The Captain I Married by Chance novel Chapter 416

"I understand."

Although Nora wasn't entirely sure what Nathan was implying, it was painfully obvious the case was taking a dark, unexpected turn.

Nora also had a sinking feeling that the truth of this case would be hard for everyone to stomach.

She could only hope her intuition was wrong.

Selfishly, Nora hoped Michael was completely innocent in all of this.

After all, he was the man Valerie had idolized for years.

She wanted Valerie's trip to Luminport City to be perfect—attending Michael's fan meet, celebrating their wedding, and returning to the Arvendale Region with nothing but happy memories.

...

The next morning, Nathan let Nora know he was heading to the station early.

The blackmail investigation was progressing systematically, and since Nora didn't have any specific tasks assigned, she took the day off to take Valerie shopping.

Harold Peyton opted out of joining the girls, simply telling them to have fun before having the driver drop them off at the largest mall in Luminport City.

"Wow, Luminport City has really built up over the years!"

Valerie hadn't visited the city in a long time, and she was genuinely impressed. The skyline and bustling streets rivaled the Arvendale Region.

"I was going to invite you two to the Arvendale Region for a change of scenery, but honestly, they look pretty similar."

It was just towering skyscrapers and flashing neon lights.

The Arvendale Region and Luminport City might have different names, but the vibe was practically identical.

"We can always plan a trip somewhere else."

Nora hooked her arm through Valerie's. "Any place you want to go?"

"I do, but getting my PTO approved is a nightmare. Isn't it hard for you to get time off too?"

Valerie nodded without hesitation. "Yeah, and my biggest flaw is that I literally have zero time to date! Why else would I need a matchmaker?"

Nora hadn't expected Valerie to defend herself so smoothly and was about to tease her when Valerie suddenly stopped dead in her tracks.

Seeing her stare fixedly in one direction, Nora frowned and followed her gaze.

All she saw was a massive crowd of shoppers walking back and forth. Everyone looked completely normal; nothing stood out.

"What's wrong?"

Valerie grabbed Nora's hand, her voice trembling with sheer excitement.

"Nora, guess who I just saw?"

Nora was completely lost by Valerie's intense reaction.

"Huh? Who did you see? Someone we know?"