When They Beg I Rise (Lemira) novel Chapter 1066

"That hardly comes as a shock."

Lemira's eyes held a mocking glint. "But I'd bet money the baby belongs to Dorian Draven. If that's true, does Evelina honestly think she's going to secure a high-society status through an illegitimate kid?"

"She's delusional. Dorian's mother is a ruthless piece of work. In prominent families, children aren't automatically treasured—especially not a bastard child."

Lemira recalled Dorian's mother. The woman was undeniably formidable.

It was the classic case of a villain meeting a bigger villain.

"Enough about them. I almost forgot why I came. Rowan mentioned that he'll be leaving as soon as the trial wraps up. He said if your mother's treatment isn't finished by then, she'll have to go back to the Aether Research Facility with him."

As she predicted, Orion's brows knitted together in obvious disapproval.

After a moment of thought, Orion replied, "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it."

"That's exactly what I told him. Who knows, maybe Amanda won't even need his personal oversight by then. It's just poisoning—once we have the antidote, it shouldn't be a major issue."

Orion shared the same thought, but he knew Rowan well enough to realize there was an ulterior motive.

Rowan wouldn't offer his services so easily without demanding something in return, yet he had remained suspiciously quiet about his terms.

Bringing up the facility now was clearly a test.

A dozen different scenarios played out in Orion's mind, but he kept his silence, not wanting to put Lemira in a difficult position.

He would find time to speak with Rowan privately.

He absolutely refused to let Lemira sacrifice herself in the crossfire.

Lemira checked the time. "Well, I've delivered the message. I should head back."

"I'll drive you."

"No need, I brought my car."

Despite her refusal, Orion walked her to the elevator.

A heavy silence settled between them.

Lemira kept her gaze forward, watching their blurred reflections on the metal doors, the quiet amplifying the awkwardness.

The doors chimed open, and she stepped inside.

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