CHAPTER 235
Author: Sacréd Pen
last update Last Updated: 2024-06-30 23:31:28
Xavier descended the stairs, his footsteps echoing through the foyer of the Avendano family villa. The wedding ceremony was finally over but the events that occured that day still hung heavily and gloomily in the air, creating tension.

The usually vibrant and bustling center room felt unnervingly quiet, save for the soft murmurs of the assembled family members. Xavier's brow was furrowed, his fingers running anxiously through his neatly coiffed hair as he scanned the room, seeking out his wife.

His gaze finally landed on her, standing rigid and pensive by the fireplace, her arms crossed on her chest. Their eyes met, and Xavier could see the concern etched across her features.

He made his way over to her, the plush Persian rug deadening the sound of his approach.

"Maria," Xavier said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Have you found India? Where is she? Have you been able to reach her?"

Maria shook her head solemnly. "No, she hasn't come home since leaving Nimah's wedding s
Continue to read this book on the App

Related Chapters

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 236 - I KNOW WHO KILLED LORD AVENDANO

    In a moment, the door swung open, and India stood before her mother, her eyes wide with a mix of surprise and alarm. India looked directly into her mother's eyes, searching for answers. "Hold on, what did you just say? Yerins Hemsworth?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. "Are you serious?" Maria nodded solemnly, her gaze locked with her daughter's. "I am afraid so," she said, her voice low and serious. "And he was acting very suspiciously. I thought you'd seen him." India's eyes widened, the pupils dilating as realization dawned on her. "I think I know why Yerins came to the wedding," she said, her voice laced with a hint of dread. Maria's brows furrowed further, her curiosity piqued. "Why, India? What do you think he's up to? He was the one who confronted me, his demeanor, his voice and even the smirk on his face spelt evil. I genuinely felt it." India took a deep breath, motioning for her mother to enter the room. "Come, let's discuss this in pr

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 237 - A DANGEROUS MOVE

    India strode towards the parking lot, her polished heels clicking against the pavement. The morning sun glinted off her crisp, white corporate attire as she carried herself with magnificence. Her sleek, leather handbag swung gently at her side, complementing the stylish sunglasses perched on her face. She decided to ignore whoever it was that was messaging her last night, she concluded it could be a prank and she didn't want to give audience to a psychopath and since the person didn't even bother sending another message, she believed it was nothing serious even though that's what she thought about through out the night. As she approached her waiting car, India couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The day's agenda promised to be filled with important matters, and she was eager to tackle each one with her trademark efficiency. But just as she was about to slip into the backseat, a familiar voice called out from behind. Pausing, India turned around to see he

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 238 - A DANGEROUS MOVE 2

    The city streets flashed by the tinted windows, and India found herself already planning the details of the upcoming feast. She knew it would be a delicate balancing act, appeasing both the public and her father, but the sense of purpose that filled her was exhilarating. The headquarters of the Avendano enterprises finally came to view. The driver pulled up to the main entrance, and India alighted, smoothing a hand over her crisp, tailored skirt. She strode through the revolving doors, the receptionist immediately rising to her feet and curtseying as India approached. "Good afternoon, Lady Avendano," the receptionist greeted, her voice polite and deferential. "The board of directors have been waiting in the conference room." India nodded, glancing at her wristwatch. It was a few minutes past noon. "Thank you," she replied, her tone measured. "Has anyone been looking for me?" The receptionist shook her head. "No, ma'am." India pursed her lips, a slight

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 239 - I HAVE ONE MORE PERSON TO KILL

    India shook her head in disappointment and turned around to walk out on Alex, just as she reached for the door knob, her phone beeped. She paused, her hand frozen on the knob, and glanced down at the device in her hand. An incoming message. Curiosity piqued, she clicked on it. Her eyes dilated in shock as she scanned the words on the screen. India stood rooted to the spot, staring blankly at the phone, her expression unreadable. Alex frowned and stepped closer, reaching out a hand to touch her shoulder. "What's wrong?" he asked, concern lacing his voice. "Is there a problem, India?" India shrugged off his touch, her gaze still fixed on the phone. She stood there, unmoving, for several long seconds. The tension in the room was palpable. Finally, she moved, opening the door and striding back into the conference room where the board of directors were still waiting. Without a word, she headed straight to the far end of the long table, her heels clicking ag

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 240 - MALAKAI WAYS

    The sun was slowly dipping behind the horizon, painting the sky in a breathtaking array of oranges and pinks. Alex sat in the backseat of the car, his gaze fixed on the rearview mirror as his driver navigated the bustling expressway. The thunderous bass of the music blasting through the speakers pulsed in sync with the movements of Alex's head as he munched absentmindedly on a bowl of cheese balls. The driver's eyes were fixed on the road ahead, his brow furrowed in concentration. Alex cleared his throat, shifting in his seat to get a better view of the driver through the rearview mirror. "Yooo, you looked lost. Do you even know where we're headed?" Alex asked, his voice slightly muffled by the music. The driver glanced up briefly, nodding. "Of course I do... We're going to Hiram Decks Hotel. I am not lost in thoughts," he replied, his tone calm and professional. Alex nodded, then hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Well, that's valid enough. Uhm.

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 241 - THE FOUR MEN IN BLACK

    As they approached the corner, a black jeep suddenly appeared, blocking their path. The driver slammed on the brakes, the car jerking to a stop just inches from the jeep. Alex frowned, his irritation evident as he and the driver alighted from the car to confront whoever was driving the car. "What the hell!" Alex cursed, waiting for whoever was driving the car to come out. He couldn't see anyone because of how tinted the glasses were. Just then, the four doors of the jeep opened, and four men in the same outfit, black suits, black hats, and black shoes emerged, their expressions stern and serious. The driver stepped forward, his voice raised. "What the hell is the meaning of this? How dare you block our way like that!" One of the men in black exchanged a glance with his companions, then turned his gaze to the driver. "Move aside, we are not here for you," he said, his tone commanding. Alex moved closer to the man, his eyes narrowed. "Who do you t

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 242 - A TASK

    India paced back and forth alone in the courtyard, her expression serious and gloomy as she held her phone in her hand, dialing a number, the phone hanging on her ear each time she called. The phone rang several times as she kept redialing over and over but there was no response. India hadn't been able to get hold of herself since the text she got in her office that says, "Now, I have a task for you." India stomped her feet in frustration, her eyes filling with unshed tears. She walked up to the wooden bench at one side of the courtyard and sat down, dropping her phone as her face buried in her palms. The warm morning sun shone down on the lush greenery of the courtyard, the gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the towering trees that lined the perimeter. India's shoulders rose and fell with each deep, shaky breath she took, trying to compose herself. The weight of whatever was troubling her seemed to press down upon her, making it difficult to breathe. Ju

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    CHAPTER 243 - WHERE IS ALEX?

    Just then, the sound of footsteps approaching drew India's attention, and she looked up to see Magnus. Magnus was a tall, handsome figure, his casual white t-shirt and jeans doing little to conceal the well-defined muscles of his physique. As he approached, he bowed slightly, his expression one of respect and concern. "You summoned me, my lady?" he said, his voice low and steady. India managed a small smile, quickly wiping away the tears that had begun to gather in her eyes. "Yes, Magnus, how was your trip to Tanzania? Father told me about the challenges y'all had to face. Please, have a seat." Magnus shook his head, his brow furrowing slightly. "I'm fine standing, my lady. It was South Africa we visited, and thanks for your concern. It's actually one of the best trip we've had this year." India's smile wavered, and she gently patted the empty space on the bench beside her. "I insist. I won't be comfortable having this conversation with you if you're s

Latest Chapter

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 278 - HE'S GONE, FOREVER.

    As Nicholas and Ryan got back to the mansion, Nicholas turned to Ryan, his expression grim. "Ryan, make research on every possible place Malakai could be at the moment and the kinds of appointments he have. You need to be quick with it," he said, his voice laced with urgency. Ryan nodded, already moving towards the study. "I'll get started on it right away," he assured, his footsteps echoing down the hall. An hour later, Ryan returned, a triumphant gleam in his eye. "I think I've found something," he announced, handing Nicholas a sheet of paper. "What is it?" Nicholas asked, his gaze scanning the document. "The last call Malakai made was to a man named Alvonso, he also made a call last night to the same man," Ryan explained. "They agreed to meet at a place called 'Dark Centre.' I don't know where that is, do you?" Nicholas felt a chill run down his spine. "Dark Centre," he murmured, his expression darkening. "Yes. I know it well. Malakai has used it as a

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 277 - SHE IS

    Nicholas sat in his lounge, staring pensively out the window as he munched on the fresh fruit arranged on the table before him. The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the glass, illuminating the worry etched on his brow. He had much to contemplate. While Nicholas was munching on the fruits, Ryan, strode into the room. Ryan's expression was unreadable as he placed a manila file on the table in front of Nicholas. "I have some news," he said simply, grabbing an apple from the fruit bowl and taking a bite. Nicholas looked up, his eyes narrowing. "Good news or bad news? All I've been hearing you guys tell me since I came back is bad news, I don't want anymore." he asked cautiously. Ryan shrugged noncommittally. "That depends on how you look at it, I don't know if it's good or bad," he replied, chewing contemplatively. Feeling a growing sense of unease, Nicholas sat up straighter. "Well, what is it then?" he pressed. With a heavy sigh, Ryan met Nichola

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 276 - REGRET

    India's heart sank, her mind racing as she tried to make sense of this new revelation. The thought made her stomach churn with a mixture of betrayal and fury. She glanced out the window, noting that the day was waning, the sky slowly shifting to a deeper shade of blue. Turning back to Alexander, she reached out and grasped his hand, her gaze soft and reassuring. "I'm going to stay with you tonight," she said, her voice firm. "I want to be here, to make sure you're safe. He knows you're alive now, he might wanna try something stupid." Alexander smiled, his eyes brightening with relief. "Thank you, India. I'm glad you're here." The next morning, India rose early. She had slept fitfully, her dreams plagued by visions of her cousin in peril and Malakai's betrayal. As she dressed, she glanced back at Alexander, who was still soundly asleep. "I'll be back soon," she whispered, pausing to press a kiss to his forehead before slipping out of the room.

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 275 - DON'T DO IT

    India rushed through the hospital's lobby, her footsteps echoing against the floors as she made her way to the front desk. Her heart pounded with anticipation. Just as she reached the counter, a familiar face caught her eye. "Dr. Sinclair!" India called out, her voice laced with relief. The physician turned and greeted India with a warm smile. "Lady Avendano, I'm so glad you're here," Dr. Sinclair said, gesturing for India to follow her. "I was hoping to speak with you." India fell into step beside the doctor, her gaze fixed on the woman's face, searching for any sign of good news. "How is Alexander doing? Is he awake? Can I see him? Even if not talk to him, it's my right you know it." Dr. Sinclair nodded, her expression reassuring. "Calm down, Lady Avendano. You have nothing to worry about, at all... your cousin has made remarkable progress. He's been asking for you, actually. If you'll come with me, I'll take you to his room." India's breath caught in her

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 274 - CANDACE'S ARREST

    India gripped the steering wheel tightly as she navigated the winding road. Her mind was preoccupied with thoughts of what had happened at home, how she just ended things with Malakai and Alexander, and the anticipation of seeing him was building with each passing mile. Maybe this time around, he'd be able to talk or say something. Suddenly, a familiar beeping from her phone disrupted the hum of the engine. India's brow furrowed as she glanced down, her eyes landing on the message notification that had just popped up. It was from the unknown number again. Her heart skipped a beat, as she clicked on the message and she read the ominous words: "You did a great job with Nimah. While I am very not satisfied with what you did, I am willing to reward you. Are you ready to know who killed your grandfather?" India's fingers trembled as she stared at the screen, her breath catching in her throat. She knew she should ignore the message, continue on to the hospital. But the curiosity that h

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 273 - IT'S A PLOT

    Malakai's eyes flashed with a mixture of confusion and hurt. He just didn't want to agree. "I don't understand. We've been working towards this for so long. The plan was foolproof. Why would you refuse to work with me now?" India offered him a small, sympathetic smile. "I know, and I appreciate all the work you've put into it. But my mind is made up. If you don't mind, I really should be going now." She rose from her chair, smoothing her hands over her skirt once more. Malakai nodded slowly, his expression resigned. "I see. Well, I respect your decision, India. I wish you all the best." India inclined her head. "Thank you, Malakai. And I'm sorry I have to leave so soon, but I have somewhere I need to be." "Oh, so soon. Where are you going though?" Malakai asked, his brows furrowing once more. "I need to get to the hospital as soon as possible," India replied, her voice soft. "Hospital? Are you sick?" "Oh no... I'm actually going to visit Alexande

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 272 - OAUIS

    India sat at the cafe table, her fingers drumming lightly against the smooth, wooden surface as she glanced down at her wristwatch. Ten minutes had passed since she'd arrived, and there was still no sign of Malakai. Tucking an errant strand of her dark hair behind her ear, India scanned the bustling cafe, her gaze settling on the entrance as Malakai's familiar car finally pulled up. Malakai alighted from the vehicle, slowly making his way across the crowded patio. India felt a small smile tug at the corners of her lips as he approached, and when they met, she welcomed him with a warm embrace. "I'm so glad you could make it," Malakai said, his voice soft, as they pulled apart. India's face was alight with a bright smile, her hazel eyes twinkling. "Of course. I wouldn't miss this for the world." She laughed. "Haha, well, thank you for coming in such a short notice," Malakai said again as he gestured to the empty chair across from her, "Please, have a seat my la

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 271 - TALK OF THE DEVIL

    Another round of shocked gasps filled the air, the family members trading bewildered glances. Leafer, Nimah's elder sister, rose from her seat as she narrowed her gaze, her finger pointing accusingly at Nimah. "Wait, which Nicholas are you talking about, Nee?" she demanded, her voice laced with a hint of skepticism. "Nicholas Loughty of the Royal group, or Nicholas, the manager of KMT markets?" Nimah chuckled, her expression nonchalant. "I'm actually referring to India's husband, Nicholas," she stated matter-of-factly. "He and I have been... intimate. And here I am, carrying his baby in my womb. A dream come true, if you ask me." The room erupted into a cacophony of shocked exclamations, the family members struggling to comprehend the Nimah's words. Xavier, his face flushed with a mix of anger and disbelief, rose from his seat again, his gaze fixed on Nimah. "Do you realize what you're saying, Nimah?" he questioned, his voice tight with barely contained fury.

  • RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT    

    CHAPTER 270 - WHAT!?

    India stepped out of her room, her carefully made-up face masking the tiredness etched on her soul. Three sleepless nights had taken their toll, her worry for Alexander's recovery consuming her every waking moment. The doctor had to assure her that Alexander would be fine before she agreed to go home. India's grasped the doorknob, taking a deep breath before pulling the door open. It's another day to go check on Alexander, hoping he would finally be able to say a word to her. As the door opened fully, her eyes landed on the figure standing before her. Nimah stood there at the doorstep with a hesitant expression on her face, hands clasped tightly together in front of her. India's brow furrowed in confusion, her mind racing to piece together why Nimah would be waiting at her doorstep. "Nimah?" she questioned, a slight edge to her tone. "What are you doing here? What the hell? You scared me... How long have you been standing there?" Nimah swallowed hard, her gaz