Chapter 1114:
He had known her as the Healing Hand, a figure with a clandestine network on the dark web, dealing with dangerous operatives. What he hadn’t yet realized was that she was VS—the notorious arms dealer with connections worldwide.
Josue’s expression shifted briefly at the sight of Rylie. But with Nightingale and Storm flanking her, her authority was unmistakable.
Despite his considerable influence, Josue inclined his head in subtle deference to the young woman in the wheelchair, silently acknowledging her command.
“Mr. VS,” he addressed her respectfully. “How is your friend?”
Rylie inclined her head slightly. “He’s stable for now. I won’t forget what you’ve done today. If you ever call for me, I’ll answer.”
A faint, knowing smile crossed Josue’s face. “That is more than enough.”
In his world, a promise from the legendary Healing Hand carried more weight than any contract. It was a debt few could ever hope to repay.
Once Josue was gone, Deandre finally exhaled. “So… VS,” he said slowly, “the arms dealer whose influence spans continents. People always said he was untouchable.” He studied Rylie as though seeing her for the first time. “A name you only hear in whispers. And now you’re telling me… that person is my own sister? I can’t believe you are an arms dealer.”
Deandre bent closer, resting his palms against the sides of her chair, awe flickering across his features. “You’re unbelievable.” His voice remained controlled, but the concern in his eyes was unmistakable.
In𝘴𝘁𝘢n𝘵 𝘢𝗰𝗰𝖾𝘀s 𝗼ո 𝗀𝗮𝘭n𝘰𝗏𝖾𝗹s.со𝗆
Rylie offered a faint smile. “Ambition runs in the family. Why should I be any different?”
For a moment, neither spoke. Then he reached out and brushed her hair back gently. “Whatever else happens, all that matters is that you’re safe. By the way, how is Brad?”
After Brad was moved to recovery, Rylie gave Deandre a full account of his condition, holding nothing back.
When he learned Brad’s leg had lost all function, Deandre released a slow breath. He took hold of the wheelchair and guided her toward the exit. “Come home. East Isle has lost their minds. Once he’s stable, I’ll bring him back too. I’ll secure this place.”
Rylie nodded, then paused as a thought surfaced. “How is your research progressing?”
Deandre looked confused. “What research?”
“The organ regeneration and immune-compatible transplantation project,” Rylie clarified.
Deandre recalled discussing the project with her before. “Ever since we caught the traitor, I haven’t been to the lab. Funding’s still coming in, but beyond that, I don’t know how much progress they’ve made.”
He helped Rylie into the armored car and settled beside her. “That project was meant to save Lochlan, but you already healed him. Whether it works or not isn’t a priority anymore. At this point, it’s just a contribution to medical science.”
Rylie wasn’t surprised. She still had the professor’s recommendation letter and was scheduled to visit the Marint headquarters anyway.
“I’ll go and check on it tomorrow,” she said calmly.
Deandre gave her a disapproving look. “Can you take even one day to rest? You keep pushing yourself like you’re indestructible.”
“Brad’s leg…” Rylie began quietly. “Given how things are now, there’s nothing more I can do here.”
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