The 99th Game Was Mine All Along novel Chapter 86

I thought Julie was joking, though I appreciated her loyalty. The last thing I needed was involving another person in my nightmare.

After her discharge, Julie insisted I stay with her. I didn't have the energy to refuse.

To ensure James couldn't track me down, Julie's connections provided me with a completely new identity.

At her penthouse, I realized she wasn't exaggerating about her resources—she was seriously connected, with the kind of wealth and power that opens doors I didn't know existed.

Her information networks were impressive. Within days, she casually mentioned over breakfast that Rachel was dead.

She'd been found in a back alley overseas, her body mutilated beyond recognition, with particular violence focused on... certain areas.

James had canceled the wedding and made a public statement declaring he was already married, frantically searching for his "beloved wife."

I couldn't make sense of his behavior. Hadn't he been obsessed with Rachel for years? What was this sudden change of heart?

Not that it mattered anymore.

What I didn't expect was running into James so soon.

I was browsing a boutique while Julie battled food poisoning in the restroom. Turning at the sound of a familiar voice, I found myself staring directly at him.

His appearance shocked me. Designer suits replaced by rumpled clothes, his face unshaven, with hollowed cheeks and haunted eyes.

He approached cautiously. I turned to leave, but he caught my wrist.

"Emily, please. Just give me a minute."

"Take your hand off me," I said, ice in my voice.

He released me instantly, as if my skin burned him.

"I know I fucked up beyond forgiveness. I was blind. I destroyed everything—you, our children, us."

"I'm not asking for another chance. I just needed to see you once more, to say I'm sorry to your face."

I studied him dispassionately.

"Apologies are worthless, James. If you're genuinely sorry, go make amends with actions, not words."