Chapter 623
Chapter 623:
Surprise flickered across Maia’s expression before understanding settled in. She reached for Pattie’s hands, squeezing them warmly. “Pattie, you’re my dearest friend. Roland is someone I trust completely. If your feelings for him are genuine, not only wouldn’t I mind, I’d be thrilled for you both p>
Those words sent a wave of emotion through Pattie’s chest. She lifted her eyes to meet Maia’s, watching as her anxiety dissolved into determined resolve.
Her hands rubbed together with barely contained excitement. “Well then, I’m done holding back p>
Maia immediately offered an enthusiastic thumbs-up and an encouraging nod.
The two women caught each other’s eyes and dissolved into shared laughter.
Across the city, Vince emerged from an exclusive private club, settling into his car with a cold smile ghosting his lips.
His meeting with Richard had just concluded.
Richard must have gone crazy. Otherwise, he couldn’t have elaborated such schemes. They indeed commanded a grudging respect from Vince. There was…
There was something deeply satisfying about witnessing someone’s spectacular fall from grace, watching them crumble from heights of success into complete ruin. This situation would prove no different.
When Maia finally tumbled from her throne of success, when desperation and heartbreak consumed her completely, that would be his moment to step in and reclaim her heart.
Settling deeper into the plush car seat, Vince retrieved his phone and scrolled to a familiar contact—Shiloh Hayes, current warden of Wront Prison. “Mr. Hayes, it’s Vince p>
The instant recognition transformed Shiloh’s voice from casual to respectful. “Mr. Ward! What a pleasant surprise! To what do I owe this honor? You know I’m always at your service, just say the word p>
Satisfaction curved Vince’s lips as he savored the deference.
Their history stretched back years, to when Shiloh was merely another faceless corrections officer with ambition but no connections. Vince had recognized his potential early, cultivating their relationship strategically and clearing the path for Shiloh’s advancement. The Ward family’s influence had been instrumental in securing Shiloh’s warden appointment just last year.
During those early days, Vince had made subtle inquiries about Maia’s prison experience. Learning that she was managing well enough, he’d let the matter rest. Without exaggeration, Shiloh’s entire career trajectory owed itself to Vince’s patronage and the Ward family’s reach.
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“I have a distinguished visitor touring Wront Prison this afternoon,” Vince said with studied nonchalance. “Ensure he receives exceptional treatment. Within your discretionary powers, fulfill whatever requests he might have p>
Shiloh’s agreement came without hesitation. “Absolutely, Mr. Ward. Your guest will receive VIP treatment. I can guarantee it. Whether he wants private inmate consultations or exclusive facility access, consider it arranged p>
As the call ended, Vince lifted his gaze to the brooding sky overhead, cold calculation gleaming in his eyes.