Chapter 1137

The news sent a jolt of excitement through Herman.

Devin's gone missing-what did that mean? Trouble, for sure.

Herman's brow furrowed, but his voice was practically buzzing. "Any idea where he was last spotted?"

"Devin disappeared on his way to the train station," Dailey said. "It's been five days. He was supposed to come to Riverdale, but never showed."

Herman's eyes narrowed. "Guess someone finally lost their nerve. Looks like they made their move."

Dailey nodded. "That's what it looks like. But it was clean-too clean. Our guys lost Devin before anything happened, or we would've known sooner."

“If he pulled this off, he'd cover his tracks.” Herman's fingers drummed on the desk. "Find Devin. I want him-alive or dead."

"Understood, boss."

Listening in, Flynn was completely out of his depth. His bright, slightly clueless gaze bounced between them.

"Herman, Dailey, what are you even talking about? Devin's dead? Who did it? You're speaking in code—I can't follow any of this."

Herman snorted. "If you could figure it out, even Doodle could." Doodle was the Paradise family's spoiled golden retriever.

"Herman, you're impossible!" Flynn complained. "So is Devin dead or not? Dailey, come on, tell me!"

Dailey grinned. "Why don't you take a guess, Second Young Master?"

Flynn pulled a face. "There you go again! Dailey, you've been hanging around

Herman too long you've both got that mysterious act down pat."

Herman changed the subject. "Go pick out a gift for the baby's party. Take it to the celebration."

"Isn't that Nelson's job?" Flynn asked.

Herman shot him a look. "You've got nothing better to do. Go."

"Then send me some money-I'm broke," Flynn said, making it clear he wasn't about to pay for it himself.

"Always chasing a buck,” Herman muttered. “I'll reimburse you later.”

"Herman, you'll just forget. My wallet's empty, I swear..."

Herman played his trump card. "Next month, you're on carpool duty for Pattie-or

you can drive Emmie and Nancy. Your pick."

Flynn wilted. "I'll go buy the gift."

With Flynn out of the way, Herman turned to Dailey. "Don't tail Mr.

Walkertoo closely, No need to spook him on, and make sure spookh

Autumn hears that Devin might be in

trouble."

It was a move meant to set Autumn and Mr. Walker at each other's throats.

Dailey had worked with Herman long enough to catch on instantly.

"Got it, boss. I'm on it."

The Walkers were throwing a baby shower, and the Stranz family had their invitation, too.

Scott was out the door at sunrise and back late at night-by the time he came home, Juliana was already asleep.

So Juliana was the one who received the invitation.

She'd already made up her mind: when the day came, she'd show up looking flawless. No way was she letting the other society wives look down on her.

Who cared if she didn't have kids?

She was still the lady of the Stranz family, after all.

With two weeks left before the baby shower, Juliana got busy. She hired a tailor to come to the house and started designing custom outfits for herself and for Layna, too.

After school, Layna was whisked off to get measured.

"Mom, you're making me another new dress?" Layna now called her "Mom" without hesitation.

"That's right. There's a party in two weeks, and want you looking beautiful, Juliana said with a smile “Oh, and watch what you eat—don't gain weight, okay? The Salstroms and Paradise will be there I don want you looking shabby next to them."

Layna's looks were what they were she just couldn't compete with Paradise.

Her skin was darker, and she'd started to look a little chubby, too.

For a girl, darker skin and extra weight didn't help.

“Paradise is coming too?" Layna's competitive streak lit up. "Mom, I won't let you down."

"That's my girl." Juliana nodded.

"Once you're done here, go do your

comp Your uncle's biggest

is your grades. If you

want him around more

you have to

do well in school. Layna, I'mo

counting on you."

"I know, Mom.” Layna felt a burst of pride—Juliana was depending on her now.

She'd never be pushed aside again. "I'll get started on my homework."

Layna headed upstairs, and a thought struck Juliana. She grabbed her phone. "Sandia, are you there yet? I'll be over in a bit..."

After leaving Willowbrook, Sandy had returned to Riverdale and was now living with Juliana.