Chapter 364
Scarlett Orlando rushed toward the security room, her stilettos clicking urgently against the marble floor.
The surveillance footage clearly showed little Sophia pushing open the private room's door by herself.
The toddler wobbled down the hallway before being led into another room by a pair of slender hands.
Scarlett's pupils constricted.
Those were Adrian Valentine's hands.
She spun around and sprinted back, her heart pounding so violently it threatened to burst from her chest.
Knock knock knock—
The sharp rapping startled the sleeping child awake.
Rubbing her bleary eyes, Sophia snuggled deeper into her father's embrace upon recognizing him.
Adrian glanced down at his daughter's reaction, a flicker of amusement crossing his gaze.
When the door opened, Scarlett forced a smile onto her face.
"Mr. Valentine, thank you so much."
She reached for the child.
Adrian frowned. "This is how Gabrielle takes care of a child?"
Scarlett froze.
He thought Sophia was Gabrielle's daughter?
This misunderstanding was perfect.
"Gabrielle's been swamped with work, so I've been helping out," she smoothly lied, taking the child. "We really appreciate your help today."
Adrian stared at his now-empty arms, an inexplicable hollowness settling in his chest.
Scarlett hurried away with the toddler, a cold sweat dampening her back.
"My precious girl!"
Old Mr. Orlando trembled as he gathered his great-granddaughter into his arms.
"Scarlett, you reckless—"
"Grandpa, I'm sorry!" She clasped her hands pleadingly. "Please don't tell Evelyn!"
At the end of the hallway, Adrian paused mid-step.
Don't tell who?
He turned back, but only saw a closed door.
At the club entrance, Evelyn Roland passed by Adrian without a word.
Neither spoke.
As Evelyn stepped inside, Adrian glanced over his shoulder.
She looked well.
The realization eased some tension from his rigid posture.
In the parking lot, Adrian lit a cigarette.
Through the swirling smoke, murderous intent darkened his gaze.
Vincent Langley's days of comfort were numbered.