The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 143

Chapter 143

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I felt a flutter in my stomach that I immediately tried to suppress. This was business–our arrangement.

Nothing more.

I typed back: [Your beneficiary is always available], adding a smile emoji to lighten the tone.

Passing my father’s study on my way out, I overheard a conversation that made me pause.

“It’s just a temporary liquidity issue, Frances. I can repay you within two weeks.” My father’s voice, usually

commanding, sounded almost pleading.

“William, this is the third time,” Frances responded, concern evident in her tone. “My small company isn’t

doing well financially lately either…”

I moved away silently, processing what I’d just heard. My father was borrowing money from family members–a clear sign Harper Group was facing serious cash flow problems. I mentally reviewed his

investment portfolio against recent market volatility, remembering his refused whisky. Small signs were

adding up to a troubling picture.

Back at my Brooklyn apartment, I prepared for the evening with Devon. I chose an emerald silk slip dress that highlighted the curve of my hips, paired with black lace lingerie underneath. I had just finished applying a subtle layer of perfume to my wrists when the doorbell rang.

Checking the time, I frowned. It was only 6:30–I still had plenty of time before I needed to leave for my meeting with Devon. Opening the door revealed Sophia standing there, champagne in one hand and

takeout bags from our favorite Japanese restaurant in the other.

“Emergency girls‘ night!” she announced, her smile not quite reaching her red–rimmed eyes.

I hesitated, glancing at the clock again. “Soph, I actually have plans tonight…”

Sophia’s smile faltered as she noticed my dress and makeup. “Oh, is it… is it him again?”

Before I could answer, she pushed past me into the apartment, placing the food and champagne on the

coffee table. As she turned, I saw the devastation in her eyes more clearly.

“What happened?” I asked, immediately concerned.

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Sophia pulled out her phone and opened Instagram. There was her ex–boyfriend, beaming at the camera, his arm around a petite blonde woman. The caption re: She said yest Heading back to the States soon to celebrate with friends and family.]

“He sent me an invitation,” Sophia whispered, her vole bronking. “As if we hadn’t dated for three years. As if I hadn’t waited for him while he was finding himself in Tokyo.”

“That bastard!” I exclaimed, anger surging through me.I could make his wedding a disaster with one phone call.”

Sophia shook her head, wiping at her eyes. “No, I’m golg. I’m going to wear the most gorgeous dress and make him regret every second of letting me go.”

I hugged her tightly, making a quick decision. “I’ll be your plus–one. We’ll show him exactly what he lost.”

We opened the champagne, and I texted Devon that I might be running a few minutes late. After finishing the bottle, Sophia fell asleep on my couch, emotionally exhausted. I covered her with a blanket, tucked a pillow beneath her head, and left a note explaining I had an unavoidable meeting but would be back soon.

The drive to Red Maple Lodge took longer than expected due to unexpected Friday night traffic. By the

time I pulled into the exclusive country retreat’s circular driveway, I was nearly fifteen minutes late. Devon

stood beside his black Aston Martin, dressed in an impeccably tailored charcoal suit that emphasized his

broad shoulders. His expression was cool, almost annoyed, the shadows under his eyes more pronounced

than usual.

“You’re late,” he stated as I approached, his eyes sweeping over my dress with barely concealed

appreciation despite his clipped tone.

“My best friend had an emergency,” I explained, stopping in front of him. “Her ex–boyfriend just announced

his engagement. I couldn’t exactly throw her out.”

Devon’s expression didn’t soften. “I told you before, I don’t like waiting. Especially outdoors.”

I stepped closer, rising on tiptoe to place a light kiss on the corner of his mouth. “Don’t be angry, patron. I

drove ninety–five to get here.”

For a moment, his eyes darkened, conflicting emotions lashing across his face. Then his arms encircled my waist, pulling me against his chest in a gesture that felt almost… desperate? His heart beat steadily

beneath my palm as I steadied myself against him.

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Chapter 143

“Well, well, Devon! So this is who you’ve been waiting for!”

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