Chapter 328

328
328
As Aria strode away , Russell’s mocking voice rang out behind her . “ How fiercely you shield your friends , Ms. Saxon … But for those you don’t deem worthy , do you just stand by and watch them die ? ”
Russell sneered , “ Or perhaps … you let her die in your place ? ”
Aria froze mid – step , whirling to face Russell – she caught the unmistakable flicker of hatred in his eyes .
Just stand by and watch her die .
‘ Let her die in my place ? Who is Russell Nicholson talking about ? ‘ Aria wondered , her mind racing ,
As Aria locked eyes with Russell , she sensed an unsettling familiarity .
Russell and Sara shared alike eyes , but one pair was innocent and timid , the other cold and ruthless . The feelings they gave off were worlds apart .
Aria had never considered this angle before , yet Russell’s words now compelled her to take a closer look .
“ Who exactly is Russell Nicholson to Sara ? ‘ Aria wondered , her mind racing with suspicion and shock .
Aria stared hard at Russell , her eyes a storm of confusion , shock , and
Reining in the storm inside , she turned on her heel and walked away .
wary alertness .
Still reeling from shock , Myla hurried after Aria , not daring to fall behind .
At the hospital , the doctor extracted a slender silver needle from Russell’s shoulder .
The slender silver needle glistened with fresh crimson blood .
It was tossed into a nearby stainless steel tray .
Russell sat propped up in the hospital bed , his face a shade paler than usual , yet utterly devoid of weakness .
Orlando stood off to the side , glaring at the silver needle in the tray , his chest heaving with barely contained fury .
He shot the doctor a sharp look . “ Is it poisoned ? ”
The doctor shook his head . “ Don’t worry , it’s not poisoned . Whoever did this knows their acupoints – clearly a professional . ”
After disinfecting and dressing the wound on Russell’s arm , the doctor advised , “ Make sure to get plenty of rest , and avoid putting too much strain on
this arm for now . ”
Russell gave a slight nod . “ Understood . ”
Orlando said , “ Thank you , doctor . ”
The doctor left with the tray .
The ward fell silent . Orlando said coldly , “ Russell , no more waiting . Kill Aria Saxon now .”
A dangerous glint flashed in Russell’s eyes . “ We mustn’t act rashly .”
“ The Solemnity Guild kidnapped Sara – they’re the ones who truly deserve to die , ” said Russell . “ Aria Saxon is a sharp blade we can wield against them saving us a lot of trouble .”
1/2
09:33 Mon , 16 Jun
328
G
Russell was one of the Wolfshade Syndicate’s future leaders .
There was no turning back – retreat meant certain death .
Especially , Olivia was into him .
Olivia’s feelings for Russell were a double – edged sword – they amplified his influence but multiplied his enemies . With the top brass watching , every move became constrained .
Orlando clenched his jaw , hating to admit it but knowing it was true .
Taking out Aria was hard enough – even if they succeeded , they’d just be opening a can of worms .
Russell asked , “ Is she here ? ”
Orlando said , “ As you instructed , I’ve informed her about what happened . ”
“ Russell , ” Orlando asked , “ aren’t you worried Olivia might take Aria Saxon out for good ? ”
A knowing smirk played at Russell’s lips . “ Who will die is still anyone’s guess . Either way , it’s to our advantage . ”
Orlando suddenly remembered something and asked , “ What about Rachel ? Olivia doesn’t seem to be treating her well . ”
“ That’s her fate, ” Russell said calmly , leaning against the headboard . “ For now , keep Rachel’s identity hidden . Aria Saxon doesn’t seem particularly concerned about her . We’ll see if she can be of use later .”
Orlando hesitated for a moment , his expression conflicted . “ Russell , you wouldn’t really … ”
Russell cut him off sharply . “ No. Rachel grew up under our watch – I won’t take her life . ”
Orlando exhaled an almost imperceptible sigh of relief . “ Understood . ”
His phone buzzed . Orlando glanced at the screen . “ Olivia’s here , and she’s brought some of the Wolfshade Syndicate with her
No sooner had the words fallen than Olivia burst in . “ Russell ! ”
Olivia moved to embrace Russell , but Orlando swiftly intercepted her . He cautioned , “ Ms. Remar , Russell is still injured . ”
Olivia’s face darkened murderously as she spat , “ I watched the video . That goddamn bitch ! I’m gonna kill her ! ”
She then snapped with fury , “ Russell , don’t worry . I’ll make her pay for this ! ”
AD