A Widow's Poison, A Wife's Rebellion novel Chapter 1140

Things would spiral completely out of control.

"Don't let her find out," Herbert commanded coldly. "Create a flawless paper trail. Make it look like she packed up and moved somewhere far away."

Under no circumstances could news of Starla's survival leak. Herbert could already sense Fairfax's lingering suspicions. On top of that, Darian Lynn was tearing the country apart looking for Tanya. It was only a matter of time before his search led him to Smaro Town, which would be disastrous for Herbert and Starla's isolation.

"Got it," Rudolf agreed. He cast a brief, pitying glance toward the restaurant. It was a shame. Tanya Mercer should never have come to Smaro Town.

Inside, Starla and Tanya talked for a long time. When Starla finally prepared to leave, Herbert stepped out of the car and entered the restaurant.

"I'll walk you out," Tanya offered, her heart breaking as she watched Starla wince while getting up. Leg injuries were notoriously painful and slow to heal.

Before she could, Herbert walked right past Tanya without sparing her a single glance. He scooped Starla into his arms and carried her toward the door. Tanya opened her mouth to snap at him, but the sheer, oppressive aura radiating from the man silenced her. It wasn't that she was afraid of him; he just didn't give her a fraction of a second to speak. She settled for scowling fiercely at his back.

...

Herbert settled Starla into the car. She had originally come to enjoy a comforting meal, but the heavy conversation with Tanya had completely ruined the taste of the food.

As the engine purred to life, Starla turned to Herbert.

"Don't touch her," she said evenly.

Herbert froze.

"Starla."

"If anything happens to her, Herbert... I will never forgive you."

When Herbert made up his mind, he executed his plans flawlessly. Starla was genuinely terrified for her friend's life.

Herbert remained silent, his gaze growing impossibly dark as he stared at her.

"I know you already have a plan mapped out," Starla stated, laying all her cards on the table. "But if she mysteriously vanishes from that restaurant, I don't care what excuse you give me. I won't believe a single word."

She had spent enough time with him to understand his brand of ruthlessness. He was truly terrifying. She knew she had to draw an absolute, uncrossable line right here, right now.