**Chapter 72** Avery stood paralyzed, her heart racing in her chest. The world around her blurred as the reality of her phone being snatched away hit her like a cold wave. A frenzied instinct ignited within her, compelling her to pursue the thief who had vanished into the bustling crowd. But just as she began to sprint forward, a sobering thought swept over her—she was pregnant. With a heavy heart and a swirling mixture of worry and frustration, she turned back toward the safety of her home. About an hour later, Mrs. Cooper found herself on the phone with Elliot, a sense of urgency lacing her voice. “Master Elliot, I regret to inform you that Madam Avery’s phone was stolen while she was out for a walk. We went to the station to file a report, but it seems nearly impossible to recover it. When we returned home, her eyes were swollen and red with tears. She mentioned that there was crucial information on that phone, and now she’s all alone, crying in her room.” A sense of resolve built within Mrs. Cooper; she knew this was not something that could be left unattended. Perhaps if Elliot were made aware of the situation, his connections could rescue Avery’s phone. In her mind, she envisioned the guilt that might lightly burden Elliot’s conscience, hoping it would spur him to action. Meanwhile, at a swanky restaurant, Elliot sat alone at their designated table, waiting for Charlie Tierney. The ambiance buzzed with chatter and the clinking of glasses, yet his thoughts were consumed by Avery’s plight. When Charlie finally arrived, his expression was one of mild irritation. “Where’s your boss?” he asked, casting a sidelong glance at Chad, who remained obediently by Elliot's side. “I’m sorry, Mr. Tierney, but Mr. Foster just left. A family issue has come up; he asked me to stay here and pass on any necessary information,” Chad replied, attempting to maintain professionalism despite the mounting tension. Charlie raised an eyebrow. “What a convenient coincidence. Is he really dodging me with some fabricated excuse?” “Even if Mr. Foster wanted to avoid you, he wouldn’t flee at the last minute. His courage doesn’t waver easily,” Chad remarked, defending his boss. Charlie perched himself in the chair across from Chad, an inscrutable expression on his face. “If I recall correctly, he doesn’t enjoy the warmest of relationships with his family. What kind of trouble could be serious enough for him to abandon our meeting?” “His wife,” Chad revealed simply. Charlie paused, as if weighing that information carefully. “I gather Mr. Foster intended to speak with you about your business with Miss Avery Tate. However, I must advise that he has a deep fondness for her. You’d do well to tread carefully around that.” Leaning back, Charlie offered a sly smile. “Ever considered a career change, Chad? I could offer you a handsome salary.” Chad’s expression turned flustered. “I appreciate the offer, Mr. Tierney, but I have no intention of abandoning Sterling Group. Unless Mr. Foster dismisses me, I will remain loyal to him.” “Why’s that?” Charlie questioned, intrigued. Chad took a breath. “You might want to ask Chelsea about her loyalty to the company.” “She stays because she’s in love with Elliot Foster. You can’t be serious—tell me you’re not in love with him, too!” Charlie chuckled, the corners of his mouth lifting in amusement. “I like him, but out of respect for the man.” Chad nodded, trying to clarify his position. “People often talk about his temper, but he’s multifaceted. Just because someone wears a frown doesn’t necessarily make them a villain, nor does a smile equate to purity of heart.” “Am I included in that observation?” Charlie interjected with a teasing grin. “Not at all,” Chad assured him. “There’s no hidden agenda here. You’re a formidable man, but I would never betray Mr. Foster’s trust.” Chad understood all too well that Charlie was attempting to woo him away, to use him against Elliot. If he, as Elliot’s most trusted aide, were to defect, it could easily set a precedent. “If I were to turn my back on Mr. Foster today, you could find yourself in the same precarious position tomorrow. I doubt you’d want to build relationships on such shaky ground,” Chad warned, his tone firm. Meanwhile, Elliot stood at the entrance of the police station, the gravity of the situation hanging heavy in the air. The moment the captain caught sight of him, he rushed over, a determined expression set across his features. “Your phone was stolen? That thief must be out of his mind! I promise you, I’ll mobilize my team and ensure it’s returned within twenty-four hours!” he declared confidently, placing a hand emphatically over his heart. Elliot raised an eyebrow, his patience wearing thin. “It's not my phone that was stolen,” he replied flatly. “Oh! You nearly gave me a heart attack! I assumed it was yours!” the captain chuckled nervously. “It was my wife’s,” Elliot said, taking a refreshing sip of water before pressing on. “Can you guarantee you’ll have it back in twenty-four hours?” The captain hesitated for a moment, then replied fervently, “Yes! Absolutely! With our surveillance cameras, we’ll launch a full investigation immediately!” Elliot nodded, the weight of his concerns momentarily lightened. “Thank you; I appreciate your efforts.” “Don’t mention it! It’s our duty!” As the captain rifled through the report, his attention zeroed in on one specific detail. “Is your wife’s name Avery Tate?” Elliot’s gaze hardened slightly as he regarded the captain, determination simmering within him. Yes, he would ensure Avery’s phone was recovered and the thief held accountable. He wouldn’t rest until justice, and peace of mind, was restored to his beloved wife.