gavin exhaled wearily, “Finish yourst piece, and you can head home.”


    Elyse mustered a small smile. “Maybe just a little longer.”


    Gavin gently shook his head. “Take a rest. We’ll continue tomorrow.”


    Elyse nodded, epting his advice. She then noticed Fiona packing up. “Fiona, where are you headed?” she asked.


    “I’ve finished for the day,” Fiona said, her voice carrying a hint of embarrassment. “I’m heading home now.”


    Elyse looked puzzled. They had been practicing together; how could Fiona be done so quickly?


    Fiona offered Elyse a smile before walking out, her cheeks rosy with a mix of pleasure and triumph under Elyse’s envious stare.


    Leaving the studio, Fiona strolled along a path towards the street to hail a taxi. Turning a corner, she discerned a man staggering towards her from a close distance.


    At first, Fiona ignored him. The neighborhood, filled with office buildings, often had people around after hours.


    As the man came closer, it was clear he was drunk. His eyes boldly followed Fiona, making her ufortable.


    She picked up her pace, eager to avoid him. But despite her vignce, she didn’t see the real threat until it was toote. Suddenly, the man grabbed her from behind. A scream broke from Fiona’s lips as she felt his tight grip. The smell of alcohol was strong on his breath, making her stomach turn.


    “Help! Someone please help me!” Fiona shouted, desperate for aid.


    .


    .


    .