Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 468

Chapter 468 Echoes of the Past

“What was that?”

“I think they’ve forgotten who they are.”

Finished

Jasper fell silent. This complicated things. Finding two people with elite combat skills and high- level counter–surveillance awareness was difficult enough–finding them when they were also suffering from amnesia was nearly impossible.

The only silver lining was that they were alive and physically intact.

Jasper didn’t seem overly worried. “They aren’t in any real danger in Bellwood. We’ll track them at a steady pace. Perhaps, for them, this is just a novel experience.”

Tatiana’s expression softened, and a small smile touched her lips. “I suppose so. Just like you and me, once upon a time.”

The history she and Jasper shared was far more absurd and convoluted than a simple case of amnesia.

“Let’s go,” she said.

Tatiana nodded, preparing to lead her team out, but something caught her eye. She stopped and turned to the girl from the hallway. “What’s your name?”

The girl blinked, startled by the sudden attention, but answered honestly. “I’m Cindy Queen.”

“How old are you?”

“Twenty–one.”

So young.

“Do you have a job?”

“I’m still looking.”

“I happen to need a junior assistant,” Tatiana said casually. “The starting salary is eight thousand, with a ten percent annual raise. Full benefits, a year–end bonus, and weekends off. Interested?”

Cindy’s breath hitched, her eyes lighting up with an intense brilliance. “Yes! Absolutely! I can

start tomorrow!”

“Welcome aboard.”

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Chapter 468 Echoes of the Past

Hearing the generous terms, the boyfriend’s greed flared. He stepped forward, interjecting, “Since you’re handing out jobs, give me one too! I’m not picky–just something a bit higher than hers. After all, I have a bachelor’s degree from a university, and she only graduated from a vocational college.”

A flash of humiliation crossed Cindy’s face. Her educational background had always been a sore spot that her boyfriend used against her. Since graduation, she had worked tirelessly to support both of them, hoping he would find a job to ease the burden so they could move out of this sleazy motel.

But he was arrogant. He insisted on taking the civil service exams and refused to do anything else in the meantime, claiming he was preparing her for her future role as a high–ranking official’s wife.

Tatiana arched an eyebrow. “Is that so? And what exactly can you do?”

The young man began listing the superficial theories he’d skimmed in university.

Tatiana cut him off coldly. “My office isn’t a recycling center. I don’t hire dead weight.”

The boy turned red with rage. “You women just love creating conflict! Cindy doesn’t know a damn thing; she’s nothing compared to me! I knew it–you’re doing this on purpose!”

The last spark of affection Cindy held for him died in that moment.

“Yes, I am doing it on purpose,” Tatiana replied smoothly. “Do you have a problem with that? If you’re so talented, find your own job.”

The boy’s face shifted through several shades of red and white as he stood there, speechless.

“If you’re useless, keep your mouth shut,” Tatiana added. “A degree doesn’t equal capability. In my eyes, you don’t even measure up to her.”

Being validated so suddenly brought tears to Cindy’s eyes.

Tatiana patted her shoulder. “I admire your sincerity, your courage, and that raw sense of justice. Report to this address tomorrow.” She handed over a business card and walked away.

Jasper watched the entire exchange, his eyes full of hidden meaning. Once they were clear of the motel, he smiled. “That didn’t seem like your usual style.”

Tatiana didn’t deny it. She wasn’t typically a saint who reached out to every stranger in need.

“I saw a bit of my old self in her,” she said quietly.

Blindly chasing a man, living in a state of constant insecurity, trampling over her own self- respect just to keep up. Blinded by a single leaf.

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Chapter 468 Echoes of the Past

Jasper… couldn’t find a reason to smile anymore.

Finished

“She’s just as foolish as I was back then,” Tatiana added coldly. “So I decided to give her a hand.

Jasper felt a wave of panic. “Tatiana, we agreed not to bring up the past.”

“My apologies. Women are fickle creatures. I’ve decided I don’t want to see you for the rest of the day. Goodbye.”

With that, she led her people away in a grand procession, leaving Jasper standing alone on the sidewalk, his face pale.

Tammy sat in the spectator stands of a crowded arena, looking around with curiosity. Her striking features and exotic look drew frequent stares from the local crowd, but she didn’t care.

Norman squeezed through the throng and sat down beside her. “Not used to this, are you? Just bear with it; it’ll be my turn soon.”

Tammy shook her head. “It’s fine. Are you really going to fight?”

They were currently in an underground fight club. Aside from tourism, Bellwood was famous for its high–stakes, underground boxing matches. It was a dark attraction that drew curious travelers and desperate men alike.

The arena was packed with spectators and fighters who had run out of options and were willing to risk everything. A single win could net a million; a loss could mean permanent disability or death. The high–tension atmosphere drew massive crowds every year.

Norman had stumbled upon the place and, desperate for quick cash, decided it was the fastest

way.

He had wanted her to wait outside, but she had refused to stay behind.

Tammy considered the situation seriously. “How do I sign up?”

“What are you doing?”

“I think I can do this too.”

Norman gave her a pained look. “Don’t start. Your head injury hasn’t even healed yet. Just stay quiet and watch. I’m your man–I’ll handle the heavy lifting.”

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