Khloe's words were sharp and decisive. She finished speaking and gave Delilah no time to respond, turning on her heel and leaving with swift, unwavering steps.
Delilah watched Khloe's retreating figure and finally understood why Ralph was so drawn to her.
By the time Khloe returned to the hotel, the sun had long since set.
Midway back, she suddenly instructed Lenny to change course, driving straight to the stretch of road where the bus carrying her and Nick had met disaster. Lenny hesitated at first, unwilling to go, but Khloe was resolute. Even if he refused, she would have someone else take her there.
The past few days had weighed heavily on him. Nick had always treated him with kindness, and Lenny had long considered him a dear friend. Now that Nick was in danger, Lenny's only thought was to protect his widow.
Night had fallen by the time they reached the area. The scenic mountain road was now clear, the scene of the previous tragedy long cleaned. Only a few charred patches remained on the pavement, jagged reminders of what had happened.
Khloe stepped out of the car. Lenny quickly brought two accompanying bodyguards alongside.
She approached the exact spot where the bus had stopped, crouching to touch the ground.
They hadn't intended to come this far initially, so they hadn't brought many people. Even now, though the incident had passed, the organization responsible had not been captured—safety was not guaranteed.
After a moment, Lenny reminded her gently, "It's cold tonight. Please take care of yourself. And it's not safe to stay out too late."
Khloe ignored him, frowning as she examined the ground. After a long moment, she straightened and strode forward, determination in every step. Lenny hurried to keep pace.
For half an hour, she pressed on through the winding mountain paths. Ahead, the trail narrowed, twisting through dense forest, leading into areas that seemed far more dangerous.
"Madam, Mr. Remington has already had people search this way. Ahead is a cliff—there's no path," Lenny said, concern breaking his tone. He knew what she was hoping to find. She hadn't given up.
After a long moment, she nodded. She lifted her eyes toward the nearly full moon, letting its light wash over her, and closed them in silent prayer.
If the heavens still held mercy, even a miracle would suffice—could Nick be returned to her? She would give ten years of her own life, but not his. She would not trade his life for her own.
"Madam…" Lenny spoke again.
Khloe finally turned, reluctant, her steps heavy as she returned to the car.
The next morning, as she left the hotel, a sudden unease gripped her chest. She glanced back, as if once again sensing Nick's presence.
"Khloe," Arista murmured softly, reading her thoughts. She slipped her arm through Khloe's, lending quiet strength.

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