The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 359

Chapter 359

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Evelyn rose on her toes–still in his arms–and pressed a kiss to his cheek. Devon didn’t pull away, Instead, his hand came up to pat her back in a gesture so tender it felt like watching something

intimate, something private.

Something that wasn’t mine to see.

“Beautiful, aren’t they?” Eleanor’s voice cut through my paralysis. “Evelyn’s known him since they were children. She’s the only person who truly understands him–who’s seen him at his worst and

loves him anyway.”

The word “love” landed like a physical blow.

“I don’t- My voice came out strangled. I cleared my throat, forced steel into my spine. “This has

nothing to do with me.”

“Doesn’t it?” Eleanor turned those sharp eyes on me. “You really think you’re special, Miss Harper? That you’ve captured my son’s heart?”

No. The answer rose unbidden. I’ve never thought that.

But seeing him with Evelyn, seeing that unguarded smile… it confirmed every fear I’d buried. I was convenient. Useful. A warm body that helped him sleep.

Nothing more.

“Let me be frank,” Eleanor continued. “On pedigree, you can’t compete with Boston’s Hayes family. On history and connection, you’ll never match what Devon has with Evelyn. You’re a novelty, Miss Harper. New. Fresh. But novelty wears off.”

She leaned closer, her perfume cloying. “When it does–and it will–you’ll have nothing. No contract, no relationship, no leverage. And my son will move on without a backward glance.”

I swallowed hard. “Then why this conversation? If I’m so insignificant, why bother?”

“Because I’m not interested in waiting for Devon to tire of you naturally. Your father’s trial, Harper Group’s instability, the media scrutiny… it’s all creating a distraction Devon can’t afford right now.”

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Chapter 359

Her smile turned predatory. So here’s my offer. End the arrangement. Walk away cleanly. I’ll ensure

Harper Group’s partnerships remain intact, that your father’s legal defense has the best resources

available. All you have to do is disappear from my son’s life.”

And if I refuse?”

“Then I’ll make sure every one of Harper Group’s collaborators knows the risk of doing business with

a family embroiled in murder charges and financial scandal. Your father was just released on bail.

How long do you think his freedom will last if I apply the right pressure?”

The threat hung in the air between us. I thought of William in that cell, of the company’s precarious

position, of the employees whose livelihoods depended on Harper Group’s survival.

Of the secret growing inside me that Eleanor must never, ever discover.

*I understand,” I said quietly. “I know what I need to do.”

Eleanor’s eyes narrowed, as if she’d expected more fight. “Good. I’m glad you’re being reasonable.”

I looked back at the villa one more time. Devon and Evelyn sat in matching wicker chairs on a sun-

drenched patio, tea service between them. Afternoon light gilded them both, turning the scene into

something from a magazine spread.

Perfect. Untouchable. Complete without me.

“Can I go now?” My voice didn’t shake. Small victory,

“Of course.” Eleanor signaled to the driver. “Remember, Miss Harper–Devon deserves someone who

can stand beside him in his world. You’re merely visiting.”

The Escalade dropped me back at Harper Group. I climbed the stairs to my office on autopilot, my

mind replaying that smile, that gentle pat on Evelyn’s back, the way Devon had looked… happy.

I’d never seen him look happy with me.

Anna appeared in my doorway. “Miss Harper? Are you all right? You look-”

“I’m fine.” I moved past her to my desk, pulling up my laptop with shaking hands. “Just… get me the

latest reports on the Chicago project.”

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Chapter 359

“The Chicago project? Anna’s confusion was evident. “But we haven’t-

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“That’s because I’m going.” I cut her off, already scanning flight options. “Someone needs to be on- site to coordinate with Reed Group’s team. Book me on tonight’s earliest flight.”

“Miss Harper, you usually avoid travel-”

“This time is different. This project is crucial for the company.” And I need to leave this city. I need to leave Devon. I need to leave before I break completely.

Anna hesitated, then nodded. “I’ll arrange everything.”

“The 8 PM flight to O’Hare. And Anna?” I met her eyes. “Don’t mention this to anyone. Not my

father, not… anyone.”