Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 601

“If I can return to the Judson family and take back control of Judson Pharmaceuticals,” Paxton Judson said, his voice grave, “I’m willing to give the Lincoln family exclusive use of two of our production lines.”

Lucius studied Paxton, his gaze sharpening. “And what is it you think you know?”

Paxton lowered his head respectfully. “Mr. Lincoln, I don’t know anything for certain. I’m merely guessing that this is something your family needs. Otherwise, why would your grandmother, Helena, have ever approved the marriage between Jagger Lincoln and Josette Judson?”

The Lincoln family had always coveted Judson Pharmaceuticals. For years, they had offered to inject capital into the company, but their terms were steep: not only did they want a significant stake, but they also demanded control over two production lines. Kiernan Judson had adamantly refused, declaring he would rather forgo their investment than allow the Lincolns to interfere with production.

As a result, the Lincolns had never invested a dime, and Josette’s marriage to Jagger had brought the Judson family no tangible benefits.

The Lincolns had built their empire through shady dealings before going legitimate, and whatever they planned for Judson Pharmaceuticals was undoubtedly nefarious. But at this point, Paxton couldn’t afford to care. He had repeatedly hinted to Kiernan that he wanted back in, especially after Finley’s detoxification, but his father was resolute. He was determined to reclaim Judson Pharmaceuticals, no matter the cost.

“Interesting,” Lucius said with a smirk, turning to his grandmother. “What do you think, Grandma?”

Helena took a delicate sip of her coffee. “You decide.”

“Very well, Paxton,” Lucius said, his eyes glinting. “I’ll arrange the assassination of your wife.”

Paxton was silent for a long moment before murmuring, “If it’s possible… don’t let her suffer.”

Lucius, a man who rarely smiled and whose serious expression often intimidated others, let out a genuine laugh at the request.

The hypocrisy was truly amusing.

“Of course,” Lucius agreed, though he was already thinking he would make sure Paxton’s wife knew exactly who had ordered her death. He could only imagine her agony in her final moments.

Paxton cast one last, deep look at the gates of the Lincoln estate before turning and getting into the car parked across the street.

…

After returning to the Judson residence, Larissa had dinner with her parents and discussed the preparations for her birthday party, including the guest list. Afterwards, she went to her herb garden to tend to her plants. The Phoenix Herb had successfully taken root; now, it was just a matter of seeing how it grew and if it could be propagated.

Back in her room, Larissa was about to video call Haskell when she saw another video message from Zendar. It was of Finley again, but this time he was lying on the ground, blood trickling from his eyes, nose, and mouth, a ghastly sight in the dim light.

[I warned him this morning to stay away from your garden. I don’t know what this idiot was thinking, but he tried to sneak in anyway and got himself bitten by the venomous critters you have in there. They only attack intruders, you know.]

[So, Larissa, what’s the call? Do we save him, or should I just bury him in the garden and call it a day?]