From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 37

The two of them walked into the study together. Aiken really did pull a fancy little bottle of medicine from the drawer and set it down in front of Fabian.

“I picked this up at an auction. It’s for bruises and sprains, so put some on. Now, Fabian, would you mind telling me what actually happened?”

Fabian took the ointment, thanked Aiken politely, and slipped it into his pocket. He left out the bigger details and just explained the main problem he’d had with Laurinda.

“So you’re saying Laurinda hit someone? And then got those people to accuse you instead? I honestly have no idea where she learned to play dirty like that.”

Aiken had never thought much of Laurinda. In his eyes, anyone who couldn’t think for themselves and just bullied others was never going to stir up real trouble.

“Fabian, just leave it to me. I’ll sort this out. She’s got nobody left to rely on now, so getting her out of the picture will be easy. I didn’t want to go that far before, but if she’s asking for it, she can’t blame me for letting go of the past.”

He paused, glancing at Fabian. The aggression in his face faded, and he tried on a more friendly smile.

“Fabian, have you thought about getting engaged to Laura? We’re planning a family party to officially welcome her, and we were hoping to announce your engagement that night. With the Gates family behind her, Laura wouldn’t have to worry about being left out anymore.”

Aiken looked genuinely concerned. “You know Laura grew up way out in the sticks. She’s still not used to life here in Apex, and honestly, every time I see her looking so uncertain, I feel terrible for her.”

Fabian could tell Aiken was trying to make a deal. He didn’t even have to think about it. If it meant helping Laura, he was all in.

He slammed his phone down on the desk, breathing hard and cursing under his breath. “She really went all out this time. Does she seriously think I won’t be able to find her now?”

He took a deep breath and called someone else. His voice was cold and sharp. “Bring Laurinda to the Austin family warehouse. I need to see her.”

When he hung up, Aiken calmed down and looked back at Fabian.

“Fabian, don’t get involved in what happens next. I don’t want the Gates family getting dragged into any bad rumors. I heard things are pretty important for your family right now, so let’s both be careful.”