Chapter 602:

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Casey cut him off before he could finish. “I thought construction on Azure Cove started less than six months ago.”

For a development of that scale, it would take at least three years to finish fully. There was no way it could be built so quickly.

“Only one-fifth of the site is finished. I plan to launch a soft opening, roll out marketing campaigns, and invite guests for trial stays.”

The Petersen family’s finances were not what they once were. A resort of this magnitude required massive capital. Garrett had invested a sum previously, yet it was far from enough. He was still seeking investors and partners, which had given him this idea.

Casey remained skeptical. “I’d advise you against this.”

“Why?”

He dodged the question. “You can direct your cooperation inquiries to Wyatt Stone at ME. He handles all such matters now.”

ME served as the investment arm under Thornton Group. Officially, Wyatt Stone oversaw operations, yet the real power rested with Casey.

Chaim caught the underlying message. “Cut the pretense. You know I came to you to avoid market rates.”

Casey seemed to be deliberately forcing him to lay his cards on the table. The Petersens were now reduced to begging him just to save some capital.

“That can be arranged, but I have a question for you too.” Getting Chaim to lower his guard and resolving his own lingering doubts would kill two birds with one stone.

𝘋𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗏𝖾r ո𝖾w s𝘁𝘰𝘳iе𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘨al𝘯𝘰𝘃𝘦𝘭ѕ.𝗰о𝘮

Chaim sensed what was coming, yet he had no choice but to agree. “What is it?”

“How far along is Miss Brooke?”

“…How would I know?” He truly had no exact figure, only her estimated due date. Still, as another man, he could guess what Casey was thinking. “Don’t tell me you suspect the child is yours?”

Even though he knew the truth, speaking it aloud would trigger endless trouble.

“Mark my words, Brooke was never the faithful sort. She’s surrounded by men. She might not even know who the father is herself.”

Chaim raised a hand and clapped Casey on the shoulder. “But what matters is this: she’s Mrs. Langley now, and whatever child she bears will carry the Langley name.”

Amelia lay on the examination table at the exclusive private obstetrics clinic, a gentle smile on her face as she watched the tiny, active figure on the ultrasound screen.

The doctor assured her that the baby was perfectly healthy, all metrics excellent. The good news seemed to wash away the gloom of the past few days.

She resolved to stay positive, for the baby’s sake.

Nina Webb stood nearby, trying to mirror Amelia’s smile, but her eyes kept darting to her phone, her mind clearly elsewhere.

Amelia noticed but assumed Nina was just worried about her family and didn’t pry.

After the appointment, a sudden craving for ice cream hit Amelia. She asked Nina to drive to a nearby high-end organic supermarket.

The safe house refrigerator was fully stocked, but she just wanted to get out, to breathe some fresh air.

Nina hesitated. Clarence had instructed them to minimize all non-essential outings.

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