The Year I Stopped Being His novel Chapter 559

Her phrasing was watertight, her expression displaying the perfect blend of regret and sincerity. She sounded exactly like a senior colleague who truly cared for her junior, a scholar who genuinely respected the work.

Sloane nodded, offering a simple, "Regardless, thank you." She paused, tilting her head slightly. "But I have to ask, what exactly brings you here today? I assume you know that he and I divorced a long time ago. I have absolutely nothing to do with him anymore."

Vanessa offered a faint smile.

It was polite, but a profoundly subtle, barely detectable flash of understanding crossed her face—as if she had anticipated Sloane saying exactly that.

"I didn't mean to intrude on you, Ms. Taylor. However—"

As she spoke, she pulled a document from her briefcase, flipped to the last page, and tapped her manicured finger beneath the signature line before gently sliding the file across the desk to Sloane.

"When Vitas-1 was submitted for market approval, Taylor Manufacturing Corp was listed as our encapsulation contractor. According to pharmaceutical regulations, we must adhere strictly to the production details outlined in our approved application. Therefore, we still need Taylor Manufacturing to fulfill the first encapsulation order for Vitas-1. Naturally, we will honor the pricing outlined in the original agreement."

"This is the contract Taylor Manufacturing previously signed with Garrison. Please review it."

Sloane looked down, scanning the document.

She meticulously read every clause and every line. It was indeed the exact contract drawn up with Garrison, clearly outlining responsibilities and liabilities, without a single alteration.

She remained silent for a long moment, then looked up, her gaze cutting right past the black-and-white ink, locking directly onto Vanessa's eyes.

"Ms. Vaughan, before I sign this contract, I have one more question for you. What charges... will Garrison face?"

Vanessa met her gaze, silent for a moment. Then her expression softened, adopting an earnest, almost comforting gentleness.

"Ms. Taylor, that is still uncertain at this time. But rest assured, my mentor and I will do everything in our power to ensure his sentence is as light as possible. Please trust us."