Chapter 432

"Mom." Anna's voice was soft, laced with guilt.

Since arriving in New York, work had consumed nearly all her energy.

She had spent far too little time with her mother.

Howard studied her for a moment, then suddenly clapped his hands with a smile.

"Alright then, Anna stays tonight."

"Have a good talk with your mother."

"You can come to the company with me tomorrow morning."

He smiled on the surface, but his mind was busy calculating.

Anna Ross was a pawn he still needed to keep in his hand.

But he couldn't push too hard right now.

Vivian's eyes lit up, and she immediately stood.

"Then I'll start preparing dinner right now."

She tied on her apron and walked briskly into the kitchen.

Anna had initially wanted to refuse.

But seeing the hopeful look in her mother's eyes, she swallowed her words.

Spending more time with her mother would be good.

Howard suddenly leaned in, lowering his voice.

"Anna, how are things with Adrian Sinclair lately?"

He rubbed his hands together, his eyes sharp and calculating.

Anna frowned slightly.

"No progress."

Her tone was flat, revealing no emotion.

Howard's expression darkened.

"You did well last time."

"Just put in a bit more effort. Securing him shouldn't be difficult."

He recalled the results of his last probe.

Adrian did care about this girl.

It seemed this move wasn't wrong.

Anna rubbed her temples.

"I was genuinely injured last time."

Her voice carried weariness.

Howard was taken aback.

He had assumed it was a calculated act.

He hadn't expected it to be real.

He immediately switched to a concerned expression.

"Are you alright now?"

His gaze swept over her neck. The marks had already faded.

Anna turned her face away.

"It's healed."

This false concern sickened her.

Howard's eyes flickered.

"Anna, about what we discussed last time..."

"You must help me."

Anna frowned.

"I'm not by his side right now."

"I can't help you."

Vivian happened to come out carrying dishes.

Hearing the conversation, her steps faltered.

Howard shot her a meaningful look.

Vivian set down the plates and sat beside her daughter.

Howard seized the opportunity to stand and leave.

He cast a significant glance their way before departing.

Vivian was silent for a moment before speaking softly.

"Annie, please just help him."

She reached out to take her daughter's hand.

Anna snatched her hand back sharply.

"Mom!"

She couldn't believe her mother would say such a thing.

Vivian lowered her head.

Her voice was almost inaudible.

"Do it for me."

"Okay?"