From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 28

“I… I really don’t know. I’ve only talked to her once since I got to Apex. I… I don’t know where she is.”

Aiken could tell Laura wasn’t lying. He finally let her go, settling onto the couch with a cigarette dangling from his lips, refusing to even glance at Laura as she sat on the floor, struggling to catch her breath.

“When I sent someone to get your mother, she’d already vanished. Tomorrow, you’re going to help me transfer every last share of the Austin family to my name. Remember this, Laura. You’re my daughter, always. You’ll do what I say. Don’t even think about reaching for things that aren’t meant for you.”

Aiken got up and walked over to her, crouching down until they were eye to eye. He pressed the burning end of his cigarette against her ankle and smiled, his expression sending a chill down her spine.

“If you want to keep your spot as Laurinda, you better find your mother and bring her to me. The only way you’ll be safe is if she keeps her mouth shut. Otherwise, one day she might tell everyone you’re my illegitimate daughter, and then your life will be even worse than it is now…”

Laura froze, barely breathing. She didn’t dare make a sound, just nodded as hard as she could.

She knew exactly what kind of man Aiken was—cold, ruthless, and always true to his word. The moment she stopped being useful, he’d make her life unbearable.

“And about you and Fabian. Make sure the Gates family holds your engagement party before New Year’s. The Austin Group needs their support.”

“I understand.” Laura’s voice was small, but steady. Marrying Fabian was what she wanted too. He was the only way out of the mess she was stuck in.

Satisfied, Aiken stood. He nudged Laura aside with his foot, swung the door open, and walked out like nothing had happened, instantly slipping back into the cautious, harmless persona everyone thought they knew.

Laura hugged her knees to her chest and started to cry, her hatred for Laurinda growing stronger with every shaky breath.

“Laurinda, why don’t you come home with me? It’s no fun being here at school by yourself.”

Shirley knew Laurinda had left the Austin family. She was a real friend, so she never brought it up to hurt her, but she hated the thought of Laurinda being alone.

Laurinda smiled, touched by her kindness. “I might have left the Austin house, but I’m not homeless. I have a doctor’s appointment later, so you don’t need to worry.”

Shirley grinned, reassured. “Alright, as long as you have plans, I won’t worry. But Laurinda, my door is always open. If anyone messes with you, we’ll sic Coco on them.”

“Deal. Now don’t just lie there, get up and pack your stuff. Want me to walk you out?”