The Guardian's Return (Ethan Rivers) novel Chapter 82

Chapter 82 

Howard took the call from his secretary. 

“We have a visitor from the state government, sir. His name is Stephen Quinn. He wants to see you.” 

Howard frowned. 

He knew of Stephen, the man who apologized for trusting North Hill City in the hands of the wrong guy. Stephen was also the one who gave back Ethan his freedom, yet Howard could not reach Ethan to this day. 

“Why does he want to meet with me?” 

Howard headed straight to the office. Upon learning where Stephen was, he stepped into his office and immediately spotted Stephen on his chair with his legs across his desk, acting like he was in charge. 

Howard entered the office and closed the door behind him before asking, “What can I do for you?” 

Stephen sized Howard, a lean–looking middle–aged man with a scar on his face, up. 

‘Ethan doesn’t seem to have a good eye. He could’ve looked for someone easier on the eye. ‘Stephen thought to himself. 

Then, Stephen took out a file and threw it near Howard’s feet. 

“Take a look. You’ll know why I’m here in a bit.” 

Howard grabbed the file for a look, and his brows furrowed. It was a record of what he had done a long time ago, including street brawls and business vandalism. 

“What’s the meaning of this?” Howard asked, “Are you here to arrest me?” 

Stephen said with a faint smile, “That depends on your decision. You have two choices: you can cut ties with Ethan, work for me, and still run this business, or go to prison. Take your pick. A wise man will know what to choose.” 

Howard finally understood what was going on. 

Ethan was in trouble, and someone was out to take his place. Ethan’s supposed freedom in the news was false. The man could possibly be locked away somewhere, or worse, dead. 

In that brief moment, Howard reached a decision. 

Ethan made him the man he was today. Without Ethan, Howard had no need for fortune. 

“I take the prison option,” Howard looked determined. 

1/2 

+25 BONUS 

Chapter 82 

Stephen was taken aback, not sure he had heard Howard correctly. 

“Are you mad? Are you a fool?” Stephen said, “Do you know the significance of going to prison?” 

“I do,” Howard replied without hesitation. 

Just by looking into Howard’s eyes, Stephen knew he would not change his mind. Still, Stephen did not care. Either way, he would reap the benefits. 

“But before I get sent to prison, can I ask you a question?” Howard asked, “Where is Mr. Rivers?” 

It took Stephen some time to realize that Howard was talking about Ethan. 

“He’s at Drakthorn Ridge.” 

Howard nearly passed out when he learned that Ethan was on the mountain. For all Howard knew, Ethan could be dead. 

Feeling weak behind the knees, Howard fell back on the sofa.