Chapter 1243

Chapter 1243:

The voice on the other end wavered, its owner casting nervous glances at Jared’s imposing presence beside him.

“Everything’s proceeding as planned, Miss Perkins. Would you care to review the footage?”

Lilian had spared no expense in her scheme against Madisyn. The man she had hand-picked for Madisyn was someone who had once caught her eye. Seeing him with Madisyn now might stir uncomfortable feelings.

“That won’t be necessary. Just handle it as you see fit.”

“Understood, Miss Perkins.”

After ending the call, the man turned to Jared, phone clutched tightly between trembling hands.

“Mr. Cooper, I’ve followed your instructions to the letter. Does it meet your approval?”

“Excellent work. Maintain this standard.”

Jared pocketed his phone and left the police station.

Lilian stood in her villa, savoring the moment as she selected a bottle of red wine. Everything was falling into place now that she’d removed Madisyn from the equation. Surely Jared would be vulnerable, perhaps even receptive to her advances in his current state.

She took a measured sip of wine, eyes narrowing with calculation as she summoned her assistant.

“Schedule a meeting with Mr. Cooper for tomorrow night.”

“Yes, Miss Perkins.”

The following night at Starry Night Bar, Jared entered a private room, frowning at the sight of Lilian. His voice carried an edge of irritation.

“Miss Perkins, what warranted this meeting?”

Lilian motioned toward the chair opposite her, leaning forward with practiced grace.

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“Mr. Cooper, your selective memory is quite remarkable. Have you forgotten our conversation from mere days ago? I expressed my interest in pursuing a relationship with you. Have you given it any consideration?”

A shadow crossed Jared’s features as he seized the wine glass before him, draining it in one swift motion.

Lilian’s eyes gleamed with interest at his response.

“Something troubles you, Mr. Cooper? Perhaps I could be of assistance?” Her voice dripped with manufactured sympathy, each word carefully measured.

Jared, tired of the charade, dropped his pretense.

“Miss Perkins, I’ve reached a decision. I’m willing to entertain both cooperation and marriage, but everything hinges on our successful partnership. To be clear: secure Fisherman’s Cove for me first, then we can discuss personal matters.”

Jared fell silent, patiently observing Lilian’s reaction.

Though the decision rested with her, he harbored an unwavering certainty that she wouldn’t decline.

His agreement to her terms hadn’t come without preparation—he’d conducted exhaustive research into her character. While he couldn’t claim to understand every facet of her personality, he was confident he’d grasped the essence of who she truly was.

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