Revenge is Best Served… After Reborn

In the outskirts of the city, Sophie drove to the meeting spot she and James had agreed on. James was standing right in the middle of a deserted, narrow lane, surrounded by old, run-down bungalows that looked like they hadn't seen occupants in years.

Sophie rolled down her window and called out, "Why did you ask me to come here? What do you want to talk about?"

James sized her up before speaking. "Odie was so confident, claiming he could have you dead within three months. Yet here you are."

Sophie let out a cold laugh. "Looks like Mr. Burke isn't too thrilled about that."

"Sophie, let's cut to the chase. Did you spread those rumors?"

James's voice had a sharp edge to it. Lately, the media was flooded with stories about the CEO of Burke International allegedly killing his wife, and the police had already started investigating. James's recent attempts to lay low were only making him look more suspicious.

"Me, spreading rumors?" Sophie chuckled. "James, I haven't sunk that low. Our issues are resolved, and I have no reason to stir up trouble for you. If that's why you called me here, then let me be clear-it wasn't me."

With that, Sophie turned on her heel to leave.

"Wait!"

Sophie stopped and looked back at James. "Is there something else, James?"

"I... I killed her."

The admission made Sophie frown. "Why would you kill Nichole?"

Even if James despised Nichole, he didn't need to kill her himself. Yet, he had done just that.

"She was a blemish on Burke International. There's no way she was going to become Mrs. Burke."

James's tone was completely

devoid of emotion, reminding Sophie of the kind of person he had always been. In their past life, James had married Ker solely for the Russell family's connections. Later, he intended to marry Nichole because she was a valuable asset who could elevate Burke International even further. For James, Burke International was always the top priority.

Anyone or anything threatening the company's interests was mercilessly eliminated. How could someone who saw Burke International as his lifeblood ever think of handing it over to her? It was all about

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protecting Bea from going to jail. James had never thought she'd survive Odie's threats.

"What's your real reason for bringing me here?" Sophie's voice grew colder.

"You stirred up the media to take over the Burke family, didn't you?"

James began to walk slowly towards Sophie, his gaze growing more intense. "So, what do you think I called you here for tonight?"

"I've told you, it wasn't me, and I don't care about your Burke International! If you want to break the agreement, go ahead."

"Sophie, do you really think I'd believe that nonsense? After everything you've done, isn't it obvious you're trying to take Burke International from me?"

Suddenly, James pulled out a folding

knife from his sleeve and lunged at Sophie. Before she could react, a strong force yanked her back. She heard a grunt of pain and realized someone had stepped in to shield her Colby! Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

"Colby!"

Panic surged through Sophie as she rushed to check Colby's injuries.