Chapter 271
Chapter 271:
Kristine wasn’t the type to share her troubles easily. But something about Asher’s steady presence always put her at ease — maybe the quiet assurance in his eyes, or the way he seemed to listen without judgment. She found herself giving him a quick rundown of Monica’s lawsuit and what she was up against.
Asher listened carefully. His brow furrowed. “Something’s off about that p>
“What do you mean p>
“It doesn’t make sense for Monica to be targeting you this way,” he said after a moment, sounding genuinely concerned.
Kristine let out a dry chuckle. “She’ll do anything to get her hands on that antique for Jemma. She doesn’t care who she hurts along the way p>
Asher shook his head. “That’s not what I meant. The last time this happened, Colton confronted Monica himself. She shouldn’t be risking his anger by going after you now p>
The words hit Kristine like a slap. “Hold on. What exactly did you just say p>
𝗠о𝗋𝗲 𝘯o𝗏els o𝘯
“You really didn’t know?” Asher caught the stunned look on her face and let out a quiet sigh, something complex shifting in his eyes. “The only reason Monica gave the antiques back last time was because Colton showed up in person and threatened her p>
Kristine felt her heart jolt in her chest. Was it really Colton who had intervened?
The thought barely settled before her lips twisted into a wry, almost bitter smile. “If that’s true, doesn’t it just confirm he’s the one pulling the strings behind this lawsuit? He’s the only person Monica would need permission from to go after me p>
Asher’s eyes narrowed. “What makes you so certain Colton’s involved p>
From his perspective, it made no sense for Colton to set this in motion.
“Do you know who Monica hired to represent her?” Kristine pressed.
Asher slowly shook his head.
“Brendan Loftus.” Kristine tipped her head back, letting the wind toss her hair as turmoil churned inside her.
Asher’s frown deepened. Money could buy Brendan’s services, but his rates had soared over the years — very few could afford him. And among that small pool, Colton was the only one with any real connection to Kristine.
“But why would he go to these lengths?” Asher asked.
Kristine swallowed hard, her voice barely steady. “He wants to show me that without him shielding me, I’m powerless p>
Asher’s expression darkened. His gaze drifted back to the villa. “So you’re hoping Nathan will take your case p>
Kristine gave a small nod, though her eyes were shadowed with doubt. “But after all that… I don’t think he will.” She had managed to thoroughly antagonize him — even if Nathan had technically been the one in the wrong.
“That’s not a given,” Asher replied, a subtle smile playing at the corners of his lips, his eyes narrowing in thought.
Kristine shot him a questioning look. “What are you up to p>
Asher held her gaze steadily. “You want Nathan to represent you, right p>
“I do,” she admitted.
“Alright. Leave it to me p>
Kristine felt her confusion deepen, a faint unease settling in her chest. “Asher, how p>
He cut her off gently, his gaze soft but unreadable. “Why don’t I drive you home first?” The easy warmth in his voice concealed any hint of his real plans.
Worry pinched Kristine’s brow. “Asher, seriously p>