Chapter 24
After getting out of the airport, Celeste first hopped into a private car and
ended up staying at a little inn in the nearby town for a couple of days.
She had over five thousand bucks in cash on her. All the way she only chose.
less–traveled county roads and budget–friendly B&B.
Everything went smoothly. Nobody came looking for her.
On the fourth day in town, she started feeling uneasy. If Kendric got wind that she’d taken a private car, he’d definitely figure out where she was headed and could easily track her down in this town
So, on the fifth day, she hailed another car and headed to a touristy town in the neighboring city.
After a few bus changes, she wound up in a place called Autumn River
Town.
It was a tourist town with stunning scenery, but it wasn’t exactly a household name. Except for the few days when the maple leaves turned fiery red in the fall, the rest of the year was pretty much the slow season for tourism.
Celeste had once came here to paint from life. Back then, the hills were painted a vibrant red by the maple leaves, and although she only stayed for two nights, this place left an indelible impression on her.
She picked this town for her hideout not just because she knows the lay of the land but also because it’s super affordable. Right now, she can’t risk using her bank card, and cash is running low.
Down by the river, there are plenty of rustic guesthouses, no ID required, and it’s just thirty bucks a night. Celeste found a friendly–looking couple and
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rented a room for three days. She got herself a new phone to stay off the radar.
During the daytime, she’d wander around the nearby tourist spots to avoid
causing suspicions.
This peaceful life lasted for ten days.
In Melville’s villa.
Cade had been here three times to give updates, but each time, there’s been no progress. Kendric’s face gets darker with his every visit.
“I’ve given you ten days.”
Cade’s name of “the best hunter” almost got ruined by Celeste. He’d practically figured out her escape route based on the security footage, but frustratingly, he couldn’t locate her.
Cade rubbed his nose. “give me a bit more time. She’s a wily one, and she can hide.”
“You only get three more days.”
“I’ve narrowed down her location to a city. Right now, I’m on the hunt.”
Kendric’s finger tapped on the table, “inform me if you get any leads.”
me?”
Cade cautiously ventured, “boss, what if she refuses to come back with
“And I need to teach you that?” Kendric said coldly.
Cade’s smile froze. He knew Kendric meant it this time. The imply in his words was crystal clear – Cade’s methods could be
Cserter 24
“I got it.”
Mary was still downstairs, and Cade told her this information.
Mary gasped, “is he really thinking that way? Celeste has already made up
her mind to leave, and his actions will only make her more determined.”
“He’s definitely a silly boy when it comes to love.” Cade shook his head. –
Mary was at a loss for words. She couldn’t help but think that if things went
south, she’d have to report it to Kendric’s grandfather, Mr. Caleb Melville.
Celeste had settled sown in Autumn River Town for over a month, and during this time, things had been at peace.
Aside from the text she sent her father on the day she left the airport, she didn’t contact anyone.
A month of tranquil living had made her lower her guard. That morning, she couldn’t resist picking up the phone and giving her dad a call.
Myles was receiving some agricultural experts. He chuckled apologetically
to the experts, “my daughter’s call, excuse me for a moment.”
Myles found a quiet spot outside, “Cely, what’s up?”
Celeste had been worrying that Kendric might directly go find her father. She had held her fear and anxiety in check for an entire month, but she couldn’t keep it in any longer.
“Nothing, dad, I just miss you.”
“I’m doing great! We’ve got some agriculture experts at the farm I’ve been
working day and night with them for the past few days on new planting
techniques, so I haven’t even had a chance to call you.”
Celeste sensed something was off, “agriculture experts?”
Myles explained, “they brought in some new seedlings, and we plan to
crossbreed them with our local citrus. We’re in the middle of experiments, so
I’m really busy”
Celeste had a nagging feeling that something was wrong but couldn’t quite put her finger on it. She cautioned sky dad, just make sure you take breaks Take good care of yourself *
Myles agreed with a chuckli
Right that evening, Rendite managed to track downs Celeste’s location
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working day and night with them for the past few days on new planting
techniques, so I haven’t even had a chance to call you.”
Celeste sensed something was off, “agriculture experts?”
Myles explained, “they brought in some new seedlings, and we plan to crossbreed them with our local citrus. We’re in the middle of experiments, so I’m really busy.”
Celeste had a nagging feeling that something was wrong but couldn’t quite put her finger on it. She cautioned, “okay, dad, just make sure you take breaks. Take good care of yourself.”
Myles agreed with a chuckle.
W
Right that evening, Kendric managed to track down Celeste’s location.
