When Josie came out of the room, Justin had already smoked half a pack of cigarettes. Upon seeing her, he followed and asked, “What’s the situation?”
“She’s still preparing herself mentally. It will take some time,” Josie said as she walked away. Ruby’s reaction just now was unclear, even after hearing such significant news.
“Ms. Warren, excuse me for being direct, but even if Rachel really did all these things, what does it have to do with me? She was once my best friend. If she’s doing well, why should I betray her?”
After listening, Josie turned her head in confusion. “It seems you truly have no compelling reason to help me.”
Ruby fell silent.
“But as far as I know, you’re already married, and your husband had a car accident six months ago. Your family is drowning in debt, and your only child is still in kindergarten. The future, including living expenses and education, seems very challenging. Does Rachel know about all this?”
Ruby pursed her lips. Song YouRan had become a wealthy heiress. She wished to sever all ties with her past, so how could Rachel possibly be aware and offer help?
“Even so, I have no reason to betray her.”
“Five million and a house in the city,” Josie decided quickly.
Ruby frowned deeply. “I…”
“It’s worth it, isn’t it? This money is enough for you to pay off your debts and live a good life, Ms. Langdon. You shouldn’t refuse for the sake of your family and children.”
“You… why are you…”
“I have compelling reasons to do so.”
Josie remembered the conflicted look in Ruby’s eyes before she left and knew everything was settled. Five million was more than enough to buy out her so-called friendship.
Stepping out of the inn, Josie opened the car door. Just as she was about to get in, she received a phone call. She answered it without saying a word.
“Ms. Warren, I will help you.”
Josie smiled, gesturing to Justin beside her. “Take her back to Rivodia now to gather evidence.”
Justin nodded, turned around, and retraced his steps. Meanwhile, Josie put away her phone. As she instinctively looked up, she suddenly saw a familiar figure. The person was standing across the street, gazing at her from a distance.
Josie’s heart tightened.
She lowered her gaze to her phone and quickly typed: Take the back door. Afterwards, she crossed the street, approaching the person.
Today, Claudia was dressed casually, carrying not a designer bag, but a simple canvas tote with a church logo on it. She stood by the roadside, watching Josie approach her slowly.
Inside the coffee shop.
“I didn’t expect to find Aunt Claudia in… such a place.” Josie stirred her coffee, pausing for a moment.
In contrast, Claudia was much calmer. “What kind of place is this?”
Josie glanced outside at the street view. “This is the most remote part of Wavery. Most people here live a life similar to rural areas, with limited access to education and medical care. Look, even the roads are full of potholes.”
Claudia followed her gaze, her thoughts unknown. “I came here to send the dog away.”
“Dog?” Josie was surprised, then something clicked. “Pepper?”
“Yes, Leanne is still not quite comfortable with dogs, so I don’t want to force her.”
No wonder Claudia would appear in such a remote place.
Josie always felt nervous when facing her. She pursed her lips and asked, “If you trust me, you could give me the dog. I will provide it with a good environment.”
Claudia took a sip of her coffee. “I heard that Dexter has been with you these past few days.”
Josie clenched her fist, realizing that this was the real topic of the day.
