Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 692

“You’re not wrong about that,” Larissa agreed with a nod. Then, she winked mischievously. “Haskell, there’s one other major difference about this birthday. Do you know what it is?”

Seeing her expression, the smile on his lips deepened. He looked at her tenderly and murmured, “Is it because of me?”

“No fun. You guessed it again,” Larissa pouted, though her smile quickly returned. “But you’re right. This birthday is special because you’re a part of it.”

Haskell was touched. “Honestly, I would have preferred to celebrate with you alone,” he said softly. “But alas, I can’t monopolize you and keep everyone else from showing their affection.” There was a hint of regret in his voice, but it was overshadowed by his understanding and respect for her.

Larissa was amused by his dramatic tone. “It’s fine,” she consoled him. “You might not get to celebrate my birthday with me alone, but you’ll have me all to yourself for our wedding, for kissing, and for sleeping.”

Haskell laughed out loud. “Thank you. I feel much better now.”

“Hey, don’t mention it. We’re engaged already,” Larissa said, waving her hand with mock gravity.

Haskell watched the vibrant woman on the screen, captivated by every little expression. He wished, more than anything, that he could do just as she said—hold her, kiss her, and sleep by her side right now.

After their teasing subsided, Haskell’s tone turned serious. “Larissa, about what you told me this afternoon—Crispin found something. The hitman Lucius hired is a seasoned professional with a flawless track record, which is how he’s avoided capture for so long. I’ll send you the file in a minute.”

Earlier that day, Larissa had told Haskell about Vivica’s kidnapping and her plan to invite Finley’s family to her birthday banquet. Her knowledge of Lucius’s international network was limited, so she had asked Haskell, who was far more informed, to investigate who Lucius might send after Vivica.

He had agreed without hesitation, and true to form, he had results by that evening.

“Is that so?” A predatory gleam lit up Larissa’s eyes. “Then it’s about time this professional took a hard fall.”

She scheduled it to go live at 11:59 p.m. At the stroke of midnight, her three new songs would be released exclusively on Ruby Rhythm.

Across the internet, countless users were already parked in front of their screens, eagerly waiting to be the first to hear the new tracks from both Larissa and Leopold.

[I can’t wait to see how this showdown turns out!]

[Pfft, what’s there to be excited about? There’s no way Leopold can lose!]

[Don’t be so sure! You might have to eat your words!]

[Ha, dream on. Once midnight hits, we’ll see if Larissa is the real deal or just a fraud. My money’s on fraud!]