Once She Came Like a Flash novel Chapter 53

**TITLE: Faith Didn’t Survive Time – by Aadi Sharma**
**Chapter 53**

Julian let out a derisive laugh, the sound sharp and mocking.

“After all these years of Renee accompanying you to countless events, how can you still be so oblivious? You really think she could possibly be intoxicated from just that little bit tonight? If she chose to leave with Jasper, it’s clear she was ready to go all the way with him.”

Each word Julian uttered ignited a firestorm of anger within Adam. He stepped forward with a fierce determination, gripping Julian’s collar tightly, his knuckles white with tension as he prepared to unleash another punch. “Shut your mouth!”

This time, however, Julian was quick on his feet, sidestepping the blow with a smirk dancing on his lips.

“Aww! Is the truth too painful for you? Does it sting? Or is it just a blow to your precious little fairytale romance?”

“Adam, come to your senses! Renee’s phone is switched off. It’s abundantly clear she doesn’t want you pestering her.”

“Did you see how she was practically throwing herself at Jasper tonight? She was flirting with him like there was no tomorrow. I wouldn’t be surprised if she was counting down the seconds until she could crawl into his bed. Jasper is the heir to the Zeller family fortune, the richest guy in town. Good looks and wealth? He completely overshadows you.”

Julian’s sneer deepened, an expression of triumph on his face.

“What woman wouldn’t want to climb the social ladder? Especially someone like Renee, who’s navigated the turbulent waters of business. She’s not immune to the allure of temptation.”

Adam’s face contorted with rage, his jaw clenched tightly. “Shut up! Renee is nothing like that! The only man she cares for is me!”

“Sure, she used to love you,” Julian replied, his tone dripping with condescension, “but that was before she crossed paths with someone who actually offers her more. Jasper is the golden boy, the eldest son of the wealthiest family in the city, the heir to the Zeller legacy. If she gets involved with him, she’s set for life.”

“Think about how she acted around Jasper tonight. You honestly don’t believe it was all just because you told her to, do you? I bet she was just as eager to win him over as you are to close that deal.”

As Julian’s words sank in, Adam felt his anger dissipate, like the air being let out of a balloon. His posture straightened momentarily, only to slump back down in defeat.

“Adam, there’s no denying that the Ascend Group has been thriving these past couple of years, but it’s still just a fledgling company. The real family business lies in your father’s hands.”

“Outsiders may not realize this, and maybe you don’t either, but right now, the Grahams are merely a hollow shell. Without the Spencers’ backing, it won’t be long before the Grahams become irrelevant in Harborview City.”

Adam froze in place, his body tensing at Julian’s words, which hung in the air like a dark cloud.

“Renee is stunning. In fact, she’s the most beautiful woman in the entire city,” Julian continued, his voice dripping with calculated persuasion. “Everyone in the business world desires her. When the Grahams crumble, do you genuinely believe you’ll be able to keep her?”

Noticing Adam’s resolve beginning to falter, Julian pressed further, his tone shifting to one of feigned empathy.

“Look, I understand where you’re coming from. I believe in Renee, just as you do. Jasper has encountered every kind of woman imaginable. As long as Renee doesn’t consent, he won’t force himself on her. Here’s what you should do: go home and check. If Renee truly loves you, she’ll be waiting there for you.”