chapter439

“Administrative consequences?” Hertha asked, her tone sharpening. Thalassa watched with keen interest as her friend’s expression shifted from guilt to a defensive posture.

“Lysander is currently reviewing the communication protocols within our circles,” Alaric explained on speakerphone. “He’s aware of the inconsistencies. However, there is a way to settle this professionally. It concerns the winner of the regional gourmet competition—Elowen.”

Thalassa’s heart skipped a beat. Elowen.

“The investors want to personally deliver the prize and the official commendation to the guardian’s residence for promotional purposes,” Alaric continued. “Since you are listed as the primary contact on the registration form, we need to verify the address: Vibrant Oasis Residences.”

Thalassa and Hertha exchanged a look of pure alarm. Lysander was coming to the very place where the children lived.

“Why the personal delivery?” Hertha asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

“Lysander believes that high-level engagement with winners builds community trust. And as a gesture of settling our previous misunderstanding, he’s asked me to accompany him. We’re actually in the area now.”

Thalassa signaled frantically to Hertha, gesturing for her to provide a different location. But it was too late.

“We’re pulling into the complex,” Alaric said. “We should be at your door in five minutes.”

Thalassa felt the air leave her lungs. Lysander Sinclair was minutes away from entering her home.