Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 364

Chapter 364 The Pirate’s Ledger

With that, he turned and walked away.

Finished

He feared that if he stayed a second longer, he wouldn’t be able to stop himself from seizing her and locking her away by his side forever.

Tatiana watched him leave, stunned, only regaining her senses after he had disappeared. “Madman!” she hissed under her breath.

He was a madman in every sense of the word. Not only had he paid the remaining balance in full, but he had actually returned the jadeite to her untouched. When the auction house staff learned of this, the room fell into a dead silence. Over a hundred million dollars, handed over as a casual gift? The sheer display of wealth was staggering.

Even Alita was speechless. “That man is incredibly generous!”

Tatiana simmered in a quiet rage. Remembering what he had done to her only made her more volatile. “Don’t mention him again!”

Alita shut her mouth instantly. She could sense that Tatiana’s mood was off; it was rare for anyone to get under her skin like that.

Tatiana took a deep breath to suppress her anger. Just then, a transmission arrived from Steele Island. A thorny issue had cropped up that required her urgent attention. She threw herself into her work, completely unaware that her entire background was being systematically dismantled and examined.

Once Jasper had confirmed her identity, he initiated a full–scale investigation into her recent history. What he found left him in a long, pensive silence.

His wife… was now a pirate leader.

Well, not exactly a pirate. They had successfully transitioned into legitimate jadeite merchants with their own mines and a workforce of over three hundred. They had built a professional, vertical industry chain from the ground up.

Jasper stared at the documents, feeling a rare sense of dazed bewilderment before finally letting out a soft laugh. “No wonder…”

No wonder she was so radiant and fierce now. She had completely unleashed her true nature. She had lost her memories, but in exchange, she had found the raw, authentic self she had suppressed for so long. In a way, it was a stroke of luck.

“Seal her files. Make sure no one can trace her,” Jasper ordered. “Also, find an elite squad to shadow her. Ensure her safety at all times.”

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“Understood, sir.”

After making the arrangements, Jasper stepped out of his study, only to be met by a familiar face.

“Jasper, there you are. I’ve been looking for you.”

Bianca stepped forward affectionately, reaching for his arm, but he subtly shifted away. She froze. “Jasper?”

“What is it?”

“Let’s go out for dinner tonight. I found a restaurant that looks wonderful.”

His first instinct was to refuse. Since seeing the real Tatiana, his tolerance for this imposter had hit rock bottom. However, since he still hadn’t uncovered her origins or the identity of her handler, he had to endure her for a little longer.

“Fine.”

“Can we take Ann and Hubert?”

“Yes.”

Bianca beamed and leaned in again. This time, he didn’t pull away, and her heart settled. “Jasper, when are we going back home?”

“It will be a while. I’m currently negotiating a new partnership here.”

“You want to expand in Murica?”

“I do.”

He intended to settle everything here. After all, domestic laws were strict, and many things were easier to handle on foreign soil. Though Bianca was curious, she didn’t dwell on it. Instead, she immediately relayed the news of the dinner plans to Donnie. This was their second attempt, and they were determined to take Ann this time.

“Great, then we’ll meet at the Red Restaurant at eight o’clock tonight.”

Tatiana hung up the phone and jotted down the details. She had just gotten in touch with the creative director of a major jewelry design firm. They were looking to purchase raw jadeite in bulk. If this deal went through, Steele Island would have a stable, long–term buyer for its

output.

She placed a high priority on this meeting and prepared extensively. However, true to her

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habit, she wouldn’t be the one at the forefront. She planned to act as an assistant, letting Alita lead the discussion.

Alita was confused. “You’re the boss. Why me? What if I mess it up?”

“I’ll be right beside you. Don’t worry. Besides, my face isn’t suitable for high–level negotiations.”

A face covered in scars would only invite pity or disdain, potentially weakening their bargaining position. Alita was much better suited for the role. Moreover, she was gradually grooming Alita to take over more responsibilities; she knew she wouldn’t stay on Steele Island forever.

Night fell. The Red Restaurant, as one of the state’s premier luxury dining rooms, was fully booked. Tatiana and Alita arrived as scheduled and met with the director, Ryan Jameson, who was visibly taken aback by Alita’s exotic beauty.

“Hello. I didn’t expect such a striking young lady. I’m Ryan Jameson.”

Alita replied smoothly, “I’m Tatiana.”

Ryan’s eyes were glued to the stunning Alita; he barely spared a glance for the plain, masked woman standing beside her. Tatiana quietly coached Alita, keeping the pace of the negotiation under control.

The meeting was proceeding perfectly–until Tatiana looked up and saw a family of four walking through the entrance. Her pupils contracted instantly.

When Jasper and his family appeared, it was impossible for the room not to take notice. Amon the sea of stunning beauty, their dark hair and striking features were exceptionally prominent. Even Tatiana couldn’t look away.

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