Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 687

Under the silver glow of the moon, the chill of the night air was pierced by howling winds.

Yet inside the bar, it was as warm as a midsummer night—

Cliff had organized a poker night, and the atmosphere was electric with excitement.

"Pair of twos, I win! Ha, your Ferrari is now mine!"

"No fair, you're cheating! Let's go another round!"

"Come on, don't be a sore loser! Alright, I'll give you another chance. But if I win again, your house in Cedar Grove Estates is mine too."

"You're on!"

It was just a car and a house, not like they couldn't afford to lose them!

Cliff wasn't betting; he was just enjoying the show. As one round ended, he glanced back and noticed Murray sitting alone on the couch, nursing a drink.

"Hey, why the long face? They're betting big tonight. Don't you want to join in?"

Murray looked disinterested: "You guys go ahead."

As he reached for the bottle again, he treated a fine vintage of Lafite like it was nothing special, quickly downing half the bottle.

Cliff winced at the sight but decided to leave him be and returned to the lively group.

With an expressionless face, Murray continued to pour himself another drink when suddenly his phone rang.

It was Grace.

He didn't want to answer, but remembering the times she had gone out of her way to help, he finally picked up.

"Hello."

His breathing was heavy, his voice cold, and the background music was loud and chaotic. The woman paused for a moment, likely guessing he was at a bar. She didn't pry, only wanting to talk about dinner plans for the next day.

Murray's response was lethargic, as if nothing could catch his interest: "Sorry, I've got a client meeting tomorrow night."