Chapter 78

Elodie pulled into her driveway, headlights slicing through the twilight. She was about to step out when a figure materialised from the shadows, sending a jolt of adrenaline through her. Her cousin stood ramrod straight, eyes blazing with unhinged fury. ‘Vivienne,’ Elodie said, her voice cool, ‘I thought you were supposed to be enjoying a cosy stay in a charming government facility.’ Vivienne’s face contorted. ‘I got out on bail,’ she hissed. Elodie raised an eyebrow. ‘How intriguing. Care to tell me who coughed up the dough for your little prison break?’ ‘My dad.’ ‘Huh. I thought dear old Dad threw you out? Guess that was all theatre, huh?’ Elodie scoffed. ‘After your little stunt with the stolen designs, I kind of figured he’d washed his hands of you for good.’ Vivienne’s face flushed crimson. ‘It was all your fault!’ she shrieked. ‘You set me up! You left those drafts out like bait, hid the logo, you knew I was—’ ‘About to commit corporate espionage?’ Elodie finished, a smirk playin