Chapter 12 

Chapter 12 

Living at Kate’s gave me space to breathe. I finally saw how much of my life I’d sacrificed for Adrian Chase. 

I focused on preparing my documents for Milan. Mrs. Chase’s assistant handled everything efficiently, making the process surprisingly smooth. 

Money opens doors, after all. 

Each day, I spotted the familiar black Bentley lurking in the corner of Kate’s neighborhood. 

He thought he was being subtle, but I’d recognize his driver anywhere. Ironic – when I lived with him, I’d be lucky to catch a glimpse of him once a day. 

Now he was more reliable than a timecard, watching from the shadows. 

Late one night, James called. Adrian was having one of his migraines, sweating and calling my name through the pain. 

Could I come back, just this once? 

Before, I would have raced to his side at any hour. Now, I just felt numb. 

“He has painkillers,” I said flatly. 

“Tell him to take more. If it’s that bad, there’s always the hospital. Migraines are a medical condition, not a cry for attention.” 

I hung up and turned off my phone, ignoring the guilt that tried to creep in. 

Days later, Mrs. Chase called to confirm my acceptance to the jewelry design program. 

Everything was arranged – my escape route was clear. 

But of course, there was more. 

“The Monaco Grand Prix is tomorrow,” she said, her tone leaving no room for discussion. 

“Adrian’s performance has been… concerning this week. I need you there, watching. Make sure he wins before you disappear.” 

Her words were polite, but the steel beneath was clear. 

She’d just handed me my future – I owed her this last favor. 

I agreed, knowing tomorrow would be my final performance as Adrian Chase’s support system.