Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled novel Chapter 573

Half past ten arrived.

A slender figure materialized before me, right on cue. I looked up, and my gaze instantly grew heavy.

Karina stood there, clad in a pale lavender trench coat, a cream turtleneck sweater peeking from underneath, making her face appear even smaller. She carried a Leiber rose handbag, its dazzling jewels somewhat at odds with her otherwise understated attire and makeup.

"Surprised to see me?" Karina sat down across from me, gently placing her purse on the table, her voice dripping with elegance.

"So, you're the famous Mayer?" I was indeed taken aback but quickly regained my composure, responding with a detached smile, "Let's talk."

Karina signaled the waiter and ordered a glass of tap water.

I quietly sipped my champagne, not initiating any further conversation. If Karina was the one holding the patent, perhaps it was time to halt the research project.

But my mom once told me, this project had been in the plans for a long time. Lucas's last decision before he passed was to kickstart this project. It wasn't just about the money; it was about fulfilling Lucas's last wish.

I didn't readily mention giving up on the partnership, not until my champagne was half gone. That's when Karina couldn't hold back any longer, "Why so silent? Your company wants my patent formula, shouldn't you be showing some sincerity?"

"What kind of sincerity are you looking for?" I smirked, my tone laden with light mockery, "Helping you become Mrs. Whitmore, perhaps?"

At my words, Karina's face stiffened, betraying her discomfort. After all, her actions were indeed aimed at marrying Neil.

Her supposed death years ago and returning with another's child as the Whitmore heir were all part of the same scheme.

Neil had an intoxicating allure, akin to a poppy flower, dangerous yet irresistible. Had I not experienced death once, I might still be lost in that obsession.

Whether it was Bonnie or Karina, it seemed all they lacked was a second chance at life.

"Irene, I'm here for a genuine partnership. I only want a licensing fee, there's no need to bring Neil into this. He treats me like a plague now, won't even see me," Karina's smile carried a hint of spite, "Probably all for you. You're quite something."

My expression hardened, "Let's not drag me into this. You know what you've done. If I were a man, I wouldn't want you either. Who would want someone so scheming by their side?"

"All my schemes were for love," Karina retorted boldly, as if love justified all actions, making every wrongdoing forgivable.