After Silver told him everything, Charlie wrapped his arms around her tightly. His embrace wasn't just comforting; it was protective. His entire body was tense, and his eyes burned with fury.
He wanted to kill that man.
"Don't worry. We'll arrest him," Charlie said, his voice steady and firm.
Silver pulled back slightly, just enough to look him in the eyes. Her brows were drawn together, filled with worry and uncertainty.
"How?" she asked, shaking her head. "He hasn't done anything to us yet."
Charlie's grip on her shoulders tightened, as if he could shield her from everything with sheer force. His jaw clenched, and his voice grew sharper.
"What? You're going to wait until he does something?" he asked, frustration boiling to the surface. "No. I won't let him hurt you. Or your family."
Silver's eyes welled up, and she looked down, her voice trembling. "I know. I want that man gone too. But we don't have any real evidence to lock him up."
Charlie looked away for a moment, his expression darkening. He exhaled slowly.
"Then we'll find some," he said firmly. "And if we can't... I'll deal with him myself."
Silver's eyes widened in shock. "What?"
Before Charlie could say anything more, the bartender appeared in front of them and slid a drink across the counter toward Silver.
"Miss, a drink for you," the bartender said politely.
Silver blinked in confusion and glanced at the glass of peach Bellini. "From who?"
The bartender turned his head and gestured to their left.
Silver and Charlie both looked. An old man sat a few stools away, a half-full glass of whiskey in front of him. He raised it slightly toward her in a silent toast.
Charlie's eyes narrowed instantly. "Do you know him?" he asked, his tone sharp.
Silver studied the man's face for a moment, then slowly shook her head. "No."
She raised her glass in polite acknowledgment but didn't take a sip. Instead, she pushed it gently back toward the bartender.
"Can you get rid of this, please?" she asked.
The bartender nodded, taking the glass away without question.
Charlie turned his attention back to Silver, his concern growing. "What's your plan? Are you going to tell your family about him?"
Silver let out a heavy sigh, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. There was a deep weariness in her eyes, but also a spark of determination.
"No," she said quietly. "I don't want them to know about... the first life. At least, not ever."
Charlie stayed quiet, sensing this was something Silver had been wrestling with for a long time, even before he arrived.
"Help me find everything about him," she continued. "His past. His present. His family. And most importantly, why he has a grudge against us. If we can find that, maybe it could be enough to arrest him."
Charlie nodded slowly, his expression hardening. "It'll be done."
Silver reached out and hugged him tightly again, this time in gratitude. "Thank you, Charlie. For everything."
He gently pulled back, holding her by the shoulders. "Let's go home. It's getting late. Can you drive back?"
Silver gave a small nod. "Yeah. I can."
Together, they stood and left the bar. Charlie paid for their drinks without a word, his mind already turning over possibilities and plans.
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A light tap on her shoulder snapped Silver out of her daze.
"Silver," a familiar voice said gently.
Her vacant eyes blinked back into focus as she turned toward the sound. Her mother stood beside her, arms folded and eyebrows raised, wearing the look she always had when she caught Silver slacking.
Silver stood up quickly, realizing where she was. Only moments ago, her thoughts had wandered back to two nights ago, when she had kissed Charlie goodbye in the parking lot. She had been a little tipsy that night and, on impulse, surprised him with a sudden kiss on the lips. After his brief shock, Charlie had smiled and pulled her closer, kissing her deeply. It had been their first real kiss since they had started dating.
But now it was Monday, the day of her mother's long‑awaited fashion show. She was in the break room of the venue, surrounded by the bustle of final preparations. On the table in front of her sat her milk tea, untouched and long cold, a quiet reminder of how long she had been sitting there, lost in thought.
"What are you doing here with a cold drink when there's still so much to do?" her mother asked. Her tone wasn't angry, but it carried that firm edge that told Silver she expected better.
Silver flushed, glanced down at the untouched tea, and sighed quietly. "I guess I got distracted."
Her mother studied her for a moment, as if deciding whether to scold her more, before her expression softened. "It's all right. Just stay focused. The show starts in two hours, and we've still got plenty to finish."
Silver nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. "I will, Ma. I promise."
Her mother gave her a small, encouraging smile and gently patted her shoulder before walking off to continue her preparations.
Silver watched her go for a moment, admiration filling her chest despite the lingering embarrassment. Today was a huge day for her mother. After months of hard work, a brand-new clothing collection would finally be unveiled to the world. The whole team buzzed with energy, the models, makeup artists, stylists, and crew all working together to make the launch perfect.
Silver took a deep breath, but her mind was still heavy with worry.
Two days had passed since she had come face to face with her and her family's killer, Jayden Nellon.
Since then, Charlie had been digging for information about him, but Jayden was like a ghost. It was as if someone had deliberately erased his life. The only details they could find were the basics: his name, his date of birth, the fact that his parents had died when he was young, that he had grown up in an orphanage, and that he now worked as a professor at the university. Nothing else existed. No close friends. No extended family. No personal history that could explain who he really was.
"Silver!" someone called from across the room. "Model Amber needs help with her outfit!"
Silver brushed her thoughts aside. She straightened up and called back, "I'm on it!"
She hurried toward the green room. Inside, the energy was electric. Models in various stages of preparation walked in and out. Hairstylists and makeup artists buzzed around them, while assistants dashed back and forth between racks of clothes, adjusting accessories and making last-minute alterations.
In the middle of the commotion, Mrs. Miller's clear, confident voice rose above the noise.
"Today isn't just important for me," she said, standing at the front where everyone could see her. "It's important for all of you too. So give it your best. Show the world who you are and what you're capable of."
The models erupted into applause and cheers, clearly inspired by her words.
Silver spotted a girl with short black hair standing off to the side, looking nervous and distressed. She walked over to her.
"Amber? Do you need help?" Silver asked gently.
Amber looked relieved. "Yes, Miss Silver," she said quickly. "The dress got stuck when I tried it on. The zipper won't move no matter how hard I pull."
Silver offered her a calm, reassuring smile before moving behind her to examine the dress.
"Oh, it's just the zipper," she said after a moment. "It's a little jammed, that's all. I can fix it."
Amber nodded nervously. "I only joined three days ago. I don't want to mess up anything."
Silver chuckled softly while carefully working on the zipper. "Are you enjoying your time here so far?"
Amber's shoulders relaxed a little. "Yes," she said, her voice becoming warmer. "It's always been my dream to work under Mrs. Miller. She's my idol."
Silver's hands paused for a second as a smile formed on her face.
"Why is she your idol?" she asked, curious.
Amber's eyes brightened as she spoke. Mrs Miller started this company when she was just eighteen years old. She grew up in a very poor family and did not have the support of her parents. Despite these challenges, she worked incredibly hard and built everything from the ground up. Her designs are elegant and original, and every new collection she releases sells out almost immediately. What inspires me the most is not just her talent but also how kind, smart, and beautiful she is. I truly want to be like her one day.
Pride swelled in Silver's chest, and her heart warmed at hearing such genuine admiration for her mother.
"Thank you for being such a devoted fan of my mother," Silver said sincerely.
Amber blinked in surprise and then realized what Silver had just revealed. Her eyes widened.
"You're her daughter?" she asked, stunned.
Silver smiled and stepped back, letting go of the zipper. "Yes. And there, all fixed."
Amber twisted slightly to look over her shoulder. The zipper was completely smooth again.
"That was so fast!" Amber exclaimed, clearly impressed.
Silver shrugged lightly and let out a small laugh. "It was just a simple fix."
She turned to walk away. As she left, Amber murmured under her breath, "I'm a fan of yours too."
Silver did not hear her, but Amber's eyes followed her with quiet admiration.
As evening fell, the fashion show was about to begin, and the venue buzzed with excitement. Silver had been busy all day, ensuring every detail was perfect.
She was checking the final arrangements when a deep voice whispered in her ear.
"You look beautiful, Silver."
Silver's entire body went rigid. She did not need to turn around to know who it was.
Slowly, she turned anyway. Her eyes met Jayden's.
Her expression instantly turned cold, her jaw tightening.
Jayden, however, smiled faintly, completely unfazed by her reaction. He wore a perfectly tailored black suit that hugged his broad shoulders and slim waist, accentuating his sharp, commanding presence.
Silver herself wore a stunning floor‑length, deep sapphire gown that hugged her figure and shimmered under the lights. Her long hair was styled into an elegant bun, and she accessorised with delicate diamond jewellery that sparkled with every movement. Her makeup was refined yet bold, enhancing her features and giving her a confident, poised appearance.
Just then, her mother approached, her presence both graceful and commanding. She was wearing a sophisticated deep burgundy floor‑length gown that suited her mature elegance, paired with sparkling diamond jewellery. Her hair was styled in a neat, elegant bun. Her makeup was polished and understated, with soft smoky eyes, a touch of rose-toned blush, and a classic berry lipstick that complemented her gown perfectly.
"Jayden, you're here," Mrs. Miller said warmly, stepping forward to embrace him in a welcoming hug. After a brief moment, she gently pulled away, a curious look crossing her face.
"Where are the others?" she asked, glancing around.
"Right here, Mom," Parel called out as she entered, followed by Ruby and their father.
Her older sister was dressed in a flowing emerald-green evening gown that complemented her vibrant personality. Her curly hair cascaded softly over her shoulders, framing her face beautifully. She wore delicate gold jewellery that added a touch of warmth and elegance. Her makeup was natural yet bold, giving her a youthful, radiant glow.
Ruby wore a charming knee-length dress in soft pastel pink, adorned with delicate lace trim and subtle floral patterns. Her hair was tied up in a lively ponytail, with a few loose strands framing her face. She wore only a pair of small, delicate silver earrings that added a gentle touch of sparkle. Her makeup was very light and natural, just enough to enhance her youthful innocence without being obvious.
Their father stood beside them, looking sharp and composed in a tailored black suit that accentuated his strong frame. The crisp white shirt underneath contrasted perfectly with a sleek black tie, and his polished leather shoes completed the sophisticated look. His hair was neatly styled, and a calm, confident expression settled on his face, reflecting both pride and warmth as he stood with his family.
Mrs. Miller's face softened as she looked at her husband, a warm smile spreading across her lips. "You look very handsome, darling," she said fondly, her eyes shining with affection.
He returned her gaze with equal tenderness, wrapping his arms gently around her as he leaned in to give her a soft kiss on the lips.
Ruby, standing nearby, let out a dramatic groan and quickly covered her face with her small hands. "Ugh, not in public, Mummy and Daddy," she exclaimed, her voice a mix of embarrassment and amusement.
The entire family burst into laughter at Ruby's reaction, the moment lightening the atmosphere with genuine joy. Jayden, watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but join in, his laughter blending easily with theirs as the warmth of the family's bond filled the hallway.
"All right, all right," Mrs. Miller said with a playful smile as she gently pulled away from her husband's embrace. "Come on, everyone. Let's go take our seats, the show's about to begin."
Mrs. Miller led the way inside, Mr. Miller following closely beside her. Parel walked alongside Ruby, their chatter light and cheerful as they disappeared through the doorway, leaving Jayden and Silver standing just outside.
Jayden politely stepped forward and gestured for Silver to walk ahead of him, as a gentleman would, but she completely ignored the gesture. Without even a glance in his direction, she followed her family inside, leaving Jayden standing alone.
The show came to a spectacular end with Mrs. Miller walking out alongside the lead model, her smile radiant and full of pride. The audience erupted into loud applause as cameras flashed from every angle, capturing the final moments of the event.
As the last notes of music faded, the media began packing up their equipment and slowly filed out, signaling the official close of the public portion of the evening. Most guests followed suit, gathering their belongings and making their way toward the exits, their conversations buzzing with excitement over the show.
However, the VIP guests, including key sponsors, important patrons, models, and a few distinguished invitees, remained behind. The atmosphere shifted to a more intimate and exclusive setting where they could mingle, celebrate the success of the show, and discuss future collaborations away from the public eye.
The lights dimmed, casting a warm golden glow around the room as soft instrumental music played quietly in the background, creating a calm and elegant atmosphere. Waiters moved smoothly through the crowd with trays of champagne and small snacks, keeping the evening relaxed and running smoothly. The room filled with soft chatter, laughter, and the clinking of glasses, marking the start of the private after-party that would last late into the night.
Silver stood quietly at the bar, holding a crystal glass as she slowly drank her sweet strawberry cocktail. The colorful drink shone softly in the light, matching the light pink flush on her cheeks, which was growing warmer. Her eyes wandered around the room, a little unfocused, as she watched people talk and laugh easily. She swayed slightly, feeling the effects of the alcohol settle in.
She saw her parents talking with a group of important VIPs, their smiles polite and practiced, looking at ease in the fancy room. Nearby, Ruby laughed as she played with some children, her cheerful giggles different from the serious talks of the adults.
In the middle of the room, Parel, full of energy and charm, stood confidently beside Jayden with their arms linked, chatting with a small group of models.
Across the room, Silver and Jayden's eyes met briefly, but neither smiled. Jayden looked away first as Parel quietly asked him something. His expression changed to a smile as he turned to focus on her, leaving the brief moment with Silver behind.
Her phone buzzed softly in her purse. Feeling a little unsteady, Silver walked from the bar to the balcony and carefully set her drink down on the railing. She then took out her phone, saw it was Charlie calling, and answered.
"Hello?" she said softly, her voice steady but with a hint of tension as she glanced up at the dark sky dotted with stars.
"Silver, how are you holding up?" Charlie's warm voice came through the line, gentle but concerned.
Silver gave a faint smile. "I'm managing. And you?"
Charlie took a deep breath before replying, "I'm getting by, and I've found something important." His voice became serious.
Silver's breath caught, and she straightened instantly, her heart beating faster. "Tell me."
"His real last name isn't Nellon."
She blinked, confusion washing over her. "What? What do you mean?"
"His actual last name is Gill," Charlie said quietly, but with firm certainty.
Silver frowned, her brows knitting together. "Why would he hide that?"
"That's what we need to figure out," Charlie replied. "Do you know anything about the Gill family?"
Silver shook her head, even though he couldn't see her. "No. I've never heard of them. Maybe my parents have." She paused, already running through possibilities.
"Ask them," Charlie urged. "Let me know what they say."
"I will. Tomorrow."
There was a brief silence, then he asked gently, "Have you eaten yet?"
"Not yet. You?"
"Same here."
"Go eat, my angel," Charlie said with warmth, his voice softening in that familiar way that always eased her worries. "We'll talk more tomorrow."
"Okay, my lion. Don't be late."
He chuckled softly. "I should be the one saying that."
Silver smiled, feeling the weight in her chest lift just a little. "I know. Bye."
She ended the call and slipped her phone back into her purse.
The cool night air brushed against her skin, but inside, her thoughts burned. Charlie's words echoed over and over in her mind: Jayden Gill, the man had even hidden his real surname from them.
Silver picked up her drink from the rail and drank it in one gulp.
She didn't know why he had lied about his name, but she was determined to find out, and no matter what, this time she would protect her family.