Badass in Disguise (Shadow) novel Chapter 266

Chapter 266

Author’s POV:

Maddox Jensen leaned back in his leather chair, swirling amber liquid in a crystal tumbler. The study’s warm lighting cast deep shadows across his weathered face as he fixed his son with a calculating state.

“So,” he said, his voice casual yet probing, “between Jade Morgan and Eleanor, which one do you prefer?”

Chris folded his arms, his posture deliberately relaxed despite his bandaged wrists. “What?”

Maddox’s lips curled into a knowing smile. “I’ve seen how Eleanor looks at you. And this Morgan girl… there’s something about her.”

“Don t start,” Chris warned.

“If I had to choose,” Maddox continued, ignoring his son’s protest, “I’d prefer the younger one. Jade.” He took a slow sip of his drink. “She has decisiveness. Doesn’t shy away from pressure. More suitable for our family.”

Chris snorted. “Jade and I are friends. We’ve been through life–or–death situations together, but that’s it.”

Maddox nodded thoughtfully. “And what about Eleanor?”

“I barely know her, Chris admitted. “We’ve only met a few times through mutual connections.”

“Yet she flew across the world to save you.” Maddox’s tone sharpened. “That’s quite a gesture for someone you barely know.”

Chris sighed, rubbing his temples. “Look, I appreciate what she did. It was brave and I owe her. But that doesn’t mean I have to be responsible for her feelings for the rest of my life.”

“I see.” Maddox drained his glass, setting it down with a soft clink. “Well, consider your options carefully. Family connections matter in our world.”

In the sunlit living room, Eleanor sat beside Jade on the plush sofa, her fingers nervously pleating the hem of her blouse.

“Have you been to the Jensen house before?” she asked, her voice casual but her eyes

watchful.

“Yes,” Jade replied.

“What do you think of Chris’s father? He seems…” she hesitated, searching for the right word.

“I wouldn’t know. Today was the first time I’ve met him.”

Eleanor’s eyes widened slightly. “Really? I thought–She stopped herself, then lowered her voice. “He scares about him that feels… dangerous.”

Jade nodded hut offered no comment.

me a little. There’s something

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12:30 Sat, Sep 27

Chapter 266

“Can I ask you something? Eleanor leaned closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. “Do you think it’s inappropriate for a woman to pursue a man? Would Chris find it… unattractive if I’m too forward?”

lade thought of Ethan, who’d been practically throwing himself at her since they met. “I think it’s fine,‘ she said honestly. “Some men appreciate directness.

Eleanor’s expression brightened instantly. “Right? Being proactive creates opportunities! Her confidence seemed restored.

Chris descended the stairs to the basement, a small plate of bread in one hand. The security lights hummed overhead, casting a harsh Пuorescent glow over the reinforced door at the end of the corridor.

Punching in the code, he entered the secure room where Liana sat handcuffed to a metal chair. Her once immaculate clothes were rumpled, her hair tangled, but her eyes still burned with defiance.

“Hungry?” Chris asked, holding up

the bread temptingly. “It’s been what–twelve hours since you last ate?”

Liana glared but couldn’t hide the way her eyes fixed on the food.

Chris smiled coldly. “Only if you beg me,” he said, mimicking her earlier words. “Make me feel satisfied, and maybe I’ll give you something to eat.”

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