Chapter 173

In this narrative of treachery, Leonard stood, not in error, but firmly in the realm of justification. Baldric, a man now infamous for his murderous deeds, was the talk of Crystal Cove, with the media fanning the flames of his notoriety. He had, after all, become an internet sensation. The gravity of his crimes, especially the concealed body, was such that the entire nation was riveted.

Leonard had the reputation of the Kyle household to consider. Were it to emerge that they assisted the criminal Baldric in his escape, their esteemed reputation would be irreparably tarnished. It was this very thought that prompted Leonard to feign an alliance with Carnelian, to placate Baldric, all the while secretly instructing Bahjat William to draw near and prepare for the capture.

While Leonard's strategy was sound, none foresaw Baldric's heightened instincts. At the crux of danger, he took Carnelian as his captive.

"Procuring thirty million in cash is within my