“But give me back the money I had paid you, and I won't pay the rest," Alec replied coldly.

Derek's heart skipped a beat. "But that's not how it works."

He protested, "I've completed the job. How can you not pay? We had an agreement. If you renege, I might not stay quiet!"

“Then go ahead and speak now. If that woman doesn't die today, she'll expose everything regardless. She's onto you. It's more than just money at stake. Brace yourself for the worst," Alec snapped back.

Derek remained quiet. Alec implied that failing to handle Nicole meant full exposure, with consequences far worse than losing money.

He might even face prison.

How could Derek accept that? He was just beginning to relish a life of wealth. He couldn't abandon the money now.

Derek had initially promised Leighton he'd take her with him after it all was settled, yet he never really intended to follow through.

Money in hand, the need to seek beautiful companions seemed unnecessary.

Derek had long grown tired of Leighton and craved new adventures.

Therefore, for the money's sake, he resolved that Nicole must die.

After all, it was a fortune he could never amass through ordinary work.

Yet, Derek hadn't foreseen the complexities. Nicole was tougher to deal with than he had anticipated. However, the money was too tempting for him to resist.

Derek hardened his resolve and declared assertively, “I'll definitely kill her. Just make sure you send the rest of the money."

Alec assured, “Money is never an issue for me. Just make sure you do the job right. Any slip-up, and the life you're currently enjoying will vanish."

"Absolutely. I'll get it done," Derek promised with a _ nod.

Determination gleamed in his eyes at that moment. He was convinced he could accomplish his task.

Nicole hadn't driven far when Derek's silver sedan was nearly upon her again.

Gripping the steering wheel tightly, Nicole floored the accelerator, yet she couldn't elude Derek.

Derek's pursuing car appeared desperate to catch Nicole, clearly intent on a deadly confrontation.