Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 356

Chapter 356 The Pirate Queen and the Imposter

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Using a steady supply of toxins to keep him in check, Tatiana had turned Hanson into her puppet. From the shadows, she devised strategies, rallied the disjointed pirate crews scattered across the nearby waters, and steadily expanded their ranks. Through a calculated blend of the carrot and the stick, she won over their loyalty and successfully transitioned the operation into the light.

They were no longer called pirates; they were merchants.

When steady money could be made in peace, no one was interested in living with their heads on the chopping block–and Hanson was no exception. Having tasted the sweetness of legitimate wealth, he was more than happy to serve his new provider.

Naturally, when Hanson learned she intended to set sail for the mainland, he was so agitated he dropped his cigar.

“No! It’s too dangerous! The island needs you!”

Tatiana crossed her legs, her expression cool. “I’m not asking for your permission, Hanson. I’m informing you of my departure.”

Knowing better than to try and change her mind, Hanson sighed in defeat. “Fine. If you’re going, take a security detail with you and stay in touch. And… my antidote…”

“Don’t worry. I’ve left two doses for you.”

The matter was settled.

Before her departure, she spent her days overseeing the island’s affairs–managing

construction projects, organizing manpower, and rooting out any lingering dissent. She was in her element, thriving in the chaos.

Far from Jasper’s sight, his “delicate” wife was fast becoming a legendary figure of the high seas.

At a prestigious luxury hotel, a grand gala was in full swing.

Bianca, draped in a couture gown, stepped into the ballroom on Jasper’s arm. As the eyes of the elite fell upon her, a surge of vanity washed over her, filling her with a profound sense of satisfaction.

Lindsey stood at the center of the room, a warm, grandmotherly smile lighting up her face as she watched them approach. “You’ve arrived.”

Bianca smoothly released Jasper’s arm and looped hers through Lindsey’s, leaning in with practiced affection. “Grandmother, I’m sorry to keep you waiting.”

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Since finding her granddaughter, Lindsey seemed years younger. She had personally insisted on hosting this gala to introduce the girl to her oldest associates. The Lane family’s roots ran deep in Murica, and their standing was such that every guest of note had made an appearance.

They looked at this “lucky girl” who was set to inherit a staggering fortune, marveling at her fortune while casting sympathetic glances toward Donnie, who followed behind.

What a pity, they thought. After years of hard work, everything was being handed to a young girl on a silver platter. He must be seething inside.

Little did they know, Donnie’s smile was entirely genuine. He was even relaxed enough to engage in casual conversation with Jasper.

“Past grievances were merely a misunderstanding,” Donnie said smoothly. “From now on, let’s let bygones be bygones and find common ground.”

Jasper’s eyes remained cold, and he offered no reply.

Donnie didn’t seem to mind. His smile only widened. “By blood, Tatiana is my cousin. That makes you my brother–in–law.”

Jasper slowly turned his head, finally looking him in the eye. “Do of that title?”

Donnie’s smile flickered, a flash of malice crossing his gaze.

you truly think you’re worthy

“Jasper, Grandmother wants a word. Come here,” Bianca called out.

Jasper walked toward them. Lindsey stood there, scanning him from head to toe. Her expression was neither friendly nor overtly hostile, but it was clear she was barely tolerating his presence.

“I have only one thing to say,” Lindsey began. “Treat Tatiana well. If you ever betray her, I will haunt you even from the grave.”

Bianca chimed in playfully, “Grandmother, what are you saying? Jasper would never do that.”

“Tatiana, dear, go fetch a glass of water for me.”

It was a clear dismissal. Bianca had no choice but to comply and walk away.

Once she was gone, Lindsey’s face grew stern. “Do not think for a moment that I have forgiven your mistakes. The deaths of my daughter and son–in–law are inextricably linked to the Jackson family.”

Jasper didn’t argue. He listened in silence.

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“Tatiana has lost her memory; she has forgotten everything. I found her a step later than you did–otherwise, I never would have allowed the two of you to be together.”

Her voice was firm, carrying the weight of her true feelings. How could she not feel resentment? Her only daughter had died a tragic death while trying to save others. Lindsey had searched for years only to find a headstone, while the family responsible was now joined with her granddaughter.

If she were younger, she would have torn them apart. But she was old now, and she didn’t know how much time she had left. Why pass this burden of hatred down to the next generation? All she wanted was for her granddaughter to be happy.

Furthermore, they already had two children. Forcing a separation would only breed more bitterness. So, Lindsey had chosen to yield for the sake of the girl’s happiness.

Jasper finally spoke. “I will give Tatiana all my loyalty and all my tenderness.”

He meant the Tatiana–not this imposter.

Lindsey, missing the hidden meaning, managed a small, forced smile, finally letting the matter

rest.

As the party continued, Bianca stayed close to Lindsey’s side, playing the part of the devoted granddaughter to perfection.

Suddenly, Lindsey remembered something. “Your mother left half a song for you. She loved

much.” you very

“Really? What song?”

Lindsey smiled and playfully tapped Bianca’s nose. “You’ve forgotten? It’s the song you helped Emily finish the lyrics for.”

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