?Chapter 397:


    “William, could you close the window? It’s a bit chilly.” Willow’s voice, soft and a little too sweet, drifted through the wind and reached Ste’s ears—distant, yet unmistakable.


    A secondter, the window on William’s side slid shut, cutting off thest thread of connection between them.


    Ste looked away, turning back to the view outside her own window, trees and buildings blurring past. Her mind drifted back to the conversation she’d had with William when they left the warehouse.


    So, he was investigating on Willow’s behalf. Which meant… today, they were both here for the same reason—tracking down Nixon’s old partner. When they reached the port, both cars came to a stop at the same time.


    The wind by the water was sharp, and Ste instantly regretted wearing something so light. She rubbed her arms against the chill. Before she could even shiver properly, Shaun had already draped his coat over her shoulders.


    “Keep it on. I’m fine,” he said casually.


    The warmth from his coat wrapped around her like a nket.


    Willow watched the small exchange, her lips curving into a thoughtful smile. “William, don’t you think Ms. Gilbert and Mr. Smith make a great couple?” she said lightly.


    William’s face shifted ever so slightly. A strange tightness settled in his chest.


    Great couple? How long had they even known each other?


    He let out a quiet “mm” in response.


    Willow caught the subtle change in his expression but didn’t push.


    Ste wasn’t there to admire the waterfront. She tugged on Shaun’s sleeve.


    “Let’s go find that partner first.”


    Shaun nodded and followed her down a path.


    Not far behind, Willow turned to William. “Should we take a different route?” She figured he’d rather avoid trailing behind those two.


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    William nodded, adjusting course with her—but his eyes lingered on Ste for a moment longer before looking away.


    Ste had no photo of the man they were looking for—just a vague description from Finley’s daughter.


    “She said he’s in his thirties, blue eyes, tanned skin,” she told Shaun as they walked.


    Shaun listened quietly, nodding asionally.


    He already knew who the guy was—but he let Ste take the lead, acting as if he didn’t.


    “There are some office buildings up ahead. Let’s check them first,” Ste suggested.


    The buildings by the water had a sleek, modern look. She expected some sort of keycard system, but the front door was wide open. The first floor was empty.


    “Shouldn’t apany this big have at least a security guard?” Ste muttered. Even her research institute had multiple security checkpoints.


    “Maybe it’s because it’s the weekend,” Shaun said, taking her hand and gently leading her inside.


    Ste didn’t resist, letting him guide her.


    She looked around cautiously but didn’t spot anything unusual.


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