Chapter 135

"Perfect timing, I've got some errands to run this morning too, so I won't be joining you guys."

Brandon looked at me, "Where you headed, babe?"

I tried to keep my face neutral, "Meeting an old friend. It's been a while, and I miss him."

Brandon stared at me, "Then I'll come with you."

I gave him a cold smile, "You're gonna meet my middle school friend with me? Don't you think it'll be awkward?"

"Come on, if you want to go, just take the kids to the amusement park with Mom. You're always busy with work, so take this chance to relax at home. I'm just grabbing a meal, I'll be back soon."

"Besides, our conversation would be awkward with you there. It's better if you don't come."

Hearing this, Brandon had no choice but to give up, "Alright, babe, come back early."

I nodded, and after finishing breakfast, I left the house once Kelly and the others had departed.

I drove Gerald's old car, so I wasn't worried about any tracking devices. I kept an eye on the rearview mirror, and sure enough, Eugene followed me in another car.

It seemed Brandon had sent him to tail me.

I smirked. I knew Suncrest City like the back of my hand. I could navigate its streets with my eyes closed. Eugene would have a hard time keeping up with me.

I deliberately took a series of winding, narrow roads, making sharp turns until I lost Eugene's car.

Seeing no sign of the tailing car, I chuckled, "You need a few more years of practice to follow me."

I drove straight to Asher's place.

I mainly came back to see him again.

I knocked on his door, and he quickly opened it, looking surprised, "What a coincidence! Did you two plan this?"

I was puzzled, "What do you mean?"

Asher stepped aside, revealing Royce sitting in the living room.

I stared at him in disbelief, "What are you doing here?"

Royce's voice was smooth and magnetic, "Can't I be here?"

I remembered how coldly he had responded to my message about my flight yesterday, yet here he was today.

I felt a mix of emotions and awkwardly nodded, "Sure, why not."

Avoiding Royce's intense gaze, I sat down on Asher's couch.

"How are you doing, Asher? I've been so busy lately, I haven't had a chance to visit. I just got back to Suncrest City and wanted to check on you."

Asher looked healthier, with a bit more weight on his face.

"I'm fine. All I do is eat and drink every day. It's boring."

"My health is back to normal, maybe even better. I spend my free time working out."

Hearing this, I felt relieved, "That's good. I was worried about you."

"By the way, Caroline, how are things on your end? Royce keeps me updated. How's the company situation?"

My expression grew serious, "We're at a critical point. Whether we can take Brandon down depends on these next few days."

Asher nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation, "Caroline, if you need anything, just let me know. I'm here for you."

I was touched and nodded. It was because of the support from people like Asher that I could keep fighting against Brandon. Otherwise, given my mental and physical state a while ago, I wouldn't have made it this far.

But we didn't need to say thank you. It would feel too formal.

"Asher, have you been in touch with your parents? Renee and Earl are missing now, so they probably won't be watching you like before. You can relax a bit."

Asher smiled, "I know. Royce told me. I secretly visited my parents recently. They're doing well. I told them I failed an investment and felt embarrassed to come back. They didn't say much, just that they're glad I'm home."

Hearing this, I felt relieved. Asher couldn't visit his parents because of me, and I had always felt guilty about it.

Asher seemed to sense my emotions and reassured me, "Don't worry, it's not your fault. Blame Brandon for being such a jerk."

"I know you're a victim too. Let's work together to take back the company."

I nodded.

Royce, who had been silent, finally spoke, "I've arranged everything at the company. Once Brandon takes the bait, taking over will be quick."

"Don't worry, with us, nothing will go wrong."

I nodded, "Of course, I trust you. Without you, I wouldn't have made it this far. I would have died in bed."

Royce and Asher fell silent at my words.

Seeing their expressions, I quickly smiled, "What are you doing? I'm fine now. We've all come a long way."

"Remember, I used to be confined by Brandon, unable to leave the house. Now I can come back home. Isn't that progress?"

Seeing their expressions soften, I smiled too.

We then discussed our plans against Brandon in detail.

After confirming our actions, I noticed it was getting late and said goodbye to Asher.

Just then, Royce followed me. I was surprised, "What are you doing?"

Royce raised an eyebrow, "I'm leaving too. Or are you stopping me?"

I was taken aback and stepped aside, "Go ahead."

But Royce stopped and looked at me, "I didn't drive. You give me a ride."

"You didn't drive?"

I was skeptical, "Then whose Cullinan is that downstairs? Don't tell me it's not yours."

Royce chuckled, his expression unchanged, "It's mine, but it broke down."

I tried to avoid being alone with Royce, "Call the insurance company. We're not going the same way."

I stepped into the elevator, intending to close the door quickly, but Royce slipped in.

"What's the big deal? Just give me a ride."