Chapter 246

Ashton gave a one-shouldered shrug. ‘It’s a holiday.’ He waved off his assistants, opened the door, and nudged me inside. Once we were on the road, he said, ‘The court’s ruled. Franklin Vance got seven years. Embezzlement, tax fraud, forged records. It’s official.’ I twisted in my seat. ‘You’re serious?’ He nodded. ‘The Vances are scrambling to sell the house just to afford a half-decent appeal lawyer.’ I didn’t know what I felt. Relieved, maybe. Glad? Not exactly. Ashton gave my hand a light squeeze. ‘It’s done. Vance Omnia’s tanking. Caroline’s moving cities. They’re not coming after you again.’ ‘Good.’ I turned towards him. ‘Thank you.’ He frowned. ‘How many times do I have to tell you to stop saying that?’ ‘Right. Sorry. Forgot.’ I glanced out the window. The street names didn’t look familiar. ‘This isn’t the way home.’ ‘I booked us into a hotel. I’m not staying in that miserable little house Fabrizio set up.’ I opened my mouth to tease him, but he cut in first. ‘I just want a plac