Ch. 881..890

Chapter 881 Feeling Guilty

At the moment Finn saw Ronin appear, his eyes widened. In his mind, he asked, “Could it be he discovered our tracking and came to us in a fit of rage?”

Although Finn’s heart was full of doubts, he remained calm on his face. He stared coldly at Ronin and questioned, “Hey, what are you doing back here? Weren’t you trying so hard to leave here?”

Hearing this, Ronin said to Finn with a cold smile, “I want to see the boss.”

“Hmph!” Finn sized up Ronin with a disdainful face. “Is our boss someone you can see just because you want to? Who do you think you are?”

Faced with Finn’s mockery, Ronin wasn’t angry at all. He didn’t even take Finn seriously. “You don’t have the final say. Or do you think you’re the boss here now?”

Ronin’s words made Finn’s face turn a little pale.

Finn was the person who knew their boss the best. If Ronin’s words reached their boss’s ears, it would not be a good thing.

Finn glanced at Ronin disdainfully and said, “Wait here.”

He arranged for someone to watch Ronin before he left.

It wasn’t long before Finn returned to Ronin.

He looked Ronin up and down. Seeing that Ronin was filled with a sense of calmness, he could not help but be a little curious. “Why are you so certain that our boss will definitely agree to meet you?”

From Ronin’s face, Finn saw certainty. It seemed Ronin was very sure of the outcome.

Ronin said confidently, “If I wasn’t sure, I wouldn’t be here at all. With your stupid brain, you won’t be able to come up with an answer. Forget it, you take me in to see the boss first.”

Although Finn disagreed with Ronin’s words that he was stupid, considering that their boss was still waiting, he didn’t dare to delay. He led Ronin through the door.

After the two arrived in front of the black-robed man, the black-robed man waved his hand toward Finn, signaling him to retreat.

Finn was a bit surprised but didn’t dare to question. He obediently retreated. The black-robed man looked up and down at Ronin with sharp eyes, as if trying to see him through.

Ronin tensed his body and stood in place, letting the black-robed man look at him. He didn’t even blink his eyes.

After a long period of silence, the black- robed man finally spoke. “You still dare to come back?”

Ronin replied calmly and confidently, ” Why wouldn’t I dare? I didn’t betray you, nor did I do anything wrong to the organization, and I didn’t go back to Catherine. Why should I be afraid to appear in front of you?”

The black-robed man softly laughed when he heard Ronin’s unbridled remarks. “You have guts. You actually dare to talk to me like this. Aren’t you afraid that I’ll lock you up again?”

“It’s better to let me go than to lock me up. Which do you think is more favorable to you? Sir, you are extremely intelligent. I believe you won’t make the wrong choice in such a multiple- choice question.”

The black-robed man slowly stood up. He walked straight toward Ronin and stood in front of him, sizing him up at close range.

Although the black-robed man still wore a mask on his face, such a close distance made it easy for him to reveal his identity.

He seemed not afraid of Ronin seeing through his identity and continued to survey Ronin in his own way.

Ronin didn’t let him down either. Ronin immediately closed his eyes the moment the black-robed man approached.

“Why don’t you open your eyes?” The black-robed man questioned as he looked at Ronin whose eyes were tightly closed.

Ronin said calmly, “Because I know what I should and shouldn’t know. People should be self-awareness, and only by not crossing the boundary can we go further.”

Hearing Ronin’s answer, the black- robed man nodded in satisfaction. “It seems that Catherine has also taught you many principles of being a good person.”

At the mention of Catherine, Ronin’s body subconsciously tensed up. This was a physiological reaction, a manifestation that would only come from his heart when he extremely admired a person. It couldn’t be faked. ”

Yes, Catherine is not only my benefactor but also like my family.”

“Why did you still betray her then?” the black-robed man asked.

“I betrayed her, but I did what she told me to do. She once told me that no matter what the circumstances or the difficulties I face, as long as I can live, I should not give up. Coming out of the predicament, we crave to live more than anyone else.”

Ronin spoke very candidly, with no signs of lying. It seemed all of this was a voice spoken from his heart.

The black-robed man believed Ronin’s sincere words. He knew that Ronin was not lying.

In Ronin’s heart, Catherine was a god- like existence.

The black-robed man said, “Okay, in that case, I will accept you. From now on, you can work for me. You can tell me what you want.”

Ronin opened her eyes slowly, and the black-robed man had gone back to his original position.

“I want money and protection of the organization.” Ronin made his demands.

He had offended the Duncan Corporation, which was the same as cutting off all of his ways of survival. The only way for him to survive now was to find a strong organization.

He didn’t want it to be permanent though. He hoped to be truly free within a short one or two years.

He made all his demands, and the black -robed man also agreed to his request.

The black-robed man actually knew that Ronin would come to him; after all, he was the one who had personally pushed Ronin to his doom, step by step. He knew Ronin’s future best. He knew that Ronin was smart. Ronin’s only chance to live was to come back to him.

Ronin bent down and bowed, showing great respect. “Sir, please arrange a task for me.”

The black-robed man replied, “There’s no rush. Go ahead and rest. I’ll have Finn notify you when there is a task for you.”

After Ronin heard this, he didn’t hesitate and directly retreated. Obeying orders was the most basic rule.

After leaving, Ronin didn’t go to rest immediately but went to the holding cell. Flash was imprisoned there and he was getting worse and worse.

Although he wasn’t tortured anymore, the injuries on his body had deteriorated without timely treatment.

Ronin entered and forced Flash’s mouth open, shoving a few pills into it and forcing him to swallow them.

Flash opened his eyes feebly and surveyed Ronin. He was obviously exhausted, but he didn’t want to close his eyes to rest. He just surveyed Ronin. “Why did you save me?”

Ronin laughed softly and whispered, ” Why don’t you think I’m poisoning you?

“Is it necessary? Haha…” Flash burst into a bitter laugh.

He was in more pain than death right now. If Ronin had really given him the poison, he’d be grateful. That way, he could be relieved of his pain and completely free from pain.

But he knew that those were not poison, that Ronin must have given him healing pills, and that Ronin wouldn’t just watch him die like this. Because Ronin wanted him to live in pain forever.

“You save me because you want to constantly torture me, right?” Flash asked.

“You’re right. Wouldn’t it be more fun to nurse you back to health and then torture you?” Ronin’s face was filled with evil smiles. He looked at Flash with only resentment in his eyes.

If it weren’t for Flash, Ronin wouldn’t be so miserable.

Flash closed his eyes slowly, but this aroused Ronin’s dissatisfaction. “Open your eyes and look at me. Why don’t you dare to look at me? What are you avoiding, or are you feeling guilty?”

To force Flash to open his eyes, Ronin pinched his wound hard with his hand.

The pain forced Flash to open his eyes and look at Ronin with a face full of pain. “I’m not feeling guilty, but I’m happy. Isn’t your current appearance the result I most want? Ronin, you lost.

You’ve completely fallen. From the moment you came back, you weren’t the Ronin you once were.”

Ronin froze for a moment, and his hand that was pinching Flash paused.

Seeing this, Flash laughed more and more happily. He muttered happily in his mind, “I succeeded, didn’t I?”

Just as he was feeling proud, Ronin leaned over and whispered something in his ear at a volume that only the two of them could hear.

Flash’s eyes widened instantly.

Ronin gestured to him and then left with an evil smile on his face.

Looking at his departing back, Flash was very confused. He asked inwardly, ” Isn’t he afraid I’ll spill the beans?”

Chapter 882 Let Her Decide

Ronin rested for one day. Finn found him the next day and told him what the black-robed man had ordered.

Ronin waited for Finn with his legs crossed. Seeing his posture, Finn wanted to go up to him and hit him, but the black-robed man had given Ronin a mission and he couldn’t hit him now.

Until the mission was completed, if Finn hit Ronin, it would be the same as him not putting the black-robed man in his eyes. “Ronin, the boss has asked you to go back to school and stay by Catherine’s side to watch her.”

Upon hearing the content of the mission, the originally calm Ronin immediately sat up straight and looked at Finn with surprised eyes. “What did you say?”

His instantly raised volume made Finn a little impatient.

Finn reached up and scratched his ears, looking at him in disgust. “Are you deaf? Do I need to repeat myself? Don’t you understand what the boss means? Since you want to surrender, you have to be ready to do so. This is what our boss asked me to give you. Don’t be too greedy. Disloyal people will make us look down.”

Finn left after saying that and threw the document the black-robed man prepared to Ronin.

“My job is to convey the boss’s orders, and it’s none of my business what Ronin thinks. If he doesn’t want to follow our boss, I’ll just watch the show,” thought Finn.

Ronin checked the document after Finn left. When he saw the contents, he couldn’t help but snicker.

“The black-robed man is amazing. He actually cleared me of stealing information from the Duncan Corporation in one go. Since the mission is here, I’ll do as I’m told,” thought Ronin as he changed his clothes. He picked a car that was the same color as the clothes he was wearing. He drove toward his destination.

“Knock, knock, knock…” A knock on the door interrupted the three who were playing a game.

Catherine was bored alone and came to Zobber and Withal to play a game. They hadn’t been playing for long when they heard the knock at the door.

The three of them stopped what they were doing at the same time. This was their secret base, and it was rare for anyone to come knocking on the door.

“Catherine, is Mr. Duncan here to pick you up?” asked Zobber.

Catherine shook her head, thinking that it couldn’t have been Branden. Half an hour ago, Branden had messaged her and said that he was in a meeting, so he shouldn’t have come there to pick her up so soon. And Branden would have told her before he came.

“Open the door and check,” Catherine ordered.

Since Withal was the only boy in the room, he helplessly stood up to open the door.

Zobber was a little surprised to find Withal standing still after opening the door. “Who’s it? Why are you still standing there?”

When she walked up to the door and saw the visitor, she froze for a moment, too. After reacting, Zobber instantly became angry. She directly swung her fist over. “Traitor, how dare you still show up?”

Her fist came down head-on, and Ronin didn’t even dodge. He took the punch without blinking his eyes.

Zobber used all her strength in this punch and Ronin was instantly knocked back and fell to the ground.

Zobber was still trying to step forward but was stopped by Withal. “Catherine is inside. Let her decide.”

“Okay, it just so happens that Catherine is in. We’ll let Catherine decide.” Zobber looked at Ronin angrily, her eyes staring viciously at him as if she wanted to get him killed at any time.

Seeing that Ronin couldn’t stand up, Withal went up to help him. Zobber wasn’t that kind, and she entered the door with her arms crossed around her chest, breathing heavily and angrily.

Catherine was sitting on the couch playing games when she saw them come in. She turned her head to look at them.

She wasn’t surprised to see Ronin appear. Her brows couldn’t help but furrow after her gaze landed on his red, swollen cheek.

She then turned her head to look at Zobber next to her, her eyes becoming increasingly sharp. “Why are you still so impulsive? You haven’t changed at all.”

When Catherine usually scolded Zobber, Zobber would listen obediently, but she was different this time. She felt that she hadn’t done anything wrong. She looked at Catherine with some dissatisfaction. ” Catherine, why has your attitude toward traitors changed?”

“Did I say he was a traitor?” Catherine questioned Zobber in a cold voice.

These words made Zobber not know how to respond. She froze in place and looked around at the two.

Ronin’s eyes involuntarily went red when he saw Catherine. He tried to step forward, his foot stopping the moment he took a step. “Catherine…”

“Uh-huh!” Catherine nodded calmly, her face remaining the same. She wasn’t excited or didn’t show any disgust. “Are you going to explain now, or do you want to take a break first?”

“I’ll explain now,” Ronin responded.

“Okay, then Zobber asks and you answer.” With that, Catherine leaned aside. She handed over the initiative to them, allowing them to make their own judgments.

The one who was most hostile to Ronin right now was Zobber. As long as Ronin could convince Zobber, the others present were not a problem.

Zobber stared into Ronin’s eyes and asked coldly, “Have you betrayed our organization, betrayed Catherine?”

“No!” Ronin answered without hesitation.

Nonetheless, Zobber didn’t believe him, and she questioned him on two points. “Why did you follow the enemy instead of leaving when we were rescuing you? Also, was the Duncan Corporation incident what you did?”

“I couldn’t leave.” Ronin looked at Zobber with a face full of pain. ”

Professor Warner is in their hands. If I leave, what will happen to him? We can only promise to cooperate with them in exchange for my and Professor Warner’s safety. I didn’t steal the information from the Duncan Corporation. They did it just to make you suspect me.”

After saying that, Ronin handed Zobber the information that Finn had given him. “You can check this. There is something in here that will prove my innocence.”

The black-robed man had prepared a document and it showed it was the black-robed man who had arranged for someone to imitate Ronin’s behavior to steal the information from the Duncan Corporation. The person who really stole the information was not Ronin.

Despite this, Zobber still felt that she was somewhat suspicious of Ronin.

It was all too plausibly organized, and it always made her feel like things weren’t that simple.

She turned her head to Catherine on the side. “Catherine, I have no more questions. I still maintain my point of view. I still think there’s something wrong.”

Catherine’s cold gaze fell on Zobber. She didn’t speak up for Ronin, nor did she directly state her attitude.

She only asked Zobber back, “If you were captured because of the organization and came back from the dead, your most trusted and close friends inside the organization constantly suspected you. No matter what evidence you provided, they didn’t believe you. What should you do? What could you do to make those untrusted friends trust you again?”

Catherine’s question left Zobber dumbfounded. Zobber silently thought it over. If she were in the same situation as Ronin, she could guarantee that she would never betray the organization, but how was she going to make her friends believe her?

Catherine’s words instantly sobered Zobber who was still skeptical of Ronin. The way she looked at Ronin was no longer hateful, though it wasn’t as warm as before. “Since you can even make sense of it, then I’ll believe you. But if you really betrayed the organization, you’d better hide those things from me or I’ll be the first to kill you. I always do what I say, and you know it.”

“Okay.” Ronin nodded vigorously, his face filled with delight.

Chapter 883 A Funeral for Them

The next day, Ronin returned to school. The school had been publicly stating that Winston was on sick leave, so no one knew about Ronin’s connection to his disappearance. However, the police did inquire about Winston when Ronin returned. It was unclear how Ronin responded, but he was released.

By the time Ronin got back to school, it was already noon. He went straight to the laboratory building to wait for Catherine. To his surprise, he saw someone unexpected there.

“Rylan, what are you doing here?” Ronin asked in surprise.

“Ronin, you’ve been gone for quite a while. Why the sudden appearance today?” Rylan inquired.

Ronin smiled shyly. “I had some things to take care of recently, so I took a long leave from school. Are you waiting for Catherine?”

“Yeah,” Rylan replied, looking Ronin up and down as if searching for something.

Just then, Catherine emerged from the lab, interrupting their conversation.

“Catherine, why didn’t you tell me Ronin was back?” Rylan asked.

“Catherine, why didn’t you tell me Rylan came to Loxton?” Ronin inquired at the same time.

Catherine glanced at both of them and said, “Since when did I have to pass on messages to you?”

Ronin immediately approached her with a smile, trying to make things seem just like they used to. “Catherine, that’s not what I meant. Please don’t misunderstand.”

After a brief conversation, Ronin suggested they all go out for a meal.

Although Catherine increasingly disliked Rylan, she agreed to his proposal out of consideration for Ronin. After Ronin’s return, everything seemed to go back to the way it was. He considered Catherine’s preferences, found a good restaurant, and they all set off together. Ronin seemed very interested in Rylan, and Rylan was unusually friendly to Ronin. The two of them excitedly conversed while Catherine sat quietly, eating without speaking.

The harmonious scene prompted Rylan to exclaim, “It feels like I’ve gone back to the time when we first met. It’s wonderful!”

The next moment, Catherine’s phone rang. After taking the call, she told them, “You guys keep eating. I have to go.”

“Catherine…” Ronin put down his fork and stood up, but Catherine had already left. He could only sit back down and quietly complain, “Ever since Catherine got together with Branden, I’ve lost my place.”

Hearing this, Rylan patted Ronin’s shoulder and comforted him, “She’s your leader. The only thing that matters is her happiness, right?”

Ronin gazed longingly in the direction Catherine had left, saying sadly, “So am I destined to be the sacrifice for her happiness? I want her to be happy, but I don’t want her to ignore me.” With that, he looked at Rylan and asked, “If it were you, would you do the same to me?”

Rylan didn’t answer, but his smile deepened.

Catherine received a call from Branden. He knew Ronin had returned and that she had lunch with him today. He waited until they were almost done eating before calling to say he was coming to pick her up. Seeing her come out alone, he was curious, “Where’s Ronin? Didn’t he come with you?”

“Someone’s with him,” Catherine explained briefly.

Branden helped Catherine into the car. Once inside, she felt a bit bored and leaned on his chest, engaging in casual conversation with him.

“Ronin should have sent you the evidence, right? What do you think?” she asked.

Branden glanced at her and planted a tender kiss on her forehead. “I don’t have any thoughts. But since you believe in him, I will too,” he replied. If she didn’t believe in Ronin, she wouldn’t have allowed him back by her side. In that case, he didn’t need to think too much.

Catherine hadn’t expected this response from him. She thought he would analyze the situation rationally and then give his answer. “Aren’t you afraid I might make the wrong judgment?” she asked.

“Humph.” Branden chuckled lightly. So what? It doesn’t matter.” After all, he would be there to support her decision. He wanted her to do whatever she wanted.

Catherine gave a meaningful smile. ” Fine!”

Suddenly, their phones buzzed. After answering the calls, they exchanged a glance.

“Triston is in trouble,” Branden said.

“Audrey wants to see me,” Catherine told him.

Catherine shook her head helplessly, and Branden instructed the driver to change the route, knowing that Triston and Audrey should be in the same place.

Soon, Catherine and Branden arrived.

Audrey was in tears. When she saw Catherine, she threw herself into her arms, pleading, “Kathy, please stop them. I can’t do it! Make them stop!”

Audrey tried to move forward but was blocked by two bodyguards. In front of them, there was a platform where Triston and Brian were engaged in a fight, which seemed to have been going on for a while. Triston had been beaten up, his face black and blue. Brian had also taken some hits, but he seemed to be terribly injured.

Audrey, seeing Catherine’s lack of action, grew anxious. “Kathy, why aren’t you doing anything?”

Catherine snorted and shouted toward the platform, “Two grown-ups act like kids. I don’t think I can stop them. Let them fight, then I’ll organize a funeral for them.”

Audrey was stunned by Catherine’s words when Branden chimed in, ” That’s right. You organize it, and I’ll fund it. We’ll make sure it’s a grand one.

The onlookers were dumbfounded, wondering if they were really here to help.

Chapter 884 You Deserve It

On the stage, Triston and Brian were locked in a fierce battle. Suddenly, Brian, noticing Triston’s distraction, threw a punch, aiming to knock him down.

Branden witnessed Brian’s move. Acting swiftly, he pulled Triston back and steadied him, preventing a potential fall. He then helped Triston up, wiped away some blood from Triston’s face with a towel, and teased, “You should have protected your face, Mr. Lambert.”

Understanding that Branden had intervened to help him, Triston nodded in gratitude. As Branden walked away, he quietly advised Triston to “attack his legs.”.

With this hint, Triston climbed back onto the stage, exclaiming fiercely to Brian, “Come on! Let’s continue!”

Brian simply jumped off the stage, approaching the crying Audrey. With a determined expression, he asked her, ” If I stop now, will you leave with me?”

Audrey’s greatest fear was that Brian would not leave. She didn’t want to see either of them end up in the hospital from further fighting. Now that Brian proposed to leave, she agreed, though it was a decision she made willingly.

“Yes.” Audrey nodded. Brian took her hand and led her away. As he left, he glanced back at Triston with a challenging look in his eyes.

Triston watched Audrey leave with Brian, the look on his face turning from fury into sadness.

Branden helplessly patted his shoulder, while Catherine sarcastically remarked, “You deserve it.” She believed that those who didn’t understand the essence of a relationship were the ones who remained single.

Brian, perceptive as ever, immediately changed his strategy upon Branden’s discreet reminder to Triston. No man wanted to suffer a humiliating defeat in front of the woman he loved, as it went against his pride. Brian took advantage of Audrey’s emotions and made a request at the right time. He showed Audrey enough respect and gained the chance to take her away, which was a win-win situation.

Thinking Catherine was criticizing his impulsive behavior, Triston retorted, “I saw that bastard forcing Audrey. She dislikes him, yet she still chose to go with him. There must be something fishy going on!”

Hearing this, Catherine sneered at him, who, confused, asked why she was laughing.

She replied, “Laughing at your foolishness.”

Triston, infuriated, remained silent, knowing he couldn’t afford to confront Catherine due to her close relationship with Branden and her formidable strength. Provoking her could lead to his defeat.

Catherine, however, had no intention of letting Triston off easily. She stared at him, her eyes full of mockery. “What does it mean when Audrey would rather be with someone she dislikes than be with you?”

Her words hit Triston like a blow, leaving him embarrassed and suddenly enlightened. Only then did he realize that his beloved would rather be with a man she despised than give him a chance.

Since Audrey was fine, Catherine didn’t want to stay any longer. She ignored Triston’s dazed expression and said, ” Let’s go.”

“Okay!” Branden left with Catherine without any hesitation, leaving Triston alone to taste his sorrow.

Branden suddenly asked Catherine, ” Did you investigate Brian White?”

Brian shouldn’t have heard his whisper to Triston just now. The only possibility was that Brian knew lip-reading and could comprehend what was being said. Brian was not as easy as he seemed.

“Yes, I did. He genuinely likes Audrey. He has done a lot for her without her knowledge.”

Catherine personally arranged for someone to investigate Brian and found that he had done a lot of things to make Audrey happy, both when she was abroad and now in the country.

Branden raised an eyebrow, looking puzzled. “And what about Audrey?”

“Perhaps she’s avoiding something.” Catherine didn’t elaborate. She suspected that Audrey had been threatened by Brian, which was why she agreed to date him.

Audrey’s agent, Kim, had recently been replaced by Brian’s assistant. It was publicly stated that Kim was too busy with new talents. However, Catherine knew that things weren’t so simple.

Audrey and Kim had been working together for years, and they had a good relationship. Half of Audrey’s success today was down to him. Even if he was busy, Audrey would try to make time for him. Besides, Kim wouldn’t just abandon Audrey for newcomers.

Catherine’s pale face made Branden feel sorry for her. “Never mind. You haven’t been resting well lately, and you don’t look so well. Let me take you to the hospital for a check-up.”

“No need!” Catherine refused at once.

Branden looked at her, somewhat puzzled.

Catherine explained, “Mr. Theo has been regularly checking on me. If he found out I spent money on a hospital check-up, he might come straight to Loxton. Well, let’s just forget it. When Mr. Theo comes to Loxton next time, I’ll have him examine me.”

Although this explanation sounded reasonable, Branden still found it strange. Perhaps it was because Catherine had said so much all at once, which was unusual.

Branden respected her decision. “Well, get in touch with Mr. Theo when you have time.”

Chapter 885 There’s No Chance for Us!

“Is this the new film you’ve arranged for me?” Audrey stormed into Brian’s office, holding the new contract.

Brian’s secretary followed closely, trying to intervene but felt helpless, given Audrey’s special status. “Mr. Johnson, Miss Swann…”

Brian understood the secretary’s dilemma and gestured for him to leave. The secretary left relieved, realizing Brian’s new girlfriend was not to be trifled with.

Not able to contain her anger any longer, Audrey threw the contract at Brian, glaring at him. “Look at what you’ve done!”

Brian remained unmoving. Then, with a smirk, he stood up. “Are you satisfied now? There are plenty more contracts on my desk. Feel free to throw them at me, as long as it makes you happy.”

Brian’s nonchalant attitude made Audrey furious, leaving her no way to vent her anger. She crossed her arms and sat on the nearby sofa, glaring at Brian. “I need an explanation, or I won’t let you off easily.”

“Give me a minute. I need to know which contract it is,” Brian explained, not showing any impatience despite Audrey’s outburst.

Audrey remained silent, waiting for Brian’s explanation.

After a few seconds, Brian put down the contract and looked at Audrey. “Is there a problem with this contract?”

Since Brian started dating Audrey, he had used various means to gain control of her agency contract and replaced her agent with his assistant. He couldn’t accept Audrey being beyond his control.

Kim was a good agent, but he only considered Audrey’s perspective, which Brian couldn’t accept as it meant losing control over her.

Upon hearing Brian’s response, Audrey looked at him in disbelief. “What do you mean? What kind of role have you arranged for me? How can I act in this kind of film?” she asked.

“Don’t you think this film will definitely be a hit?” Brian retorted.

Audrey had read the script, and it was quite remarkable. However, as a rising star, she was used to glamorous roles in advertisements and films. Brian had unexpectedly arranged for her to play a role in a combat-themed film as an antagonist.

Once she took on such a role, she might be typecast as a villain for the rest of her career. Many actors who excelled in antagonistic roles were forever associated with such characters, never able to shift to lead roles.

Regardless of how memorable the antagonist role might be, she couldn’t accept being stereotyped as a villain. She could sacrifice for art and her career, but not at the price of her entire life.

Brian reassured her, “I promise you, even if everyone sees your character as unforgettable, I can still find better lead roles for you, guaranteeing your position as a lead actress. Audrey, don’t you want to be a versatile actress rather than relying solely on your looks for fame? Are you unwilling to make the sacrifice?”

Brian’s persuasion left Audrey in contemplation. In the past, Kim would have rejected anything that wasn’t advantageous for her career. He would never have accepted a role like this. However, she found herself somewhat persuaded by Brian’s words. She wanted to break through.

“Aud, if you don’t want to take this role, I won’t force you. The penalty for breaching the contract means nothing to me. But I still hope you’ll reconsider. Trust me. I have your best interests at heart. I have some work to do. I’ll have the driver take you back. Take a couple of days to think it over before giving me your answer.”

Brian’s concession relieved Audrey. She had expected him to push her to the brink, but his compromise came unexpectedly quickly. She nodded in agreement to his proposal. Then, Brian arranged for the driver to take her home.

After Audrey left, Brian received a call. ” I heard Audrey doesn’t want to take the role.”

Brian’s face darkened. “It seems you have a lot of informants around me.”

Just as Audrey had left, the call came in, a blatant provocation to Brian. Faced with the inquiry, the other party chuckled and offered no explanation.

Brian knew that he couldn’t afford to offend this person right now, so he promised, “Don’t worry. I have a way to make Audrey agree.”

“Looking forward to your good news!”

Hearing the click of the phone being hung up, Brian slammed his phone against the wall.

Bang!

The phone hit the wall and fell to the ground, shattered. It was clear how furious Brian was at that moment. He silently vowed that once this matter was over, he would make the other party regret it and show them that he wasn’t someone to be trifled with.

Audrey had the driver drop her off at the underground parking lot before heading up alone.

The driver, having witnessed her bad temper, left as soon as he could.

As the elevator doors opened, Audrey was hit with a strong smell of smoke. Frowning, she looked up to see Triston standing not far away. The usually dashing second son of the Lamberts now appeared disheveled with a scruffy beard.

“How did you get here?” Audrey asked.

Triston’s initially dull eyes lit up at the sight of Audrey. “Audrey!” Despite his legs cramping from standing too long, he limped toward her.

Audrey frowned, feeling uncomfortable. Although she had ended things with Triston, she didn’t want to see him in such a state. ” Triston, can’t you understand? There’s no chance for us!”

Chapter 886 Lies

When Catherine arrived, she saw Audrey squatting at the door, like an ostrich, shutting herself off.

She walked toward Audrey. Crouching on the ground, Audrey heard the footsteps. She buried her head and said in pain, “Didn’t I tell you to leave? Why are you still here?”

Without getting a response, Audrey slowly raised her head.

When she saw that the person was Catherine, she was stunned for a moment. Her eyes unconsciously widened, obviously scared by Catherine’s sudden appearance. “How did you, like, get here?”

Catherine looked at her and asked coldly, “Has Triston been here?”

Audrey wanted to deny it, but when she looked into Catherine’s eyes, she couldn’t bring herself to lie. “Yes!”

“Get up. We’ll talk inside.” With a command from Catherine, Audrey immediately got up and opened the door behind her, bringing Catherine in.

After they walked in, Audrey realized that Catherine didn’t flop onto the couch as she usually did.

Catherine’s posture today looked unusually upright, which was rather weird.

“Are you leaving soon?” Audrey asked.

“No, why?” Catherine looked at her with some confusion.

Audrey shook her head and quietly explained, “It’s nothing. I saw how careful you are and thought you were leaving soon!”

When she was talking, she wasn’t looking at Catherine, so she didn’t notice the obvious change in Catherine’s expression when she said those words.

“I’ve been standing in the lab for too long recently. My back is getting tired. Leaning against something makes it easier to get injured.” Catherine fobbed off with a random excuse.

Audrey felt sorry for her and advised her to take care of her health. Knowing that it was difficult for her to listen to others’ opinions because of her personality, so Audrey didn’t say anything more. “Catherine, why did you suddenly come over today?”

Catherine would usually let her know in advance if she was coming to visit, but today, there was no word at all.

Catherine turned to look at Audrey. Her eyes seemed able to see right through people, making Audrey feel like there was no hidden place in front of her. What did Brian White threaten you with to make you date him?”

The abrupt words made Audrey pause for a moment. Her heart started to race in an instant, and her gaze toward Catherine became hesitant.

She didn’t know if Catherine had found something or if someone had threatened Catherine, and she didn’t dare to speak out about it.

After some hesitation, Audrey decided to stick with it.

She kept her head down and avoided eye contact with Catherine, trying to stay away from Catherine’s influence on her.

“What else can he threaten me with? That guy threatened me that he would bother me every day if I didn’t go out with him. I was just so fed up with him bothering me that I agreed. He seems like the type to get excited about something for a while, but once you agree to it, he’ll get bored of it.”

Audrey’s half-truths and half-lies were so convincing that she even believed them herself.

Catherine squinted at Audrey, knowing Audrey was lying.

Audrey rarely lied, so she acted extremely unnaturally.

Although she had been trying really hard to control herself, Catherine could still tell at a glance. “Really? He didn’t blackmail you with anything?”

Audrey deliberately raised her voice to cover up her guilt and avoid being suspected by Catherine. “Of course not, no way! Don’t forget who I am, even though my status in the entertainment industry is just okay. But I still have you, right? It’s no big deal if you curse at me sometimes. But if someone tries to threaten me to date him, do you think I will hide it from you?”

‘You certainly will,’ complained Catherine inwardly. Catherine was actually quite curious. ‘What did Brian threaten Audrey with that made Audrey, who had always listened to me, suddenly start lying? There’s definitely something complicated going on.”

Since Audrey didn’t want to talk, Catherine didn’t force her. “If it’s really no big deal, just forget it!”

Now that Catherine had stopped questioning, Audrey seemed to be somewhat uneasy.

She hesitated for a long time before finally asking Catherine, “Why are you suddenly asking me this?”

Catherine originally didn’t want to respond to her, but seeing her look of hesitation and lingering worries, she sighed and glanced at Audrey, asking coldly, “Don’t you know that every time you stand next to Brian, your face is basically screaming ‘I’m annoyed’? Not just me. Everyone thinks there’s something wrong with your relationship.”

Catherine gave Audrey a quick rundown of the situation that Branden’s driver reported last time.

“This is so awkward!” Audrey looked at Catherine helplessly, forcing a smile.

‘It turns out if you really don’t like the other person, even if you pretend, it would be really hard. I’m an actress, and even I can’t do it, so it’s probably even harder for regular people,’ Audrey wondered.

“Since there’s nothing else, I’m getting going.” With that, Catherine got up and left.

Audrey asked her to stay for dinner, but she didn’t agree.

Just as she walked out of the neighborhood, the phone in her pocket started ringing.

She looked around. Seeing no one around, she walked to the side and picked up the phone.

“Catherine, I found it. When the Whites were in Loewe, they almost got acquired by the Breen Group. It was Brian White who came back to rescue the entire family at the critical moment. No one knew how he did it, but after Brian showed up, not only did the situation reverse, but Breen Group also automatically withdrew from the entire project.”

The outside world only knew that Whites held off the Breen Group’s attack, but they didn’t know that it was actually Brian who turned the tide.

This information seemed deliberately hidden by the Whites and Breen Group. If it weren’t for Catherine wanting to investigate this time, they wouldn’t even know about this news.

“Catherine, this is all we could find. Brian White looks just like an ordinary rich kid but is actually quite impressive. He’s not simple at all.”

The more ordinary someone looked, the more likely they were actually not simple.

After all, it was not easy to make everyone think he was a useless rich heir.

“Okay, I got it. Keep me noted,” replied Catherine, Branden had been super busy with the Duncan Corporation recently.

Catherine originally thought he could easily solve the crisis of information leakage, but she didn’t expect that he still hadn’t successfully solved it after so many days.

Hearing that he would work overtime again tonight, Catherine decided to see Zobber during this time.

Chapter 887 Ronin Didn’t Show Up

As Branden saw the message from Catherine in the office, the icy solemnity on his face gradually faded, and his lips curved into a smile.

If it weren’t for the work still unfinished, he should be at home resting with Catherine instead of facing this mountain of files.

Paxton noticed Branden was in a good mood, so he bravely reported the situation, “Sir, there’s been some news from outside that our land in the western suburb didn’t sell. Now, more and more people are starting to question it, and that’s not good for us.”

Paxton didn’t understand why Branden would hand over the land in the western suburbs to others.

It was obviously a profitable deal, but now they were letting someone else take it. They had been keeping this news under wraps and had no idea who had leaked it.

The situation was getting more and more complicated, and it was very likely to bring a huge crisis to the Duncan Corporation.

The information leakage issue hadn’t been resolved yet, even though Branden used strong tactics to suppress the media last time. Suppressing the media might work, but the voices from below were hard to suppress.

The news of the unsuccessful sale of the western suburb land had leaked again. It was safe to say that it had caused quite a stir in the city.

Paxton looked at Branden with some concern and said, “Sir, there are rumors going around that we have to compensate Breen Group because of a data breach, so we don’t have enough funds to support the western suburb project, which is why it fell through.”

After listening to Paxton’s report, Branden had a completely nonchalant expression.

He never understood why, when he suggested that they could exchange under any conditions, the other party chose the plot of land in the western suburb. It turned out their real intention was this all along.

If there hadn’t been a leak of information, the failure to sell the land in the western suburbs wouldn’t have had any impact on the Duncan Corporation at all.

Now, with two big projects failing back to back, if this news were confirmed, the outside world would definitely question the Duncan Corporation’s ability.

Once investors lost confidence in their stocks, there was a risk of everyone selling off together, which could easily crush the Duncan Corporation.

Branden grabbed a few documents from the table and threw them to Paxton.

At first, Paxton didn’t understand Branden’s purpose, asking, “Sir, what’s this?”

“Get it arranged and tell the media about these projects. Just say they all fell through,” answered Branden.

Paxton looked up at Branden again, making sure he wasn’t joking.

Although he couldn’t understand the deeper meaning, Paxton didn’t hesitate to carry out the order. “Alright, I’ll get it done right now.”

When Catherine went to Zobber’s place, Zobber and Withal had just ordered takeout food.

When they saw Catherine coming, they immediately called out to her to sit down. “Catherine, come join us. Ronin should be on his way already.”

Although Zobber still had doubts about Ronin, the old friendship was still there, and they could still have a great time together.

Looking at the table full of delicious dishes smothered in chili oil, Catherine picked up a bite and put it in her mouth. But then she suddenly felt nauseous, so she quickly grabbed a nearby tissue and spit the food out.

Noticing her unusual behavior, Zobber quickly went over to ask how she was doing. “Hey Catherine, what’s the matter with you? Is there something wrong with the food?”

Seeing this on the side, Withal also picked up some food to put in his mouth. “No problem at all. It tastes great. Catherine, didn’t you used to love eating spicy food like this before?”

Catherine rolled her eyes at him and said, “You said ‘used to.’ My stomach was not good, so I rarely eat these things now.”

“Yeah, didn’t you see how light the food Mr. Duncan cooked for Catherine normally is? It’s not surprising that she’s not used to it after not eating this stuff for so long.” As Zobber was chatting away, she moved the two vegetable dishes over to Catherine. ” Catherine, these are light-favored vegetables. Have a try.”

Catherine nodded and ate a few mouthfuls of vegetables. It was true that vegetables reduced that feeling of nausea.

After they started eating for a while, Zobber suddenly realized something.” Didn’t Ronin say he was on his way? Why hasn’t he shown up yet?”

She nudged Withal on the side with her hand, saying, “Give him a call.”

Despite feeling a bit disgusted with her, Withal obediently took out his phone and called Ronin.

Ronin hurriedly rushed to Zobber’s house with the takeout he had bought.

He just got a message saying that Catherine also arrived. He purposely went around several blocks to buy her favorite snacks.

Just as he walked out of the dessert shop, he felt someone following him.

He especially turned into a side alley, getting ready to shake off the person following him. To his surprise, as soon as he entered the alley, he saw Finn crouching in front of him.

Ronin’s face immediately darkened, and he glared at Finn with a hostile look in his eyes. “Do you really need to do this to see me?”

“Hmph!” Finn scoffed and looked disdainfully at Ronin. “If I want to see you, I’ll have someone beat you up and drag you to me on your knees.”

Ronin completely ignored Finn’s provocation. ‘This kid can talk the talk, but he’s got no real skills,’ said Ronin inwardly.

Seeing Ronin wasn’t moving and didn’t want to argue with him, Finn said frankly, “Boss wants to see you. Come with me!”

After knowing the truth, Ronin immediately furrowed his brows.’

Damn, why did they choose this timing? ‘he cursed inwardly.

Seeing that Ronin did not move even when he mentioned the boss, Finn was somewhat furious. “Ronin, don’t get too cocky, kid. Boss wants to see you. If you don’t show up, you know the consequences, right?”

Ronin certainly knew it, but he had other stuff going on right now.

“I have something else to do. I’ll tell the boss later.” With that, Ronin turned around to leave.

Seeing this, Finn waved toward the dark corner.

A few dudes rushed out and quickly subdued Ronin. With so many enemies, Ronin didn’t stand a chance against them.

To stop him from running away, Finn injected some medicine into Ronin’s neck. Ronin felt his eyes go dark, and then he just blacked out, completely losing consciousness.

Withal called Ronin three times, but Ronin didn’t answer.

He couldn’t help but worry about Ronin, saying, “What if something happens? I just messaged Ronin that Catherine is also here, and he happily replied that he’ll be here soon. Why isn’t he even answering the phone now?

Withal’s words left the atmosphere in the room suddenly a bit serious.

Twice of the time as long to get here from where Ronin came from had passed.

‘If it’s just a regular accident, there’s no way Ronin wouldn’t pick up Withal’s call. It’s probably because he’s been attacked and can’t even answer the phone,’ thought Catherine.

She calmly ordered, “Check it out.”

“Will do!” Zobber immediately jumped up and rushed to the computer without even bothering to tidy up the table.

After Ronin returned, Catherine immediately put a locator on him. The first thing they wanted to do now was to figure out where Ronin was.

Soon, there was news coming from Zobber. “Catherine, I got something. Come quick.”

Chapter 888 Ronin Was Freed

Hearing Zobber calling out, Catherine immediately put down what she was doing and walked in her direction.

Zobber pulled up the location track and turned it into a route map, showing it to Catherine. “Catherine, Ronin left Styre University an hour ago and passed these points but disappeared here.”

Zobber immediately checked out the surroundings, and Catherine noticed the well-known dessert shop at first glance.

“Should be here.” She pointed to the bottom left corner of the screen.

Zobber suddenly understood what Catherine meant. “Damn! Catherine, Ronin must have disappeared right after buying dessert for you.”

“Yep!” Catherine nodded. It seemed this was the current situation. “I’ll go take a look!”

Catherine got up and left. Zobber quickly caught up. “Catherine, I’ll go with you!”

Withal wanted to move forward but was held back by Zobber.

“You stay at home. Wantells is not here. We need someone to help us operate the computer and keep in touch at all times,” said Zobber.

Hearing this, Withal stopped what he was doing. He understood what Zobber was saying.

They indeed need someone to sit at the computer, control the satellite, do surveillance, and track.

“Alright, take care, and contact me anytime if you need anything,” answered Withal.

Zobber was responsible for driving while Catherine was sitting in the passenger seat.

A few minutes later, the two arrived at the dessert shop.

It was not far from here to where Zobber lived. Even if they walked, it would take, at most, half an hour for Ronin to get to Zobber’s place.

Zobber originally wanted to go into the shop to check the surveillance footage, but then she noticed that Catherine was staring at the alley in front.

She was a bit confused and walked up to Catherine. “Catherine, what are you looking at?”

Catherine looked ahead with a cold gaze and muttered, “If I were Ronin, when I noticed someone was following me, I would definitely choose this place to wait for the opportunity to find the person.”

Zobber was analyzing what Catherine said, but then she realized that Catherine already walked straight ahead.

She quickly caught up, and they kept moving forward toward the back alley.

The back alley was kind of remote and dark. The further you went, the worse the environment got, and there was a strong, sour smell lingering in the air.

Zobber couldn’t help but feel a bit nauseous. She turned her head to observe Catherine, only to see that Catherine was composed, with no reaction at all. Zobber admired her even more.

She originally wanted to persuade Catherine to give up and go back directly. But when she saw Catherine’s behavior, she silently swallowed back the words that were about to come out of her mouth.

Catherine had been paying attention to the surroundings. Suddenly, she spotted something unusual in the pile of miscellaneous items.

She quickly rushed forward and soon found the unconscious Lu Fei.

Originally, she had planned to take him back directly, but then it seemed like she had thought of something. She stopped and called out to Zobber behind her, “Come over here. Give me a hand.”

Zobber quickly responded. They worked together to drag Ronin out from the pile of debris and move him to the empty space on the side.

“Catherine, what’s going on with Ronin?” asked Zobber.

She was just pulling on Ronin like that, but he didn’t even react. If it weren’t for his heart still beating and his body warm, Zobber would have thought he was dead.

Catherine turned Ronin’s neck and pointed to the barely visible small needle mark. “Looks like someone gave him a shot. Let’s get him back first and have Connie take a check.”

“Okay!” answered Zobber.

Finishing, they helped Ronin into the car.

There had been someone watching all this in the dark, waiting for Catherine and them to leave for good. Only then did Finn dare to come out from the corner with his people, and his subordinates all felt puzzled.

Only then did Finn dare to come out from the corner with his people, and his subordinates all felt puzzled. “Finn, we finally managed to subdue this little punk Ronin. Are we just letting him go like this? They are just two women. Is it necessary?”

Finn turned back and shot an angry look at the lackey, who never knew when to shut up. He sneered in disdain and said, “Just two women? Do you think they’re insignificant? Even without the tall one, Catherine, just Zobber alone is enough to kill you on the spot. If Catherine makes a move, even the boss will have to be careful.”

Hearing Finn’s explanation, a few of the lackeys were scared white.

Their boss was already a terrifyingly invincible presence in their eyes.

They didn’t expect this woman to make the boss so afraid. ‘If we offend her, wouldn’t we…’ they wondered in fear.

Finn didn’t want to waste time here with the lackeys, so he reported the situation to the boss.

After receiving the instructions, they quickly cleaned up the scene and disappeared without a trace.

Withal had been waiting at the apartment building for ages. As soon as the car appeared, he went straight up to it.

He was so strong that he easily lifted Ronin and carried him upstairs.

They went back into the room, and Connie took over Ronin.

The others couldn’t help, so they were just waiting in the living room outside.

Half an hour later, Connie came out, and behind her was a not-so-well Ronin.

“Are you okay?” Zobber asked with concern.

Ronin’s lips twitched awkwardly, and he forced a smile, “It’s okay. The drugs haven’t completely worn off yet. I’m still feeling a bit dizzy.”

Catherine stared at him. Seeing that he was still in good shape, the fierceness in her eyes gradually faded away.’

What’s going on?”

Hearing Catherine’s question, Ronin shook his head helplessly. “I don’t know either, but when I realized someone was following me, I just wanted to hide in the alley. If the strength is not much different, I’ll kill them, but if the strength gap is too big, I can hide in the alley. However, they seemed to have guessed my thoughts. They were already lurking in the alley, and after I went in, a needle stabbed my neck. I blacked out and woke up here.”

Listening to Ronin’s bizarre remarks, Zobber couldn’t help but look him up and down. “So they didn’t do anything else other than just giving you a shot and knocking you out?”

Ronin gave her a stare. “What else do you want them to do to me? Plus, I passed out. How would I know anything?”

Seeing him getting angry, Zobber smiled brightly and apologized.

Actually, Ronin was also confused.’ Finn clearly said it was the boss’s order to take me back. How come they suddenly let me go again?’

“Come with me!” With that, Catherine got up and walked toward the small room, with Ronin obediently following behind.

Seeing this, Zobber curiously leaned toward Withal, who was standing aside. “Is Catherine trying to help Ronin secretly? What’s the secret that they’re keeping from us? And why won’t they let us know?”

Withal rolled his eyes and said bluntly, “If you want to be interrogated by Catherine alone, then knock on her door yourself! It seems you’ve been living it up too carefree lately and are asking for trouble.”

Zobber had seen Catherine interrogate people before, and her methods were no joke.

There were no bloody scenes, and she didn’t beat on them like everyone else did.

But her methods could make people feel scared to the point of being powerless. They could hit you right in the soul, leaving a shadow that would last a lifetime.

Thinking about it gave Zobber the heebie-jeebies, making her hair stand on end. She couldn’t help but shake her head. “Forget it. I’ll just hold back my curiosity.”

Chapter 889 A Big Trap

In the room, Catherine had just walked in, and Ronin quickly grabbed a chair for her. However, Catherine didn’t sit down. Instead, she pushed Ronin into the chair, saying, “Have a seat. Your head is still spinning, isn’t it?”

Seeing Catherine’s concern, Ronin flashed a wide grin, revealing a mouthful of white teeth. “Catherine, ask whatever you want. I’m afraid if we delay going out, Zobber will be upset outside.”

“Don’t mind her. She’s clueless. You don’t have to pay attention to what she says,” Catherine replied.

“Don’t worry, Catherine. I don’t mind. I’ve known Zobber for so long. I understand her personality. Besides, she cares about me, in her own way,” Ronin said.

Ronin harbored no resentment toward Zobber. Despite her words of disbelief, she had never mistreated him in practical actions. Whenever there was something good, she would call him first, and when he was in trouble, Zobber was the first to help.

Seeing Ronin’s carefree attitude, Catherine felt somewhat relieved. ” Who sent people to get you?”

“Finn. He said the head wanted me back, but after they knocked me out, they didn’t take me back. It’s been about ten minutes since they left until you guys arrived,” Ronin replied. He explained the situation in detail, and that was all he knew.

Catherine pondered silently, and Ronin didn’t dare to disturb her. Catherine didn’t appreciate interruptions when she was deep in thought.

“I’ll investigate this matter. You rest here for today.” Catherine said. This was their base, and whoever wanted to mess with Ronin should think twice.

Despite Catherine’s suggestion, Ronin disagreed. He said, “Catherine, I want to go back tonight.”

Catherine’s eyes darkened, and she stared at him coldly. Though she didn’t speak, her expression clearly conveyed her disapproval.

“Catherine, they won’t harm me. They still need to use me. You don’t need to worry about my safety,” Ronin said.

Though Ronin might not lose his life, he could endure some physical pain. Catherine didn’t want Ronin to be in trouble again.

Ronin unusually insisted, “Catherine, I understand your concern, but I still want to go.”

Seeing she couldn’t stop him, Catherine decided to let go and allowed Ronin to take his chances. “Fine, but be safe. Contact me if there’s any problem.

“Yeah!” Ronin nodded happily. Protected by Catherine for so many years, now he wanted to make something happen through his own efforts.

However, there was something that Ronin found quite puzzling. ” Catherine, since you already have evidence to expose him, why continue to play along with him?”

Catherine squinted her eyes and looked ahead with a sharp, cold gaze. “If he wants to play, then let’s play along. I want to see how this big act of his will end. There are still some things I haven’t figured out. Once I do, his good days will be over.”

Hearing Catherine’s response, Ronin felt excited. He looked forward to the day when all the humiliation he suffered would be repaid. Without him having to lift a finger, Catherine would naturally settle the score for him.

“Catherine, let’s go out,” Ronin said.

“Alright,” Catherine replied.

Zobber perked up when she heard the sound of the door opening. “You two are out. What did you talk about?”

Ronin looked downhearted and glanced at Zobber. “How about you go in and endure a round of Catherine’s interrogation?”

Zobber silently stepped back. “Forget it. I don’t want it.”

“I’m tired. I’ll go back and rest first. Catherine, are you coming?” Ronin asked.

Catherine nodded and took the lead.

“They just left like that?” Zobber looked at Withal beside her with confusion.

You care too much!” Withal said with disdain, glancing at her before turning away and ignoring her.

Seeing that no one paid attention to her, Zobber ceased her curiosity.

Ronin returned to the base and encountered Finn, who was guarding the entrance. Finn wasn’t surprised to see him and greeted, “Come on. The head is waiting for you inside.”

His calm demeanor caught Ronin off guard. “You knew I would come to see the head early in the morning?” Ronin asked with surprise.

Finn glanced at him and said coldly, It’s not that I knew. The head knew.”

Seeing that Ronin still wanted to ask, Finn warned with a gloomy face, ” Ronin, don’t think about challenging the head. Do you need me to tell you how miserable the death would be?”

Ronin held back what he wanted to say, chuckled, and silently followed Finn. He had initially wanted to ask Finn why he had subdued him and then suddenly let go. However, it seemed that Finn had likely been warned in advance. Ronin knew that asking wouldn’t produce any results, so he didn’t want to waste his efforts.

Soon, Ronin saw the man in the black robe. Finn left the room, leaving them alone.

As soon as they met, the man in the black robe slowly raised his head and looked at Ronin, saying, “Ronin, are you curious why I had Finn bring you back and then suddenly dumped you on the roadside?”

Ronin felt uneasy, not understanding the purpose behind the man bringing up this matter. After a moment of contemplation, Ronin decided to be honest. “I don’t know. When I woke up, I only saw Catherine. I thought it was just a coincidence that they came, so Finn didn’t take me away to avoid conflict.”

“That’s part of the reason.” The man in the black robe nodded in agreement. When Catherine and Zobber came out of the apartment building, they received the message.

While Ronin was still pondering the meaning behind the man’s words, he suddenly returned to his high seat and said something inexplicable. He added, “Most importantly, these pastries taste good!”

Ronin looked up and saw that the man was holding the pastries he had bought for Catherine. He didn’t see them when he woke up, thinking they had been left at the scene, but he didn’t expect Finn to bring them back. Unable to understand the man’s purpose, Ronin remained silent.

“Ronin, now that you’ve returned to Catherine and are slowly being accepted back by them, shouldn’t you fulfill the promise you made to me initially?” the man asked.

The inevitable had come, and Ronin had known that the man wouldn’t let him go so easily. “Sir, please instruct.”

Ronin’s respectful attitude pleased the man. He looked at Ronin, who was bowing his head, and asked slowly, ” Within the Hacker Alliance, there is a confidential customer database. You should know about it, right?”

Ronin’s heart trembled fiercely. He didn’t expect this to be the man’s objective. It was a big trap, waiting for them to fall into it. Carefully, he answered, “I’ve heard about it, sir. Are you asking for…?”

Chapter 890 The List

“I want that list!” The man in the black robe stated his purpose bluntly, without any concealment. He wanted to see if Ronin truly dared to steal the list. Despite Ronin’s recent betrayals against the Hacker Alliance, the man still didn’t trust Ronin. Ronin had followed Catherine for too many years, and their bond was profound. This list of key personnel was the final test for Ronin.

Over the years, the Hacker Alliance had taken on numerous tasks, many of which involved confidential figures. To protect the organization, Catherine kept a blacklist, and its exposure would have dire consequences. If it fell into the wrong hands, it could become a weapon to control the fate of the Hacker Alliance.

Very few people outside were aware of the existence of this list, and even Ronin had stumbled upon it accidentally. He verified its presence by asking Catherine. If he really stole this list and handed it over to the man in the black robe, it would spell disaster for the Hacker Alliance.

Seeing Ronin silent for a while, the man in the black robe squinted his eyes, looking at him with a cold expression. “What? Are you unwilling?”

Ronin hesitated for a moment. Then he slowly raised his head. “Sir, it’s not that I’m unwilling. I have only a limited knowledge of this list, as I overheard it from Catherine. I have absolutely no clue about the whereabouts of this list. Since you are aware of the existence of this list, you must have some leads. As long as you can provide me with clues, I will do my best.”

The man in the black robe stood tall, staring at Ronin coldly. He wanted to know how much truth was in Ronin’s words.

Ronin knelt down on one knee, motionless, portraying sincerity.

Finally, the man in the black robe said, “I have only heard of this list, but I didn’t expect it to be true. Since you know of its existence, there’s no need to fear not finding it. I’ll give you a week to investigate. I’ll also arrange for people to investigate, and I’ll inform you as soon as we have any information.

Ronin bowed his head low, silently cursing the man in the black robe as a cunning fox who didn’t really believe him. The man surely knew some insider information but was unwilling to easily reveal it to him. Then Ronin replied, “Rest assured, sir. I will do my best!”

Exiting the base, Ronin’s heart was still pounding intensely. Every time he encountered the man in the black robe, he felt unusually nervous, though he couldn’t pinpoint why exactly.

Once in a safe place, Ronin immediately shared the news with Catherine. “Catherine, I feel like he knows more about us than we thought.”

Catherine, upon receiving the message, wasn’t too surprised. If the other party hadn’t come prepared, that would have been unusual. “Got it. I’ll handle this, and I’ll let you know when it’s sorted.”

“Okay!” Ronin replied.

After confirming that Ronin was fine, Catherine hung up his call. Just as she turned around, she bumped into Branden, who was entering through the door.

“Is it over?” Branden asked gently.

Catherine raised her phone in her hand. “Ronin called, wanting to invite me out for a late-night snack. I didn’t agree.”

Branden approached slowly, extending his hand to embrace her. “Hungry? If you don’t want to go out, I can make something for you at home.”

Catherine’s stomach rumbled silently, and she nodded in agreement. “Sure. Make something light.”

Hearing that, Branden immediately went to prepare. Before leaving, he suddenly stopped in his tracks. ”

Recently, you seem to be eating a bit lightly. Is your stomach not feeling well?”

Catherine hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond.