For that, Ashley was ready for Charlie's resentment. After all, she already put herself through twenty years of pain and humiliation—all so that Charlie had a shot to destroy his foes.

So that he never had to hide again.

Sighing, she mused, "I wonder if Charlie will meet me when we meet, and he finds out that I was the mastermind..."

Stephen shook his head, respectful in his reply, "You're only taking action for the sake of the greater good. I'm sure he'd understand your goodwill."

Ashley