A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 186

"So they just let you guys walk out? That easy?" Eamon stroked his chin, frowning. "Something about this doesn't sit right with me…"

His eyes suddenly sharpened. "When you came in, did you notice anything unusual?"

The men exchanged uneasy glances and shook their heads.

"No, we were careful. Didn't spot anyone tailing us, and we slipped in through the hotel's side entrance."

"Maybe they just thought we were some drunk creeps out bar-hopping. Gave us a rough warning and let it go."

But Eamon couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. His gut told him to pull back, to drop it and walk away. Yet when he thought of Celia—how pleased she'd be if he actually pulled this off—his resolve hardened once more.

"Tomorrow night's the banquet hosted by the conference organizers," he said, his voice cold and measured, eyes narrowing. "Figure something out. See if there's an opportunity to make a move at the dinner."

"Yes, Mr. Wells."

The men filed out, and moments later, a striking woman slipped in, hovering by the door.

"Mr. Wells, would you like me to keep you company?"

"Not interested. Get out."

She hurried off, leaving Eamon alone. He picked up his phone, scrolling to the photo Celia had sent him, his other hand slipping slowly into his robe.

"Celia… my darling…"

…

The next evening, Elvis and Winona arrived at the banquet together.

Jeremiah had gotten there early and was already making his rounds, a glass of champagne in hand. He sidled up next to Winona, a mischievous grin on his face.

They'd been close back in university—sharing classes, grabbing meals together—but after graduation, Sue had married in a hurry and moved overseas. Both of them got busy, and their contact gradually faded away.

"It's really you!" Sue beamed, hurrying over. "I can't believe we've run into each other here! It must've been, what, three years since we last met?"

"It's been ages," Winona replied, genuinely happy to see an old friend in such an unexpected place.

Sue's gaze flicked to the man at Winona's side. "You must be here with your boyfriend, Tyson, right? Actually, I guess it's Mr. Goodwin now. I heard after he took over Goodwin Enterprises, the company's been doing better than ever! I'm jealous—you've got it all. My husband barely managed to snag an invite to this conference, and that's only because his firm is local."

At the mention of "your boyfriend Tyson," Jeremiah's expression shifted, and he quickly glanced at Elvis.

Elvis, however, remained completely composed.

Winona smiled, her voice calm as she replied, "Tyson and I broke up a while ago."