Chapter 182

Ethan sat in his study, the room dimly lit by the soft allure of the table lamp. The heavy curtains were drawn, blocking the city lights outside. The scent of rich leather from his armchair mingled with the scent of the fine gin he was sipping. When he swirled the glass, the ice cubes clinked, offering a small comfort in the silence. The room was silent except for the occasional creak of the old wooden floorboards.

He had them changed recently for his peace of mind. The walls were lined with dark wood paneling, and the only light came from a flickering fire in the fireplace. Ethan’s gaze was fixed on the article spread out on the table in front of him. It detailed his confrontation with the reporter, a piece that Sandra had dismissed too lightly.

However, the quiet was broken by the sudden ring of his phone. The sharp sound jolted Ethan from his thoughts. The screen showed the old man's name, and Ethan answered quickly.

He grabbed the phone with both hands.

The first thing he heard fr