“I did it for Rence,” Finley cut in, his voice thick with regret. “I thought Claire was lying when she called me after the fall. I ignored her. That’s why she lost the baby.”
Paulina’s breathing turned ragged as Finley’s words sank in.
“Are you out of your mind? What have you done? The moment Renee came back, I knew she’d bring disaster. I overlooked a lot, but this? You killed your own child for her?”
Η
“Mom, the company’s crumbling because of Renee. I can’t hold on anymore.” His voice cracked, “I miss Claire. I don’t care about the company–I just want to find her.”
Paulina’s eyes burned red as she glared at him. “You’re just going to walk away? Leave the company on the brink of collapse?” Her voice shook with fury. “I warned you! I told you to stay away from Renee, but you didn’t listen! Now look at you–no child, no
1/2
wife, and a company going under. How did I raise such a fool?”
“Mom, yell at me all you want. I don’t care anymore. I’m done. You can save the company–I’m leaving to find Claire.”
And before Paulina could even respond, he was gone.
That very night, he flew to the Maldives.
But when he got there, Claire was already gone.
Desperate, he scoured every lead until he tracked her down–on another island.
Without hesitation, he followed.
+20 Bonus
The ocean shimmered under the sun, a gentle breeze rolling through the air. Claire lounged by the pool, cocktail in hand,
completely at peace.
Then, suddenly
A man emerged from the water.
Broad shoulders. Chiseled eight–pack. A perfect V–line leading down into his swim trunks. Every woman nearby turned to stare.
P
