Chapter 228

Chapter 228:

A glance at the card revealed the investigator’s office address and contact number in bold print.

Theo’s grip tightened on the card, his eyes narrowing with cold determination.

“Whoever thought they could shadow me is in for a rude awakening. Do they have any idea what they’re risking?” He flicked the card back at the secretary. “Take care of it. Bring them to my villa outside the city. I want to see the face behind this scheme p>

“You have my word, Mr. Stanley. Everything will be handled without a hitch p>

As midnight settled in, Gracie sat at her desk, scrolling through the latest research from overseas.

A sharp vibration from her phone interrupted her reading. She checked the caller, and a small frown creased her forehead. She answered quietly, “Jessie? What’s going on p>

“I can’t get hold of our investigator. He always checks in by nine, and now it’s half past with no word. Even his assistant isn’t picking up. I’m worried he’s been caught.” Jessie’s voice was tense.

Gracie’s face grew serious. “Don’t jump to conclusions yet. We need to confirm what happened first p>

“I can’t help but panic,” Jessie said, her voice tight. “You know what Theo is capable of. He killed us both before. If he learns you’re alive again, you’ll be the first person he goes after. I can’t risk it—not this time p>

There was a pause. “I bought plane tickets already. Let’s leave for a while. We can say we’re taking a vacation p>

“Jessie, you need to think this through.” Gracie’s tone sharpened. “If Theo’s already caught our investigator, he’s not clueless about me anymore. If I pack up and leave right now, it’ll only confirm his suspicions. Plus, I’m on the verge of a major breakthrough with the new tech. I can’t walk away at a time like this p>

“Stop being so stubborn!” Jessie’s voice rang out, raw with urgency. “I’m right outside the Stanleys’ estate. Either you come with me willingly, or I’ll march in and drag you out myself p>

“Go home, Jessie,” Gracie said coldly. “Theo hasn’t caught your trail yet, and that’s how it should stay. Please don’t call me again, at least for now p>

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Jessie was a legend on the Dark Web, feared for her hacking abilities.

She had found the private investigator through her contacts, and as long as nobody cracked her digital trail, her identity would stay safe.

Her impulsive streak, however, always put her at risk.

Gracie would never allow her friend to get hurt in this life.

The call cut off before Gracie could say anything more.

Brows knitted, she tossed her pajamas aside for a set of athletic clothes, flung open her bedroom door, and rushed out. She barely reached the foot of the stairs before spotting Jessie walking in.

Brayden looked up from the sofa, where he was busy working, his eyes narrowing when he spotted Jessie. “Are you here for Gracie p>

“Yes, I was hoping to steal your wife for a couple of days. We need a change of scenery. Maybe clear our heads. I wanted to ask if you’d be all right with that p>

“Leave the country?” Brayden closed his laptop and studied Jessie. “Gracie’s needed at her company right now. Her work is critical, so I can’t imagine her taking a sudden trip. Is this urgent? Why does she need to go p>

Jessie’s gaze darted about, searching for an explanation she didn’t have.

“Her heart’s broken, and she needs a good cry with me. It’s a girl thing—of course you don’t get it p>

Standing close to Jessie, Gracie met her worried eyes. “Jessie, do we really have to hop on a plane just to talk things out? You know you’re welcome here. My husband doesn’t mind p>

Gracie flashed a gentle smile at Brayden. “Isn’t that right, honey p>