Karma Doesn’t Sleep: The Revenge Queen Rises novel Chapter 394

Belle’s message popped up on Amelia’s phone: “You can go for any of those single execs at work, but seriously, stay away from Ryan. I know he looks all shiny on the outside, but trust me—when it comes to the Packman family, George is the real heir. Ryan’s just the illegitimate son. His time in the spotlight won’t last, and that family is a mess. Please don’t get involved, okay?”

Reading it, Amelia couldn’t help but smile, warmth blooming in her chest. Belle wasn’t saying she wasn’t good enough for Ryan. She just didn’t want Amelia to get hurt by getting mixed up in that world.

When she’d married Clive, everyone in his circle had whispered she was beneath him. Not once had anyone taken her side.

Without thinking, Amelia reached out and hugged Belle, whispering quietly, “Don’t worry. I’m not going to fall for Ryan. And honestly, there’s no way he’d be interested in me anyway.”

Seven years had passed, and sure, Ryan had changed. But back then? He’d hated her so much he’d literally cross the street to avoid her.

After a while, the private dining room started to feel stuffy. Amelia excused herself, saying she needed the restroom, and slipped out with her phone in hand.

She wandered outside to a little terrace, where a wooden swing tangled in vines sat surrounded by potted plants and flowers. It was peaceful, just what she needed.

Timmy had texted to say he’d picked out a restaurant for dinner tomorrow. Amelia checked the address—close to her place. She called right then and booked a private room for a small group.

She’d just put her phone away when she looked up and saw someone standing at the arched doorway.

Ryan was there, out of nowhere, leaning against a marble column, an unlit cigarette between his fingers. He’d ditched his jacket and was wearing a shirt that caught the moonlight, something expensive and perfectly tailored. The top two buttons were undone, showing off his long neck and a hint of collarbone. He looked both elegant and a little wild, like trouble wrapped in silk.

And his face—seriously, it was almost unfair how good he looked.

For a split second, Amelia wanted to whistle, just to acknowledge how impossibly attractive he was.

But she didn’t dare.

“Mr. Packman.” She stood up, rubbing the tip of her nose, feeling awkward. “Were you looking for me?”

Ryan paused. “Just passing by.”

He really was just out here for some air.

Hearing that, Amelia relaxed, the tension dropping from her shoulders. “Then I’ll head back in.”

She tried to slip past him, but Ryan’s eyes cooled, watching how eager she was to get away. He reached out and blocked her path with his arm.

“Amelia…” His voice was low, almost teasing.

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