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Chapter Seventeen

Author: Benny Robin
last update Last Updated: 2025-02-25 17:20:47

The First Strike

A New War Begins

Claire sat in Adrian’s penthouse, her fingers tightening around the edge of her phone.

Even Blackwood can’t protect you forever.

The message replayed in her mind over and over, a warning, a promise, a threat.

She knew Ava was behind this.

But she also knew Ava wasn’t working alone.

Adrian took the phone from her hand, his sharp gaze scanning the message again. His jaw ticked, his fingers flexing around the device as if he were restraining himself from throwing it across the room.

“They’re moving faster than I expected,” he muttered, his voice dangerously calm.

Claire inhaled deeply, centering herself. “That means they’re desperate.”

Adrian tilted his head, studying her. “Are you afraid?”

Claire met his gaze, unwavering.

“No,” she said smoothly. “But they should be.”

Adrian’s lips curved slightly, approvingly.

“Good,” he murmured. “Because the only way to win is to strike first.”

Claire leaned forward, her voice low. “Then let’s make them regret ever c
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