The Devil Who Claimed Me

Chapter 123: Mila met another friend.

"Mila," he called softly. "It’s not safe for you to stay here. Come back with me."

Mila went still in his arms and looked up at him. "But my work isn’t done yet. There is still so much left. I can’t leave now."

"You’ve already taken back the house and the business," Dominic replied. "Alex will appoint a new CEO soon. You don’t need to worry about that anymore."

"But I still need to set up the research team, meet the hospital authorities, and get approvals," Mila insisted. "I can’t leave those things to others. I have to handle them myself."

Dominic let out a breath. "I’m not comfortable with you staying here. It’s dangerous. There are risks everywhere."

After a brief pause, he added, "If you are determined to stay, I’ll tighten security, and you are not arguing about that."

"Okay," she agreed, wrapping her arms around him with a bright smile. "Thank you for supporting me."

He held her close, though unease lingered in his chest. Still, he said nothing. "Just be careful. I’ll be tied up for the next few days, so I might not be able to visit. But if you need anything, call me. No matter where I am or how busy I get, I’ll come to you."

Her heart softened at his words. "I know you will. That’s why I love you so much."

She lifted her face and pressed a kiss to his lips.

He responded instantly, pulling her closer, his hands sliding along her back. Desire flared again, quick and intense.

"I want you," he murmured against her lips.

"Then don’t hold back," she breathed.

Their kisses deepened, turning urgent and consuming. The air turned hot between them. Their breaths grew heavier.

Late at night...

Dominic’s phone buzzed, breaking his slumber. He slipped out of bed carefully, making sure not to wake her. After a quick look at Mila—sleeping peacefully—he stepped out and answered the call.

"What is it?" he asked in a low voice.

"Serene is on the move," came the reply. "She is meeting someone tonight. A VIP. Hotel Lagoon."

"Keep an eye on her. I want every detail about that man," he ordered.

"Understood, boss. I’m already at the hotel. I’ll report back soon."

The line went dead.

Dominic lowered the phone slowly, his gaze turning cold. "What are you up to this time, Serene?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few days went by in peace.

Mila’s project proposal had been approved. The hospital authorities were not just supportive; they were excited. The idea of tackling such a critical illness had ignited enthusiasm among the staff.

Everything was falling into place.

Mila began contacting the doctors she had shortlisted. At last, she contacted Max.

The call was connected after a few rings.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Max... It’s me, Mila."

"Mila?" His voice rose in disbelief. "Is that really you?"

Mila laughed. "Yes, it’s me."

"Where are you? How have you been all this time?" he asked in a rush.

"I’m at the hospital," she replied. "Listen, I have something important to discuss with you. It’s about a research team I’m forming—"

"Let’s meet," he cut in immediately. "Have dinner with me. We’ll talk properly."

"Okay," Mila agreed readily.

Later that evening...

Mila arrived at the restaurant.

Max was already waiting near the reception.

The moment he saw her, relief flooded his face. He walked straight to her and pulled her into a tight embrace.

"My God... you are really alright," he breathed.

Mila felt awkward. She stiffened in his arms.

"Excuse me, Mister," Valentina’s sharp voice cut through the air. "You are crushing her."

Max pulled back instantly and looked up at her, puzzled. His gaze moved back to Mila. "Who is she?" he asked, confusion lacing in his voice.

"This is Valentina, my friend," Mila replied. She couldn’t let him know about the dangerous world she was now connected with.

"A friend?" Max sized up Valentina. He had never seen her before, and the way she was staring at him made him uncomfortable.

"Mila..." He stepped a little closer and leaned over to her, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Does she have to join us?" he whispered. "I thought we’d have some time alone."

Mila couldn’t go without guards. She had promised Dominic. She smiled.

"Max, relax." She placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "She is new here. She doesn’t know anyone. Let her join us."

Max didn’t like the idea, but he couldn’t say no. "Okay, fine. I have no issues."

He mustered a smile. "Hello, Valentina. I am Max." He stretched his hand toward her.

Valentina didn’t move. She just stared at him, cold, unreadable.

Max’s smile vanished, and he drew his hand back. "Well...I reserved a table there." He made a gesture and led them to the table.

Once seated, they ordered quickly.

"So..." Max turned his gaze to Mila. "You were saying something on the phone. What is it?"

Mila took out a folder from her bag and slid it toward him. "I am creating a research team..."

She then explained her plan to him meticulously.

Max listened intently, flipping through the documents. The more he read, the more his excitement grew.

Valentina, on the other hand, didn’t understand the medical terms. But the way Mila spoke, the fire in her eyes—it was clear she was doing something new, something revolutionary.

In her world, strength meant survival, power, and control. But here, Mila was talking about saving people suffering from a rare, dangerous, and incurable disease.

Valentina didn’t blink as she stared at her with a mix of awe and admiration.

"You are the best neurologist I know," Mila continued. "And I need you to lead this team."

Max smiled. "Thanks for trusting me. I’m excited about it. I’m in."

Mila grinned, her eyes lighting up with joy and hope.

The food arrived shortly after.

Before starting, Mila stood up. "I’ll be back. Washroom."

Valentina stood up immediately and followed her.

"Hey, where are you going?" Max called her and stopped her. "Sit and eat."

Valentina shot him a cold look. "If you are hungry, start eating. Don’t wait for us."

She walked away.

Max frowned, watching her retreating form. "Is something wrong with this woman?"

Mila headed to the restroom.

"Mila?" A voice came from the side.

The voice sounded familiar.

Mila paused. Her heart began to pound. Slowly, she turned and saw him.

Her fingers curled tightly at her sides.

"You? It’s really you..." Ethan rushed toward her, shock and disbelief written all over his face.

"You are not dead!" He opened his arms, moving to embrace her.

Mila stepped back, holding up a hand. "Stop right there. Don’t come any closer."