The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 216

Chapter 216

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“You can’t do this!” Scarlett screamed, scrambling backward.

“I believe I just did. I turned to Marcus. “Remove their restraints. I’ll give them privacy to carry out their task.”

Marcus efficiently cut the zip ties. As we walked toward the door, Scarlett’s pleading turned to hysterical sobbing. I closed the door behind us, her cries instantly muffled by the soundproofing.

In the hallway, I removed my jacket and tie, both speckled with Scarlett’s tears.

“Burn these, I instructed Marcus. “And have the car ready in thirty minutes. We’ll release Ms. Harper and deliver Mr. Blake to his

residence afterward.”

“Yes, sir. And the men?”

“Pay them as agreed and ensure they understand the consequences of speaking about tonight’s events.”

Marcus nodded, his expression professional despite the screams still audible through the door.

I felt nothing as I walked away–no guilt, no satisfaction, merely the calm certainty of a task completed. Aria was under my protection now, whether she fully realized it or not. And I protected what was mine.

Aria’s POV

I was jolted awake by commotion downstairs–shouting, crying, and the sound of the front door slamming. The clock on my nightstand read 2:17 AM. I slipped into my robe and moved toward my bedroom door, curious and apprehensive about what could cause such a disturbance at this hour.

The marble staircase felt cold under my bare feet as I descended. When I reached the bottom step, I froze at the sight before me.

Scarlett was crumpled on the floor of the foyer, her clothes torn and soiled, her face streaked with makeup and tears. Her blonde hair was tangled and matted, and even from where I stood, I could see bruises forming on her wrists and neck. Elsa was kneeling beside her, attempting to help her to her feet.

“What happened?” I asked, injecting genuine–sounding shock into my

voice.

Scarlett’s head snapped up. Her swollen, reddened eyes narrowed with such hatred that I instinctively took a step back.

“You!” she shrieked, her voice raw. “This is all your fault! This was meant for you!”

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17:01 Thu, Jan 1

Chapter 216

I blinked, making sure my expression showed nothing but confusion. “What are you talking about? What happened to you?”

My father emerged from his study, hastily tying his robe. His face contorted with fury and concern as he rushed to Scarlett’s side.

“What in God’s name is going on?” he demanded, helping Elsa lift Scarlett. “Who did this to you?”

Scarlett clung to him, her sobs renewed. “They–they grabbed me when I went to Eden. They said I was expected.”

My stomach tightened. I knew exactly what had happened, but I maintained my facade of innocence.

“Eden? The private club? Why would you go there alone at night?” I asked, carefully modulating my tone to sound concerned.

“Because Ethan was supposed to be there with her!” She jabbed a finger in my direction. “She hinted that Ethan was there!”

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My father turned to me, his expression darkening. “Aria? What is she talking about?”

I shook my head, feigning bewilderment. “I have no idea. I haven’t spoken to Ethan in weeks. I’ve been at home all evening.”

“Liar!” Scarlett screamed, suddenly lunging toward me. My father caught her around the waist. “You set me up! You knew what would

happen!”

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“Scarlett, please,” my father said firmly. “You’re not making sense. Who did this to you?”

Her breathing was ragged, hysteria building. “Kane. Devon Kane. He–he was waiting for me.” She broke into fresh sobs. “And Ethan was there too, tied up. They made me–they made me-”

She doubled over, coughing violently. To my horror, specks of blood appeared on the marble floor as she retched.

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