Chapter 297: The Car Slowly Pulled Up to a Three-story Villa a Property

The car slowly pulled up to a three-story villa—a property owned by The Kingsley family, understated yet exuding luxury in every detail. Elena Ward and Adrian Stone were ushered into a cozy reception room, where the plush leather sofa felt soft to the touch, and an entire wall was lined with a bookshelf filled with hardcover volumes.

Adrian sat close to Elena, draping his coat over her shoulders without a word. Though the room was warm, he couldn’t shake the feeling that she had just endured something exhausting and needed extra comfort.

A loud growl interrupted the silence—Elena’s stomach protesting its emptiness. Adrian immediately turned to the assistant standing nearby. "Could you arrange some food?"

Hugh Young hurried off. Even though it was late at night and the kitchen staff should have been asleep, if the boss’s distinguished guests wanted a meal, it had to be prepared on the spot.

The chef, dragged out of bed, rubbed his bleary eyes and frowned at the sparse ingredients left in the fridge. Who in the world needed a meal at this hour?

Ten minutes later, Julian Kingsley pushed the door open. His expression was dark as he sank into an armchair, his mind replaying the horrifying news he had just received. Kyle Blackwell had only been in the provincial capital for five days, yet he had already preyed on three young girls. The youngest was just eight years old—brutalized, left half-dead by the roadside, and ultimately crawling three miles before collapsing at the village entrance.

"Monster!" Julian slammed his fist against the armrest. In the capital, The Blackwell family had kept him on a tight leash, forcing him to restrain his depravity. But away from their watch, the beast had unleashed himself completely. And those who curried favor with him had only enabled his crimes, covering up his atrocities.

"Dr. Ward," Julian suddenly spoke, his voice firm. "I take back what I said before. This matter—I’m stepping in."

His intense gaze locked onto Elena. This seemingly delicate young woman had proposed a ruthless yet meticulously calculated plan—one that would eliminate Kyle Blackwell while ensuring their own safety. Julian found himself reassessing her. She was no harmless rabbit—she was a cunning little fox.

"You flatter me, Mr. Kingsley," Elena replied with a faint smile. "Shall we begin, then?"

"You’re certain there’s no room for error?" Julian still hesitated. He didn’t want The Kingsley family to take the fall for this.

Elena’s eyes were unwavering. "I know my skills. Harm none, but take no chances."

Julian stood to make the necessary calls. Time was of the essence—The Blackwell family could arrive at any moment.

Soon, steaming bowls of wonton soup and tea eggs were brought in. Adrian peeled shrimp while watching Elena devour her food with a frown. "Slow down. No one’s going to take it from you."

"I’m starving," Elena mumbled, her cheeks stuffed. "I couldn’t eat a thing knowing Kyle Blackwell was still out there."

Adrian placed the peeled shrimp in her bowl. "Now you’re scared? You seemed plenty brave when you were dealing with him."

"Of course I’m scared!" Elena set down her chopsticks. "He’s already tried to kill someone by ramming their car. Who knows what else he’s capable of?"

Adrian abruptly changed the subject. "But I am curious—how did you know about Kyle Blackwell’s secrets? Even Julian Kingsley wasn’t aware of these things..."

Elena choked violently, her face flushing red. Adrian quickly patted her back and handed her water.

Once she recovered, he sighed. "Never mind. You don’t have to tell me. Just remember—no matter what happens, I’m here." He gently took her hand. "I’m your husband. Your strongest support."

Elena’s nose stung. From the moment they’d met, this man had protected her without hesitation, never demanding explanations or counting the cost.

"Adrian..." Her voice trembled.

He tenderly fed her a shrimp. "Eat up."

At that moment, Elena felt her eyes burn, something warm threatening to spill over.