Chapter 495

Mallory was acutely aware that if Max discovered her deceit, her life would be forfeit. But she had no intention of dying, not just yet. Even if every day was a torment, she wanted to keep living, for where there was life, there was hope. She knew life was a one-time offering, and once snuffed out, there were no second chances. Death would leave her with nothing.

Drawing in a shaky breath, Mallory hauled herself up from the floor, her body weak and trembling. She needed to win over Xander, and she needed to do it before Max found out the truth. The only person who could help her now was Abigail. With the thought of Abigail in mind, Mallory immediately fished out her phone and sent a message via WhatsApp.

Mallory: [I heard you have some time off. I'd love to take you out for lunch, maybe do some shopping in the afternoon. What do you say?] Given the late hour, Mallory did not expect a response. But as soon as she set her phone down, it pinged with a new message.

Abigail: [Sorry, I ha