"Fine! I won't say anything else next time," Erica muttered nervously before lowering her voice. "But Hayley… where have you been lately?"
"Something came up," Hayley replied smoothly. "I left the country for a vacation."
Even through the call, Erica could sense the cold calculation beneath her tone.
"Listen carefully," Hayley continued. "If Elliot questions you again, only answer what's necessary. Don't give him anything extra. And most importantly, keep him away from Anastasia. If that woman becomes Mrs. Presgrave one day, we're both finished."
Erica immediately complained, "I'm trying! But Anastasia keeps circling Elliot every day like she's scent-marking him. I can't stop it alone. You need to come back soon so we can deal with her together."
Hayley fell silent for a moment before answering, "I won't return for another three months. Until then, stall them however you can. And remember—if Elliot asks about that night again, you say nothing."
Her voice sharpened dangerously.
