Chapter 68. Conflicted.

"No." Rex's hand shot up, displaying his disapproval. "Let's wait and see how the event unfolds. And that despicable person—has he been dealt with?"

Xavier nodded with a sinister smile. "Rio will never find out," he replied.

"Good. Let them remain oblivious until we're ready to strike." Rex's lips curled into a smile.

*******

Elena sighed, scanning the kitchen for any sign of Ryan, but he was nowhere to be seen. She reached for her phone, contemplating calling him, when he walked into the room. Acting on instinct, Elena drew him in and closed the door. Ryan gave her a questioning look before finally speaking up. "If this is about me leaving, I'm not going anywhere," he said defiantly while Elena stared at him intently.

"What are your true intentions, Ryan?" Elena asked urgently.

"To stay here and protect you."

"Forget that!" Elena hissed. "If you weren't caught up with your lover, you wouldn't even remember I exist."

"He's not my lover, just a deranged man obsessed with your husband,"