Don't Mess with the Girl with Candy novel Chapter 1036

"Where is the woman who was in that room?"

Juniper slowed her pace, her tone entirely casual. "Last time I walked past, she was throwing quite a fit. It's awfully quiet today. Did you guys finally kill her?"

"Hardly," the steward chuckled, a raspy, grating sound. "Everyone else on this base could die, and she'd still be perfectly safe."

"What makes her so special?" Juniper pressed.

"She is..." The steward caught himself. His smile vanished, replaced by a cold sneer. "You're overstepping, Doctor."

"Just making conversation," Juniper offered a faint, unapologetic smile, tucking her hands into her pockets.

They continued toward the exit.

"Next time we meet, Dr. Nocturne, we'll be official partners," the steward said as the guards pulled the black hoods back over their heads. His words were polite, but his voice was devoid of warmth, echoing through the cavernous space like a demon welcoming them to hell.

"Whether we become partners depends entirely on how deep your boss's pockets are," Juniper replied effortlessly. "My consultation fee."

"Here is a bearer card. No pin required." The steward immediately handed it over. "Twenty million, as requested."

"Let's go." Juniper slipped the card into her pocket and tilted her head toward Shanley.

Shanley gave a curt nod, playing the role of the silent lackey to perfection.

The steward watched them until the transport vehicle disappeared into the darkness.

"Is everything alright, sir?" a guard asked.

"That Mr. Langley was much quieter today," the steward remarked, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Inform the boss that they have left."

"Yes, sir."

...

Corvus caught her wrist effortlessly. The gentle facade melted away, leaving a look of toxic, obsessive possessiveness. "It's your birthday, so I'm trying to be patient. But don't push me, Theia."

"The doctor said he'll be completely healed in two months," Corvus continued softly. "But losing a couple of fingers or toes won't stop him from conducting genetic research."

It was a blatant, unapologetic threat.

"Come now. Blow out the candles. Make a wish. Cut the cake." He sat back down, his tone freezing over. "I'm losing my temper."

Left with no choice, Theia walked back to the table and blew out the candles.

She pressed her hands together. She had never been a religious woman, but right now, she prayed to whatever was listening.

*One: Let my children be safe and healthy, and let them find each other.*

*Two: Let Corvus Thorne's twisted plans crash and burn, and let him rot in hell.*