Chapter 383

 383:
“Hello?”
“Linsey, are you still busy at work? Are you free tonight? If you are, could you drop by Ivy’s? We need to discuss the arrangements for her birthday party.”
“Absolutely, Fernanda,” Linsey replied without hesitation. “I’ll head over right after work.”
Having committed herself to helping with the preparations, Linsey was determined to fulfill her role with care.
After work, Linsey swung by Vista Villa to pick up the bodyguard Collin had assigned to her.
As Linsey arrived at Ivy’s residence, Fernanda stepped out with a bright smile, her enthusiasm almost overbearing.
“Linsey, you’ve arrived!” Fernanda reached forward as if to take Linsey’s hand, but before she could, a tall, imposing bodyguard moved swiftly between them, blocking her path.
“Mrs. Riley.” His voice was calm but firm.
Fernanda’s smile wavered, a flicker of displeasure flashing in her eyes. Even a bodyguard dared to stand in her way now. Collin was getting bolder by the day. A flicker of resentment darkened Fernanda’s gaze. If she wanted her plan to go smoothly, this bodyguard needed to be dealt with.
“Linsey, bringing protection like this—so cautious,” Fernanda said. “I only invited you to talk about the birthday banquet, not to hurt you.”
She then changed the topic and smiled warmly. “You probably haven’t eaten yet. The kitchen’s already prepared something. Why don’t we sit down for a bit?”
Linsey’s voice stayed cool. “That won’t be necessary, Fernanda. Let’s get straight to the point. The sooner we’re done, the sooner I can go home and rest.”
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Fernanda hesitated before forcing a pleasant smile. “Why the rush? There’s plenty of space here—you could stay the night.”
Linsey let out a soft, knowing laugh. “Collin and I just got married. We’re still in our honeymoon phase. I can’t exactly spend the night away, can I? I’m sure you, of all people, would understand.”
Fernanda’s smile stiffened. Her plan had fallen through, but she had no choice but to go along with it.
As Fernanda led Linsey into the living room, she wore a warm smile. “You have an impeccable eye for design. I trust you’ll make Ivy’s birthday banquet unforgettable.”
She gestured to a nearby servant. “Bring Linsey some coffee.”
At the same time, a subtle flicker in her eyes sent an unspoken command.
The servant bowed and stepped away. The bodyguard behind Linsey caught the exchange. His gaze sharpened, tracking the servant’s movements.
Without hesitation, he followed. One sharp glance confirmed his suspicion—the servant was tampering with the coffee.
“What do you think you’re doing?” His voice was ice-cold. His grip was swift and firm as he caught her wrist.
The servant yelped, startled. She quickly masked her panic, forcing a confused expression. “What are you talking about? I’m just making coffee!”
The commotion immediately drew Linsey and Fernanda’s attention.
Fernanda’s tone turned sharp. “What’s going on?”
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