Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 136

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136 The Trap

Minnie’s anger flared uncontrollably, a fierce blaze ignited within her. She had done everything right—never missing her monthly visits, always arriving with thoughtful gifts, showing the utmost respect, and employing every ounce of flattery she could muster. Yet, Grandpa never once gave her a moment’s attention. Meanwhile, some unattractive stranger, someone who had appeared out of nowhere, was lavished with affection and cherished beyond reason. It was utterly unfair, and Minnie’s heart burned with resentment.

Watching Minnie’s fury intensify, Bianca saw the perfect opportunity to stoke the flames even higher. “What if, someday, even Mom and Dad start favoring her? And your brother…” She covered her mouth with a sly hand, her voice dripping with feigned regret. “No, no, that could never happen. No one’s more important than you.” But those words had already sunk deep into Minnie’s mind, planting seeds of fear and doubt. She was painfully aware that she lacked the Jackson family bloodline and depended solely on Marilyn’s protection. If that shield were to disappear, what would become of her? A cold wave of panic swept over her, and she gripped Bianca’s arm tightly. “You won’t leave me, right? What am I supposed to do?”

Bianca’s eyes gleamed with calculated assurance. “Of course I won’t abandon you. But as for the others… I can’t say. Grandpa clearly favors her so much. Unless… she does something so terrible that Grandpa loses face.” That final phrase echoed relentlessly in Minnie’s thoughts, sending her into deep reflection.

A subtle, knowing smile played on Bianca’s lips. She could see clearly that Minnie had swallowed the bait and was now ensnared in the trap. Tatiana, Tatiana—so what if you win Grandpa’s favor? There were countless others who despised you behind your back.

Before long, Minnie took it upon herself to seek out Tatiana. No one knew the details of their conversation, but the two women emerged separately, one after the other. Seizing the perfect moment, Bianca returned to Jasper’s side, her expression carefully casual but her mood quietly triumphant. “Jasper, I think I just saw Minnie and Cindy leave together, and they haven’t come back yet. I’m a bit worried.”

Jasper’s face darkened instantly as he scanned the area. There was no sign of Minnie or Tatiana anywhere nearby. Knowing Minnie’s volatile temperament, his heart tightened with dread. “Where did they go?” he demanded urgently. Bianca, feeling the weight of his concern, almost twisted her fingers in nervousness. “I saw them head that way,” she said, pointing toward the hotel’s guest rooms.

Without hesitation, Jasper strode quickly in that direction, his expression grim and determined. He summoned a waiter to help search, but their efforts proved fruitless. Frustrated and anxious, Jasper ordered the staff to open each room and check inside. When one door was finally forced open, a sharp, desperate cry pierced the air.

“No, don’t do this!” The voice was muffled but filled with fear. Jasper’s pupils constricted as he saw a man attempting to assault a woman. Without hesitation, he lunged forward, grabbing the man’s shoulder and violently throwing him to the floor. The name that burst from his lips was urgent and full of disbelief: “Minnie?”