The Billionaire's True Heiress From Fake Jewel to Real Crown novel Chapter 1779

"What if she wasn't a student at all? What if she was a hitter, waiting for you to catch her so she could slide a blade into your ribs?"

Dane pressed, forcing her to see the tactical angles.

"I checked her pulse the second I caught her."

Claire wasn't entirely defenseless.

She had confirmed the girl was genuinely out cold before handing her over to security.

Anyone faking a concussion wouldn't have slipped past her medical expertise.

Dane was momentarily stunned that she had maintained her situational awareness in the middle of chaos.

Her medical skills were truly a lethal advantage.

"Smart," Dane approved with a nod. "Do you want me to run a background check on her?"

If she was clean, great. If not, she would never get within a mile of Claire again.

"If you're offering, I'd be incredibly grateful." Claire didn't hesitate. She could pull strings to investigate, but it would waste time.

Dane had the resources to do it instantly.

He had vast connections and didn't even need to lift a finger.

Dane reached over and ruffled her hair. "A simple verbal 'thank you' feels a little cheap, don't you think?"

His voice was a low, seductive rumble, entirely devoid of the icy edge he used in boardrooms.

Claire arched an eyebrow. "Then what exactly do you want, Mr. Green?"

"If I have to spell it out, it ruins the fun." Dane tapped her forehead lightly.

Claire swatted his hand away. "I'll think of something."

"But asking for a payout before the job is even done? Spoken like a true capitalist."

With her setting the boundary, Dane knew he couldn't push his luck tonight.

He frowned slightly. "Fair enough. Take your time figuring out how you want to reward me once I deliver."

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