Chapter 48
Roderick’s expression darkened. “That’s exactly why I called. There are no financial discrepancies in Tearie Entertainment’s books. But whoever contacted me was adamant that you needed to return to Houston to handle it.”
Valerie’s grip on the phone tightened. “Did they say who they were?”
“They claimed to be from the Houston Financial Crime Investigation Unit, but I checked—they have no such case on record.”
Valerie’s breath hitched. A setup.
And she had a good guess who was behind it.
Terrence.
She clenched her jaw. “So, it’s just a ploy to drag me back.”
Roderick hesitated. “Valerie… if it’s really him, what will you do?”
For a moment, she didn’t answer. Then, her voice came through, quiet but firm.
“I’m not going back.”
Roderick exhaled in relief. “Good. Because you deserve better.”
Valerie forced a smile. “Thanks, Roderick. Keep an eye on things for me, will you?”
“Of course.”
After they hung up, Valerie sat in silence.
She had spent years chasing after Terrence. Begging for scraps of affection.
But that Valerie was gone.
And no matter what tricks he pulled—
She wasn’t going back.
