Once She Came Like a Flash novel Chapter 57

**Title: Faith Didn’t Survive Time – by Aadi Sharma**
**Chapter 57**

Alison sat at the small dining table, the sunlight filtering through the kitchen window, casting a warm glow on her plate. She methodically picked at her breakfast, each bite a deliberate act of normalcy amidst the swirling thoughts in her mind.

As she chewed on a piece of toast, a nagging realization crept in: Jasper hadn’t uttered a single word about Genome Tech. The absence of the topic felt like a silent agreement between them, one that she was keen to maintain. Alison understood the unspoken dynamics of their relationship all too well; Jasper held a dismissive view of her company, viewing her entrepreneurial efforts as mere distractions from what he believed was her true calling. He envisioned her back in the capital, nestled in the corporate hierarchy of their family business, where she could contribute in a way he deemed appropriate.

But Alison was resolute in her independence. She longed to carve out her own path, to create something meaningful that stood apart from the legacy of the Zellers. The desire to establish her identity was a fire that burned brightly within her. She dreamed of the day when she could walk into a room, and instead of being recognized solely as the Zellers’ heiress, people would exclaim, “That’s Alison!”—a name that resonated with her own accomplishments.

This particular morning, Jasper was ensconced in a senior executive meeting at the office, followed by a video call with the team back in the capital. By midday, he was entertaining clients from Cromenia, a task that often required both charm and resilience.

The Cromenians were notorious for their heavy drinking, and although Jasper could hold his own when it came to alcohol, he could still feel the pleasant buzz from the lavish meal they had shared. It was a strange juxtaposition of business and pleasure, one that he had grown accustomed to over the years.

Once the deal was finalized and the contract signed, Luke took the documents back to the office, leaving Simon to drive Jasper home. Simon, who doubled as both bodyguard and chauffeur, was well-acquainted with Jasper’s workaholic tendencies. He knew that Jasper loathed wasting time in transit, which was why he often opted to stay at Platinum Heights, the luxurious residence that offered him both comfort and convenience.

Before long, the car glided to a stop at the entrance of Platinum Heights. Simon escorted Jasper upstairs, the familiar routine playing out like a well-rehearsed script.

“I’m good, Simon. You can head out now,” Jasper said, waving him off dismissively, his tone casual but firm.

Simon, having observed Jasper’s drinking habits over the years, recognized that his employer was only slightly tipsy—not enough to be concerned, but certainly enough to warrant caution.

“Alright, but take it easy,” Simon replied, nodding as he quietly closed the living room door behind him. He made his way to the elevator, the soft hum of the machinery offering a brief respite from the day’s chaos.

Once he was back in the driver’s seat, Simon rolled down the window and lit a cigarette, inhaling deeply as he allowed himself a rare moment of relaxation. The smoke curled into the air, mingling with the scent of the city outside.

Suddenly, his phone buzzed insistently, breaking the tranquil moment. He glanced at the screen and saw it was Luke calling. “What’s up, Luke?” he answered, trying to keep his tone light.

“Where’s Mr. Zeller?” Luke’s voice crackled with urgency, a note of panic evident in his tone.

Simon chuckled, sensing the rising tension. “He went upstairs to sleep. I’m here, no need to panic,” he reassured him.

“Where is he sleeping? Platinum Heights?” Luke pressed, his voice laced with anxiety.

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