Claire was feeling pretty pleased with herself as she made her way over to Pax. She gently touched his face and
said, "My boy's really grown up, keeping tabs onnow, huh?" Pax pulled back slightly, "Can you promise me?"
"I promise, as long as you do exactly what | say, | won't harm a hair on their heads," Claire assured him before
leaving his room. As soon as the door clicked shut, a sly smile spread across her lips. Her plan all along was to
get Pax involved in the company. This was just her opening move.
Her kid was just too naive. He couldn't tell friend from foe. Did he really think Connor would leave him be once
he took charge? Would Connor be good to him? People are naturally selfish, and Connor, well, he was a menace
from the get-go. Pax was too kind-hearted for his own good, and she wouldn't let Connor get the chance to hurt
him. She wanted Pax to see the world for what it really was, to toughen up and grow stronger. The quickest way
was for him to witness the grand shadows of human nature. One day, he'd get it. The person he admired
and looked up to was the worst of the worst. Everything now was just a charade.
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Connor's car pulled up at a parking lot. Chloe squinted at the flashy sign, "Pure White? What's this place?"
"Aren't you hungry? The braised pork here is top-notch," Connor replied. At the mention of delicious food, Chloe
didn't hesitate. As soon as they stepped inside, a waiter greeted them warmly.
"Mr. Connor, it's been a while since we last saw you."
Connor gave a slight nod, acknowledging the waiter. Chloe took in the surroundings, realizing it was a swanky
club.
She couldn't help but ask, "Did you used to chere a lot?"
Connor chuckled, "Relax, it's a legit dining and entertainment spot. | just cfor the food and maybe a movie.
It's nothing shady."
Chloe shrugged casually, "I didn't say anything, so why the rush to explain?"
Bet
Soon, they were shown to a private room by the waiter. The room was tastefully decorated, with a wine cabinet
stocked with fine wines. the center was a round, rotating table already laden with an impressive spread of
dishes.
"Isn't this a bit much for just the two of us?" Chloe wondered.
"This is your first visit, so | wanted you to try everything. The owner is a friend of mine, and there are some
new dishes for you to taste and give feedback on," Connor explained.
en
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The dishes looked and smelled incredible, and Chloe's mouth watered just looking at them. They settled in to
enjoy their meal. Connor picked a bottle from the wine cabinet. Chloe took a sip, "A '78 Montrose, nice pick."
Connor laughed, "You've got quite the palate. Did that mentor of yours teach you?"
Chloe held up the wine bottle, "It's right there on the label, in big letters. I'm not blind." Connor: "..."
Chloe finally got to taste the braised pork Connor had raved about. It was indeed delicious, but she still thought
it didn't quite match the homemade braised pork Connor had cooked before. She preferred that, but felt too shy
to ask the ever-busy Mr. Connor to cook for her again. She'd have to cup with a plan. Maybe play the
damsel in distress card. Chloe had already decided. Once they got back to Riverbrook, she would make sure he
cooked braised pork for her.
Before long, Connor's phone rang. After ending the call, his face looked a bit serious.
Chloe asked, "Who was that?"