Regret Came Too Late (Grace and Ethan) novel Chapter 175

The police quickly arrived at Liam's ward, but unfortunately, they brought bad news.

"The individuals we're dealing with are all fugitives, each with at least three murders to their name. We're not sure why they targeted Ms. Lambert. There's no previous connection between her and them. It could be a contract killing," the officer explained.

While the officers were still speaking, Alice unexpectedly spoke up. "Maybe Grace just offended someone without realizing it. She's always been pretty harsh with others."

When she felt everyone's gaze on her, she quickly fell silent as tears slipped down her cheeks.

Carmen added, "Grace was never kind to anyone. Even the maids at the Lambert residence couldn't stand her attitude. Alice is right. She probably upset someone without even realizing it."

The officers exchanged glances, then sighed. "We're still investigating. The suspects fled quickly and crossed into Vendaria. We don't have jurisdiction there, so unless they return on their own, there's not much we can do at the moment."

Yancey's voice cracked with panic. "What about Grace?"

The officers paused for a moment. "These criminals are ruthless and highly skilled at covering their tracks. We'll keep searching, but several other victims' bodies are still missing. We advise that you prepare for the worst."

Quentin staggered at the news, nearly collapsing. Alice hurried to steady him, her voice quivering with emotion. "Don't worry, Dad. They only want us to prepare for the worst. Maybe Grace will be lucky and make it through, right?"

While saying this, she struggled to hide her smile, quickly looking away from everyone.

Quentin's face went ashen, as though he had aged years in an instant. His lips trembled several times before he managed to speak.

"Grace is just an ordinary girl. How could she survive against such ruthless criminals? If I'd known this would happen, I never would have argued with her. Our last memory of each other is just so painful."

His words made the room fall into an even heavier silence. The officers, unsure how to offer comfort, made a few more notes and left.

Quentin sank onto a bed beside still-unconscious Liam, his mind heavy with worry over Grace's uncertain fate. The weight of it all had drained the usual spark from his eyes.

Alice didn't miss the chance to act concerned, busying herself with keeping things in order.

Watching her, Carmen sighed and took her hand. "Alice, we're so lucky to have you."

Alice smiled faintly, keeping it subtle. "Mom, we're family. It's the least I can do."

Two hours later, Liam finally woke up, his voice weak as he called, "Grace!"

His eyes scanned the room, and when he saw the people around him, his hand reached out to grasp Alice's. "Have you seen Grace?"

Her eyes welled up, but she quickly patted his head, her voice calm. "You need to rest, Liam. Just focus on getting better."

That evening, Alice returned to the Lambert residence and went straight to Grace's room. She turned to Fiona Baker, the housekeeper, and said, "Clear out Grace's room and get rid of everything she used. I don't want Dad or Liam reminded of her."

Fiona nodded and began tidying up as instructed.

When Carmen helped Quentin into the living room, they saw Fiona about to toss out Grace's used bedsheets. He frowned and asked, "What's going on?"

Fiona quickly explained, "Ms. Alice was worried that seeing Ms. Grace's things might upset you. She asked me to clean it up."

Before he could respond, Carmen sighed and said, "She's just trying to be considerate."

Now that Grace was gone, she didn't feel right saying anything too harsh, not wanting to cause him more pain.

Quentin coughed and waved his hand. "Put it back. That room is still hers, even if she's not here."

Fiona quickly nodded and hurried upstairs. Once she reached Grace's room, she found Alice still there and relayed Quentin's message.

Alice's expression darkened, and she scoffed. "Fine. Leave it. It's just a bunch of useless things, anyway."

She rolled her eyes, silently mocking Quentin. She knew that, sooner or later, he would forget about his precious daughter.