Burn Me Once, Burn With Me novel Chapter 161

"When did this happen?"

The man's voice was dangerously low. Fitch flinched, sneaking a glance at Bennett. "Before I called Bennett, ma'am had already left in a car."

From Northridge Manor to Veyne & Co. was nearly half of Quinborough—no small distance to cross.

Cassian's eyes darkened. He yanked his suit jacket from the back of the chair, shrugged it on, and strode out without another word.

Cameron Lockridge shot to his feet, ready to follow, but Bennett stepped in his way. "Mr. Lockridge, today's meeting is postponed. We'll reach out if we need you again."

The words hit Cameron like a bucket of ice water. He bit his lip and forced himself to stop, frustration etched on his face.

Gennifer, meanwhile, hadn't moved. Relief washed over her as she watched Cassian disappear down the hallway, but in her eyes, hope flickered and died, leaving only heartbreak.

Bennett didn't have time to notice. He hurried after Cassian.

Fitch, following Bennett's orders, ushered the remaining two out of the records room.

As soon as Gennifer rounded the corner, she glanced around to make sure she was alone. She quickly pulled a carefully wrapped phone from her bag, covering the screen with her palm as she waited for the call screen to light up. In a hushed voice, she said, "Mr. Blackwood…"

By now, Cassian had left everything else behind—he even, for once, took the passenger seat. His eyes were bloodshot, burning with obsession.

"Are you sure this is the right route?"

His voice was icy. Bennett broke into a cold sweat. "Fitch said this was the way. There's only one international hotel and a new bar on that road."

Cassian said nothing, his lips pressed into a thin line. His hand clenched his trouser leg so tightly his fingertips dug into the tense muscle of his thigh.

Just two days ago, he'd realized his feelings for Ruby had changed. Without hesitation, he'd reclaimed Eleanora's inheritance for her. But he'd forgotten—Ruby was no longer the woman who waited endlessly for him, who would drop everything for a single word from him.

Frustration twisted inside him as he stared at the navigation screen.

Her eyes were wide with fear, but her voice still trembled.

Cassian narrowed his eyes. The air around him grew menacing.

Bennett stepped forward, forcing himself to stay calm as he flashed his credentials. "I'm the executive assistant to the CEO of Veyne & Co., and this is Mr. Cassian Veyne. We're looking for Mrs. Veyne—she left home with her child, and we're deeply concerned for their safety."

Cassian. The name alone sent a jolt through the room. The receptionist stared, momentarily stunned by the realization that the legendary billionaire was not only real, but standing right in front of her—and impossibly handsome.

"We've already spoken to your manager," Bennett added. "If there are any issues, we'll take full responsibility. Please, check."

She hesitated for a heartbeat—then her phone rang.

"Hello, sir… Yes, I understand."

Hanging up, she wiped the sweat from her brow and began scrolling quickly through the reservation records, her hands trembling.