Return of the Crowned Heiress novel Chapter 366

Johanna initially followed the rules but grew bolder over time, constantly trying to seek attention.

If no one had called her out on it, things could have stayed as they were. But when someone pointed it out, the final piece of her facade was ripped away.

Johanna felt utterly embarrassed and stomped away in frustration.

In the study, Stephan sat on a leather chair, and his expression was calm and unreadable. His long, clean fingers tapped rhythmically on the desk subconsciously.

A thick stack of documents laid before him. It contained the latest investigation lead on Jacob's death and the subsequent sinking of the ship.

All the evidence pointed toward the former wealthiest family of Khogend, the Fullers.

The hitmen had worn masks when attacking, leaving no obvious clues. However, a button was found in an inconspicuous corner of the ship.

It was likely dropped by one of the hitmen.

The button was made of a common material, but Stephan's subordinates had poured an immense amount of effort into tracing its origins.

From its manufacturing factory to distribution channels, this exhaustive investigation finally uncovered a significant clue.

A year ago, the Fuller family had discreetly assembled an elite group of battle-hardened mercenaries.

Dexter had hidden them well, training them in secret and ensuring that no one knew about these deadly subordinates.

But no secret could last forever. With enough persistence, someone would eventually uncover the truth.

Stephan's subordinates discovered that Dexter's men were always wearing uniforms with buttons of the same material and design.

Additionally, on the very day of Jacob's death, Dexter was coincidentally out in the sea attending an event.

He had attended the maritime banquet but left earlier, claiming that he was drunk on that night.

The location of the banquet was only an hour's journey away from where Jacob's incident occurred, which was dangerously nearby.

Even though she had been kicked out of the Fuller family and had publicly cut ties with them, Stephan knew better than anyone that some bonds could never be truly broken.

If Stephan acted against Dexter and the Fullers, how would Felicia feel?

Just like a few days ago at the storeroom, Felicia might believe his intentions were manipulative and that every interaction between them had been part of a calculated plan.

The reason Stephan had rushed to Khogend from Seldvale was because of her. When Felicia went missing, he abandoned everything just to make sure she was safe.

But now… She would never believe him again.

Stephan closed the file and tossed it into the drawer, then summoned one of his subordinates and ordered, "Close this investigation. These findings must never be leaked."

"But Mr. Russell…"

The subordinate, stunned and confused by the order, hesitated before asking, "But what about the item we threw away?"