Chapter 468

Erica raised the issue concerning Brinley, firmly convinced that Vincent would be stunned.

During his brief lapse in focus, Erica's eyes glimmered with resolve. She suddenly veered aside, attempting to escape through the gap beside Vincent.

Yet, Hannah and Judie moved instantly, nearly in unison. Hannah seized Erica's wrist, while Judie swiftly barred the entrance.

"Don't imagine you can flee without clarifying your identity!" Hannah's tone was frosted steel, her hold rigid and relentless as she restrained Erica, who fought to wrench free.

Being halted, Erica recognized thatforcing her path was futile. Her features darkened with vexation and fury. She snapped her gaze at Vincent. "Just ask Vincent! No one understands who I am more than he does!"

Hannah's stare shot toward Vincent, seeking confirmation.

Vincent's look was layered; he inclined his head slightly and spoke in a grave timbre. "Yes."

With Vincent's affirmation, Hannah's grasp instinctively slackened momentarily.

Erica swiftly tore herself loose, slipped around Judie, and bolted out without glancing back.

Inside the private room, Hannah furrowed her brow deeply and questioned Vincent, "So who is she?"

Vincent walked over to her, his eyes solemn and intent. "She claims to be Brinley."

"Brinley?" Hannah's pupils tightened sharply, her expression laden with shock and disbelief. "That's impossible! Was she released from an international high-security prison already?"

Vincent shook his head, gaze cutting. "Nah. I confirmed recently. Brinley remains inside and never escaped." Hannah's confusion deepened, her tone edged with rising ire. "Then why didn't you question that woman just now? I wouldn't have released her if I had known you were uncertain about her identity."

Vincent appeared lost in his thoughts. "Because it's strange. Apart from Brinley herself, only select members of the Jones family know about the accident when I nearly drowned at seven. Later on, I only shared it with you."

Hannah instantly perceived his implication, her chest sinking. "You mean you suspect she belongs to the Jones family?"

Vincent's eyes were icy as he inclined his head slowly. "Yes. I've narrowed it. Few know this, and none raise suspicion. Except..."

Their gazes locked, and they muttered the name together, "Erica?"

Vincent was faintly startled that Hannah matched his reasoning. He pressed forward, his voice weighted and forceful. "Exactly. That day, Erica charged into the fire, seemingly seeking to end her own life, but the corpse in question was charred beyond recognition in the blaze, leaving her face unverifiable. Therefore, it's reasonable to suspect that Erica hadn't actually died, instead altering her features to approach me."

Hatred filled Hannah's eyes, her body quivering with fervent rage. "I'll hunt her down, rip away her false face, and avenge my father myself!"

She pivoted, rushing for the exit.

"Hold on." Vincent, swift and alert, caught her arm. "Restrain yourself! We lack definite proof. If you act now,she'll be alerted! We must wait, gather evidence she is Erica, and then bring her to justice."

"I won't wait!" Hannah thrashed violently. "Erica took my father's life with her vicious plots, and I'll see her pay in blood!"

She was too agitated. Vincent held her tightly, lowering his chin atop her head and pledging earnestly. "I know your grief! Trust me, I won't let you wait long! She will face the music."

Gradually, Hannah's struggle eased within his embrace. Her ragged breaths steadied, and the vicious hatred in her eyes was forcefully contained, yielding to a colder resolve. Yes, Vincent was correct. Without proof, reckless action would only ruin everything. She had to maintain control and stay composed!

Drawing a long breath, her tone steadied. "Release me.I'm leaving."

Vincent sensed her shift, easing slightly, and released her.

Not sparing him a look, Hannah adjusted her collar and strode out of the room.

Vincent trailed her soundlessly.

Judie, having wisely stayed by the door during their exchange, quickly inclined respectfully as they exited."Ms. Scott,Mr. Jones."

Hannah gave a small nod. "Thank you for assisting. You may leave now."

Judie brightened with relief, replying swiftly, "Yes, Ms. Scott!"

Judie departed in haste, silently reflecting, Today's ordeal was truly astonishing.

In the parking lot, Hannah walked to her vehicle, opened the door, and settled in the driver's seat. She had just buckled her belt when a light knock sounded on the glass.

Vincent stood beside her car, bending slightly, peering in at her through the pane. His tone was deep."Shall I drive instead?"

Hannah refused to glance at him, eyes locked forward, voice leveled. "I'll manage."

Vincent answered, "Very well."

Despite his words, he made no movement to depart.