Chapter 9: Lucas Stone

**Third person**

Valerie's feet trembled as she made her way back to her chair.

Amelia eyed her suspiciously and then scoffed in disbelief. “Don't you think you're being too dramatic for just a slap?”

But Val remained silent, the content of the text message still echoing in her head.

*You don't get to have a second chance with a new face and identity and then act this impulsively. Next time, think through your actions before you execute.*

Her eyes darted around the office, searching for anyone watching her.

Someone in the office right now knows who she is. The person had been observing everything.

They'd seen her stand up and head toward Adam's office.

But how could they have known her intentions?

Maybe they'd guessed, pondering why she'd wanted to interrupt Adam's conversation with his wife just after the slap.

The thoughts of this mystery person sent shivers down her spine.

Whoever it was must have watched her so closely to be able to predict her actions.

Valerie's anxious gaze