No Escape from Love novel Chapter 239

"Boyfriend?" Celine's voice shot up several octaves.

"Serena actually has a boyfriend? Oh my, she's all grown up! I remember when she was little..."

Then, she launched into a never-ending monologue, recounting everything from Serena wetting the bed as a child to skipping school and even getting into fights with the neighbor's boy.

Alex felt a headache coming on and quickly cut her off, asking, "Do you know Nicole Burke, Serena's mother?"

At the mention of Nicole's name, Celine's expression shifted instantly. She let out a sigh and said, "Of course, I do. That poor woman was stuck with that awful family. She was a good wife—hardworking and filial—but in the end..."

Her tone suggested she had a favorable impression of my mother, which gave Alex an idea. "What do you think of her?"

"She's wonderful! A woman like her is rare these days, but she was kicked out by the Ashfords and slandered by that old hag. Such injustice!" Celine said indignantly.

Alex felt a surge of hope. There was a chance. "Would you be willing to help clear Nicole's name? I have connections, I can—"

Before he could finish, Celine's face paled, and she started hesitating. "Well... Young man, that old lady from the Ashford family isn't someone you mess with. I still have a husband and a son to think about... I... I'd better stay out of it..."

With that, she scurried off like she was running from the plague while clutching her grocery basket tightly.

Alex watched her retreating figure and let out a helpless sigh.

He got back into his car, deciding that his best option was to contact YS Media and have them set the record straight.

Just as he was about to start the engine, his phone rang. It was Serena.

"Alex…" Her voice sounded exhausted. "What did my grandmother say to you?"

"She wants one million dollars before she agrees to clear Madam Burke's name," Alex said calmly, repeating Felicia's outrageous demand.

Louis hurried in after him and pressed the button for the top floor.

"Is everything ready?" Alex's tone was cool and impatient.

"Everything is set, Mr. Hastings. Don't worry. We'll make sure the truth about Madam Burke is known far and wide," Louis assured him, patting his chest as if making an oath.

When the elevator doors opened, Alex stepped out first with Louis trailing behind like a loyal lapdog.

"This has to be done cleanly and flawlessly. I don't want any loose ends," Alex instructed as he entered the office and settled into a leather couch.

"Understood, Mr. Hastings. I've already reached out to all major media outlets. By tomorrow morning, every news site and newspaper headline will be covering Madam Burke's story," Louis said eagerly while handing Alex a glass of red wine.

Alex took the glass and swirled the deep crimson liquid as it shimmered under the light.