Chapter 262: Arrival at the Hospital

The convoy pulled into the hospital's private entrance, a secured section reserved for high-profile figures. Armed guards were already stationed at every corner, their presence a clear message—no one was getting in or out without permission.

Cole stepped out first, his posture straight, composed. Two soldiers opened the back door, and Ava was pulled out, her hands still bound. She didn't resist, but her eyes burned with quiet defiance.

Ethan was already waiting at the entrance, his gaze sharp as it flicked between Cole and Ava.

"You took your time," Ethan remarked.

Cole shrugged. "Made sure there were no loose ends."

Ethan studied him for a beat before nodding. He gestured for the soldiers to move. "Chris is waiting."

They moved in silence through the hospital halls. The air was tense, charged with an unspoken weight.

When they reached the private suite, two guards pushed the doors open.

Inside, Chris sat upright in the hospital bed, his injuries forcing him to remain still, but his presence was just as commanding as ever. His gaze locked onto Ava the second she entered.

The room was silent.

Ava was the first to break it. "Still breathing, I see."

Chris smirked faintly. "Disappointed?"

Ava didn't answer.

Chris's gaze then shifted to Cole. He studied him for a long moment, as if assessing every possible betrayal, every possible hesitation.

Cole met his stare head-on. "She didn't escape. She didn't hide. I took care of it."

Chris exhaled slowly, then nodded. "Good."

That one word was simple, but the weight behind it meant everything.

Cole had proven his loyalty.

But as Chris's gaze flicked back to Ava, something darker lingered in his expression.

Because now that she was here—he had no intention of letting her walk away again.