Amid curious stares, Hannah settled into Maloney’s car.


    Thunk!


    She slid into the seat and shut the door.


    Joselyn, her Lips pressed together, looked a tad uneasy.


    Beside her, Amelie caught Hannah’s departure and quipped, “Well, isn’t that something? Maloney’s ying chauffeur for her!”


    ncing at Joselyn, Amelie sneered, “Are you clueless? Didn’t I warn you? Seems like it went in one ear and out the other!”


    Joselyn quickly assured, “Mother, I get it… I won’t go against you.


    ”


    She stole a nce at Wace, who seemed oblivious to their conversation.


    Then, in a hushed tone, Joselyn murmured, “It’s a shame.


    Maloney’s the sharpest tool in the Pierce shed.


    Doubt they’ll let him slip away that easy.


    ”


    “Humph I”


    Watching the fast sports car ahead, Amelie’s eyes gleamed with icy determination.


    “I’ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve to keep Maloney from inheriting the Pierce empire.


    Stick to my n, and you’ll be the pride of the Compton n and the bride of the Pierce heir.


    ”


    Joselyn nodded meekly, her gaze downcast.


    “I’ll do as you say, Mom.


    ”


    In the neighboring car, after they’d driven a good distance, Hannah nced at Maloney, behind the wheel.


    “What’s the deal with you fetching me? Everybody from the Compton crew saw you.


    ”


    Maloney gripped the steering wheel, cryptic.


    “I can’t spill the beans just yet.


    ”


    He shot Hannah a knowing look.


    “It’s a surprise.


    You’ll see when we get there.


    ”


    “Is this supposed to be a mystery?” Confusion clouded Hannah’s face as she nced at Maloney.


    “The Lyons are throwing their party today.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Please, no drama.


    ”


    “Me, cause trouble?” While driving, Maloney offered her a reassuring nce and said, “Rx.


    I won’t let any trouble find its way to you.


    ”


    Hannah let out a skepticalugh, her hand resting thoughtfully on her chin.


    “That’s a tough one to swallow.


    ”


    They sped away from the bustling city streets.


    Outside a car center, Maloney brought the car to a gentle stop.


    Hannah stepped out, her confusion evident.


    “What are we doing here?”


    With a motion of his hand, Maloney encouraged, “Come on, let’s go in.


    ”


    Upon entering, Hannah’s gaze fell on a single car under the spotlight.


    There stood a Bugatti, its appearance breathtakingly transformed with a coat of dark red.


    Its sleek lines and curves demanded attention.