Chapter 6

Twenty-ninth days later, Emma developed a fever.

The medicine didn't bring it down.

She was delirious, calling for her daddy.

I called Ethan.

The phone rang once before being hung up.

Immediately, an auto-reply text popped up: In a meeting, will contact you later.

I casually opened Ins.

Mia had posted something ten minutes ago.

They were drinking at a private club.

I silently liked it, then tossed my phone aside and put a cooling patch on Emma's forehead.

That night, I didn't sleep.

Near dawn, Adrian sent me a message.

"Someone bought Carter Enterprises' system vulnerabilities on the dark web."

"The attack is scheduled for when the Carter Enterprises launch begins."

If this were six years ago, I would have immediately opened my computer to help him patch the vulnerabilities.

But now, I only replied with one word.

"Fine."

Adrian replied instantly. "If you need me to coordinate anything, just say the word."

I took Emma's temperature. The fever had broken.

"That's Carter Enterprises' asset. Nothing to do with me."

At seven, I woke Emma and dressed her.

Today I had to go to the courthouse to finalize the divorce. No time to take her to kindergarten, so I had to bring her along.

Before leaving, Zach called.

"Ms. Hayes, Mr. Carter asked me to remind you not to forget your documents."

"He's having an early meeting at the company, then heading straight to the courthouse."

"Got it."

I hung up and checked the documents in my bag.

Everything accounted for.

I took Emma's hand.

Emma looked up at me. "Mommy, where are we going?"

"To take care of something important."

Outside the window, the city was just waking up. Rush hour traffic was jammed below the building.

I led my daughter into the crowd, not looking back at the high-rise behind us.