Chapter 172: Connor Hayes's Voice Carried a Hint of Resignation

"One day, you'll willingly call me Connor." Connor Hayes's voice carried a hint of resignation.

Clara Whitmore tightened her grip on the phone, her tone icy. "Oh, we'll see. If there's nothing else, Mr. Hayes, I'll hang up now."

"Wait—" His voice turned serious. "There's news about Harbor Cay incident."

Her fingers stiffened, spine straightening instantly. "What did you find?"

"Let's discuss it in person. Some documents need to be handed to you directly."

She glanced at her watch and agreed to meet the next afternoon at three.

The following day, at an upscale restaurant.

Connor slid a manila envelope across the table. "The legal team compiled this. Take a look."

"This cross-border case has been under investigation since last year. The hotel provided full surveillance footage."

"Combined with an unexpected eyewitness, we finally pieced together the truth."

His fingers tapped the table, gaze meaningful. "You're the victim. The next steps are yours to decide."

Clara slowly opened the file.

Inside were detailed records—how Paige Lawson had bribed a diving instructor to tamper with the oxygen tank, along with the entire scheme behind the venomous snake gift box. Photos, videos, and witness statements were all included.

She expected rage but felt only eerie calm.

"File a police report," she said firmly, closing the file.

Connor raised a brow. "Not informing Grant Holloway?"

"Unnecessary." Her eyes were clear. "We're over. This is about protecting my rights."

"My parents didn’t raise me to be someone’s punching bag."

Connor gave a meaningful look. "The outcome might disappoint you."

By the time she left the police station, night had fallen.

Though the case was officially filed, the seasoned detective hinted that cross-border evidence was tricky, and the proof might not hold. The case could easily be dismissed.

Meanwhile, Paige stood under the spotlight in the university auditorium.

Dressed in an elegant gown, microphone in hand, she basked in the crowd's adoration.

Then, a siren pierced the silence.