Ch. 631..640

Chapter 631

 

Lindey's face flushed lightly-a dead giveaway that I'd nailed it.

She couldn't stomach losing all that money, especially to me.

Over the years, she'd acted like a saint-lavishing me with affection, so much so that I'd actually thought I could forgive her and the Johnstons for killing my parents.

But now? The truth hit me like a slap to the face: Lindey's kindness had always come with strings attached.

Her affection was a limited-time offer, contingent on me staying out of her way. She used to gush about how I was like the daughter she never had, even if I didn't marry Jace.

And stupid me-I actually bought it. Turns out, Lindey didn't love me. She loved. what I brought to the table.

"This belongs to me," I said flatly, the chill in my tone sharper than ice. "You and your family stole it from my parents." I wasn't the meek little girl anymore, not after seeing their true colors. "Rea, I... I didn't mean it like that-"

Her weak attempt at an excuse made me want to laugh-or maybe scream. Instead, I turned on my heel to leave.

But, of course, Jace had to step in. He grabbed my arm. I shot him a glare.

"What's the problem, Jace? Is it the money? Can't stand watching me walk away with a tiny fraction of the fortune your family milked from mine? This is pocket change for the Johnstons. Besides, it's only fair-RiverwaveCorp was built on my parents' assets." "You think I care about the money?" Jace snapped, his jaw tight with frustration.

He turned to Wayne, still holding my arm like some caveman. "Wayne, take a good look. Rea is my woman. Even if we're not together, she's still my ex. Go chase someone else, but leave her alone."

Wayne, predictably, stayed cool. "That's not your decision to make."

 

Chapter 631

Jace's temper flared at Wayne's calm tone. "If you cared about our bond as brothers, you'd back off from Keira!"

The room practically vibrated with tension. The two of them looked ready to throw down, and honestly?

"Enough!" Matthew's booming voice sliced through the air, silencing the drama. "What do you think you're doing? Fighting over a woman and throwing your brotherhood away? Have you no shame?" His glare zeroed in on Jace. "Let her go. Now."

But Jace didn't. Instead, he yanked me forward and dragged me out. His strides were so long and forceful that I almost tripped trying to keep up.

The next thing I knew, I was shoved into his car.

"What the hell is your problem?" I snapped, glaring at him.

"You don't actually want to be with Wayne," Jace shot back, his frustration bubbling over. "You came back just to mess with us, didn't you?"

He knew me too well-annoyingly so. I didn't even bother lying. "Yeah. I came to cause trouble."

His pupils narrowed at my bluntness. "You still can't let go of your parents' deaths, can you?"

Wrong. I'd let go-God knows I'd tried. But the Johnstons wouldn't let me. Taking my parents and leaving me an orphan wasn't enough for them. No, they had to rip Hayden away from me too, just to twist the knife. "If it were you, could you let go?" I shot back, my tone dripping with mockery.

Jace's expression faltered. "My parents never meant to hurt yours. The one who's really responsible for their deaths was their chauffeur."

Ah, there it was. With that single sentence, he wiped his parents' hands clean and casually threw the guilt onto someone else-someone conveniently unable to defend himself. Hayden.

Like parents, like son.

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Chapter 631

"Jace," I said, locking eyes with him, "I've always wondered something. That day by the crocodile pool... Why didn't Hayden save you when I begged him hard. He only stepped in later when trying to save Yara. Why?"

Chapter 632

Hayden could be cold, sure. But he wasn't the type to stand by and let someone die. Especially not after I begged him.

Even if he didn't love me anymore, there was no way he'd be that indifferent.

And yet, that day, he just stood there. Watched. Let the crocodiles get to Jace before stepping in.

There had to be a reason.

For a month after Hayden's death, I replayed that moment over and over, trying to piece it together. If it wasn't about Hayden, maybe it was about Jace. Jace frowned. "You're asking me?"

My eyes flicked to his arm-the one that still hadn't healed. "If he didn't save you right away, there must've been reason."

His tone turned sharp. "What are you trying to say?"

"I'm saying it's weird. You two were allies against Hernan and Bruno, right? But when your life was on the line, he hesitated. Doesn't that strike you as... off?"

"I don't understand it either," he said stiffly. "But it doesn't matter. Hayden's gone. He can't explain himself."

Fair. Hayden was gone. And Jace wasn't about to give me the truth either-I'd known that before I even asked. But I couldn't help pushing, testing him.

I didn't know why Hayden had waited, but it wasn't simple.

What kind of grudge would make him do that? Maybe his hatred for the Johnstons ran too deep to forgive what they did to his dad.

"Rea," Jace said, "If you hate my family and want the money, take it. Just... don't hurt yourself trying to hurt us. And don't get involved with Wayne. Please."

His voice was low, almost pleading.

For once, I didn't snap back. I held his gaze and asked, "Why does it bother you so much if I get involved with Wayne? Is this about your pride? Scared of losing face if I end up with him?" Chapter 639

 

"Yes," Jace admitted, his exhaustion bleeding through. "But that's not the real

reason.

He sighed heavily. "You heard what Wayne said, didn't you? His feelings for you- they're not all about love. To him, you're just another move in his game against

me."

What Jace saw, I'd already seen.

And maybe that was exactly why I wanted to wedge myself into the middle of their feud. If they tore each other apart, the Johnstons would never find peace. And only then could I take the revenge my parents-and Hayden-deserved. "If your goal is to destroy my family, I'll help you," Jace said, cutting straight to the point. "But don't throw yourself away to do it."

So, he'd figured me out.

I wanted to ask how he planned to help.

But I didn't. I couldn't trust him-not anymore. Hayden had warned me before he

⚫ died. And even in a life-or-death moment, Hayden had saved him.

Maybe Jace had a hand in Hayden's death

I had no proof-just too many loose ends that didn't add up.

"Jace," I said, my tone firm, "You don't need to worry about me. How I live my life is none of your concern. Focus on yourself"

And just like that, I shut him down.

After leaving the Johnston residence, I made my way back to my apartment. Before heading upstairs, I glanced up instinctively at my floor. My unit and the one above it were both dark-no lights, no movement. I'd noticed it for days now. The unit above mine had stayed quiet, unlit. Tanya wasn't staying there anymore.

***

The next few days blurred together, a chaotic shuffle between the notary office and the settlement center. By the end of it all, the slice of Johnston family assets

2/3

Chapter 632

that landed in my lap came out to nearly $40 million.

Since I already owned an amusement park, I didn't bother looking for some new investment. Instead, I tossed the money into my account and, just like that, leveled up to "wealthy woman" status.

Funny thing about money-it's essential, sure, but it doesn't exactly come with a side of happiness.

Even with my bank balance screaming a number I'd never seen before, I felt... nothing. No thrill, no satisfaction.

Still, cash opens doors. Like getting Yuna into Kelhmark Royal Academy.

a

Chapter 633

I gripped the admission letter, hending to find Yuna. She was a kindergarten teacher now, surrounded by little giggling kids. Her laugh mixed with theirs, so bright and full of life it was hard not to smile. For a second, I froze. Was this really the right move? Pushing her to go back to school when she seemed so happy here?

"Keira!" Yuna called, jogging over once the kids were settled. Her cheeks were flushed, and sweat dotted her forehead and nose. "If you hadn't come today, I was totally about to hunt you down this weekend!"

I handed her a tissue, shaking my head. "You've been running around like crazy. Are you sure you're feeling okay? No weird pains or anything?"

"Not a thing! I feel amazing," she said with a bright smile, pressing a hand over her chest. "This heart feels like it's really mine now-it's been so good to me."

Her words made me think of Narelle and Wade, and all the complicated feelings Wade couldn't quite put into words.

"So, you and Wade?" I asked, jumping right in.

Yuna was caught off guard, her cheeks turning a shade that could rival a strawberry. "It's... still the same," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Yuna," I said softly, "I know you think Wade's amazing, but someday, you're going to meet other incredible people, and... you might see things differently." I wasn't trying to kill her crush, just giving her a little reality check.

If Wade's feelings were only tied to the heart she now carried, I couldn't bear the thought of how much it might hurt her if she ever found out.

"That won't happen," Yuna said firmly, her gaze locking on mine. "I like Wade, not because of his looks or how smart he is, but because..."

She trailed off, shaking her head with a small, almost dreamy smile. "Because from the moment I met him, it felt like I'd known him forever. Like, in some past life or something. There's this connection I just can't explain." Her words made my eyes drift to her chest. She and Wade had only met after her

Chapter 633

surgery-after her heart transplant.

Could this bond she felt with him come from the heart itself?

The thought gave me chills. It sounded ridiculous. A heart was just an organ, a pump. Yuna was Yuna-her own person with her own feelings. But still, what she said... it didn't fit into neat little boxes.

"Keira?" Yuna's voice pulled me back. "You don't like Wade, do you?" Her eyes searched mine. "Or do you think he's not good for me?"

"No, it's not that," I said quickly, hoping to ease the tension. "I'm just worried you're rushing into this. You're still young, Yuna. What if later, you meet the person you're really meant to be with and regret falling so hard so fast?" Before she could respond, I reached into my bag and pulled out the admission letter, holding it out to her.

не

Her widened as they locked on the logo and the name on the envelope." Wait... is this-?"

I grinned and motioned for her to open it. "Go ahead. See for yourself."

She tore open the envelope, her eyes going wide as she saw her name printed in bold. "This... this is for me? My name's on it!"

"Yep, it's all yours. Congrats, Yuna-you're officially a student at Kelhmark Royal Academy," I said, holding out my hand with a grin.

Yuna stared at the letter in disbelief before throwing herself into my arms, wrapping her arms tightly around my neck. "I got into KRA! This isn't a dream, right? Tell me I'm not dreaming!"

Her laugh came out choked, half-sob, half-joy, and a few nearby kids started staring. I patted her back. "Not a dream. It's real, Yuna. You're going to KRA. But, uh, maybe dial it down a notch? Your students are starting to look worried." She hugged me even tighter, practically vibrating with excitement, and then out of nowhere, she blurted, "Keira, tell Hayden I love him to death!"

I froze.

Wait. What? Did she think this was Hayden's doing?

 

"Hayden told me this year, no matter what I'd get into KRA," she explained, her voice full of quiet certainty.

He'd made her a promise, and somehow, I ended up keeping it for him.

A bittersweet smile tugged at my lips. "Hayden always kept his word," I said softly.

"I haven't talked to him in forever," Yuna said, her excitement dimming into something gentler, more nostalgic. "Call him for me, Keira. There's something I want to tell him.'

Her request hit me like a punch to the gut

Chapter 634

This lifetime, neither of us would ever reach Hayden again.

The thought twisted something deep in my heart, the way it always did when I thought of him.

The worst part? I couldn't tell her. Not yet. Not until I was sure her heart-both physically and emotionally-could take it. I'd need to talk to Lena, get Nate to give her a thorough check-up.. Because eventually, the truth would have to come out. Hayden was gone, and while I could shield her from that heartbreak for now, I knew I couldn't keep it buried forever.

"What do you want to tell Hayden?" I asked, forcing my voice to stay light. "Just a quick thank-you?"

"Exactly!" Yuna's face lit up as she hugged the admission letter close, her joy practically glowing.

I cleared my throat. "No need for that. Just thank me instead-I'm the one who

got you the letter."

Yuna blinked, surprised, and then her face broke into a playful grin. She gave me a goofy thumbs-up. "You're the best sis-in-law ever, Keira. Thanks!"

I accepted her gratitude with a calm smile. "You're welcome."

But Yuna wasn't about to let it go. "Still, you should call Hayden anyway."

This stubborn girl, I bit back a sigh and scrambled for another excuse. "You just want to share the good news with him, huh? Don't bother-I already told him."

"It's not that," Yuna said, shaking her head, her tone softer now. "I miss him. There are things I want to say to him."

Her words hit me like a brick. I hesitated, searching for something-anything-to say, but came up blank.

Yuna wasn't dumb. She frowned, her expression sharpening as she studied me like she was piecing something together. "Why don't you want to call him? Did something happen to Hayden?" Chapter 634

 

My heart lurched.

I shook my head too quickly. "No, of course not."

"But I haven't been able to reach him since Houston," she said, grabbing my arm. in a near-panic. She even dropped the admission letter she'd been holding so carefully. "Hayden's in trouble, isn't he?"

Her fear was palpable, and for a moment, I froze. Just one wrong word-or even a nod-and I was sure i I would shatter her..

I scrambled for a way out, latching onto the only thing I could think of: his old profession. "No, Yuna, stop overthinking. He's... he's been called in for another mission. It's classified. He can't contact anyone outside." She frowned, unconvinced. "But Hayden retired, didn't he? Why would he be sent on another mission? You're hiding something from me, aren't you?"

"I'm not," I said quickly, my voice steady but my eyes darting to the side.

"Then call him!" she shot back, practically cornering me.

I realized there was no point in arguing further, so I handed her my phone. "Look, if you don't believe me, call him yourself. But I'm telling you, you won't get through-he's on a mission, and his line's cut off."

Yuna just stared at the phone like it might bite her. She didn't try to dial, though. Guess some part of her knew I wasn't lying-at least about not being able to reach him. Instead, she mumbled under her breath, sounding more lost than anything. "He promised me... he said he wouldn't do anything dangerous again."

"This is different," I said, trying to sound casual but also firm. "They're dealing with a seriously bad guy. You saw what happened in Houston-he almost dragged you and Wade into it."

Her eyes snapped back to mine. "You're really not lying to me?" Yuna asked.

"Of course not. Stop overthinking," I said, keeping my voice steady even though I couldn't quite meet her eyes.

For a second, her shoulders sagged, and her grip on my arm loosened. Her eyes flickered with worry and doubt, but I could see her trying-really trying-to

 

Chapter 634

believe me. Still, she wasn't fully buying it

"Don't stress, okay?" I said gently. "The second Hayden reaches out, I'll make sure

he calls you."

But she wasn't letting it go. Her gaze sharpened, a new determination settling in. "If Hayden doesn't contact me within a month, something's wrong. I know it."

"Why would you even think that?" I asked, honestly confused.

She picked up the crumpled admission letter, brushing it off with steady hands. Her voice was calm but unshakable. "The longest Hayden's ever gone without contacting me is seventy-one days. It's already been forty-two." Yuna's bond with Hayden was undeniable. She wasn't the type to be fooled-not when she was so closely tied to him.

Chapter 635

It hit me then-I'd completely overlooked the Hart family. As the newly named heir, Hayden's absence should've sent alaims blaring. They should've been looking for him, not sitting back.

But instead of a real investigation, they were just sending people to Yuna, fishing for details through her.

Something didn't add up.

Trying to ignore the slump in Yuna's shoulders, I asked, "Yuna, who from the Hart family came to see you?"

"A guy about Hayden's age. His name was... Kylian."

Kylian Hart. His face popped into my mind like a bad memory.

"How many times did he come? Was he always alone?" I pushed.

"Yeah," Yuna said with a small nod.

She wasn't in the mood to keep talking, and I didn't want to push her further. Instead, I shifted gears. "Whenever you're ready to start college, let me know. I'll take you."

Yuna looked up, her gaze steady. "I want both you and Hayden to take me."

Her simple request landed with weight. I forced a smile, swallowing hard. "Sure. I'll let him know. Hopefully... he'll be back soon."

As I left Yuna's, the knot in my chest tightened. The Hart family's actions didn't add up. If Hayden was missing, shouldn't they have been out searching-or at least reached out to me? But instead, they went to Yuna, fishing for answers through her.

Why?

Maybe they assumed Hayden and I had split for good, so avoiding me made sense. But Yara? If they didn't want to deal with me, she seemed like the obvious

 

Chapter 635

choice.

When I tracked her down, she met me with her usual bluntness. "You're looking pretty good, all things considered."

"What was I supposed to do?" I shot back, my voice flat. "Throw myself into his grave?"

She chuckled. "Honestly, I thought you might."

I brushed off her teasing and cut to the chase. "Did the Hart family come to you?"

Her smirk faded, and she hesitated. "Yeah, they did. Wanted to know where Hayden was." "And you told them?"

She shrugged. "Of course. No point in hiding it. You know how much he meant to them."

"But they didn't believe you," I said, remembering what Kylian had told Yuna. Yara didn't even flinch. "Makes sense. Hayden vanished without a trace-no body, no ashes. If it were me, I wouldn't believe it either." Her tone was casual, but her words only tightened the unease in my chest. "Don't you think it was rushed?" I asked, holding her gaze.

"Rushed?"

"Having Hayden cremated without telling anyone... Don't you think that was a little much? Maybe even crossing a line?"

Yara let out a sharp laugh, tinged with defensiveness. "Are you seriously here to call me out for that?"

"I'm just saying something feels... off," I said softly. Back then, I'd been too buried in grief to notice the cracks. But now, with the fog lifting, those cracks were glaring.

"I told you everything," she said evenly, though her eyes hardened. "If you're still hung up on it, that's your problem. And don't forget-you're the one who took his ashes and buried them." That hit like a wall slamming shut.

But still, the words slipped out before I could stop them. "I never saw..."

The words hung in the air, unfinished. 'I never saw Hayden's body being cremated with my own eyes."

But I couldn't say it.

"Are you saying you think Hayden isn't dead?"

Chapter 636

Yara's question hit me sideways. I hadn't dared let my mind go there.

I hadn't dared to entertain such a thought,

I mean, I saw him collapse, heard the doctor say the surgery didn't work, and yeah, I even held his ashes. That's as final as it gets.

Sure, I've dreamed about him coming back. But those were just desperate little fantasies.

Life isn't some cheesy movie. Hayden died. End of story. No rewrites, no miracles. I hated it, but the truth didn't care about my feelings.

"I wish he wasn't," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Then why are you here, grilling me if you've already made peace with it?" Yara shot back.

I studied her for a moment. "Because something feels off," I said finally.

Her eyes narrowed. "What exactly feels off?"

"The Hart family's reaction doesn't add up. And you..." I paused, narrowing my eyes at her. "You're way too calm. Not even a little wrecked-that's what feels off." Yara didn't even blink. "Who says I'm not devastated?" she replied flatly. "But being heartbroken won't bring him back."

Fair point. I'd told myself the same thing a hundred times just to keep going.

"Anything else bothering you?" she asked

There was. But the words stuck in my throat. It was all just a hunch-nothing I could pin down.

When I stayed quiet, Yara pulled a slip of paper from her bag and slid it across the table. "This is for you."

I frowned. "What is it?"

"Take a look," she said, nodding toward it.

Unfolding the paper, I stared at the words contusion twisting into something heavier

Yara broke the silence. "The ring was ready months ago. The jeweler tried calling Hayden, but when he didn't pick up, they teached out to me to collect it

"Why not just grab it yourself? Why are you showing me this now? Trying to mess with me?" I barked out a bitter laugh.

Yara let out a short, humorless laugh of her own. "What would I even do with it? It's not for me. That ring was always for you. I was just there to keep people from asking questions. If you don't believe me, check the size. Or better, read the engraving-it's got both your last names." I froze, stunned.

Yara pressed her lips together before adding, "You must've hated me when you thought I was picking it out for myself."

She wasn't wrong. Back then, just the thought of it had gutted me.

"He went through so much to keep you safe, Rea. Every step, every decision-he made it for you. And in the end, it cost him his life," she said, her voice wistful.

The ache in my chest sharpened. I looked down at the paper again, the weight of it suffocating. Words wouldn't come.

Yara's gaze flicked to my wrist. "Nice bracelet. The design's really something."

I ignored her comment, but Yara laughed anyway. "That red string you've tied on it-it's hideous."

She was talking about the clasp I'd rigged with a cheap red cord. The bracelet Hayden had made was unfinished, missing its clasp.

I flicked the tiny bell on the bracelet, its soft chime filling the silence, then turned and walked away without a word.

At the jewelry store, I handed over the slip of paper. The clerk disappeared for a moment, then returned with a pair of rings. My breath hitched as I stared at Mueves drifted to the bracelet on my wrist-the designs were identical.

Chapter 638

 

I didn't even need to check the engraving inside the bands. These rings were made for Hayden and me. There was no doubt.

"Would you like to try it on, Miss? If the size isn't right, we can adjust it," the clerk offered gently.

I picked up the woman's ring and slid it on to my middle finger. It fit perfectly.

Chapter 637

"This design was your boyfriend's work, wasn't it? It's so unique-and it even matches your bracelet," the clerk said, her sharp gaze locking onto the connection.

"Why didn't he come with you? Should we hold onto the ring for him to pick up, or are you taking it?" she asked, genuinely curious.

"I'll take it," I said, grabbing the men's ring and sliding it onto my thumb without hesitation.

She blinked in surprise, then smiled. "I have to admit, it actually suits you." "Thanks," I replied flatly, turning to leave with both rings in hand.

Not even five minutes after stepping out of the store, I noticed someone trailing

1. me.

I caught the guy's reflection in the side mirror of a parked car as I walked past. Acting like I hadn't seen anything, I let him follow. He didn't try to confront me or even come close-he just kept his distance. For two days.

It wasn't about money-or me, for that matter. He wasn't looking to hurt me.

But why the shadow act?

That was his question to answer. So, I flipped the script. I had someone tail them, which led me straight to their base.

***

When Kylian spotted me, his surprise flickered for about two seconds before a smug grin took over.

"Ms. Kay, you're a rare sight around here."

"Not that rare of a sight, is it?" I shot back, meeting his smirk head-on. "I assume you already know everything I've been up to, Mr. Hart."

His laugh was low and easy. "No harm intended," he said smoothly.

"Good," I replied, my tone ice-cold. "Otherwise, this conversation wouldn't be

025

Cheerdar

happening"

It was true. If I'd felt threatened, I wouldn't have come alone-I'd have called the cops instead

"I take it you're here for answers," Kylian said, his tone all-knowing.

I nodded slightly. "And while we're at it, stop contacting Yuna."

His eyes widened at that. "That's it? Nothing else?"

"What else would there be?" I said, feigning cluelessness and carefully avoiding any mention of the man he'd sent to tail me.

Kylian chuckled faintly, clearly convinced I hadn't noticed. "Don't overthink it. I only reached out to Yuna to ask about Hayden."

"Haven't you already spoken to Yara? She should've told you everything. What else could you possibly need?" I asked, my gaze steady.

He rubbed his chin, his expression thoughtful. "Hayden was real-flesh and blood. Now you're all saying he's just... gone? Not even a body? You know the saying: 'If someone's alive, you need to see them, if they're dead, you need to see their body.' Am I wrong?" I tilted my head, unfazed. "There's something left-his ashes. I buried them. Want me to dig them up for testing?"

A grimace flashed across his face before he quickly smoothed it over. "... That won't be necessary."

"If Hayden's really gone, wouldn't that make you the next heir to the Hart family? "I asked casually, watching his reaction.

His gaze sharpened instantly.

"If I wanted the Hart family, Hayden wouldn't have been an obstacle in the first place. Don't twist it," he said coldly.

"You misunderstood me," I said, my voice dipping into an almost syrupy tone. What I meant was that someone as generous as you, stepping in as leader, would take the Hart family to even greater heights." The blatant compliment left Kylian momentarily off guard.

 

Chapter bat

I allowed myself a faint smile. "You must be a genuinely good person."

Kylian had someone follow me, but they hadn't made a move. That left two options: either he was trying to protect me, or he thought Hayden wasn't really dead and was using me to track him down To figure out which, I'd have to keep pushing.

While we talked, I discreetly messaged Lena. When her reply came back-a simple "OK"-I knew it was time to end this.

I wrapped up with Kylian and left his base, driving straight to the hospital where Lena worked.

The moment I stepped out of my car, someone lunged at me from the shadows.

Before I could react, an arm locked around my neck, and something sharp pressed against my throat.

Chapter

638

I let out a scream-not because I was scared, but because, well, why not?

A car horn blared, and tires screeched as car swerved into view.

The door slammed open, and out stepped the guy Kylian had sent to tail me. His glare locked on the wannabe kidnapper holding me. "Let her go."

"Why should I? Who even are you?" My captor's voice cracked like a middle schooler's. I bit my lip to keep from laughing.

Kylian's guy wasn't amused. "If you value your life, let her go," he said, dead.

serious.

The wannabe snorted. "Oh, tough guy, huh? Bring it!" He puffed out his chest.

I rolled my eyes. This guy couldn't even act his way out of a TikTok skit, let alone a hostage situation.

Kylian's man took a step forward, and my "kidnapper" panicked. "One more step and I'll-I'll slit her throat!" Slow applause echoed from behind us.

Lena sauntered into view, clapping. "Wow. Five stars. Really thrilling stuff."

The kidnapper dropped the act entirely. "Uh... Miss, did I scare you?" he asked, grinning sheepishly.

Scare me? I almost doubled over laughing.

Kylian's guy, still in hero mode, suddenly looked like he'd been hit with a brick of realization.

Lena patted his shoulder. "You're quick on your feet, handsome. Kinda hot,

honestly."

"Uh... apologies. I didn't realize this was my mistake."

And just like that, he bolted.

"Thanks, cutie!" I called after him with a cheeky wave.

 

Chapter 638

Once he was gone, Lena turned to the "kidnapper," dismissing him with a grin and a quick "Nice work."

Yep, the whole thing had been a setup-something I'd coordinated with Lena to test why Kylian had me followed.

Sliding into the passenger seat of my car, she gave me a look. "So, your little test worked. Spill. What's your theory?"

I glanced down at the ring on my finger. "Why is Kylian protecting me? We've got no history, no deals, nothing. It doesn't add up."

""You think it's about Hayden?"

Trust Lena to cut right to the chase.

That's exactly what I suspected. But how could Hayden have set this up when he wasn't alive anymore? Unless... he'd planned for this before he died. "You don't think Hayden is... actually dead, do you?"

Her question hit a nerve. The thought had been haunting me for a while now.

I looked at her. "What do you think? Could he still be alive?"

I laid it all out-Yara's odd behavior, the little details that didn't sit right, and the nagging feeling that there was more to the story than I'd been told.

Lena sighed. "Rea, you've never been able to fully let him

go,

have you?"

"It's not about holding on," I snapped. "It's about the facts. His cremation was rushed-too rushed. And he was a registered organ donor. If he really died, why wasn't his body used for donation first? It doesn't make sense." That detail had hit me earlier today, on the way to the hospital, and I couldn't

shake it.

"You've got a point," Lena admitted. "But, Rea, you saw him get hurt. You saw his ashes."

She sighed. "Maybe you just can't face the truth. I mean, it's Hayden. I get it."

I shook my head hard. "I'm not delulu. I-"

Chapter 638

25 PONU

Okay, okay, Lena held up a hand to stop me. "Hear me out. I've got an idea. You're not gonna like it, but it'll settle this once and for all."

The bell on my bracelet jingled softly as I toyed with it. "What's your plan?"

"Promise you won't get mad. And don't yell at me."

I narrowed my eyes. "Just spit it out, Lena"

She pressed her lips and said, "Dig up Hayden's ashes and run a DNA test. It's the only way to know for sure."

Chapter 639

I was stunned.

Lena, ever the doctor, wasn't about to rely on guesswork or theories.

She grabbed my hand, her expression soft but resolute. "Rea, you need to move. on. Hayden was incredible, but he's gone. Holding on like this isn't good for you- or for him."

Her eyes dropped to the ring on my finger. "You and Jace used to go to monastery services, right? You've heard the saying-when someone who's passed is held onto too tightly, they can't find peace or move on." At the end of science lies superstition. I didn't dismiss her words outright; my mom used to tell me the same thing when I was little.

"Rea, let him go. Live your life-really live it. That's the best way to honor him."

It wasn't about not being able to let Hayden go-it was the unanswered questions surrounding his death that refused to leave me alone.

For the first time, I felt like Lena didn't get it. I couldn't blame her, though. Anyone else in her position would've thought the same thing-that I was just stuck on Hayden.

"Fine. I'll let go," I said with a faint smile, steering the conversation away. "You crushed it as today's director. Let me treat you to dinner."

"Well, you're the rich one now," Lena said with a playful grin. "You've got so much money, the interest alone is ridiculous. I want top-tier everything."

She wasn't wrong, and I wasn't about to hold back. If I wasn't spending it, who was I saving it for?

I took her to the highest observation restaurant in Seavora, where we ate like queens. Afterward, I brought her to the best bar in town.

"Alright, what's with you today?" Lena asked, narrowing her eyes.

"Nothing's up. You're the one who said I couldn't move on. Well, here I am- moving on. Why are you so surprised?" I teased.

7/2

Not only bad I drapped Lena to a bar, but rd also arranged for a group of poeng

guys to join us

"You've officially lost it," Lena hissed

"Exactly. Let's lose it for one night." I leaned closer, lowering my voice. "You're not married. If you don't go wild now, when will you?"

"You're just using this as an excuse to stirup trouble," Lena shot back, reading me like an open book

I laughed mischievously and waved the young men over to join us. Soon, we were drinking and chatting about everything-life, philosophy, and the kind of nonsense that only makes sense after a few rounds. "Should we each take one home?" I asked boldly.

Lena pinched me.

"Stop being ridiculous. I know what you're trying to do, but don't take it too far." she warned.

"You call it obsession, but I don't think it is. I just need to test my theory one last time-my way."

Lena sighed heavily. "I hope your instincts are right."

She went along with it anyway, and when we left the bar, each of us brought one of the guys to a hotel

Naturally, Lena and I stayed in one room while the two guys were parked in another.

you

with

Lying on the plush hotel bed, staring at the ceiling, Lena broke the silence." We've been here for over an hour now. If Hayden is alive and saw another man, don't you think he would've stopped you by now?" She wasn't wrong. If he'd caught wind of this, he wouldn't let me spiral like this. Even if he didn't show up himself, he'd have sent Kylian-or someone-to shut it down.

But there was nothing.

"Maybe he didn't see it. Should I call a paparazzi and make sure it hits the headlines?" I joked, only for Lena to kick me lightly.

"Enough. Go wash up and get some sleep. When you wake up tomorrow, leave the past where it belongs and focus on what's ahead," she said.

She got up to shower, leaving me alone with my thoughts, staring blankly at the ceiling. The sudden ring of my phone shattered the silence.

Wayne's name flashed on the screen.

Had word of my hotel stunt already reached him?

I answered, but before I could say anything, his urgent voice cut in. "Rea, there's been a major accident at the amusement park. You need to come right away."

 

Chapter 640

My heart skipped a beat. "Did someone die?" I asked instinctively.

"No... It's not that," Wayne replied. I let out a breath of relief.

At least no one was dead. That meant it wasn't a catastrophe.

"All the lights just stopped working," he said.

I glanced out the window at the glittering city skyline. "The lights all went out at

once?"

"Yes, everything. It all went dark suddenly. The technicians have already checked-it's not a power outage, the wiring is fine, and the equipment is operational. But there's no lighting effect, Wayne explained, his frustration coming through loud and clear.

His words left me equally frustrated. I didn't know much about lighting systems, but I did know one thing: the entire design and post-production of the park's lighting had been Hayden's work.

If only he were here.

But there were no "if onlys" in life.

"Are all the lights completely off?" I asked, slipping on my shoes.

"No, they're... white," Wayne said, catching me mid-step.

"White?" I repeated, frowning.

"I'll send you some photos," Wayne offered. There was a pause before he added, " Since Hayden designed the lighting system, I thought you might know what's wrong. And... you're the legal owner of the park now."

That was true. The amusement park had been handed over to me, though I'd left everything in Wayne's capable hands. I never asked about it, and he never brought it up.

Maybe I should start paying him a salary.

"I'm on my way," I said, ending the call just as Wayne's photos came through.

Chapter 640

+25 BOHUS

The park, once bursting with vibrant, kaleidoscopic lights, now glowed with a stark, sterile white. It looked haunting-more like a ghost town than the dazzling attraction it used to be.

A chill crept up my spine, and a ridiculous thought wormed its way into my mind. Was Hayden's spirit behind this? Was he angry about my earlier antics- sending me a warning? My chest tightened at the idea, and I shoved it aside, driving straight to the park.

Lena called me when she came out of the shower and found me gone. I explained quickly, and her response was a snort. "Well, looks like karma didn't waste any time hitting you." Apparently, she also thought Hayden might've had something to do with the lights-from beyond the grave.

By the time I got to the park, a crowd had already formed, snapping photos and recording videos. Angry tourists-many of whom had traveled from across the globe for the famous light show-were loudly protesting. The park, now a social media sensation, had built its reputation on its mesmerizing lighting displays. With everything malfunctioning, their frustration was more than justified.

I headed straight to the control room, where Wayne was surrounded by technicians and maintenance staff, all frantically trying to diagnose the issue. "Ms. Kay!" one of the staff called out as soon as I walked in. "Still no progress?" I asked, though the grim expressions in the room already told me the answer.

If they'd figured it out, the park wouldn't still be drenched in that eerie white glow.

"We've checked the equipment, the wiring, the power supply-everything's in perfect working order," one technician said, his voice tinged with frustration.

"Then what's causing it?" I asked, my eyes shifting to the monitors, which displayed the same stark white light stretching across the park.

 

"It seems to be a programming issue. But that's... The technician hesitated, his words trailing off.

What else? Of course, it was Hayden's domain. And only Hayden could have fixed.

1. it.

"So what are you saying?" I snapped, my voice slicing through the tension. "That since Hayden's gone, the park's lighting system is permanently broken?" The technicians lowered their heads, too afraid-or too ashamed-to respond.

I wasn't truly mad at them-just crushed by a wave of helplessness.

It was that gut-wrenching feeling of needing someone so badly, only to know they were gone, forever out of reach.

Wayne stepped in to smooth things over. "Hayden did leave some handover notes. It's just... this situation is urgent, and it might take time to pinpoint the issue."

I didn't respond. What was there to say? Wayne turned to the technicians. "Get the programming team on this. Work overtime if you have to, but this needs to be resolved."

Then he looked at me. "For now, we should focus on calming the guests."

I nodded. Of course, that was the immediate priority. I turned to leave, but before I could take more than a few steps, someone behind me shouted, "It's fixed!" Wayne and I whipped around at the same time. On the monitor, the stark white light began to shift, morphing into vibrant, kaleidoscopic hues.

Chapter

641

I glanced back at the window. The amusement park, once eerie and dead quiet, was now lit up like a dream. Cheers from outside drifted in, muffled but unmistakable.

"It's back," Wayne muttered, eyes glued to the glowing scene beyond the glass.

"Ms. Kay, Mr. Johnston, look..." One of the tech guys pointed at the monitor, voice

tight.

I followed his gaze. The lights on the screen weren't stable anymore. They'd warped into messy, zigzagging streaks.

"There's still an issue," Wayne said, frowning hard.

For a beat, I just stared, heart pounding. Then, without thinking, I bolted for the door. I didn't stop running until I was outside. The noise hit me like a wall- screams, gasps, and excited chatter. A crowd was gathered, all pointing at the lights. "There are words up there!" someone shouted.

I tilted my head back, and my breath caught. The shifting lights sparked a memory-Hayden's proposal. My chest squeezed as I remembered the streamers, the words floating around me: [Kiki, marry me.]

"It says 'Kiki, marry me!""

"It's a proposal!"

""Who's Kiki?!"

"OMG, I wish someone would do this for me..."

The crowd's buzz got louder, spilling over into full-on excitement. But I couldn't move. Tears blurred my vision as the lights overhead pulsed with the same words, Kiki, marry me, over and over again, glowing steady against the chaos. It was Hayden.