Revenge is Best Served After Reborn (James) novel Chapter 20

"Okay."

After hearing Sophie's response, James finally put her down and turned to embrace Nichole.

Colby, who had rushed over from the same floor, noticed Sophie's ankle wound immediately. It must have been caused by struggling free from the nylon rope.

Without wasting words, Colby stepped forward and scooped Sophie up in his arms.

Sophie was startled. "What are you doing?"

As they moved, Colby said, "You're also hurt. Why didn’t you mention it?"

"My injury isn’t important." Sophie paused, then added, "Besides, he cares more about Nichole."

It was clear to anyone that James had a special fondness for Nichole that went beyond normal boundaries. She knew she had to be sensible.

"Idiot," Colby chided gently as he adjusted Sophie in his arms. "Hold on tight."

Though she didn’t speak, Sophie tightened her grip around Colby.

"Hurry! The bomb is about to go off!" Adler yelled, prompting Colby to tighten his hold on Sophie and dash out of the unfinished building in the nick of time.

For a moment, the night was lit up with the massive explosion that followed, engulfing the building in flames.

"Get in the car!"

After ensuring Nichole was safe, James turned to fetch Sophie but saw her getting into Colby’s car instead.

"Mr. Burke, please, let’s go. I’m really scared," Nichole pleaded, looking anxious.

With no other choice, James got into the car.

Sophie saw James and Nichole together in the back seat, her face expressionless, as if this was all too familiar.

Throughout the ride, Sophie remained silent.

Adler couldn’t hold back, and finally asked, "Don’t you want to know who kidnapped you?"

It was clear Ryan’s actions had nothing to do with Colby, yet he risked his life to save her and now even owed her a debt.

When they reached the Burke residence, Adler made a sharp stop.

Outside mansion, James, holding Nichole, got out of the car and entered without waiting for Sophie.

"I’m off. Thanks to both of you." Sophie opened the car door and walked toward the Burke mansion alone.

"I thought you’d stand up for her," Adler remarked.

"She’s not that fragile." Colby closed his eyes. "Drive."

Inside the mansion, James was applying ointment to Nichole, who was seated on the sofa.

As soon as Sophie entered, Nichole stood up quickly. "Sophie, Mr. Burke was just helping me with the ointment..."

Before she could finish, James coldly interrupted, "You don’t have to explain to her."