Chapter 90
Chapter 90:
Preoccupied with these thoughts, Kristine moved toward the window. This time, Colton had dragged her back by exploiting the issues with K&C Entertainment’s accounts. Next time, he could easily resort to another tactic. If she truly wanted to cut ties with him for good, working with Asher was the most realistic path available to her right now. And even if life there proved difficult, at least she would regain her freedom.
At that moment, a deep and pleasant voice came through the phone. “Kristine, did you really change your mind that quickly p>
Lowering her gaze, Kristine realized she had not even noticed the call had already connected. She drew in a steady breath, set aside the teasing in Asher’s tone, and spoke directly. “Mr. Edwards, I agree to the collaboration, but I have one condition p>
“And what condition would that be?” Asher asked, his voice smooth and resonant through the receiver, like the low note of a cello.
“Since this is a deal, there is no need for marital obligations. What is your opinion p>
A gentle chuckle came from the other end. “So you are worried about that aspect? Do you really think a disabled man like me could do anything inappropriate to you p>
Bluntness was the last thing Kristine had expected from Asher, and a faint heat crept into her cheeks. “When will I be able to leave Gridron p>
“There is no need to rush. We can meet tomorrow and talk it through properly p>
“All right p>
If she truly wanted to break away from Colton for good, careful planning could not be avoided. Once they settled on a time and location, Kristine ended the call.
ոо𝗏𝘦𝗅s 𝗶ո 𝘵𝘳𝘦n𝘥 𝗼𝗻 ѕ.𝖼𝗼𝗺
Relief never came. Instead, a heavy gloom pressed down on her.
How had her relationship with Colton unraveled so completely, and ended up like this?
Spotting Colton sitting alone with a drink at his bar, Devin considered turning around and leaving.
Lately, Colton had been acting strangely — showing up at the bar again and again to drink himself numb. Normally, he was disciplined to the extreme. He appreciated alcohol but rarely overindulged. Yet this marked his third visit in a single month.
After taking a few steps away, Devin hesitated and turned back. He made his way toward the bar. After all, he was Colton’s only friend. If he walked away too, then Colton would truly have no one left.
“Did you and Kristine end up fighting again?” Devin ordered himself a drink and leaned against the bar.
Without much reaction, Colton glanced sideways at him, his expression icy, and finished the glass the bartender had just set down. “Another!” he called, striking the empty glass against the counter.
Hesitation crossed the bartender’s face as he turned to Devin and subtly raised two fingers.
“Did he have two drinks?” Devin asked under his breath.
The bartender shook his head quietly. “Twenty p>
Shock flickered across Devin’s features and his tone sobered at once. He looked straight at Colton. “Are you trying to drink yourself into an early grave? Colton, let me be clear — I cannot afford to compensate for someone of your value p>