Too Late to Hold Me Back novel Chapter 499

“His childhood sweetheart is actually someone you know,” Ethan said.

“Someone I know?” Mira asked, genuinely surprised.

“Yes. Her love for Adrian twisted into pure hatred. She despised our mother, she despises us, and she wants to see our entire family wiped off the map.”

Thinking back across both of her lifetimes, the only people who harbored that level of toxic, destructive obsession were Fiona and Mara—and, of course, Shane Porter. Could it be...

“Are you talking about Victoria Porter?”

“You really are brilliant, Mira. Nailed it on the first try.” Ethan had burned through a lot of resources to dig up that piece of ancient history.

If that was the truth, then many of Shane Porter's vicious attacks against the Mercer family—including the absolutely lethal measures he'd taken—were likely orchestrated or heavily encouraged by Victoria. In purely business terms, Shane had no logical reason to be so violently ruthless, to the point of getting blood on his hands. It explained a lot, though Mira still found some of Shane's strategic choices baffling. She figured time would eventually reveal the rest of the puzzle.

Refocusing, Mira asked, “Why did you say Adrian only got involved with Fiona for the money? She was completely broke. What assets did she have for him to steal?”

“Thanks for the heads-up.”

“Don't mention it. Whether we're siblings, friends, or even complete strangers, I don't think either of us wants to see the other end up in a ditch, right?”

Mira didn't answer.