CHAPTER 80
Lauren’s internal fury spiked at Maxim’s casual use of the term “marrying,” but it was instantly complicated by the reminder of Valerius’ claim over her. She had always loathed how Valerius publicly brandished the fact that he was her legal guardian—he had formally adopted her years ago, turning her into his stepdaughter and cementing his control. She had never known Maxim, though she was vaguely aware of other operatives associated with Valerius’ vast empire. The mention of marriage, however, brought back the crushing realization that Valerius had, long ago, included her name in his last will and testament, a chilling indication of his long-term plan for her future.
Valerius beamed at Maxim, taking visible pride in the cold efficiency of his protégé, and even greater satisfac
