You Looked Down on Me Once Now You Look Up (Patricia and Oliver) novel Chapter 384

“Then... please don’t fire me.”

Patricia blinked at Marian in surprise. “Why would you even think that?”

“You just sent me a ton of money out of nowhere...”

Patricia waved her off. “Don’t overthink it. If I give you money, just take it.”

“You’re way too good to me. I’d never want you to leave!”

Honestly, Marian was just desperate. Oliver had her in a corner—if she didn’t spend any money today, he’d get grumpy when he came home tonight. And if he didn’t? He’d probably drag her out shopping tomorrow anyway. Shopping was exhausting. She figured it was easier to just spend the money now and get it over with.

At the same time, in the back of a sleek black Bentley, Oliver stared at the bank notification on his phone. Another big transfer. He knew right away: Patricia had sent more money to Jackson or Marian.

Jackson was such a homebody. Give him cash and he’d just stock up on lollipops. And Marian? Her cat food had gone from cheap local brands to expensive imported stuff—all thanks to Patricia’s generosity.

“What’s up? You look like you swallowed something sour,” Hector asked, glancing in the mirror.

“It’s nothing,” Oliver sighed, putting his phone away.

Hector grinned. “What did Pattie do this time? Seriously, even that monk only had three disciples—you’ve got four.”

Three kids were already a handful, and now there was Patricia. She wasn’t as wild as Sara, but she was still a lot younger than Oliver. Men, Hector thought, always let their hearts rule their heads.

“But your fiancée is about to pass her final test. She’s honestly amazing. Sean made it all the way to Riverdale, pulled every string he could, ready for the big rescue—then he just collapsed. Even if they get him out, he’s basically useless now.”

“And the Newton family? They used all their connections, but it didn’t really help in the end.”

“I love it when people wait until the last second and then can’t deliver. It’s entertaining,” Hector said, propping his chin on his hand.

Patricia was just as sharp and ruthless as Oliver. They were a perfect match.

January sixteenth arrived and everyone was back at work. Riverdale’s streets were jammed and traffic was barely moving.

They walked inside together. Brandon quickly filled her in. “The Newtons are hoping for probation. Honestly, with her health, even if she’s convicted, she’ll probably just be released for medical reasons. It doesn’t make much difference.”

Patricia nodded. “I’ll go with whatever you suggest, Mr. Lantz.”

Brandon had come prepared with a whole list of arguments, thinking Patricia would be hard to convince. He hadn’t expected her to agree so quickly—he’d barely started talking and she was already on board.

“If you’re sure, Ms. Martin, just sign here.”

Patricia took the folder he handed her and scribbled her name.

Brandon checked the signature. “Please wait here, Ms. Martin. I’ll get the final sign-off from the chief.”

Patricia nodded and glanced idly at the row of award banners on the wall across from her.

Just then, a deep, commanding voice spoke up from beside her. “You’re Patricia?”