The Man Who Never Looked Away novel Chapter 240

He enunciated every word. "She trusts you more."

Lavinia thought about it. *Is that true? Does Judith really trust me more than Garnett?*

The lunch meeting was highly productive. They ironed out a few lingering logistical issues, and Lucian provided brilliant, practical solutions.

As they wrapped up, Lavinia reached out to shake his hand. "Thank you, Mr. Roche. I learned a great deal today."

Lucian smiled. "Ms. Joplin, SSA is fully committed to preserving and growing this asset for Mrs. Gilmore. Every cent will be meticulously managed. I look forward to our next meeting."

She smiled back, her eyes bright and genuine.

Stepping out of the SSA offices, she was greeted by the warm afternoon sun.

She took a leisurely stroll down Mayfair Road, savoring the quiet moment.

Completely unaware that, just moments prior during her lunch with Lucian in the garden, someone had been secretly photographing them from afar.

***

Garnett received a call from his father demanding his presence at the Harper family estate for dinner.

As soon as he walked through the doors, something felt incredibly off.

Every sharp corner in the house was covered in baby-proofing foam. The staff moved with exaggerated caution, setting items down silently and speaking in hushed whispers as if terrified of startling someone.

An older housekeeper brought him a drink. Garnett crossed his legs on the sofa and asked, "What kind of circus is running here while I've been away?"

"Nothing is wrong, sir," she replied nervously.

"If nothing is wrong, why is everyone walking on eggshells? Is Zenia causing trouble again?"

Right on cue, Zenia's voice drifted from the hallway. "Look who's back. Forgive me for not greeting you at the door."

Garnett looked up. Zenia was wearing a loose maternity dress and flat shoes, waddling into the room with an insufferably smug expression.

Garnett scoffed. "Expecting a little miracle, Zenia?"

She lowered herself onto the sofa opposite him, dramatically supporting her lower back. "Garnett, you're going to have a new sibling soon. Your father is very anxious, so try not to stress him out. His temper hasn't been great lately."

Garnett's eyes darkened.

If Zenia actually gave birth...

Footsteps echoed from the doorway, followed by a gruff voice. "You're here."

Nestor Harper walked in.

Garnett stood up. "Dad. Why did you call me back?"

"Why?" The older man shot him a furious glare. "Did you know your grandmother plans to leave her entire fortune to Lavinia?"

"Haven't we discussed this?" Garnett replied calmly. "Lavinia is my wife. Giving it to her is the same as giving it to me."

"Is it?" Nestor threw a stack of glossy photographs onto the coffee table. "Look at these before you open your mouth again."

Garnett looked down.

The photos showed Lavinia sitting in a private garden, smiling warmly across a table at a handsome man.

A man Garnett instantly recognized as Lucian Roche.