Ch. 431..440
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 431-Even though I had calmed down, I still felt a lingering fear that gave me nightmares, too.
My anxiety from the ordeal hung over me like a dark cloud.
Ryan and Eleanor went to the capital instead of me. Before they left, Ryan comforted me, telling me to take a break from work. Ava's well-being was the most important thing. We needed to make sure she fully recovered.
In the following days, I stayed by Ava's side, unwilling to leave.
However, her condition didn't improve. She would cry and fuss whenever she fell asleep. If she didn't see Atlas, she would cry her heart out, and I couldn't console her.
Several times, Atlas rushed back from the company for her.
My mom felt guilty about Ava's condition. She would secretly cry when Ava was upset. Her spirits had taken a downturn.
Both my dad and Atlas tried to comfort her, saying it was an accident. Even if we were more careful, it could still happen.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt My mom remained depressed. When Ava cried, she would clutch her head in agony. I was feeling anxious, and the atmosphere at home was heavy. My mom’s emotions seemed off to me.
The scenery was breathtaking, and the air smelled like coconuts. A change of environment seemed to do Ava some good. Though she still clung to Atlas, she would now actively observe the different scenery.
Atlas's efforts were truly impeccable. He constantly surprised her, leading her to discover new things.
I brought many beautiful clothes for Ava to dress up in. I took her to different places daily to enjoy new foods and scenery.
Atlas pampered her like a little princess, and gradually, she brightened up. I sensed she was seeking the security of paternal love.
Things looked much better for Ava and my mom after they got to Celestis Island. When she saw Ava smile, she felt a lot better. I didn't catch her secretly wiping away tears anymore, and my dad was happy, too.
We returned to Celestis Island today, basking in the warm sunlight. Atlas had a villa here.
The island only had a few villas that were well-spaced and did not disturb each other.
We had a wonderful time playing on the beach in front of his villa.
Suddenly, Ava turned to Atlas and asked, "Uncle Atlas, can you be my daddy?” My parents felt awkward. I suddenly felt a bit suffocated, as if my daughter had sold me out.
However, Atlas responded calmly, "Sure, if you want me to.” My head buzzed when I heard that. I was sold.
"Uncle Atlas, a man called me in a car and told me to get in. When I saw it was a man, I thought it was you. I thought you were back from your business trip.
"So, I went to open the gate. But the car drove in, and I was confused. I thought he would Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm get lost, so I went to find him…
As Ava spoke, the adults were instantly on high alert. This is the first time Ava has voluntarily brought up the incident.
Atlas paid special attention and quickly picked Ava up.
“It’s my fault for letting someone pose as me, but you shouldn't be scared. I'll get rid of the bad man who tricked you! Next time, make sure Grandma, Grandpa, or Mommy are with you before you open the gate. You can also call me, and I'll come.” She seemed to think of something and looked at Atlas. "But, Uncle Atlas, I don't have a phone!” "I'll buy you one. When we return to Foswood, you'll get it!"
Atlas promised solemnly. "Don't be afraid of what happened before. Look, I'll save you and bring you back! So you must trust me. Ava, you're the smartest and bravest girl I know!” Ava nodded as if she understood, hugging his neck and saying with determination, “Next time, Uncle Atlas will beat up that bad guy. All the ones who lie to me are bad guys!” All the adults burst into laughter. It seemed like everything had cleared up. But deep down, I had a vague feeling that this was just the beginning.
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 432-After the laughter subsided, I felt a vague sense of unease. I exchanged glances with Atlas, and I knew he understood my thoughts. However, with elders and a child present, neither of us could speak openly.
From what I gathered from Atlas’s calls, Dylan was dealing with the aftermath of Ava's kidnapping. Although I hadn't asked, I could tell from his conversations that despite their efforts, Dylan and his team hadn't found the man.
Even if he had been lucky, jumping from such a high bridge would not have left him unharmed. However, the fact that there was still no sign of him indicated he was skilled.
Despite extensive searches by the authorities and Atlas's team, he had not been found. He must have escaped.
As long as he was on the loose, the threat remained. He was a potential danger. Who was to say he wouldn't threaten us again someday?
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt It seemed he was targeting me, or at least, I was his goal. But I was sure that I had never met him.
Ava and Atlas's account of what happened provided me with valuable insights. The man who took Ava knew about Atlas and me. He even knew about Ava's affection for Atlas.
This sent shivers down my spine.
This was our private matter. How could someone know so much about it? Since Atlas's accident, we haven't been in close contact. So why take the child?
I watched Atlas interact with Ava, clearing up any feelings of doubt she had. His kindness and patience moved me deeply.
He playfully pinched Ava's nose and asked, “Are you still scared?"
"No, Uncle Atlas will protect me! Uncle Atlas will save me and beat up the bad guys!” Ava’s voice was filled with admiration for Atlas.
It warmed Atlas's heart. He easily picked her up and put her on his shoulder. He held her hands and pretended to fly as he walked toward the beach.
Ava alternated between giggles and shouts of “Mommy!” My mom sat in the shade and smiled as she watched them play like father and daughter.
"Honey, he adores children. I never imagined he'd be sodoting on our Ava,” she said, turning to my dad. "It’s no wonder Ava has taken such a liking to him. He's certainly more capable than Ryan when it comes to this.” My dad squinted contentedly, reclining in his beach chair and sipping his juice. He hadn't said a word, but his expression spoke volumes—he agreed with my mother.
I glanced at my mom. “Mom, don't jump to conclusions.
He's just helping Ava overcome her fears. Don't overthink it.” Although I said this, deep down, I knew what I longed for.
I had this strange feeling that there was something unusual between Atlas and me. His Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm family, too, was shrouded in mystery. I quietly reminded myself to stay alert until I could uncover the truth.
I had grown entirely dependent on the sense of security Atlas brought us.
At night, my parents and Ava were all asleep, leaving Atlas and me wide awake.
We had been on Celestis Island for a week, and today was the first time I saw Ava truly relax. She got her energy back, and I could hear her laughing. It was the most amazing comfort I had felt in a long time.
As soon as I put Ava down, I went outside and saw Atlas drinking on the terrace. He spotted me and gestured for me to join him. It was one of the rare moments we were alone. I hesitated momentarily, feeling nervous, before offering my hand to him. He instantly pulled me to his side. With another swift motion, I was sitting on his lap.
When he groaned, I got a shock throughout my body. I tried to get up on instinct, but he held me tight in his arms.
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 433-His husky voice murmured in my ear, "How long do you plan on avoiding me?” "I'm not…" I tried to defend myself, but as soon as the words left my lips, I felt I had misspoken.
We were already so familiar with each other, both physically and emotionally. Any intimacy between us was a tempting lure.
“Thank you for saving my Ava,” I said, hoping to shift our awkwardness.
“Not just your Ava,” he replied, his eyes gleaming affectionately. "Ava has a good heart.
It's you who's a little heartless.” "I'm not a five-year-old child. I can't bother you!" I reluctantly said. After all, I hadn't overcome the hurdle of him being with Harmony.
"Nonsense!" Atlas stood up, feigning anger. He moved the chair next to him and pulled me into his arms, settling us both on the beach chair.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt It had been a long time since we were this close, and it left me feeling uneasy. My heart pounded against my chest.
Atlas, his handsome face serious, gazed at me. "Chloe, I know you've been through a lot.” Tears welled up in my eyes involuntarily.
“Especially with Ava, I know. It's my fault for neglecting you both. It was my responsibility.” Atlas gently patted my shoulder, sending tingles through my body.
We both understood each other without words.
According to Ava, she followed the car because she was attached to him. Otherwise, those villains wouldn't have found an opportunity to snatch her from our doorstep.
Even though a week had passed since the incident, just thinking about it sent shivers down my spine.
"I neglected the feelings of the child. I thought that by distancing myself from you, I could lessen the harm to you and your daughter. But it turns out to be the opposite."
He tightened his arm around me. “I know you love me. That's why I wanted to minimize the chances of someone using you two against me. This time, they used Ava to test us.” Hearing Atlas's words, I was taken aback. I looked at him with eyes filled with panic. "What do we do?"
He smirked. "What do we do? We face it head-on. Instead of hiding and letting them exploit our weaknesses, it's better to be open and honest.” “There's more to this situation than meets the eye. I had met the man who kidnapped Ava in the hospital on the day I had my cast removed. He was one of the kidnappers, and he had Atlas's expression grew somber. "He escaped with that doctor last time. That doctor was their accomplice.” I quickly asked, "Do you know them?” Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "Yes. They're an illegal organization from Jitador. Their members are elusive, and they have secret agents in various countries.” Atlas's expression was grave. "I came into contact with them during the investigation of the plane crash. They're linked to my parents’ deaths.” "You mean, the plane crash was confirmed to be orchestrated?” My mind raced with thoughts of Grayson's investigation. I didn't know if I should tell Atlas.
“Yes, we found leads to them among the casualties. And I suspect that the death of Rory, who was with my father, was faked!"
"What are you saying?" I was shocked, my mouth agape.
"Yes, we found leads to them among the casualties. And I suspect that the death of Rory, who was with my father, was faked!"
“What are you saying?" I was shocked, my mouth agape. Mr. Louis's assistant was an imposter?”
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 434-Atlas was probably surprised by my emotional outburst. He nodded and said, "Yes, that ‘Rory,’ who died in the plane crash with my parents, also had a snake tattoo.” The news sent a shiver down my spine. "So you mean, the one who died in the crash wasn't Rory? Then who was he?"
I couldn't explain why I was so intrigued by Rory. Whenever his name came up, I felt an urge to dig deeper.
It was similar to the first time Grayson mentioned Lucille's name, and I felt a sense of déja vu.
"This is the part I've always hesitated to make sense of, but one thing is certain. Rory didn't have that tattoo!” Atlas said, “Later, I managed to obtain the evidence from the investigation report."
"Is this what made you suspect that your parents’ crash wasn't just an accident?” I looked at Atlas. The awkwardness between us from earlier had dissipated, and I straightened up.
Atlas brushed aside the stray strands of hair caught in the breeze. His eyes were deep, and his voice was low. "I spent a whole decade looking for this evidence. That's why I can't afford to take it lightly. Do you understand?” Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I met his gaze. This was a look shared only between us, devoid of any formality.
"Chloe, the situation here is far worse than you can imagine. I intended to protect the people who matter to me. That's why I said I only have one request for you, and that is to trust me. Of course, some unforeseen events happened. It's normal for you to misunderstand me.” My face flushed involuntarily. He was blaming my willfulness.
"However, this time, they've crossed the line. I won't let them off so easily!" His tone carried a chilling edge. “I won't forgive them!"
I tentatively asked Atlas, "So, was the accident orchestrated by you, or did they do it?” This was a question I had been wanting to clarify. There were too many unresolved mysteries surrounding this incident.
He held onto my hand, his gaze piercing. "Both."
His response met my speculations. After all, I had pondered various possibilities during this time.
“Your performance at the time, outside my plan, added to the drama. It further convinced Celine of the crash's authenticity. So, I had to keep the truth hidden from you, including our encounter at Quail Creek.” “Was that you at Quail Creek?" I was a little surprised. During that near-miss encounter, I had only suspected it was him based on his distinctive scent.
"But why didn't I see you when I came out?" I asked, puzzled.
"I was in the car at the entrance.” Atlas looked at me, smiling slightly. "But at that moment, I couldn't meet you. I couldn't tell you I wasn't in the emergency room. Also, you've just been to Pleca Park. You were within their line of sight! Everything you did was under their surveillance!” “How did you leave Pleca Park then? Who was in Pleca Park?
"I was perplexed. At the surface, Pleca Park seemed unassuming, but it was practically a fortress.
“Don't forget, Pleca Park is my home!" Atlas held my hand, squeezing it. "I'm free to come and go, of course!” His answer widened my imagination.
Free to come and go? What did he mean?
“Was it you lying unconscious on the hospital bed?” Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm “What do you think?"
"Do you know how scared I was back then?” I was annoyed, but my voice carried a hint of coyness.
"Did you miss me?" He quirked a corner of his mouth and gently pinched my cheek. "Your words touched me deeply.” I felt out of breath as he spoke. My words were completely spontaneous at the time, reflecting my true feelings. It was embarrassing.
"Who misses you? You're as cold as ice!” I asked, “How come I saw no signs that you were moved? Didn't you just “Who misses you? You're as cold as ice!" I asked, "How come I saw no signs that you were moved? Didn't you just decisively walk away with the beautiful woman in your arms?"
"Have you ever considered how that set collapsed?" He looked at me, pulling me into his embrace with a gentle force. "You were quite jealous!"
For the first time in a while, we were alone like this. It was also the first time we interacted in such close quarters. It seemed our long-lost affection was rekindling.
The sound of waves crashing against the shore accompanied his fervent kiss, leaving me entranced and forgetting all my troubles.
Until the phone call from Lauren came, saying that Ivanna was in trouble.
About Beyond the Divorce -
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 435-I immediately felt flustered. It seemed like the more I feared, the more it came true. This was what I was worried about the most, and now, it happened.
I clenched the phone and hurried to the beach to find Atlas, urging him to book a flight back to Foswood as soon as possible.
After hearing what happened, Atlas comforted me and discussed it with my dad.
To ensure that Ava could completely forget the kidnapping, my parents would continue to stay on Celestis Island for some time. Atlas arranged for someone to care for them. He and I flew back to Foswood.
Before boarding the plane, I had Grayson check what had happened to Ivanna. Lauren had urged me to return as soon as possible without explaining the entire story. I had a feeling it wasn't that simple.
On the plane, Atlas reassured me repeatedly, saying he would have Dylan investigate.
We landed in Foswood at 7 p.m. I quickly called Lauren.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt She said she was waiting for us at the Vanderberg Palace.
Atlas's driver came to pick us up, and the car went straight to the tarmac, aiming to avoid external disturbances as much as possible. Everything was done secretly, just like when we left.
In the car, Atlas called Dylan. Dylan said they had already dispatched people to investigate and there would be news later.
When we arrived at the Vanderberg Palace, Lauren had been waiting there for a long time.
She grabbed my hand as if a heavy burden had been lifted off her shoulders. "Chlo, you're finally back!” "What's the matter?" I asked urgently. I had been restless the entire way here.
"Ivanna is definitely in trouble. I haven't been able to reach her for two days." Lauren's face was stern.
"What did Jared say?” I asked directly. "He should know the most about this!” "He's also looking into it now, but there’s still no news." Lauren shook her head helplessly, looking a bit unsettled.
"How did you find out?" I asked while Atlas furrowed his brows, not making any comments.
“It was 10 p.m. the night before yesterday. I called her, and we agreed to go shopping the next day.” Lauren detailed the events, “I heard it was pretty noisy on her end, so I asked if she hadn't gone home yet. She said she was with some colleagues, so I didn't ask further.
"But when I called her again the next day, her phone was off. I thought, since it was a day off, she might have partied too hard and was sleeping in. So, I waited until noon and called "But when I called her again the next day, her phone was off. I thought, since it was a day off, she might have partied too hard and was sleeping in. So, I waited until noon and called her again, but even by 3 p.m., her phone was still off.
“I felt uneasy. Ivanna is punctual, and she wouldn't stand me up. That's when I suspected that something was wrong!"
Ivanna was indeed a very punctual person. Even if she couldn't make it, she always had her phone on.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "Because it was a day off, 1 couldn't contact her other friends. And you weren't at home, soI called Jared. He said nothing and just hung up. It's been almost 48 hours, and I still haven't heard anything.
Lauren's lips were pale, and she added, “We can't contact any of her other friends. But…
now it's certain that something has happened!"
I picked up the phone, about to call Jared. Atlas reached out and stopped my hand. “Don't rush! Let me handle it!” "But Jared should at least give me an answer, right?" I looked at Atlas sternly. "I told you, this was bound to happen eventually!” “Perhaps a third-party investigation would be more effective! Trust me, wait for Dylan's update,” Atlas said seriously. “Ask Jared. There are things he can't say. Dylan is investigating from Trinity's side.” I thought about it fora moment. Atlas's reasoning made sense. I exchanged glances with Lauren. She looked at me with a slightly unsettled expression.
"But it's been almost 48 hours!"
Suddenly, I remembered I had Ivanna's keys with me. I quickly said to Lauren, “Let's go back to Amethyst Apartments. I have Ivanna's keys. Let's go to her place and check!”
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 436-I asked Atlas to wait for a call from Dylan or Grayson.
Then, I left Vanderberg Palace with Lauren and headed to Amethyst Apartments.
Lauren was anxious on the way, saying, “Thank goodness you’ re back.
I was worried on my own.
Ch, how’s Ava?” “She’s okay now, but Atlas thinks she might be traumatized.
That’s why he arranged for my parents to stay with her for a while longer.” Lauren glanced at me while driving.
“I had no choice but to call you.
I’m sorry for disturbing your time with your family.
You finally got a chance for a vacation, but…” “Don't think that way.
How could I ignore Ivanna? Anyway, it was about time I returned.
After all, Atlas is a busy man, and I shouldn’t always expect him to be with me.
Still, Ava’s very attached to him.
She kept asking when we'd be back when we were leaving.” Lauren nodded approvingly and said, “I can see how much Atlas cares for Ava.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt He does more than Matthew.” I laughed at her statement, “Hahaha, Matthew seems to have forgotten he even has a daughter.
Grace visited Ava the morning the incident occurred.” After some thought, Lauren asked, “So, what happened to Ava exactly?
You left so quickly, and I didn’t have the chance to ask for details.
There wasn’t any news about what happened, even though it was wild.
I guess Atlas stopped the news from spreading.” I sighed, “It’s complicated, but I’1] tell you the details after we find Ivanna.
I don’t know why so many terrible things are happening lately.” T could only think of Trinity.
The more I thought about her, the more uneasy I felt.
“Ivanna falling into Trinity’s trap won’t end well.” Lauren became restless, saying, “I’ve always felt something was amiss. I figured something like this would happen sooner or later. Still, I never thought I'd lose contact with her so suddenly.” When we arrived at Amethyst Apartments, I went home and collected Ivanna’s house keys. Immediately after, I went to her apartment and opened the door. I felt uneasy, fearing I might see something horrifying.
Fortunately, everything remained in their place.
It looked like Ivanna had just left for work and hadn't returned.
Her bed was tidy, and her nightwear was on a chair.
Then, I saw the lilies on the coffee table in the living room with no signs of wilting.
After a quick search, Lauren and I returned to Vanderberg Palace.
However, I was puzzled when I realized Atlas wasn’t there.
While I wondered where he went, Bella knocked on the door and entered with some tea.
I greeted her, “Long time no see, Bella.” She replied, "Mr.
Atlas and Mr.
Jared are in the room on the fourth floor." My eyes widened when I heard that.
"Jared’s here?" She nodded.
"Mr.
Atlas invited him." I became even more puzzled because Atlas didn’t let me call Jared but invited him here.
It seemed they knew each other, which surprised me.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm “ll get you some food first. Don’t rush—you have to eat,” Bella said before leaving. I figured she came to inform me about Atlas’s whereabouts.
Soon after, Atlas returned, and I approached him, asking, “Where's Jared? What did he say?” Atlas glanced at me and whispered, “He left.
Don’t worry.
He won’t let anything happen to Ivanna.” I was annoyed.
“Something already happened, yet Jared’s saying he won’t let anything happen to her?” Lauren asked, “Does he have information about Ivanna? I told him about Ivanna yesterday, and he should know Trinity best.
He should know something by now, right?” “Trinity isn’t in Foswood.
She went abroad three days ago.
For now, Ivanna’s disappearance has nothing to do with her,” Atlas provided a crucial piece of information that he must’ve obtained from Jared.
"She's not in Foswood?" I widened my eyes in disbelief.
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 437-After Bella brought food for us, Dylan and Grayson knocked and entered.
Atlas said nothing and only looked at them.
Dylan said, “Ms.
Ivanna had dinner with her colleagues at The Vine the night before yesterday.
Their dinner ended at 10:45 pm, and the surveillance footage showed her car leaving at 10:57 pm.” Lauren squinted and interjected, “Yeah, I called her around 10:20 at night.
It was noisy on her end.” Dylan added, “When she was on Sebster Street at 11:20 pm, she parked on the roadside for five minutes.
I checked the phone records and found that she had received an anonymous call.
Soon after, her phone was turned off.
The call must’ve come from a temporary phone card.
“There was a ten-minute blackout that stopped the surveillance recording when she drove past Rusvil District.
We lost track of Ms.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Ivanna’s car when the power returned.
Our people are searching for her car now.” Dylan looked at Atlas.
1 “what's the reason for the power outage?” Atlas furrowed his brows.
“The electricity bureau said there were scheduled tests during that period.
It began on the 17th of this month and progressed through each district.
Rusvil District happened to be on that list that day,” Dylan answered, “I checked, and there were notifications about the tests.” “That’s too much of a coincidence,” I said.
Grayson added, “There's also a record of Trinity leaving the country.
She took off three days ago at 4:27 pm, heading to Monora.” Atlas suggested, “Conduct a reverse investigation to check if she has records of entering neighboring countries, especially several small ones that she can reach by land.” “We're already checking but haven’t received any updates yet,” Grayson said. While Lauren remained silent the whole time, Atlas glanced at us and said, “We should eat before continuing.” 1 The last I ate was at ten in the morning since we rushed back from Celestis Island, so I was starving.
While we had a simple meal, Grayson’s phone rang.
He answered and only responded with hums, but his expression grew increasingly severe.
After hanging up, he looked at Atlas and said, “Trinity didn’t stop at Monora.
Instead, she flew to Lido and has already returned to the country by land.
Based on the timeline, she should be here by now.” Atlas looked at Grayson and said, “Continue to trace her whereabouts.” Meanwhile, my heart grew tense again.
I was shocked that Trinity would go to great lengths, indicating she had planned this meticulously.
It also meant Ivanna was in even more danger.
Suddenly, Dylan’s phone rang.
He answered and asked, “Where?” immediately after.
We looked at him, and he nodded, saying into the phone, “Good, check the surrounding surveillance footage.” He looked at us and added, “They found Ivanna’s car at an abandoned factory in the southern suburbs.” “The southern suburbs?” Atlas repeated, instinctively frowning.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm After some thought, he said with certainty, “She’s in the downtown area.” I was puzzled, asking, “How are you so sure?” He didn't answer but quickly made a call instead.
I knew it was Jared on the other end when Atlas spoke, “She’s in the downtown area, and her car is at an abandoned factory in the southern suburbs.
Trinity has returned to Foswood, so the rest is up to you.” I didn’t know what Jared said, but I knew he was displeased, considering Atlas’s expression before he hung up.
I understood why Atlas left it to Jared.
After all, Jared knew Trinity best, and only he knew her secret locations.
1 However, I couldn’t help but feel helpless by entrusting Ivanna’s life to Jared.
Currently, it felt like we were being passive.
Atlas seemed to read my thoughts, saying, “Jared should have a general idea of Ivanna’s whereabouts.
We just need to observe him from now on.” I felt relieved because it was a good idea to save us time.
Atlas glanced at Dylan, who immediately understood what Atlas wanted.
Immediately after, Dylan left while Grayson stood up and said, “I'll continue to monitor Trinity.”
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 438-Although it was midnight, Foswood remained bright. The nightlife here was at its peak at this hour. However, we became increasingly restless as we waited at Vanderberg Palace. We knew Ivanna would face more danger with each passing minute. When Atlas’s phone rang, Lauren and I perked up and looked at him. When he answered, his furrowed brows relaxed, “Is it just Jared’s people there?” I guessed Jared had taken action when I heard that. Atlas hung up and looked at me, saying, “You and Lauren stay here. I'll be back in a moment.” “Where are you going?” I urgently asked, “Did you receive any solid information?” Atlas explained, “It’s still uncertain, so just wait for my message. I’ll immediately inform you of any updates.” “What do you mean ‘immediately?’ That means you must tell me what you know now!” I stared at Atlas, refusing to yield. Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt “Chloe, you know these people don’t care about consequences. This time—” I interjected angrily, “That’s why I have to come! Ivanna’s in danger, and I can't be selfish about my safety. She risked her life for me when I was in danger.” Lauren hurried to me and grabbed my arm. She looked at Atlas and said, “Please let us come. I[vanna’s important to us, especially to Chloe. I hope you understand.” Atlas noticed my stern expression and realized I would follow him as soon as he left Vanderberg Palace, which would be even more dangerous. Finally, he said, “Fine. You can come, but you mustn’t be hasty when we get there.” 1 We were about to leave when two people entered the room. We didn’t expect them to appear so suddenly. One was Trinity, and the other was, surprisingly, Stella. I was in disbelief, wondering why Stella was with Trinity. It seemed Vanderberg Palace was mysterious as it harbored hidden talents and dark secrets. The person who surprised me most was Trinity. I didn’t understand it since she had used much effort to kidnap Ivanna. I thought she’d be afraid of Jared finding and rescuing Ivanna. Perhaps Trinity’s meeting with Stella was more important than keeping an eye on Ivanna. Atlas’s expression turned solemn when he saw Stella. He said coldly, “Why aren’t you home at this late hour?” Stella remained composed as she stepped forward and held his arm, saying, “Why are you here? Weren’t you on a business trip? Did you just get back?” Then she looked at me and smiled sweetly. “Chloe, long time no see,” I smiled faintly and replied, “Yeah.” She looked at the three of us. “Where are you going? Are you leaving?” I glanced at Trinity and noticed a sinister glint in her eyes. Her smoky makeup gave me an eerie feeling. It was hard to tell if she was human, as her presence with Stella at this hour didn’t bode Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm well. Atlas calmly responded, “We’re heading back. You shouldn’t stay out too late, either.” He sounded like an older brother scolding his little sister. He glanced at Trinity but said nothing before leaving. Trinity casually glanced at me, causing a chill to run down my spine. I feigned ignorance as I walked past. It was evident Stella didn’t intend to introduce us to Trinity. It felt like an attempt to overlook her presence. Lauren didn’t pause either and simply ignored our interactions. As I was about to leave Vanderberg Palance, Stella smirked, saying, “Chloe, we should plan a get-together. It’s been a while since we last hung out.” I sincerely smiled back at her but didn’t respond to her suggestion. Instead, I simply turned and left.
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 439-When we stood outside, I told Atlas, “I'll ride with Lauren.” Atlas nodded knowingly and entered his car while I entered Lauren’s.
On the way, she remarked, “Stella’s involved with Ivanna’s disappearance.” During the drive, Grayson called, “Chloe, don’t follow Mr.
Atlas’s path.
Trinity’s people are following you.” I was alarmed and quickly told Lauren, “Don’t follow Atlas.
Trinity’s people are tailing us.” I couldn’t help but admire Trinity’s caution and cunning behavior.
Immediately after, I called Atlas and explained the situation.
He gave me an address and instructed me to return to Amethyst Apartments to distract them.
If my memory serves correctly, the address Atlas gave me was for a dilapidated building in Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Prespoint District that someone bought and converted into a nightclub.
The hotel at the same building was on the tenth floor and above, with a peculiar name— Phantom.
I could only follow his instructions and tell Lauren to drive to Amethyst Apartments.
She cursed, “That just proves Stella is involved in this.” “Lauren, I don’t understand why Trinity would be with Stella so late at night.
Even if they’re conspiring, Trinity shouldn’t be so careless,” I had a hunch it wasn’t a good sign, “Doesn’t she know what Jared’s doing? Or maybe…” I dared not think further as I looked at Lauren anxiously.
She observed the car behind us and reassured me, “Don’t overthink it.
Maybe it’s a good thing.” When we reached Amethyst Apartments, we saw no cars following us.
Lauren parked in the shadows and observed the entrance.
Then, Grayson called again, “Chloe, enter your house, turn on your upstairs light, then come out.
“A white Mercedes will arrive shortly, and you can get in.” I knew what was happening.
Grayson wanted me to pretend Lauren and I were at my place. Lauren quickly drove in, and I followed Grayson’s instructions. Then, I turned off the courtyard lights before discreetly returning to Lauren’s car. 1 As expected, a white Mercedes arrived at the shadowy area before the gate. Lauren and I quickly got in. However, the car stayed parked for ten minutes before leaving the neighborhood.
I was pleased because we could rescue Ivanna if Jared found her.
Moreover, Trinity wasn’t around.
Soon after, I realized I had been too optimistic.
When we arrived at Jared’s location, we only saw him and Atlas walking around.
We didn’t see a sign of Ivanna anywhere.
I knew our efforts had been in vain.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Feeling unsettled, I left the car and approached the two before confronting Jared, “Do you have an explanation for me?” Jared looked grim under the darkness.
He seemed far different from his usual warm and composed demeanor.
He glanced coldly at me, then at Atlas, saying, “Mr.
Atlas, please leave.” “Okay,” Atlas replied and approached me.
Then, he embraced me and said, “Let’s go back.” “When can you find Ivanna?!” I became emotional.
“He promised me he valued Ivanna’s life, but look what happened!” Atlas pulled me toward his car, but I was unwilling to accept this outcome.
I turned back and shouted at Jared, “It has been forty- eight hours, yet you can’t find her!
How can I trust you with Ivanna’s life?!
1 “Trinity planned everything from top to bottom, but you—” Before I could finish my sentence, Jared suddenly turned and ran back inside the building.
I was puzzled as my unspoken words hung in my throat.
I stared at Jared’s departing figure, with his entourage following behind.
Beyond the Divorce Chapter 440-I suddenly realized something and exchanged a glance with Atlas. We exclaimed simultaneously, “Upstairs!” We turned and raced back inside. When we burst into the lobby, we saw the elevator already descending. Immediately after, Atlas pressed the button for another elevator. As we, Dylan, and the others entered the elevator, my phone rang. I quickly answered and could hear Grayson’s urgent voice, “Trinity just left Vanderberg Palace and is heading toward Phantom now!” 1 I looked nervously at Atlas, and he patted my shoulder, saying, “ Don’t panic. Let’s find Ivanna first.” I clenched his hand, determined to get Ivanna out if she was up there. When the elevator reached the top floor, we hurried out. Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt As expected, the other elevator had stopped on the same floor but was already empty. Atlas assessed the direction and pulled me to the left, where we found a secure passage. We rushed inside and headed to the rooftop. It was spacious and bright as day due to the lightbox on the building's rooftop sign. While looking around, the flickering shadows added to the eerie atmosphere. 1 Jared and his people searched everywhere, and our team scoured every corner. However, we could only exchange puzzled looks. The rooftop was vacant and had no decorations. Instead, it was wide open, and all the equipment was visible. After a fruitless search, we gathered around Jared disappointedly. He seemed anxious and unsettled. He was no longer the gentle and refined person I first met. Instead, he seemed like an entirely different person. I ran to him and said, “She's not here? Are there other hiding places? Trinity’s on her way here!” My words fell on deaf ears as he continued to scan the rooftop, unwilling to give up. Suddenly, his gaze fell on a cylindrical object resembling an abandoned water tank. Jared pointed at it and yelled, “Search that!” Everyone rushed toward the tank, some circling it to find an entrance. Although the tank remained sealed, the back had a spiral staircase. Someone had already climbed up when I saw it. The scene seemed bizarre at night, even with the bright lights. Suddenly, someone yelled, “We can go down from here!” Jared ran toward the spiral Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm staircase, and I followed suit despite my fear of heights. Although my legs weakened from nervousness, I stubbornly tried to climb. Atlas grabbed my arm and said, “You wait here.” 1 “No, I can do it.” I shrugged off Atlas’s hand, took a deep breath, and suppressed my fear. I didn’t know what to do if Ivanna was here. After all, forty-eight hours had passed, and the situation was unpredictable. Unexpectedly, I became emotional as I inwardly shouted Ivanna’s name. As I neared the top with Atlas’s help, we heard a sudden shout from inside, “Ivanna!” I froze in shock and listened intently. I knew Ivanna was inside when I heard the second muffled cry. At that moment, I felt an adrenaline rush and forgot my fear of heights, climbing upward like I was possessed.