Chapter 249 Total Destruction In truth, the passing of Simon bore a visage of lamentable sorrow. Kate’s fleeting glance was abruptly halted as a commanding hand covering her eyes, Eric’s frigid voice accompanying the gesture: “That suffices.” The constable, having glimpsed Simon’s plight, abstained from further inspection. At Eric’s behest, he swiftly withdrew the white shroud. Kate stood unmoving, yielding to Eric as he screened her vision and guided her from the mortuary. Her heart beat with tranquil ease, touched by a vindictive satisfaction. Simon… this agitator had at last met his reckoning! As Kate beheld the woeful visage of Simon’s remains, no fear gripped her; instead, a strange blend of elation and faint remorse stirred within. Elation, for the rogue Simon had met his end. Remorse, for his demise seemed too swift, too forgiving! In comparison to the tragic fate of her former self, her kin, and Eric, Simon’s passing… was almost gentle, almost fleeting. “Kate, are you well?” Only upon their departure from the mortuary did Eric release his grip on Kate’s eyes, his countenance marked with concern. Kate looked up at Eric, suddenly pinching her own arm, a sharp exclamation escaping her lips as she murmured, “It stings. This is not a dream… Eric had not anticipated her sudden action. He frowned, swiftly lowering her hand, a blend of displeasure and concern in his voice, “Why do you harm yourself?” A luminous smile graced Kate’s face. Without warning, she embraced Eric tightly, her voice trembling as she exclaimed, “Ric, it’s real… Simon is truly gone! Thus had she altered the course of their destinies. Simon now lay deceased before her, his lifeless form a testament to fate’s justice. The very architect of her family’s and beloved’s past tragedies… was no more! Though Simon no longer stirred her heart, memories of their shared past still kindled her ire. Eric was moved yet bewildered, holding Kate close. He, too, discreetly pinched himself. Ouch, it did sting. It was not a dream. Balance: 1404 + 67 @ 1 Coins 1 Pears composed, her cool demeanor not escaping his notice. The present Kate harboured no affection for Simon. Perhaps she deemed his end too merciful. “I’ve long awaited Simon’s end, yet this… it is too forgiving! A wretch like him deserves the depths of hell!” Kate’s voice resonated with cold resolve, eyes gleaming with disdain. “Kate, my dear, let him be.” Eric soothed her with a gentle hand upon her back, his voice soft and calm. “Mm.” Kate nodded firmly, her gaze brightening as she looked at Eric, “Ric, let us return home.” Eric pursed his lips, watching her with a twinge of pleasure in his heart, then inquired, “And Simon’s remains?” Kate replied earnestly, “Burn what must be burned, bury what must be buried. Such filth sickens me. He wasted breath in life and land in death… Listening to Kate’s resolute words, Eric’s lingering resentment dissolved completely. He glanced back at the mortuary, his eyes ablaze with unwavering resolve. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. For a wretch like Simon, it is just As they journeyed back to Summer Estate, Kate hummed a merry tune, her spirits evidently lifted. Eric, steering the way, observed her joyful countenance, a faint smile gracing his lips. When Kate was content, so was he.
Category: Reborn of Kate by Isla Rainfield
Chapter 248 To See or Not to See Kate drew her coat around her shoulders, turning to find Eric seated on the sofa with a countenance as dark as a gathering storm. His presence was heavy, suffused with an air of impending tempest, and he regarded her silently, eyes brimming with profound emotions. Kate hesitated briefly, beholding Eric’s sombre aura, before she ventured, “Ric, won’t you accompany me?” Eric’s fists clenched tightly, his gaze carrying a chill as he responded impassively, “For what reason?” Kate sighed in frustration, then spoke earnestly, “I find it unexpected that Simon has met his end now. Wasn’t he to be released soon? How did he come to a sudden conflict, fatally pierced in the main artery Eric’s tone remained cool, “Why would I know?” Alas, he truly seems angered…. Kate drew nearer, pressing softly against Eric, seeking to kiss him, whispering as their lips met, “Ric, I fneant no other. I merely seek assurance of his departure. In my heart, you alone reside, truly.” Eric pursed his lips, a blend of hurt and frustration marking his expression. He had indeed witnessed her stunned reaction upon learning of Simon’s demise, yet she seemed oblivious to his own troubled state. If she professed no vestige of sentiment for Simon, he could not believe it. Yet Kate’s words held reason; she wished to ascertain Simon’s true passing Yet Kate’s words held reason; she wished to ascertain Simon’s true passing. “Ric, can your anger subside? I erred, I confess.” Kate nestled against him, her voice tender and sincere. Eric’s ire abated somewhat. He gazed helplessly at Kate, who clung to him plaintively, and sighed softly. “We journey to the constabulary, do we not? Let us proceed.” He rose, retrieving his coat, and addressed her with indifference. Kate promptly followed suit. Swiftly they arrived at the police precinct. Though the hour was late, officers remained vigilant. After ascertaining their intent, they were led to the mortuary where the deceased lay. Simon’s form had recently arrived, shrouded in white, resting in serene repose within the morgue. The cloth bore stains of crimson hue. Tha znasıshla – Balance: 1404 + 83 “Yes.” “No.” Simultaneous responses echoed. Yes‘ came from Kate, and ‘No‘ from Eric. The contrary answers perplexed the constable, who hesitated, “Should I unveil Kate’s frosty gaze fixated on the white shroud, her voice cold as she asserted, “Certainly, I wish to see.” She sought witness to Simon’s demise in its full desolation! Perished by the main artery’s piercing? Ah, such swift demise must seem a meagre end for him. Kate’s eyes grew ever colder. Initially inclined to decline, Eric hesitated under Kate’s icy gaze and remained silent. The constable advanced, gently lifting the head, and with gloved hands, revealed Simon’s countenance beneath the shroud. Simultaneously, Eric tightly clasped Kate’s hand. Beneath the pall, a visage contorted and distorted emerged. Simon’s face bore a twisted aspect, eyes wide in horror, a grim gash upon his neck. Blood stained his form, revealing glimpses of trachea and stark white bones through the wound. He was restless in death.
Chapter 247 Simon’s Demise In the waning light of the sitting room, Betty observed the tender entwining of two figures upon the sofa. With the practiced finesse of an experienced stewardess, she silently ushered the retinue of servants out of Summer Estate, leaving the lord and lady to their intimate seclusion. After a considerable span of time, a piercing ring disrupted the lingering ambiance of affection. Blushing, Kate disentangled herself from Eric’s embrace and reached for her phone, answering the call. “Is this Ms. Kate?” intoned a formal voice from the receiver. Kate hesitated briefly before replying, “Indeed, it is I. May I inquire as to whom I am speaking with?” “This is Capital City West Police Station. I am calling to convey news. One of our prisoners, Simon, engaged in a dispute with fellow inmates today and suffered a fatal wound to the main artery. “Please inform us of the time of your arrival for the retrieval of Simon Bishop’s remains. Kate/sat upright with a start, her visage a mask of incredulity. “What? What do you mean? Who has perished? Whose remains must I now collect?” Her voice rose several degrees, grappling with the abrupt and unsettling tidings. Beside her, Eric distinctly discerned the voice emanating from the other end. Witnessing Kate’s reaction, his countenance darkened. Seated alongside her, his mien grew cold as he observed her fielding the call, her fists clenched with a pallid intensity. A torrent of restless emotions surged within him, akin to a dammed river straining against its confines, stifling and uneasy. The voice persisted from the telephone, “Simon left no known kin, and the sole contact he provided upon incarceration was yours, Ms. Lowe.” Kate gathered the requisite details and hung up the phone in a daze, her thoughts a tumultuous haze. Simon had designated her as his next of kin? And now, in his death, she was summoned to claim his mortal remains? For what reason? In a former existence, he had inflicted immeasurable suffering upon her, yet in this life, he met his end in such a manner, leaving her obligated to perform this duty? Was she bound to Simon in some unfathomable debt Eric–sat in silence upon the sofa, enveloped in a chill. He observed Kate, who remained in a stunned. reverie after terminating the call, seemingly unaware of his presence. His frustration deepened. He pursed his lips and inquired casually, “Whose call was that?” Kate snapped from her stupor upon hearing Eric’s voice, her countenance deeply conflicted. “It was the nolice” che hesitated drawing a deen breath “Their informed me Simon has natced and theu rennire Balance: 1404 98 Eric’s complexion darkened further. He regarded Kate in silence for a protracted moment before asking with measured deliberation, “Will you … go?” Kate, still reeling from the shock of Simon’s demise, failed to perceive Eric’s altered demeanour. She responded in a convoluted tone, “Yes,” rising from the sofa and retrieving her coat from a nearby stand, evidently preparing to depart. Eric watched Kate closely, sensing her distress and grappling with a tumult of emotions within himself. Long–suppressed restlessness, anxiety, and ire surged through him. Kate… even now, after all this time, you still harbour concern for Simon? And Simon… he designated Kate as his sole emergency contact? He clenched his fists tightly, nails piercing his palms, blood trickling forth, yet he remained oblivious. The mended fissures of his heart tore open anew, raw and bleeding Aching sorrow pierced him deeply.
Chapter 246 Of Course I Spoil Her In the wake of HN Studio’s turmoil, which had once again ascended the currents of public discourse alongside Davison Group, Kate’s unattended phone and Hendrick’s absence from Capital City a mere week prior led her to speculate he must be engrossed in a significant collaboration or another pressing matter, utterly oblivious to the virtual whirlwind. Moreover, Kate sighed lightly, succinctly reciting the circumstances before gravely addressing her brother, “Hendrick, the matter seems not so simple. I suspect someone may be targeting us, so please exercise caution.” Hendrick paused, a flicker of concern crossing his countenance, as he promptly inquired, “And you, Kate? Are you injured, startled? Should I come to your Across the table, the woman’s eyebrow arched slightly at Hendrick’s earnest tone, a playful glimmer dancing in her eyes as she observed him intently. Detecting the concern in her brother’s voice, Kate reassured him immediately, “I’m unharmed, Hendrick. Just urging you to be vigilant. Proceed with your collaboration without hindrance.” A brief pause ensued before she added, “But, Hendrick, when you return to Capital City, exercise discretion… Hendrick’s features softened, a gentle chuckle escaping him as he replied, “Understood, Kate. I shall return after concluding the collaboration.” Concluding their exchange, Hendrick turned apologetically to the woman opposite him, “My apologies, Ms. Martin, for the delay.” A hint of amusement played on her lips as she regarded Hendrick, I hadn’t realised you were such a doting brother.” Hendrick smiled helplessly, a touch of fondness in his voice, “What can I say? She’s my only sister; naturally, I must indulge her.” Ms. Martin regarded Hendrick thoughtfully, “Your bond with Ms. Lowe is admirable. As for my proposal today, what are your thoughts?” Hendrick nodded affirmatively, “Ms. Martin, your proposal is commendable. Lowe Group is keen to collaborate with Alpha Corporation on this venture. Here’s to a prosperous partnership. With a genteel gesture, he extended his hand towards her. Abigail, meeting his distinctively formed hand and gentle smile, returned a smile of her own, gently clasping his hand as she murmured. “To a prosperous… partnership.” Their hands parted after a fleeting touch. Hendrick withdrew gracefully, rising to his feet, “There are still matters at the office requiring attention. Ms. Martin, I bid you farewell.” Abigail nodded, smiling warmly. “Safe travels to Ms. Lowe.” Balance: 1404 + 115 involuntarily. Hendrick Abigail’s eyes flickered with complex emotions. Taking a deep breath, she quelled the tumult within, retrieving her bag from the nearby chair and departing. Meanwhile, Kate had returned to Summer Estate, greeted by Mrs. Miao’s spread of dishes awaiting their return from toil. Feeling famished, Kate seated Eric at the dining table, dutifully serving him a modest portion of rice. before partaking heartily herself. Nestling into Eric’s embrace, idly caressing his waist, Kate mused. softly, “Ric, who do you suppose is behind all this? They’ve ruined several of my finest garments. It’s intolerable. Capturing her restless hand, Eric sighed inwardly, “Whoever it may be, I shall uncover them and ensure justice for you, Kate.” Kate sat upright, determination etched on her features. “No, I must be the one to bring them to account!” Eric gazed fondly at her resolute countenance, tenderly brushing her lips with his own, his eyes brimming with affection, “Very well, Kate. We shall proceed as you wish.”
Chapter 245 Warning Signs. The engines of the fire brigade arrived with haste, swiftly quenching the inferno that had erupted within those two chambers, while the wounded firefighters were promptly conveyed to the infirmary. Eric’s visage turned frigid, his eyes piercing as he surveyed the turmoil in those ravaged offices. His voice cleaved the air, resolute and imperious, “Investigate this matter thoroughly. If you fail to uncover a lead… then none of you shall retain your posts!” That such a grievous incident as an explosion could transpire within the Davison Group’s sanctum, under his very watch, was beyond comprehension. This was no mere provocation–it was an egregious insult, desecrating the very integrity of his dominion! Lucas’s gaze became intensely grave, swiftly replying. “Yes!” With that, he abruptly turned, leading his contingent to procure surveillance footage and ascertain the truth behind the calamity. Reports of the explosion at Davison Group inevitably surged across the digital ether, yet it failed to kindle a significant tempest. The official communiqué attributed the detonation to a transformer malfunction, exacerbated by the abundance of combustible materials within the premises. Kate’s fingers clenched instinctively upon glimpsing the headlines. It was only upon confirming there were no fatalities that she breathed a sigh of relief. As evening descended, Eric’s vehicle glided steadily to a halt outside HN Studio. Kate slipped into the backseat, her gaze initially tense as she scrutinised Eric, ensuring he bore no harm, before audibly exhaling. “Ric, what precisely occurred? Was it truly a transformer malfunction. that caused the explosion?” Eric nodded gently. “The room’s wiring was antiquated, compounded by excessive electrical load, thus precipitating the explosion. Fear not, Kate.” Kate breathed a sigh of relief, then abruptly recollected something. “By the way, has Miles contacted you? He mentioned an issue with our shipment “Yes, it’s a trifling matter. I’ve dispatched an inquiry.” Eric’s countenance remained composed. He glanced at Kate, hesitating briefly before remarking, “Kate, the current milieu is turbulent. Perhaps you should retreat to the sanctuary of home for a time?” Whether concerning HN Studio’s affairs, the shipment quandary, or Davison Group’s explosion… This sequence of anomalies unequivocally signalled peril. Eric harboured no desire to endanger Kate. Ver unon hearing his words Kate shook her head recoutely Ric I am the CEO of HN Studio and your 131 Balance: 1404 + L She added with resolve. “Moreover, even if I sequester myself at Summer Estate… fate’s decrees shall not be thwarted. I shall endeavour not to impede you and face these trials alongside you.” Kate’s steadfastness shone through in her countenance. Hearing her. Eric sighed softly, his voice tinged with hoarseness. “What fanciful notions! You have never been a hindrance to me.” Kate nestled into Eric’s embrace, then suddenly remembered another matter. “Oh, I wonder if Hendrick is aware of these developments!” She straightened abruptly and dialled Hendrick’s number. After several rings. Hendrick answered, his soothing voice calming her heart. “Kate, what is amiss?” The sound of Hendrick’s voice brought solace to Kate. She swiftly inquired. “Where are you presently, Hendrick?” Hendrick, seated in a coffee emporium, sat upright at her query. A faint smile graced his lips replied. “I am ensconced in a coffee emporium, engrossed in a collaboration.” as he Opposite him sat a woman clad in casual black attire, observing Hendrick with keen interest, a faint smile playing upon her lips. Upon hearing this, Kate swiftly continued, “Hendrick, do remember to augment your retinue of guards when venturing out. The current climate is fraught with danger, so do exercise caution!” Hendrick’s expression turned grave instantly, and he asked softly, “Kate, has something untoward occurred?”
Chapter 244 An Explosion In the quietude of his villa within Capital City, Miles discerned the distant echoes that stirred the tranquil air. He paused, contemplative, before venturing to inquire, “What manner of sound was that, moments past?” It resonated akin to an explosion, not distant from muse! In his sanctum, Miles heard, too, two subdued reverberations. “Let us set that matter aside for now; I shall terminate our discourse,” Kate swiftly interjected, abruptly concluding their conversation. The counsel offered by Miles regarding HN Studio found no purchase in Kate’s mind, wholly eclipsed by a singular fixation–news of an explosion at Davison Group. What of Eric? Was he unscathed, unharmed? No, she resolved, she must proceed to Davison Group forthwith; only upon sighting Eric safe and sound could she find solace. Kate’s countenance pallid, she clutched her device and descended the stairs in haste. The denizens of HN Studio, too, were unsettled by the antecedent blasts, observing Ms. Lowe’s pallor as she hurried downwards, her assistant quick to offer support. “Oh, my God, Ms. Lowe, what happened…‘ Before the query reached full utterance, Kate instinctively sought to withdraw, but as her hand rose, the device summoned her attention. It was Eric, reaching out via video link. Kate’s heart leapt to her throat as she swiftly authorised the connection. What greeted her gaze was Eric, besuited. “Ric…” Kate’s voice trembled. Witnessing her pallor and trepidation, Eric’s heart constricted. Softly, he reassured her, “Don’t worry, Kate. Look, I am OK. He widened the viewport to reveal himself within his office, untouched by the calamity, unblemished. Kate’s racing heart gradually steadied; her eyes now suffused with tears. “As long as you are unharmed… Eric regarded Kate with tender concern, gently coaxing, “Remain at HN Studio, my dear? I will tend to this matter and meet you at the end of the day.” Pausing, he added, “Don;t worry; I won’t cause unnecessary problem.” “Very well,” Kate softly assented, her gaze no longer insistent upon departure yet still moist with emotion. Balance: 1404 + 149 Group, her presence might only exacerbate matters. It was prudent, therefore, for her to remain ensconced within her office. Having concluded their exchange, Kate gripped her device and ascended the stairs: Observing her improved demeanour, the assistant and the studio’s denizens breathed easier, though their gaze occasionally flickered anxiously towards Davison Group, harbouring unvoiced apprehensions. that had precipitated the explosion there? Meanwhile, amidst the confines of Davison Group Eric stood, countenance stoic. Lucas had swiftly descended to investigate, the security retinue hastening to the afflicted floors. Fire brigades and emergency services were en route. The detonation had transpired within two contiguous chambers upon the seventeenth level. Emerging from the lift, Eric beheld Lucas marshalling the disoriented employees of that floor, their visages pallid with shock as they beheld the conflagrated chambers. Some had already taken up extinguishers in a bid to quell the burgeoning flames What happened?” Eric’s query was curt, his gaze unyielding upon Lucas. Straightening promptly. Lucas replied, “Mr. Eric, it appears a transformer malfunctioned, instigating the explosion. The rooms harboured sundry documents and inflammable materials, hastening the fire’s spread. Mercifully, none were within when it occurred, and we have temporarily stemmed its advance…” Yet as Lucas spoke, another resounding blast rent the air! Boom! A searing torrent of flames surged forth from the conflagrant chambers, hurling back those valiant souls striving to extinguish them. Some stumbled and fell, their garments ignited, their anguished cries mingling with the crackle of flames. In an instant, Eric’s gaze turned glacial, a mask of unyielding resolve settling upon his countenance.
Chapter 243 Stay Put Kate paid little heed to the ebb and flow of public opinion online, leaving the aftermath to the capable hands of HN Studio’s public relations team. Her focus now lay elsewhere- uncovering the identity of the woman linked with Leslie. Directing her driver straight to the precinct, Kate maintained her vigilance. George’s convalescence at Summer Estate necessitated a different chauffeur today. Naturally, a retinue of discreet bodyguards ensured her safety on every outing. Upon reaching the police station, Kate swiftly articulated her intent. The incident involving Leslie and the assault on HN Studio intertwined, compelling her to delve deeper into the revelations gleaned from the interrogation, asserting her rights as a victim. Recent submissions of evidence had unearthed a substantial 150 thousand deposited into Leslie’s account. Leslie, a nomadic figure eking out a living from sporadic jobs, unmarried and without children, had suddenly amassed this suspicious windfall, routed from overseas. In the austere confines of the interrogation room, a police officer fixated an icy glare upon Leslie, who remained impassive in her chair. With an authoritative tone, he demanded, “Leslie, explain the source of the 150 thousand in your account.” Leslie nonchalantly scanned her surroundings, retorting, “I earned it myself! Envious, are we? I’ve no intention of divulging my methods.” The officer’s countenance hardened, rapping the table emphatically. “Disclose! This money’s origins. are dubious. Fail to explain… Leslie hesitated briefly before rolling her eyes. “I earned it myself.” The officer scoffed tersely. “Those individuals confessed you paid them to disrupt HN Studio. What was your motive?” After posing the query, the officer scrutinized Leslie intently. Momentarily rattled, Leslie quickly regained her composure, rolling her eyes. “What’s wrong with disliking her? HN Studio’s flush with cash; I sought to exploit it. What’s the harm? “Twas a simple desire for money.” The officer slammed the table decisively. “Come clean!” Leslie protested vehemently, “I’m telling the truth!” Observing Leslie’s unyielding stance, the officer regardled her stoically before departing. Kate had anticipated Leslie’s obfuscation. Now, she awaited the outcome of the police inquiry. Efforts to identify the enigmatic woman associated with Leslic proved futile. Evading detection, she maintained fleeting interactions and an intimate knowledge of the local surveillance annearing and 1404 +167 Balance: Back at HN Studio, Kate had barely settled when Miles’s urgent call interrupted her thoughts. “Miles?” Kate raised an eyebrow. “What’s amiss?” Miles’s voice was grave and brisk. “Muse, there’s been a mishap with our collaborative shipment. Eric informed me of brewing trouble at your end. He sent me to apprise you. Stay put at HN Studio; avoid venturing out.” Kate paused. “Trouble with the shipment?” Miles chuckled sardonically, a tone unfamiliar to Kate. “Indeed, blame’s being laid at my door. If I don’t remind them of my prowess, they might forget how formidable I am, muse!” “Muse, stay put at HN. Kyle’s team will arrive shortly! Kate’s heart skipped a beat. “And Ric?” Milés chuckled again. “No need to fret about Eric’s end…. Before Miles could finish, a deafening explosion resonated through the phone! Clutching the receiver tightly, Kate rose swiftly and hurried to the floor–to–ceiling window, peering towards the Davison Group edifice. From within one of its rooms, billowing smoke and flickering flames painted a grim tableau. Another explosion thundered forth! Kate’s eyes widened in shock!
Chapter 242 Out of Court In a circle around Kate, a group of individuals spoke in a tumultuous chorus. “It was Leslie who led us into this. We were in the dark; we merely followed her bidding!” “Is this unlawful? Had I known, I’d never have engaged. I do apologise!” “Yes, indeed, it’s all Leslie’s doing. We were just her puppets.” Kate regarded these swiftly contrite souls with a cold gaze, her eyes icy and impassive. It was evident that the Leslie they mentioned was the one taken away by the constabulary, the most vocal instigator and the woman who had turned to violence. “Ms. Lowe, we never intended to defy you purposely. By the by, Leslie claimed she knew your establishment lacked surveillance, hence our impudence. Apparently, someone dismantled it.” The group cast wary glances at Kate, none desiring imprisonment or a mark on their records over these trifles, especially under Leslie’s influence. “And what else do you know?” Kate’s indifferent gaze swept over them, her tone even cooler. “Leslie was quite ordinary before, but of late, she’s flush with cash, squandering it freely. Her funds must be from shady sources!” “I’ve seen another woman frequently visiting Leslie. Since Leslie is unwed and childless, that woman must be up to something!” “I know where Leslie resides. Ms. Lowe, shall I escort you there to find proof?” Mr. Forester sighed wearily, massaging his brow. He hadn’t anticipated their swift capitulation and disclosure with so few words. Turning to Kate, he inquired softly, “Ms. Lowe, how do you wish to proceed with this?” These matters, though not insubstantial, could be regarded as disputes. Despite their disruption at HN Studio, no substantial harm had been wrought. Fundamentally, they could be resolved amicably in private. Yet, should Kate decline a private resolution, they would be compelled to intervene. Casting a glance at the group, Kate murmured gently. “It’s a minor affair. I shall settle this privately with them.” Mr. Forester nodded. With their differences settled on the spot and Kate’s permission for them to depart granted, the group dispersed like startled rabbits, each fleeing as though fearful Kate might retract her leniency. had diermerad shamsaluei Jau “Chauldus beama katta= +| Balance: 1404 + 183 Chapter 242 Out of Court Finished Kate dear. If he learns of this, with his ruthless nature we’re done for.” “Such frugality has proven an expensive folly. These cruptions upon my skin bear the weight of truth!” “Indeed! Never again shall Leslie gain our trust!” Having vented their frustrations at Leslie for a considerable span, the group dispersed. Kate did not linger on this minor episode. Yet, as she unlocked her mobile device, she was abruptly confronted by an explosion of activity across the internet! Surveying the deluge of messages on her screen with a furrowed brow, Kate maintained an outward composure. Numerous voices online were stoking the flames, asserting that HN Studio’s attire had flunked rigorous quality examinations, labelling their merchandise as flawed. Some even circulated videos depicting Leslie and her cohorts in the throes of confrontation. In sum, the digital realm resounded with censure, punctuated by demands for reimbursements. Without delay, Kate captured images of the two test reports, disseminating them via HN Studio’s sanctioned social media platform, imparting a lesson in discernment. Her post featured intricate visuals, guiding the audience in distinguishing authentic HN Studio garments from their counterfeit counterparts.
Chapter 241 Why Are You Running The conclusion unfolded precisely as Kate had foreseen. Upon hearing the technician’s revelation, a surge of excitement propelled the group to their feet, their voices directed urgently towards Mr. Forester, the nearby police officer. “Mr. Forester! Did you hear that? These garments are flawed, the chemical compositions exceed safe limits! Wearing them has caused us rashes!? “I reckon this is no longer a jest? Kate, you owe us an explanation!” “Yeah! Refund us and compensate, or we’ll expose you!” Their outcry brimmed with indignation, their accusatory glares fixed firmly upon Kate. “What proof do you have that these clothes came from us?” Kate’s countenance remained composed as she surveyed the tumult. “Are you so parsimonious, you refuse to part with your coin even if to improve your act by a fraction?” “Why do you mock us? Our rashes are real, a consequence of wearing your clothes!” They persisted obstinately, casting themselves as victims and persisting in implicating HN Studio. Kate casually lifted a garment, gently shaking it before speaking deliberately. “While this garment’s design and cut mirror ours, the replication may have overlooked our intricate details.” A fleeting hush descended upon the group. At that instant, Kate’s assistant, with a steely demeanour, produced an identical HN Studio garment, tauntingly remarking, “Each HN Studio piece bears a subtle inner pattern–our insignia. Imperceptible under normal conditions, yet revealed in sunlight from certain angles.” “Observe, like so.” The assistant smirked, unfurling the garment to display the logo shimmering in the sun–an unmistakable mark of HN Studio! Simultaneously, Kate turned the garment she held, her smile betraying an icy edge. “Behold, this one is counterfeit, devoid of our hallmark.” A moment of silence ensued, broken swiftly by a retort from one of the group, “Your deceive! I purchased these from your website, they are yours. Now that issues arise, you seek to absolve yourself, do you not?” “She deflects accountability! Clearly, these garments are from HN Studio, yet she claims them false. Perhaps they traffic in counterfeit wares.” Weary of their stubborn denial, Kate promptly handed her evidence to Mr. Forester. “Mr. Forester, here is a comprehensive dossier. These are all counterfeits, confirmed by the testing facility–even the fabrics differ from ours.” She unveiled ver another dossier of Test reports “Rehold the assessment of our garment on sale ΠΠ Chapter 241 Why Are You Running Finished Mr. Forester scrutinised the twin documents in his grasp, then directed an icy gaze upon the assembly. “Have you been instigated by another to wilfully foment discord? If proven so, HN Studio may seek redress, marking you with a stain upon your record.” Witnessing the tide of events turning against them, an individual promptly attempted flight, only to be swiftly intercepted by the vigilant security personnel whom Kate had summoned. Kate regarded thein with a wry smile, her voice tranquil yet pregnant with unspoken coercion. “Were you not resolute a moment ago in your accusations? Why now this flight, burdened by guilt?” Her words carried a soft cadence, yet bore an unmistakable gravity. As the security detail closed ranks with austere countenances, and Mr. Forester stood disapprovingly aside, one among their number could restrain themselves no longer. “I confess! Leslie bid us to this endeavour. She supplied us with the very garments!” “She assured us it was mere theatre. Upon its conclusion, a hundred and fifty dollars each was to be our recompense–hence, we followed her lead!”
Chapter 240 Visit To The Testing Agency The matronly figure faltered in the face of Kate’s inquiry, her countenance awash with perplexity. “I… Before she could conclude her thought, Kate interjected sharply. Kate’s gaze turned glacial as she regarded the middle–aged woman, turning to address the constabulary, “Officers, I harbour suspicions that she is implicated in the defacement of my establishment. How else would she be privy to its vandalisation and the absence of surveillance? And now she stirs up a fracas here?” The constables nodded, eyeing the woman with suspicion. “Madam, kindly accompany us for questioning. Upon hearing this, the middle–aged woman narrowed her eyes sharply. “Why must I accompany you? I’ve committed no offence! Look at my arms, afflicted with rashes from their garments. Their attire is defective! It’s not only me, but them too!” “You don’t believe me? You distrust all these folk?” The middle–aged woman gestured aggressively towards the group. “Very well, if you insist it’s our garments at fault, we have retrieved all the apparel. Let us submit them. for examination at an accredited agency, Kate remarked with a hint of levity. She regarded the middle–aged woman with a half–smile, continuing in measured tones. “Yet each garment of ours bears a certificate of inspection, the fabrics are standard, and the craftsmanship meticulous. I wonder if the garments you have brought are indeed ours.” Those on the verge of protest fell silent, exchanging glances before returning their focus to the middle- aged woman. Clearly, she was their ringleader. The middle–aged woman’s visage darkened. Before she could retort, Kate calmly retrieved her mobile phone, swiftly accessing the store’s CCTV footage and passing it to the investigating officers. The surveillance recording vividly captured the carlier disturbance caused by this group, particularly highlighting the middle–aged woman’s unprovoked assault on the assistant. The evidence was unequivocal–a verbal altercation culminating in physical aggression. The middle–aged woman watched the CCTV footage, her complexion paling. “How is this possible? Your establishment couldn’t possibly possess CCTV!” Kate’s expression turned even colder. “Are you absolutely certain there’s no CCTV in my store? Was it you who tampered with my equipment before? Do you comprehend the cost of such devices? Damaging my property entails financial liability.” The middle–aged woman glared. Do not falsely accuse me! I did not cause any damage. Why should I bear responsibility?” Chapter 240 Visit To The Testing Agency Finished further investigation. We suspect your involvement in the burglary at HN Studio.” Graham, commanded the young constable with prompt authority, “accompany Ms. Lowe and her associates to the testing establishment. Await the findings.” “Understood,” Graham replied crisply. Amidst the middle–aged woman’s vociferous protests she was swiftly ushered into a waiting police vehicle and taken into custody. With the instigator of the disturbance removed, the remaining individuals exchanged nervous glances. Their eyes flitted between Kate’s resolute countenance, the assembled staff of HN, and the vigilant security detail. Subconsciously swallowing their objections, they refrained from further provocations. and proceeded solemnly towards the testing premises Outside the laboratory, Kate stood composed amidst the tension. The troublemakers huddled in the shadows of a nearby copse, stealing furtive glances at her. When Kate turned her gaze towards them, they hastily averted their eyes in apprehension. Indeed, Kate’s decisive recourse to physical intervention had left them astonished. The testing process was expedited, and within two hours, the results were delivered into Kate’s custody: The technicians, their demeanour serious, regarded Kate with solemnity. “The batch of garments submitted for examination–none meet the required standards of quality. The materials, dyes, and other chemical constituents all exceed the permissible limits.”