Chapter 203

"Ever since I kicked Shirley out of Brandon's house, Paula's been MIA. Looks like she went to crash with Earl and Renee. They must've given her a place to stay."

"As for when they got involved, it was probably after Paula joined the company. She bumped into Earl by chance and eventually ended up with Renee."

Simon chimed in, "Actually, Paula's the smart one. She figured out Brandon was just a puppet. The real power in the Jordan family is Renee."

"That's why she ditched Brandon and went to Renee."

I nodded, "Exactly. Paula's tight with her parents, unlike Shirley. Shirley probably won't go back home, but Paula might. So if you can't find her, stake out near her parents' place. You'll definitely spot her."

Suddenly, an idea hit me. "Oh, and James lives in that area too. You should send someone to watch his house. If you find James, you'll find Shirley."

Simon quickly nodded, "Right, I almost forgot about him. I'll send someone right away."

After hanging up, I let out a deep breath and looked at Royce. "Maybe we'll have results soon."

He nodded.

That evening, Simon called with good news. "You were right. James is back home. We're keeping an eye on him."

But there was also bad news. "Renee has sent people over. They might be trying to take the child."

"If Aria ends up with Renee, it'll be too late."

A sense of dread filled me. "I need to go there now."

Those people are ruthless. They might harm my child. I can't just sit here. I have to go.

Royce stopped me. "Don't worry. We've set up tight surveillance. We'll get the child back. You should stay home and wait for news. You're not well."

I shook my head firmly. "I know my own body. I can handle it. If I stay here doing nothing, the anxiety will kill me."

"Royce, trust my instincts. If something's going to happen, I need to be there. Please, let me go."

Royce frowned, thinking for a long time. "Give me ten minutes. I'll get back to you."

I nodded. Just then, my phone rang, the shrill sound startling everyone.

I quickly answered. It was Paula, who I hadn't heard from in ages.

She greeted me with a sweet, almost mocking tone. "Long time no see, Ms. Sharp."

Hearing her voice made my hair stand on end, like a mammal sensing a predator. I listened, every nerve on high alert.