Outcast Queen: Her Return from Hell novel Chapter 92

"Phoenix, it seems my tolerance has given you the illusion that a mere contract allows you to act recklessly around me."

Pierce's gaze was cutting, laced with the icy bite of winter, and his voice dropped to a heart-stopping octave. "I can terminate our partnership at any moment."

"Lance Yates."

Phoenix let out a soft sigh and slowly let the name slip from her lips.

Pierce's expression stalled, a deep crease instantly forming between his brows. "Who?"

"Lance Yates, originally Sully Yates," Phoenix added, her gaze burning into him. "I believe you know exactly what I'm talking about."

Pierce's pupils dilated. He immediately released her, his fingers flying across his phone screen as he fired off an order to Quentin.

Taking advantage of the brief lull, Phoenix studied the man beside her. His profile was striking, the lines of his jaw sharp and flawless, looking like a masterpiece sculpted to perfection.

Though rumors painted Pierce as the unapproachable Reaper of Cloudhaven, after testing his limits a few times, Phoenix felt he was more like a man who had sealed all his emotions behind a mask of ice.

Was it the car crash, the tragic death of his mother, and the departure of his father that had molded him into this state?

"Have you looked long enough?" Pierce snapped his head back, colliding with Phoenix's probing gaze.

Phoenix smiled openly, her eyes dancing. "How could anyone ever look long enough at a face like yours? Since we're legally married now, I obviously have to seize the opportunity to admire it."

Pierce frowned, though his expression soon smoothed out. "Considering you just provided a crucial lead, I'll let it slide this time." Quentin had just replied, confirming that Sully had indeed been Silas's driver.

He narrowed his eyes, a dangerous glint flickering within them. "But how did you find this guy? I've investigated for years and never noticed Sully, yet you managed to catch this tiny thread."

"A magician never reveals her secrets. Don't pry," Phoenix shrugged, looking thoroughly unbothered. "Anyway, I'm starving. Since we're heading to our new home, dinner should be ready, right? Or... are you planning to cook?"

"Don't flatter yourself." Pierce withdrew his scrutinizing gaze, forcing down the curiosity she stirred in him. "But yes, dinner is prepared at the apartment."

Phoenix's eyes lit up instantly, breaking into a dazzling smile. "I didn't realize you were so considerate."

"Arthur is there too."

"Relax." Pierce glanced at the unusually quiet woman beside him. Assuming she was nervous, his tone softened instinctively. "It's not like you haven't met him before. Just act natural."

"He's pleased with you, which is why he made the trip. Normally, he would just summon us back to the estate."

"Right, right," Phoenix muttered absentmindedly.

Pierce frowned. He was about to speak when the elevator chimed open.

He clamped his mouth shut, naturally reaching out to take Phoenix's hand, leading her out into the hall.

"Huh?" Phoenix paused, glancing down at their joined hands. They were already putting on the show?

Whatever! Since this was a partnership, she would commit to the bit.

Besides, with Pierce's broad shoulders, narrow waist, and endless legs, he was gorgeous and completely untouchable. Getting close to him was hardly a losing deal.

So, Phoenix turned her hand, lacing her fingers through his and leaning closer to his side. From a distance, they looked exactly like a deeply in-love couple.