Chapter 907:
Rylie tilted her head slightly. “And what’s your take? Do you think they’re well matched?”
Brad said calmly, “It isn’t for us to judge whether they suit each other. That’s their decision to make. From an outsider’s view, I only see your brother taking charge of the Costa Syndicate in Marinth and stepping into his new role as godfather.”
Rylie’s gaze flickered, uncertainty glinting in her eyes.
Brad gave a quiet, knowing laugh. “I’m well aware of that. What I’m saying is that Deandre’s position is dangerous, balanced on a knife’s edge between what’s right and what’s not. Melany, however, is just a college student—innocent and unguarded. Her sweetness is admirable, but can someone like her truly take on the role of a godfather’s woman?”
Within the underworld, such words were no compliment at all. They were an insult in disguise.
“Would Melany really have the strength to earn the mafia’s respect?” Brad went on. “To me, she’s like a lamb surrounded by wolves, blissfully unaware she’s already prey. Rylie, she’s nothing like you.”
In both power and hidden identity, being with Deandre could only bring Melany danger.
Rylie’s voice softened. “So… even if he genuinely loves her, they’re destined to be apart. In the end, he’s only trying to protect her—the same way you once did with me.”
Brad’s faint smile faded, his tone softening into something sincere. “Yes, it’s about protection. But you don’t need me to shield you anymore. You’re incredibly strong, my queen—steady and unshakable by my side.”
The words weren’t meant as flattery. They were spoken with genuine feeling.
Rylie let out a quiet sigh. “I know. It’s getting late. We should get some rest.”
Brad glanced at her through the screen. “When will you be back?”
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“About a week,” Rylie replied.
“Good.” Brad gave a small nod. “Then let’s spend Christmas together.”
Rylie met his gaze. “At your place?”
“It won’t be anything elaborate,” Brad said. “Just a quiet dinner. After that, I’ll come see you, alright?”
Looking into the depth of his dark eyes, Rylie felt an odd tug in her chest. “Alright. Try to get some sleep.”
Brad smiled faintly. “You too. I love you.”
After their goodnights, his gentle voice lingered in the air, carrying a quiet, sincere confession of love.
Rylie remained seated on the couch, her phone still resting loosely in her hand. When she lifted her gaze, the mirror across the room caught her reflection—a soft smile curving her lips, refusing to fade.
For a fleeting moment, she could see the glimmer of tenderness shining back at her from her own eyes.
Over the next two days, Samson, the guide, and several resort staff members drove a jeep through the wilderness, leading Rylie’s team on exhilarating wildlife pursuits.
None of them had ever experienced anything like it—racing across the endless stretch of golden savannah, watching lions hunt, elephants migrate in herds, and giraffes stretch their necks to feed on the treetops.
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