The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 422

In the backyard stood a towering ginkgo tree, beneath which sat a stone table etched with a chessboard.

Payton reached out, his fingers tracing the cold stone of the board with a look of reminiscence. "When Paulina was a child, she often sat here playing chess with her father."

He lifted his head to "look" at Leilani. Despite his empty, sightless eyes, Leilani felt an intense sensation of being scrutinized.

"Leilani, Paulina didn't choose you as her apprentice by accident," he said, his voice raspy but articulating every word clearly. "She valued not only your talent but your character."

Leilani remained silent for a moment before finally asking the question that had been plaguing her. "What exactly is your relationship with Paulina?"

Payton smiled. The scar across his face contorted hideously, yet his expression remained surprisingly gentle. "Does that matter to you?"

"It does," Leilani nodded. However, she knew Payton wouldn't reveal the full truth until she completed his challenge. She walked over to the ginkgo tree, her fingertips brushing against the rough bark. "I will complete your challenge. When I do, you just need to keep your promise. I’ll learn what I need to know then."

Payton nodded and turned his wheelchair to face her, offering an unexpected incentive. "I brought you here today to tell you something. As Paulina’s apprentice, you may not have Cheney blood, but you are a disciple of the family. If you cure me, this estate... will be yours."

He paused, his tone turning solemn. "But remember, inheriting this place means inheriting Paulina’s mission as well."

Leilani raised an eyebrow. "What mission?"

Instead of answering directly, Payton countered with a question. "Do you know why Paulina was sent to prison?"

Leilani faltered. During their years in prison, Paulina rarely mentioned her past. The only thing Leilani knew was that Paulina had voluntarily entered prison for "illegal medical practice."

Payton seemed to guess her thoughts and let out a cold laugh. "Illegal practice? Hah... that was just her excuse."

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