Too Late to Hold Me Back novel Chapter 707

At 10:00 PM, Sterling's friend called once more, but he didn't offer any actual updates. He merely made idle chatter before hanging up.

Then, at 11:00 PM, the friend unexpectedly showed up in person.

Wasn't this a little too attentive? And yet, despite all his supposed concern, he hadn't provided a single ounce of real help.

If he merely cared about his friend's missing child, checking in over the phone would have sufficed. His previous calls had already established his concern.

"Sterling, you need to be careful with him," Mira warned softly.

Having ruthlessly fought his way up the corporate ladder, Sterling immediately understood what she was implying.

"You suspect him? That's impossible. Mira, he's a trusted friend. I reached out to him for help. He's a successful businessman who owns a sizable company; he's incredibly wealthy."

"What kind of business does his company do?"

"They manufacture brand-name clothing. It's called Ruby Rose Apparel."

Mira stepped away and dialed Owen. "Owen, look into the recent financial movements of Ruby Rose Apparel for me. I need it yesterday."

Hanging up, Mira turned back to Sterling. "You can never be too careful. Just keep your guard up."

The university official chimed in, "The student is right. You must remain vigilant and prioritize operational security."

"Mira makes a good point," Valerie agreed. "What if he's involved and is just here to scout our setup?"

"Let's play it safe," Mira said with absolute seriousness. "Whether his concern is genuine or he's here on reconnaissance, we only show him exactly what we want him to see. I will stay out of sight, and make sure those suitcases full of cash are hidden."

Mira had zero intention of exposing herself to a potential enemy.

"Agreed."

"Please follow me," the official said to Mira.

However, running a background check on the number yielded zero registered identities.

Mira suddenly remembered that back in 2009, mobile phones didn't require real-name registration. Anyone could buy a burner SIM card from a corner bodega without ever flashing an ID.

The realization left her feeling suffocated with frustration.

This time, the kidnappers designated a drop-off point, demanding that Sterling and Valerie personally drive the cash over, or they would execute Celine immediately.

To emphasize their threat, they texted a photo of Celine brutally bound to a wooden chair.

Valerie broke down, sobbing uncontrollably.

Her daughter had been raised in the lap of luxury, draped in designer clothes and fed delicacies. She had never known hardship. Even the elders of the family couldn't bear to raise their voices at her.

Why was fate forcing her precious girl to endure such agonizing torment?