《The Divorcee Amazed the World》


 Chapter 1: Who is Jay Smith? （1）

    Helena licked her bottom lip, trying to kiss Willis.


    ¡°Let¡¯s take things slow. I won¡¯t do anything you¡¯re not ready for.¡± Willis said.


    He inched closer on the couch, lowering his mouth toward her neck.


    ¡°Just want to touch you,¡± he murmured. His full lips brushed her corbone, making her shiver.


    Trailing soft kisses up her neck, her jawline, Willis finally brought his mouth to hers.


    Their lips met in a hungry kiss, their bodies remembering every touch, every breath with perfect rity.


    ¡°No pressure, okay?¡± Willis whispered, encouragingly against her lips.


    Helena nodded, gripping the back of his neck to draw him in for another kiss.


    Soon his hand slid up her thigh, her knees parted for him on instinct.


    He stroked the front of her d@mpened p@nties¡­


    ¡°More,¡± Helena groaned.


    ¡°I knew I liked you,¡± Willis chuckled against my mouth.


    Slipping his fingers beneath the fabric, Willis pe*n*e*tr@ted her, slowly.


    Adding a second finger, he pressed deeper, making her cry out. Damn, the man was skilled, but something gnawed at the back of her brain. She wanted this, she did, it was just that¡­if they weren¡¯t careful, they could easily see myself losing my head.


    ¡°Wait, wait, wait,¡± Helena mumbled, pulling back to put several inches of space between them. ¡°This isn¡¯t slow.¡±


    ¡°Fv*ck.¡± He scrubbed a hand through his hair. ¡°No, I guess it¡¯s not.¡±


    He lifted her calf, nting her foot beside her on the couch so that my legs were open for him. ¡°Don¡¯t move. I want you just like this.¡± Slipping his fingers past the ed*ge of her p@nt*ies, he stroked just where she needed him. Helena entire body clenched and squeezed, wanting so much more.


    Willis brought his mouth to hers once again, kissing her deeply while his fingers did very naughty things.


    She struggled to get his pants open, fumbling with the button. When he knocked her hands away, she couldn¡¯t help the soft, happy noise that escaped her.


    He freed himself, stroking once. The bead of moisture at his tip distracted her in the most wonderful way.


    ¡°You going to look at it all night, or are you going to touch me?¡± he groaned.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Need you to touch me,¡± Helena moaned.


    ******


    ******


    After an intense intimacy, Helena Parvis was left sweaty and breathless.


    Unlike before, Willis Santana didn¡¯t go to take a shower. Instead, he embraced her from behind, holding her tightly, as if trying to meld her into his body.


    Helena was on the verge of melting in his arms, feeling a mix of surprise, nervousness, excitement, and a hint of mncholy.


    Three years into their marriage, it was the first time he held her like this.


    She felt the sensation of being deeply loved.


    Her heart pounded like a deer in chaotic leaps, and she slowly turned around, hugging him tightly. A sweet and radiant smile adorned her face, as if she held the entire world in her embrace.


    They stayed like that for a long time.


    Willis released her, put on his clothes, sat up, and took out a box of cigarettes from the drawer. Expertly shaking one out, he lit it and took a deep drag.


    As the smoke curled around, his handsome face became blurred in the haze, expression indiscernible. Unaware, the burning cigarette neared his fingers.


    Helena lightly coughed, ¡°Didn¡¯t you quit smoking a long time ago?¡±


    Willis extinguished the cigarette, gazing deeply into her eyes, silent for a few seconds before saying, ¡°Helena, let¡¯s break up.¡±


    Like thunder on a clear day!


    Helena was stunned, her burning heart instantly cooled, freezing in an instant.


    She paled, looking at him dazedly, her voice trembling slightly, ¡°Have I done something wrong?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then why do we have to break up?¡±


    ¡°Susan¡¯s back. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Susan Varley, his ex-girlfriend.


    Helena felt as if a sharp knife had cut through her heart. Three years of living together, mutual support, but it couldn¡¯t withstand the return of that woman!


    He didn¡¯t love her; that was her biggest mistake!


    Destion, frustration, and sadness overwhelmed her. Helena bit her lip, her body stiff.


    Trembling fingers struggled to put on her clothes, preparing to leave.


    Willis held her shoulder, gently asking, ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Helena forced back her tears, ¡°To make breakfast.¡±


    ¡°Before, it was always you who made it. Let me do it today. Take a little more rest.¡± His voice was low and tender.


    Helena murmured an agreement andy back down, pulling the covers over her damp eyes.


    After he left, she got out of bed and rushed into the bathroom. Unable to hold back any longer, she burst into tears.


    Tears flowed uncontrobly, like beads with broken strings, impossible to stop.


    She never knew that loving someone could hurt so much, hurting to the point where he felt like a piece of flesh gouged out from her heart.


    She was in pain, so much so that she could barely stand. Leaning against the wall, she cried until she shivered.


    After an unknown amount of time, Willis called her downstairs for dinner.


    She answered and, wiping away her tears, washed her face over and over.


    But no matter how much she washed, her eyes remained red, as if filled with blood.


    Downstairs, Willis stood in the dining room, waiting for her.


    Dressed in a well-tailored high-end suit, dark trousers revealing straight and long legs, his whole demeanor exuded refined elegance. Just standing there, he radiated an overwhelming brilliance.


    Helena silently walked to the dining table and sat down.


    Willis leaned slightly, looking at her reddened eyes with an exceptionally gentle gaze. ¡°Cried?¡±


    Helena raised her face, forcing a smile, ¡°When washing my face, I identally got face wash in my eyes. It¡¯ll be fine in a while.¡±


    ¡°Be more careful next time. Let¡¯s eat.¡± Willis sat down beside her, handing her the chopsticks.

 Chapter 2: Who is Jay Smith? （2）

    Helena reached out to ept it, lowering her eyelids to watch his handsome fingers resting on the chopsticks.


    The delicious aroma of a hearty breakfast filled the air, yet neither of them touched the food.


    A lifetime had never seen a meal consumed in such sadness.


    After half an hour, the dishes remained untouched.


    Helena set down her chopsticks, stood up, and said softly, ¡°I¡¯ll pack my things.¡±


    Willis tightened his grip on the chopsticks slightly, ¡°No rush.¡±


    Helena forced a bitter smile. In such a situation, shouldn¡¯t she leave quickly? Did she have to wait to be chased away?


    Turning to go upstairs, she packed her belongings one by one, taking nearly half a day. Finally, she zipped up her suitcase and carried it downstairs.


    Willis approached and reached out for the suitcase, ¡°Give it to me.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Helena lifted the suitcase, straightened her back, and walked out.


    Passing through the courtyard, she couldn¡¯t help feeling sentimental. People were not like nts; how could they be so heartless?


    Three years-what they called familiarity breeding affection turned out to be her own affair.


    She loved him so much, wholeheartedly, with passion and tenderness. But what was the use?


    Let go, just let go.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Walking side by side to the front gate, a car was waiting outside.


    Willis handed her a check, ¡°Thank you for these three years ofpanionship.¡±


    Helena stood stubbornly, unsure whether to take it.


    Willis forcibly ced the check into her suitcase, ¡°Take it. You¡¯ll need money in many ces from now on.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Helena replied dryly, lifted her head, and greedily gazed at his attractive lips, prominent nose, and handsome eyes. Recalling the moments in bed when he covered her eyes with his gaze, the stars filled the sky, twisting her heart in pain, too painful to express.


    She thought, in this lifetime, there would surelye a day when she could finally stop loving him.


    Three years? Ten years?


    Perhaps even a lifetime.


    Falling in love with someone seemed easy, but forgetting them was difficult, very difficult.


    Willis watched her for a moment, then suddenly pulled her into his arms. His face remained calm, but turmoil brewed in his eyes. ¡°In the future, it won¡¯t be easy for you alone. If you encounter difficulties, call me.¡±


    Tears welled up, but Helena swallowed them down. ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°In the past two years, my health was poor, and my temper was bad. I made you suffer.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°Take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°You too.¡± Helena slowly raised her hand, embraced him, and held onto him as if saying a final goodbye.


    Suddenly, she let go of him.


    She pushed him away and quickly wiped her face, picked up her suitcase, and turned to leave.


    After a few steps, she heard Willis ask, ¡°Who is Jay Smith?¡±


    Her heart trembled slightly. Helena¡¯s raised foot descended slowly.


    Dusty memories came crashing down like an avnche.


    She was too sad to find words.


    Hearing Willis say again, ¡°He must be important to you. I apologize for upying you for three years. I wish you happiness.¡±

 Chapter 3: A Remarkable Debut（1）

    Helena¡¯s heart was filled with mixed emotions, unsure of how to respond.


    She turned her head slowly, looking at Willis.


    He didn¡¯t smile often, but when he did, it was truly charming, like a gentle breeze carrying affection for miles. His eyes were deep and clear, sparkling like the stars in the vast sea.


    He was about to be with the one he loved, and he must be very happy.


    Helena smiled too, a smile tinged with heartbreak, ¡°Wishing you happiness as well.¡± After saying this, she turned and got into the car.


    As the car door closed, tears poured down like a torrent. The pain of the fresh woundbined with the ache of the old one, making her want to curl up.


    The driver lifted the suitcase into the trunk, got into the car, and started the engine.


    Watching the car speed away, Willis¡¯s smile froze on his lips, and the light in his eyes dimmed bit by bit.


    Back at the Parvis family.


    Helena entered with her suitcase.


    Zena Parvis saw her swollen eyes and the suitcase in her hand, and she was shocked, ¡°Sweetie, what happened to you?¡±


    Helena lowered her head to change her shoes and said with forced calmness, ¡°I¡¯m moving back.¡±


    Zena stood up abruptly from the sofa, ¡°Are you separating from Willis?¡±


    ¡°Yes, his ex-girlfriend came back.¡±


    Zena exploded with anger, ¡°Three years ago, after Willis had a car ident, the doctor said he would be wheelchair-bound for life. His ex-girlfriend left him just like that! It was you who apanied him, sought medical treatments both domestically and abroad, massaged his legs, took care of him day and night like a nanny! Goodness, now that he can run and jump, that womanes back. How shameless! Willis, too, for the sake of such a heartless woman, he actually doesn¡¯t want you! Is he blind?¡±


    Helena bent over, took a check from the suitcase, and handed it to Zena, ¡°This is hispensation.¡±


    Zena stared at the long string of zeros on the check, her eyes widened considerably. Counting, there were a full eight zeros at the end!


    Herplexion eased slightly. ¡°This isn¡¯t about money. Can you let him bully you just because he has money?¡±


    Helena, with lowered eyelids, said quietly, ¡°How many couples divorce, and the man doesn¡¯t give a penny, even plotting against the woman. Some men, in order not to split their property, even kill their wives. Inparison, Willis is considered decent.¡±


    ¡°But, can you let go with it?¡±


    Helena smiled bitterly, ¡°What else can I do? Cry, shout, or evenmit suicide? Would that be useful or not? Useless. His heart is not with me. Forcing him to stay is pointless, and it won¡¯t keep him. Mom, I¡¯m tired, I want to go to sleep for a while.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡± Zena looked at her with distress and sighed.


    This child was too easy going, so much so that it was heartbreaking.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Helena turned and went into the bedroom.


    This sleepsted for two days and two nights.


    Zena, worried, came in from time to time to check her breathing.


    In fact, Helena didn¡¯t sleep much. She just didn¡¯t want to move, didn¡¯t feel hungry, felt sore and weak all over, as if arge piece of her heart was missing, making her ufortable as if the sky had fallen.


    On the third day, she struggled to get up.


    After freshening up, she called Willis, ¡°Is the divorce agreement ready? When are we going to handle the procedures?¡±


    Willis was silent for a moment and said, ¡°I¡¯m on a business trip. Let¡¯s talk about it when I get back.¡±


    ¡°Okay, then I¡¯m going to work now. Call me in advance when you return.¡±


    ¡°So I quickly found a job? Where is it?¡± he asked in a concerned tone.


    ¡°At an antique shop. They¡¯ve been calling me to join for a while.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t overexert yourself. If you need money, tell me,¡± he said in a low, gentle voice.


    Helena¡¯s heart ached. She replied indifferently, ¡°I don¡¯t need it. Thank you.¡±


    After breakfast, Helena took a taxi to Antique Attic.


    She was received by the young master of the shop, Alick Lepucius.


    Wearing a light blue shirt and khaki trousers, tall and slender, with a clean and gentle temperament.


    After introducing her to the staff downstairs, Alick took her upstairs and introduced her to the senior appraiser of the shop, Master Eric Bush.


    ¡°Master Bush, this is Helena, the ¡®Restoration Saint¡¯ and the sessor of Master Parvis. She excels at restoring ancient paintings and calligraphy. From now on, she will be our shop¡¯s artifact restoration master. If you have any uncertainties, you can consult her.¡±


    Eric Bush, nearing sixty, looked at Helena through his reading sses.


    A young girl in her twenties, could she really be an artifact restoration master?


    At her age, he was still an apprentice. Yet, the young master treated her so highly and even asked him to consult her!


    He agreed on the surface, but he was very dissatisfied in his heart!


    When Alick left, he asked Helena, ¡°Helena, you¡¯re so young. How many years have you been in this profession?¡±


    Helena smiled faintly, ¡°More than ten years.¡±

 Chapter 4: A Remarkable Debut（2）

    Eric couldn¡¯t believe it, ¡°How old are you this year?¡±


    ¡°Twenty-three.¡±


    Eric thought, this young girl is not very old and quite good at bragging. Let¡¯s see if she can live up to it!


    As they were talking, one of the staff downstairs came up to call someone.


    Helena and Eric went downstairs.


    They saw a man in his thirties holding a dirty, old painting, asking if it could be restored.


    Eric took a nce, and it didn¡¯t even look like a painting anymore-just a dark, tattered piece with wrinkles and wormholes.


    For damages of this extent, even the top restoration experts in the country would have only a few chances of sess.


    He looked at Helena with a gloating expression, ¡°Helena, everyone is watching you. Don¡¯t disappoint them.¡±


    Helena walked over, picked up the old painting, carefully examined it, and said to the customer, ¡°It can be restored.¡±


    The customer, overjoyed, asked, ¡°Who will do it, and how long will it take?¡±


    ¡°I will, and it will take three days.¡±


    ¡°You?¡± The customer looked at Helena, who appeared youthful and doubtful, ¡°This is an authentic work by Vincent van Gogh, Wheatfield with Crows! The auction price starts at millions. Don¡¯t ruin it for me!¡±


    Others also cast skeptical nces at Helena. Three days? That seemed too audacious.


    Eric chuckled, twirling his beard, and said, ¡°Helena, you young people are fearless, which is a good thing, but you also need to be realistic. If you mess up this customer¡¯s painting, you¡¯ll damage the reputation of our Antique Attic. Even top restoration experts wouldn¡¯t dare to im they can fix it in three days. It usually takes months or even years for them to restore a single ancient painting.¡±


    Implicitly, he was saying: Don¡¯t overestimate your abilities!


    Helena spoke with determination, ¡°Three days is enough. If I ruin it, I willpensate at double the market value.¡±


    The customer, who initially wanted the painting restored for auction, was enticed by this offer. He immediately agreed, ¡°Words alone are not enough. Let¡¯s sign a contract.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    After estimating the price and signing the contract, Helena took the antique painting to the upstairs restoration room.


    Opening the door.


    Inside were tworge red solid wood tables, various restoration tools like brushes, knives, woolen towels, goat hair brushes, and Xuan paper.


    Ancient book and painting restoration mainly involved four processes: cleaning, revealing,plementing, and finishing.


    Helena had someone boil a pot of hot water and started cleaning the ancient painting with a dipped brush.


    Each stroke was meticulous. She had to remove the stains carefully without damaging the fragile paper fibers of the ancient painting.


    It sounded easy, but it was challenging in practice.


    Fortunately, she had been restoring ancient paintings with her grandfather since childhood, so she was adept at it.


    Willis¡¯s grandparents also had a fondness for collecting antiques. In the past two years, Helena had almost taken on the responsibility of restoring ancient books and paintings for them.


    Not to mention paintings of this level, she had even restored more ancient and severely damaged ones.


    Busy with restoration, Helena hardly raised her head in the next few days.


    Being busy was good; it helped her temporarily forget about Willis, even diluting the sadness.


    Three dayster, the customer came to collect the painting.


    Helena brought the restored antique painting downstairs.


    The customer, looking at the vastly improved painting, was stunned, ¡°Is this the painting I brought in? You didn¡¯t switch it, did you?¡±


    Eric, the store manager, and the staff were also surprised as they gathered around.


    Was this the same as the ragged, unclear ancient painting from before?


    Helena said calmly, ¡°You can verify its authenticity with instruments.¡±


    After the verification, the customer gave Helena a thumbs-up and left with the painting satisfied.


    Word spread quickly, and soon, the entire antique street knew that Antique Attic had a young and beautiful ancient painting restoration master, only in her twenties but with skillsparable to a national restoration master!N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    In the evening.


    Willis called, ¡°My car is parked outside your shop. Come out.¡±


    Hearing the familiar voice, Helena¡¯s heart throbbed painfully.


    She nced at her watch and said softly, ¡°It¡¯s getting dark. We won¡¯t make it to the Civil Affairs Bureau now. Can we go tomorrow morning?¡±


    Willis fell silent for a moment. ¡°Grandma wants to see us. She says there¡¯s something very important.¡±

 Chapter 5: Susan committed suicide（1）

    Helena left the house.


    She got into the car, fastened her seatbelt.


    After a few days apart, Willis seemed a bit leaner. His already deep features became more pronounced, and his handsome features were captivating.


    Helena found that she still loved him, unable to forget him at all.


    ¡°Here, a wee gift.¡± Willis handed her an exquisite deep blue velvet jewelry box.


    Helena took it, opened it, and inside was a carved jade pendant.


    The jade was of the highest quality, warm, elegant, and translucent, making it a superb piece.


    Helena held the jewelry box, turned to him with a faint smile, ¡°Why give me such a precious gift?¡±


    Willis smiled lightly, gazing into her eyes, ¡°You restore ancient books and paintings, inevitably dealing with things from ancient tombs. It¡¯s good to have something for protection. Come, let me help you put it on.¡±


    He picked up the jade carving and ced it around Helena¡¯s neck.


    As he lifted her hair, his fingertips casually brushed against her neck.


    The cool touch sent a shiver through Helena¡¯s bones, a slight tremor in her skin. Her heart fluttered.


    She had always been sensitive to his touch.


    Thinking about their current rtionship, a bitter taste filled Helena. She forced a smile, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t give me gifts like this in the future.¡±


    It¡¯s easy for her to misunderstand, misunderstand that he still has lingering feelings for her. She might indulge in wild thoughts, even craving for more.


    Willis, with long fingers, reached for the steering wheel. He casually said, ¡°It¡¯s just a small jade carving, don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    He started the car.


    After half an hour, they arrived at the Santana family¡¯s old mansion.


    As soon as they entered, the white-haired Grandma Santana trembled over, hugging Helena, ¡°Oh, my precious daughter (daughter-inw), I missed you so much these few days!¡±


    Helena felt that Grandma¡¯s performance today was a bit exaggerated.


    Usually, she carried herself with an air of elegance and nobility.


    Smiling, Helena asked, ¡°Grandma, is there something important you want to talk to me about?¡±


    Grandma held her hand and nced at Willis, ¡°Let¡¯s eat first, we¡¯ll talk after.¡±


    The table was set with a rich variety of dishes, a feast of delicacies.


    Grandma incessantly served Helena, smiling at her, ¡°Three years ago, I helped Willis choose a wife from the entire city. So many photos of youngdies were presented to me, but I set my eyes on you at first sight. You have delicate features, bright eyes, and a pearl-like earlobe. You look like someone who can bring prosperity to her husband. As expected, after Willis married you, his legs got better within two years, and thepany prospered.¡±


    Grandma suddenly covered her mouth, coughing violently.


    Helena hurriedly patted her back.


    After the coughing fit, Grandma grabbed her hand, ¡°You, my child, are truly remarkable. Gentle, calm, hardworking, and loyal. In those two years when Willis couldn¡¯t stand on his own, he was extremely irritable. Many caregivers and servants couldn¡¯t bear it and left, but you never left him. If it weren¡¯t for you apanying him through that difficult time, he might have been disabled for life.¡±


    Tears welled up in Grandma¡¯s eyes.


    Helena quickly handed her a tissue.


    Willis tightened his grip on the chopsticks, his gaze deep, lost in thought.


    Grandma nced at him, gasping for breath, ¡°Now, I have only one wish left. I hope you and Willis live well and give me a chubby great-grandchild soon.¡±


    Helena awkwardly looked at Willis.


    It seemed he hadn¡¯t told Grandma about their n to divorce.


    Grandma¡¯s voice grew weaker, ¡°I¡¯m getting old, and who knows, I might leave this world anytime. If I can see your child born before I die, I can depart in peace.¡±


    Helena felt a lump in her throat, saying, ¡°Grandma, you¡¯ll live a long and healthy life.¡±


    ¡°I know my own body. I¡¯m already eighty.¡± Grandma clutched her chest, struggling to stand up, ¡°I feel ufortable in my chest. I¡¯ll lie down for a while.¡±


    Helena carefully helped her to the bedroom.


    Just before reaching the bedroom door, Grandma suddenly turned around, saying to Willis, ¡°Starting tonight, you two will stay here. When Helena gets pregnant, you can move back.¡±


    Willis was about to speak, but Grandma, hunched and shivering, slowly moved into the bedroom.


    Helena assisted her, afraid of causing her any pain.


    After lying down, Grandma grabbed Helena¡¯s hand and whispered, ¡°I know you n to move back to your parents¡¯ house. Don¡¯t worry; with me around, this marriage won¡¯t break. Willis is filial; he¡¯ll listen to me.¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about. That Susan can only share joy, not hardship. Such a heartless person doesn¡¯t deserve to be part of Santana family.¡±


    After a pause, Helena said, ¡°Grandma, do you want me to call the doctor?¡±


    ¡°No need. I¡¯m old, full of ailments. Even if the doctores, it won¡¯t help. Go eat quickly and close the door for me.¡±


    ¡°Alright, rest well.¡±


    Once Helena left, Grandma sat up, her spirit revived, a stark contrast to her frail appearance moments ago.


    Helena returned to the dining table.


    Santana Grandpa served her amb leg, saying, ¡°Helena, eat while it¡¯s hot.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Grandpa.¡±


    Helena put on disposable gloves and slowly started to eat.


    Willis looked at Grandpa Santana, ¡°Grandpa, I saw Grandma not long ago, and she seemed quite healthy. Why did she be so weak in just a short time?¡±


    Grandpa Santana sighed heavily, ¡°This is how it is when you¡¯re old. One moment you¡¯re full of life, the next you¡¯re gone. Be careful not to upset her.¡±


    Willis¡¯s handsome face became serious.

 Chapter 6: Susan committed suicide（2）

    After finishing dinner, the two returned to the guest room.


    As the door closed, Helena asked, ¡°What should we do? Are we really going to stay here indefinitely?¡±


    Willis furrowed his brow slightly, loosening his tie, ¡°Grandma¡¯s health is delicate; she can¡¯t handle stress. Let¡¯s stay for a few days and figure things out.¡±


    Helena turned to look at the bed behind her, ¡°With just one bed, how are we going to sleep?¡±


    A slight smirk yed on Willis¡¯s lips, ¡°Close your eyes and sleep.¡±


    Helena became a bit anxious, ¡°I¡¯m not joking. I¡¯m serious.¡±


    Willis leisurely took off his wristwatch and tossed it onto the bedside table, saying, ¡°You go take a shower first. I¡¯ll follow.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Helena went to the bathroom to wash her face and brush her teeth, then quickly took a shower.


    When she returned, it was Willis¡¯s turn to wash.


    Lying on the bed, she couldn¡¯t sleep. Her thoughts raced; they were getting divorced, yet they were still sharing a bed. What was going on?


    Suddenly, Willis¡¯s phone, ced on the bedside table, rang.


    Helena didn¡¯t like intruding on his privacy, so she let it ring.


    After ringing twice, it stopped.


    Not long after, her own phone rang.


    ncing at the caller ID, it was an unknown number.


    Answering, a sweet voice came from the other end, ¡°Helena, is Willis with you?¡±


    ¡°May I ask who¡¯s calling?¡±


    The woman paused for a second and then said, ¡°I¡¯m his younger sister.¡±


    Thinking it might be one of Willis¡¯s younger cousins, Helena replied, ¡°He¡¯s taking a shower. I¡¯ll have him call you back when he¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°Alright, thank you.¡±


    After washing up, Willis, wearing only a towel around his waist, held a towel to dry his hair.


    His well-built figure was exceptionally attractive-muscr, powerful, and outlined with stunning contours, radiating a breathtaking charm under the orange light.


    Helena¡¯s heart raced, her ears reddening as if touched by mes.


    Turning her head to avoid eye contact, she whispered, ¡°Your younger sister just called. You should return her call.¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis uttered a casual acknowledgement, walked to the bedside table, and checked his phone.


    He left the room.


    When he returned, his handsome face was dark, and he coldly asked, ¡°Was it intentional?¡±


    Helena was taken aback, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Susanmitted suicide. What did you say to her?¡±


    A thunderous crash echoed in her mind!


    After a few seconds, Helena regained her voice, ¡°I didn¡¯t know she was Susan. She said she was your younger sister, and I thought she was one of your cousins. I just told her you were taking a shower.¡±


    With a stern expression, Willis said nothing, opened the wardrobe, and started getting dressed.


    Once dressed, he took long strides and left the room.


    Santana Grandpa, hearing themotion, came out and asked, ¡°It¡¯ste; where are you going?¡±


    Willis spoke sternly, ¡°I have something to attend to.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Susan is hospitalized. I¡¯m going to see her.¡±


    Grandpa raised his voice, addressing Helena in the guest room, ¡°Helena, go with him.¡±


    Grandpa Santana was decisive, and his word wasw.


    Helena couldn¡¯t defy him and replied, ¡°Yes, Grandpa.¡±


    After putting on their clothes, they left together.


    After driving for a while, Helena said, ¡°Just drop me off at any hotel.¡±


    Willis gripped the steering wheel, not ncing at her, ¡°Come with me. Exin things to Susan.¡±


    A lump formed in Helena¡¯s throat.


    Although she had a calm and unassuming nature, she also had her limits.


    It wasn¡¯t her fault in the first ce.


    What was there to exin?


    Sensing her difort, Willis freed up a hand, tousled her hair, and said softly, ¡°Susan has severe depression. Consider it a favor for me.¡±


    An hourter, the two arrived at Susan¡¯s hospital room.


    Having just vomited, Susany on the hospital bed, extremely pale, her hair disheveled. Her figure under the nket looked thin and fragile.


    When Helena saw her face clearly, she was astonished!

 Chapter 7: How did I end up in your arms?（1）

    Susan¡¯s small, pale face was strangely simr to Helena¡¯s.


    It was challenging to pinpoint exactly where the resemncey; at first nce, they looked alike.


    A closer inspection revealed Susan¡¯s delicate version-arched eyebrows, a slightly furrowed brow, a petite nose, a cherry-like mouth-features with a fragile, ss-like quality.


    Helena, inparison, exuded tranquility, calmness, and an inherent resilience.


    At this moment, Helena realized that in Willis¡¯s heart, she was a substitute.


    She chuckled self-mockingly, no wonder three years ago, he agreed to register with her after just one look. The reason was apparent.


    ¡°Willis, you¡¯re here,¡± Susan¡¯s mother, Grace Olteran, greeted them with a forced smile.


    Her gaze, when it fell on Helena, wasn¡¯t very friendly.


    Willis nodded slightly in acknowledgment.


    Grace walked to the bedside, gently patting Susan¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Susan, Willis came to see you.¡±


    Susan slowly opened her eyes, her gaze passing over Helena¡¯s face without much surprise, as if she had long known of their resemnce.


    She looked at Willis, tears welling up in her eyes as she said softly, ¡°Willis, I didn¡¯t attempt suicide. I just couldn¡¯t sleep, took a few too many sleeping pills. My mom panicked and insisted on bringing me to the hospital for gastricvage. I¡¯m sorry for troubling you and Sister Helena at thiste hour.¡±


    With red eyes, Grace scolded, ¡°A few? You took almost an entire bottle. If I hadn¡¯t found out in time, you might have¡­¡±


    She covered her mouth, sobbing.


    Willis sat down by the bed, lowering his gaze to Susan. His tone was indulgent, with a hint of reproach, ¡°No more doing foolish things like this in the future, understand?¡±


    Susan pouted, tears glistening in her eyes, nodded gently, appearing obedient and pitiful.


    Willis delicately wiped away the tears from the corner of her eyes with a handkerchief, his movements as gentle as handling the most precious porcin.


    The way he looked at her was tender, full of pity.


    Helena stared nkly at Willis.


    In three years of marriage, he had never treated her with such tenderness.


    Perhaps this was the difference between love and indifference.


    Even though Susan had abandoned him during his most difficult times, he still loved her.


    Perhaps for certain men, besides the woman who tormented them, the affection of other women was useless.


    Helena couldn¡¯t bear it any longer, ¡°You guys talk. I¡¯m leaving.¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    At the sound of her words, Willis looked back at her, his expression extremely indifferent, ¡°Exin things to Susan before you go.¡±


    Helena took a deep breath and said, ¡°Susan, Willis and I are staying here because we don¡¯t want to upset Grandma.¡±


    Her throat choked, and she couldn¡¯t continue. She turned and walked away.


    This was the first time she had defied Willis and the first time she had lost herposure in front of him.


    Once the door closed, Susan said to Willis, ¡°Willis, go after Sister Helena. She seems upset.¡±


    Willis fell silent for a moment, ¡°It¡¯s okay; she won¡¯t be upset.¡±


    ¡°Then she has a really good temper,¡± Susan said softly, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Sister Helena to have such a good temperament-gentle, elegant, and graceful. I thought she wouldn¡¯t be worthy of you.¡±


    Willis listened ufortably, ¡°Although she grew up in a small mountain vige, her mother and grandmother are teachers, and her grandfather was a restorer of ancient books and paintings at the museum before retiring. Shees from an educated family.¡±


    ¡°No wonder.¡±


    The two fell into a sudden silence.


    After a while, Susan tentatively asked, ¡°Sister Helena is beautiful and has such a good temper. You must love her a lot, right?¡±


    Willis was looking at his phone with a slightly absent-minded expression. When he heard her voice, he looked up and asked, ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    A hint of disappointment shed in Susan¡¯s eyes, ¡°Willis, you should go and catch up with Sister Helena. It¡¯ste, and it¡¯s not safe for a girl to be out alone.¡±


    Willis stood up, ¡°I¡¯ll take her back and thene to see you.¡±


    Susan spoke softly, ¡°Go quickly.¡±


    As Willis left, Grace scolded, ¡°You, how could you let him go? You¡¯ve finally attracted him, and you let him go?¡±


    Susan frowned, ¡°Didn¡¯t you see how uneasy Willis was? He¡¯s here, yet he¡¯s worried about Helena. It¡¯s better to go along with his wishes. If that woman has any trouble on the way, he will me himself, and he might even me me.¡±


    Susan pouted, ¡°You, despite being young, are more scheming than Mom.¡±


    By the time Willis found Helena, she was almost at the hospital entrance.

 Chapter 8: How did I end up in your arms?（2）

    A slender and straight figure, in the chilly spring wind, appeared indistinctly beautiful, like a bamboo branch in a traditional Chinese ink painting.


    Willis quickly caught up with her.


    Neither of them spoke; they walked side by side in silence, the air as dark as the night.


    Upon reaching the hospital gate, Helena turned to hail a taxi.


    Willis grabbed her wrist, pulling her towards the parking lot.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Inside the car, Willis opened his bag and took out a card, slipping it into Helena¡¯s coat pocket. ¡°I wasn¡¯t in a good mood tonight. Consider thispensation. The password is your birthday.¡±


    Helena felt somewhat humiliated.


    In his eyes, she was someone to be casually appeased, not even worth the effort of consoling. He only knew how tofort Susan.


    Reaching midway, Willis received a call from Granny Santana, ¡°Did you ignore my words? Come back immediately.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re almost home,¡± Willis replied in a low voice before hanging up.


    Back at the Santana family estate, as soon as they entered, Granny Santana sat slouched on the sofa, her face pale. Her eyes, however, were sharp as she stared at the two.


    She extended her hand, ¡°Give me your phone.¡±


    Willis took out his phone and handed it to her.


    Dialing Susan¡¯s number, Granny Santana spoke sternly once connected, ¡°Susan, Willis is a married man. Mind your boundaries. Don¡¯t call him for no reason! Since you broke up three years ago, don¡¯t look back, and don¡¯t harbor any delusions about Willis!¡±


    Without waiting for Susan¡¯s response, Granny Santana ended the call, tossing the phone onto the coffee table.


    Willis frowned, ¡°Susan has severe depression. She can¡¯t handle stress.¡±


    Granny Santana sneered, ¡°Whether she gets cancer or not has nothing to do with you. The person you should care about the most is your wife!¡±


    Willis¡¯s gaze turned slightly cold, ¡°Granny, you¡­¡±


    Granny Santana started coughing violently, covering her mouth.


    Helena hurried over to help her up, assisted her to lie down on the bed, andforted her. Helena then returned to the guest room.


    Seeing that Willis had just finished the call and was cing the phone on the bedside table, Helena silently picked up a long pillow from the sofa, cing it in the middle of the bed as a divider.


    She also retrieved a nket from the wardrobe, ensuring each had their own.


    Taking off her coat, she slid under the covers.


    It was already three in the morning, and she was extremely tired. Her mind was like a sticky paste, not wanting to think about anything, just eager to sleep.


    As soon as her head touched the pillow, she fell into a deep sleep.


    She slept until midday.


    When she opened her eyes, Helena unexpectedly found a beautifully sculpted face looking at her intently.


    The two were so close that their breaths were audible.


    His warm breath brushed across her forehead, and his deep eyes restrained yet mesmerizing.


    She was nestled in his arms, her hands tightly embracing his waist, her slender legs entwined around his. The intimacy of the position was beyond description.


    The ambiguous and intense atmosphere made the air feel heated.


    Helena, feeling electrified, quickly released her grip on his waist, scrambling out of his embrace with a mixture of irritation andint, ¡°How did I end up in your arms?¡±

 Chapter 9: Thrilling Experience（1）

    ustomed to Helena¡¯s gentle and calm demeanor, it was the first time Willis saw her in a flustered state, resembling a startled kitten.


    Willis found it refreshing, his lips curling into a smile as he teased her, ¡°You got yourself in, and now you can¡¯t push your way out.¡±


    Helena blushed, ¡°That¡¯s not possible.¡±


    He chuckled even more, ¡°Next time, I¡¯ll record it with my phone so you can¡¯t deny it.¡±T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Embarrassed, Helena turned away, reaching for a shirt on the bedside table and hurriedly putting it on.


    In her haste, she didn¡¯t even notice if she buttoned it incorrectly.


    Watching her slender figure struggle into her clothes, Willis¡¯s mind, however, recalled her distressed state from the previous night in her sleep.


    Dreaming of something terrifying, she curled up into a small ball, trembling.


    He pulled her into his arms,forting her, but she murmured the name ¡°Jay¡± with closed eyes.


    He couldn¡¯t remember how many times this had happened. How deep must love be to linger like this?


    That Jay, whom he had investigated for a long time, yielded no results.


    When he asked herst time, she avoided the question.


    Not saying anything was an insult to him; saying it would be an even greater insult.


    The smile faded from his face as Willis picked up his watch and put it on his wrist casually, saying, ¡°I mighte back veryte tonight. Help me find an excuse with Grandma.¡±


    Helena¡¯s hands paused as she buttoned her shirt.


    She knew he would bete because he was going to the hospital to apany Susan.


    Feeling humiliated, she was on the verge of tears, ufortably pricked by a needle in her heart.


    After a while, she finally spoke, ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Grandma about the divorce. I¡¯ll do my best to convince her. I¡¯m sorry for inconveniencing you.¡±


    Willis looked at her meaningfully, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for inconveniencing you too.¡±


    After breakfast, the chauffeur from the old mansion drove Helena to Antique Attic.


    A busy day passed.


    By the end of the workday, Helena received a call from the chauffeur, ¡°Madam, my car was hit by a drunk driver. I have to wait for the police to handle it. Can you take a taxi home?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Carrying her bag, Helena walked out of the antique street.


    Turning a corner, two men caught up with her, blocking her way.


    One of them, tall and thin, spoke, ¡°Are you Helena? Pleasee with us.¡±


    Helena cautiously examined the two men, in theirte twenties, wearing sunsses in the dark of the night. They seemed suspicious, with a faintly unpleasant odor emanating from them.


    Feeling uneasy, she asked, ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    The tall, thin man said, ¡°We need your help to restore an ancient painting. Don¡¯t worry; we mean no harm, and we¡¯ll pay you the market price.¡±


    Helena sighed in relief, ¡°Just bring the painting to my workce.¡±


    The other bald man scowled, ¡°Why waste time talking to her? Let¡¯s take her.¡±


    Helena, rmed, started to run.


    But before she could get far, the bald man grabbed her arm and pulled her into a ck sedan parked at the side of the road.


    The car started moving.


    The tall, thin man found Helena¡¯s phone in her bag and said, ¡°Call your family and tell them you¡¯re going out with friends for a few days. Let them not worry.¡±


    Helena instinctively wanted to call Willis, but then she realized he would be at the hospital with Susan. Who had time to care for her? She decided to call her mother.


    She asked one of the men, who is  tall, to find her mother¡¯s number.


    When the call connected, Helena said, ¡°Mom, I¡¯m going out with friends for a few days. Remember to take your diabetes medicine on time¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, the tall, thin man took her phone, turned it off, and covered her eyes with a ck cloth.


    The car seemed to drive for a very long time before finally stopping.


    Helena was led into an old building.


    They climbed the stairs and reached the third floor.


    Opening a door, they found arge red table with a safe on it.


    The tall man approached and opened the safe, taking out the painting.


    The painting was about one and a half meters long, very old, with severe damage to the canvas. Many parts of the artwork were missing, requiring restoration.


    Helena stared at the painting carefully. The style was profound and elegant, rich in artistic conception.


    On the canvas, perilous peaks stood tall and magnificent, with undting mountain ranges. Amidst the mountains, dense forests covered the slopes, and in a deep valley, a few thatched cottages were vaguely visible, with a recluse sitting on a bed, hugging his knees.


    She recognized this as a hidden residence painting by the renowned artist M. H.


    One of M. H¡¯s paintings had once fetched a sky-high price of four hundred million.


    If this painting could be restored well, it would easily start at tens of millions. No wonder these two took the risk of bringing her here.


    Instead of sending the painting to her shop for restoration, they had here in person. This indicated that the painting had an irregr origin, either stolen or unearthed from an ancient tomb.


    The tall man asked, ¡°Helena, how long will it take to restore this painting?¡±


    ¡°The painting isrge, severely damaged, and has significant loss of artistic expression. It will take at least half a month.¡±

 Chapter 10: Thrilling Experience（2）

    ¡°Okay, what tools and materials do you need? Write it down, and we¡¯ll go prepare.¡±


    Helena picked up a pen and wrote down the materials on a piece of paper, handing it to them.


    The thin tall man took it and said, ¡°We¡¯ll go prepare. Rest well.¡±


    Helena nodded.


    As the two men left, there was a ¡°click,¡± and the door was locked from the outside.


    Helena looked around.


    The room had a bathroom, a bed, a table, chairs, and food. It was evidently prepared in advance.


    Outside the window, not far away, were continuous mountains, deste and unfamiliar. Faint lights could be seen, indicating that it was far from the city.


    Her stomach growled loudly, and Helena picked up a pack of instant noodles, ate a few bites, drank some water, and then went to lie on the bed after freshening up.


    The surroundings were eerily quiet, yet she couldn¡¯t sleep.


    She was missing. Would Willis be worried? Probably not.


    In his eyes, there was only Susan. He might still be at the hospital with her.


    Thinking of Susan attempting suicide, the image of him rushing to the hospital in a panic filled Helena¡¯s mind, making her feel as if her heart was filled with stones, causing a painful ache.


    She tossed and turned until thete hours of the night, unable to find sleep.


    She got up and went to the bathroom, suddenly hearing faint movements outside.


    Putting her ear to the door crack, she heard the tall man say, ¡°Baldy, what are you doing?¡±


    Baldy lowered his voice and said, ¡°Can¡¯t sleep, just checking if that girl is behaving. You think she, a little girl, can really fix our painting? We can¡¯t afford to ruin something worth tens of millions or even more. The boss will me us.¡±


    ¡°The boss sent someone to inquire. Her grandfather is the ¡®Restoration Master¡¯ Ken Parvis. He has personally taught her since she was a child. Rumor has it that most of the paintings he restoredter on were done by this girl.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s reassuring then.¡± Baldy smirked, ¡°She¡¯s such a pretty little thing. Bro, don¡¯t you have any thoughts? She¡¯s so good-looking, fair, and tender, with big watery eyes. It makes me itch all over.¡±


    The tall man scolded, ¡°Put away your dirty thoughts; fixing the painting is more important. After the painting is sold, with the money, you can have as many women as you want.¡±


    ¡°Women paid for are a dime a dozen, can theypare to her? After she finishes fixing the painting, can I make a move then? She¡¯s too damn good-looking, white and tender, big watery eyes, it makes me itch all over.¡±


    The thin tall man fell silent for a moment and said, ¡°Fine. But don¡¯t touch her until the painting is fixed.¡±


    ¡°I got it.¡±


    Helena felt nauseated.


    Listening to the two men moving away, she pulled the door handle hard, but the door was locked and couldn¡¯t be opened, and there were no tools within reach to pick the lock.


    She went to the window and looked down. They were on the third floor, and there was also arge wolf dog in the yard. If she ran, the dog would bark.


    She could only hope for external help.


    On the way here, when the tall man asked her to call her mother, she reminded her mother to take her diabetes medication on time. It was a signal to her that she was in danger, as her mother didn¡¯t have diabetes.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Would her mother be able to figure it out?


    The next day, Helena started cleaning the painting and began the restoration process.


    Busy for three days, as the day to finish the painting approached, she became increasingly nervous.


    Even at night, she couldn¡¯t sleep well, several times hearing Baldy¡¯s footsteps outside her door in thete hours.


    One night, just as she was starting to feel drowsy, she heard barking outside, apanied by hurried footsteps.


    Helena got up suddenly, starting to put on her clothes.


    The door creaked open, and the tall man rushed in, grabbing her wrist and pulling her out. Baldy went to collect the painting.


    As they reached the doorway, a group of people rushed up the stairs.


    The man in ck at the front was Willis, tall and handsome, with deep-set eyes. Behind him were a group of well-equipped police officers.


    The joy in Helena¡¯s heart surged like a tsunami. She could hardly believe her eyes, staring at the man as she trembled, ¡°Is it really you, Willis?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± Willis stepped forward quickly, and the thin tall man, holding Helena, moved towards the window. Baldy went to retrieve the painting.


    Helena hadn¡¯t fully processed what was happening when suddenly a knife was pressed against her neck.


    The tall man held the knife, shouting at the police, ¡°Put your guns down! Back off! Otherwise, I¡¯ll kill her!¡±


    The de cut into her flesh, and Helena winced in pain.


    Willis clenched his fists instantly, his eyes turning red as he stared at her, suppressing his anger, ¡°Put the guns down! Everyone, get out!¡±


    The police exchanged nces with him and reluctantly bent down to ce their guns on the floor, then retreated.


    Baldy kicked his gun to the corner.


    The tall man pushed Helena to the windowsill, ¡°Jump!¡±


    Helena, hands gripping the window frame, dared not jump. This was the third floor; jumping would either kill her or leave her severely injured!


    ¡°Jump! You won¡¯t die!¡± The tall man lost his patience, grabbing her arm and preparing to jump.


    In the blink of an eye, a gunshot echoed, followed by a scream that reverberated through the night!

 Chapter 11: She devised a plan（1）

    The tall man thudded onto the concrete ground, his body convulsing like a torn sack. After a few twitches, he kicked his feet, closed his eyes, and dark red blood slowly flowed from under his head.


    The dog in the yard barked incessantly.


    Taking advantage of the chaos, the bald man tried to escape. The police rushed in, subdued him, took the painting, and handcuffed him.


    Helena, still clinging to the window frame, stared nkly at Willis, who had fired the shot.


    Married to him for three years, she had no idea he would use a gun, let alone shoot so urately.


    In that critical moment, the speed, angle, and precision of the shot were such that any deviation could have been fatal for her.


    Willis tossed aside the gun, took a long stride, and walked towards her, lifting her from the windowsill.


    Carefully, he dealt with the wound on her neck.


    He embraced her tightly, rubbing her pale face with his slightly cool fingertips, asking gently, ¡°Frightened, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Helena mumbled a faint ¡°yes.¡±


    Just moments ago, she thought she was done for, but unexpectedly, she managed to escape death.


    Her heart pounded, ears buzzed, and even with a silencer, the gunshot was loud.


    The entire ordeal felt like a scene from a movie, thrilling and heart-pounding.


    She was drenched in cold sweat from the scare.


    The ancient painting was carefully collected by the police, ced in a protective bag, and then stored in a safe.


    Helena mechanically cooperated with the police in recording the details and got into Willis¡¯s car.


    Even now, her legs were still weak, and her mind was foggy.


    The night was pitch dark, and the country road was narrow.


    The driver started the car and headed towards the city.


    Helena was still held in Willis¡¯s arms.


    He repeatedly caressed her thin back,forting her, ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s okay. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    His embrace was warm, and Helena instinctively leaned into it, pressing against him. Her heart felt sour, bitter, and a little sweet.


    He still cared for her as a husband.


    Feeling her response, Willis held her even tighter. His gentle voice reached her ears, tinged with a bit of reproach, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me when this happened? Your mother is oblivious. She only noticed something was wrong yesterday and called me.¡±


    His throat tightened, burying his jaw in her hair, fingers gripping her clothes. He murmured, ¡°What if something happened to you?¡±


    Helena was slightly stunned.


    At this moment, she felt that he cared about her more than she had imagined.


    She lifted her arm, hugging his waist, burying her face in the nape of his neck.


    He exuded aforting scent, and that fragrance made her feel secure.


    A warm flow surged in her heart, and her eyes gradually reddened.


    After a while, Willis¡¯s phone rang.


    He nced at it and hung up.


    Helena¡¯s intuition told her it was Susan calling.


    Not long after, the assistant sitting in the front passenger seat received a call on his phone.


    After answering, he spoke a few words and handed the phone to Willis, saying, ¡°Mr. Santana, it¡¯s Helena¡¯s call.¡±


    Willis took the phone and asked, ¡°Is there something?¡±


    Susan¡¯s delicate voice sounded anxious, ¡°Willis, did you find Helena?¡±


    ¡°Found her.¡±


    ¡°She must be scared, right? Apany her well. Don¡¯te to the hospital these days to be with me.¡±


    Willis replied indifferently, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Close by, Helena heard it clearly. The warmth she had just felt dissipated.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She pushed Willis¡¯s arm gently, moved to the seat, and turned to look out of the window. She smiled at her reflection in the car window, a smile as cold as her lips.


    The moment of happiness just now was all an illusion.


    Yes, it was all her illusion.


    The car entered the city.


    Helena said to Willis, ¡°Take me to my mother¡¯s house, and help me find an excuse with Grandma.¡±


    Willis was silent for a moment, then said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Back home.


    As soon as she entered, Zena embraced Helena, crying, ¡°My girl, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Good, good, as long as you¡¯re fine. I was so careless; I didn¡¯t realize what you meant about the diabetes medication until a dayter. Thanks to Willis for taking people to find you. If it weren¡¯t for him, who knows what would have happened to you? You¡¯re my only child. If something happened to you, how could I go on?¡± The usually fiery woman cried loudly.


    Helena reached up to wipe away her tears, soothing her with a soft voice, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, Mom. I¡¯m back safe and sound.¡±


    A weekter, at night.

 Chapter 12: She devised a plan（2）

    Willis attended a business dinner and had a bit too much to drink.


    The driver helped him back home and settled him on the sofa.


    As he got up to fetch a towel, he heard Willis, with closed eyes, mumbling, ¡°Helena, Helena, get me a ss of water.¡±


    The driver hesitated for two seconds, then pulled out his phone and called Helena, saying, ¡°Helena, Mr. Santana has had too much to drink and has been calling your name.¡±


    Helena pursed her lips in silence.


    Zena, overhearing, said, ¡°Go take care of him. Without divorce proceedings, you¡¯re still husband and wife. Don¡¯t let things get too strained.¡±


    Helena gave a soft ¡°okay¡± and told the driver, ¡°I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Santana,¡± the driver said, hanging up the phone.


    After pouring a ss of water, she fed Willis a few sips.


    As he drank, the doorbell suddenly rang.


    The driver ced the ss on the coffee table and went to answer it.


    To Helena¡¯s surprise, Susan stood outside in white attire, holding a fruit basket.


    The driver apologized, ¡°Susan, Mr. Santana has had too much to drink; I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t entertain you.¡±


    Susan smiled, ¡°That¡¯s perfect. I came to take care of him.¡±


    She walked in, ced the fruit basket at the shoe cab, and said to the driver, ¡°You can go now; leave Willis to me.¡±


    The driver looked somewhat reluctant, ¡°I just called Helena, and she¡¯ll be here soon.¡±


    Susan smiled gently, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I know Helena well; she has a good temper. She won¡¯t mind.¡±


    After a moment of hesitation, the driver said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    He took the car keys and left.


    Walking past the entrance, Susan reached the sofa, sat down, and picked up the cup, feeding Willis more water.


    Willis, catching a whiff of a familiar perfume, slowly opened his eyes.


    Seeing Susan, a hint of surprise flickered in his eyes. He propped himself up on the sofa and asked, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Susan blinked her eyshes, smiling coquettishly, ¡°I missed you too much and couldn¡¯t resisting. You won¡¯t be angry, will you, Willis?¡±


    A slight crease formed on Willis¡¯s forehead, ¡°I¡¯ve had too much to drink, and I couldn¡¯t notify you. Go back.¡±


    Susan seemed taken aback, her eyes teary. She said with a hint of grievance, ¡°Willis, you still haven¡¯t truly forgiven me. I¡¯ve said it before, the breakup message three years ago was sent by my mother using my phone. She sent me abroad, had someone watching me 24/7, and didn¡¯t let me contact you. Do you know how painful these three years have been for me? I thought about you every day, drove myself crazy, but couldn¡¯t see you. I was forced into severe depression¡­¡±


    She covered her face and cried in pain.


    ¡°I have forgiven you, really.¡± Willis¡¯s eyes showed a trace of impatience, but his tone remained gentle, ¡°Stop crying.¡±


    Susan, teary-eyed, looked at him with admiration, a mixture of me and resentment in her eyes. ¡°Then why are you driving me away?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t divorced yet. It¡¯ste at night; it¡¯s not suitable for you to stay here.¡± He pinched his leg hard, attempting to use pain to regain sobriety.


    Susan caught this detail, slowly leaned towards him, and her soft arm curled around his shoulder. She stared at him with glowing eyes, a look of adoration in her gaze. ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Willis shifted away, avoiding her, ¡°I mind.¡±


    A hint of disappointment shed in Susan¡¯s eyes. She withdrew her outstretched hand after a while.


    The room suddenly fell silent.


    The dense silence filled the entire room.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Unable to endure the silence, Susan lifted her head, nced around, and finally looked at the painting on the wall. Finding no words, she said, ¡°Is this a genuine M?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s a copy by Helena.¡±


    ¡°Really? She painted it so well; I thought it was original.¡±


    Susan softlymented, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Helena to be so talented.¡±


    Willis¡¯s dark eyes softened, ¡°Indeed, she is very talented.¡±


    ¡°Willis, you¡¯re even more talented. In my eyes, you¡¯re always the most outstanding man.¡± Susan¡¯s eyes sparkled, gazing at him with admiration.


    Willis¡¯s thick eyshes dropped slightly, a thinyer of frost forming in the depths of his eyes.


    In Helena¡¯s heart, the most outstanding man would always be her Jay.


    Suddenly, Susan heard extremely light footsteps outside the door. Remembering what the driver had said, that Helena would being soon, she devised a n.


    She stood up and went to Willis¡¯s side, taking his arm. Her voice, charming and provocative, sounded, ¡°Willis, let me help you take a bath. After you shower and fall asleep, I¡¯ll leave.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Willis raised his hand to push her away.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay; I¡¯m not a stranger.¡±


    ¡°I really don¡¯t need it. Just go!¡± His tone started to get irritated.


    Hearing the sound of the door unlocking, Susan¡¯s heart tightened. With a pretended ¡°oops,¡± she fell onto him, her hands wrapping around his waist, and her mouth pressed against his.


    Willis gripped her neck, trying to move her head away.


    However, Susan clung to him like a snake, and he, having drunk too much,cked the strength in his muscles to push her away immediately.


    As Helena entered the room, she witnessed Susan and Willis intimately entwined, kissing!


    The hands that had once tenderly caressed her waist were now intimately gripping Susan¡¯s neck!


    Helena felt as if struck by lightning, her entire body going cold!

 Chapter 13: Helena fight back（1）

    It felt like a dream. Helena stood there, hands and feet cold, her mind nk.


    Seeing Helena, Willis sobered up a bit, forcefully pushing Susan away and supporting himself on the sofa.


    Susan turned her head, feigning surprise, ¡°Helena, you¡¯re here?¡±


    Helena, still in a dreamlike state, felt her heart pounding.


    She turned and walked away, forgetting to close the door.


    Sometimes, when things are too overwhelming, too unexpected, people don¡¯t have time to react.


    She didn¡¯t cry, didn¡¯t make a scene; she just felt her steps faltering, the scenery surreal.


    The chilly spring wind blew on her face, as cold as ice.


    Gradually, the cold wind awakened Helena, and the more she thought, the angrier she became.


    Willis asked the driver to call her over just to see him being intimate with Susan?


    On the day he proposed a breakup, she had readily agreed. Why did he have to humiliate her in this way?


    Just because there was no love, did that give him the right to hurt her so casually?


    Anger surged through every pore.


    Helena walked straighter and straighter, ultimately with unyielding determination.


    She reached the vi gate.


    The driver was waiting at the door, opening it and saying, ¡°Helena, Mr. Santana asked me to take you back.¡±


    Helena remained silent for a long time before bending down to get into the car.


    The driver closed the door and called Willis, saying, ¡°Mr. Santana, I found Helena. I¡¯ll take her back now; rest assured.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    Willis put down his phone, gazing at Susan with a slightly cold expression, ¡°Were you doing that on purpose just now?¡±


    With a pout, Susan, looking aggrieved, said, ¡°I didn¡¯t know Helena woulde so coincidentally. I slipped just now and identally fell on you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m drunk, not stupid!¡±


    Susan¡¯s eyebrows drooped, tears streaming down, ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I¡¯ll exin to Helena.¡±


    She reached into her pocket to grab her phone.


    Willis raised his hand to stop her, a bit impatient, ¡°No need, the more you exin, the worse it gets. Just go back.¡±


    ¡°But you¡­¡±T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m just drunk; I won¡¯t die.¡± Willis sat heavily on the sofa, pinching his forehead with his hand.


    He looked somewhat annoyed.


    Seeing her like this, Willis couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit sorry. He said, ¡°I¡¯m not ming you. Helena didn¡¯t do anything wrong. I shouldn¡¯t have hurt her this way.¡±


    ¡°But you asked for a divorce; that¡¯s already hurting her.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll try to minimize the damage, instead of humiliating her like this.¡±


    ¡°Prolonged pain is worse than short pain. What you did will hurt her even more deeply.¡± Susan added in a soft voice, ¡°And it hurts me too.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t divorce for now; my grandmother doesn¡¯t agree.¡± Willis nced at her indifferently, ¡°My divorce with her isn¡¯t solely because of you. Mentioning you was just a pretext.¡±


    Like a heavy blow, Susan was stunned.


    Her face turned pale, and her trembling lips asked, ¡°Willis, is this just anger talking, or are you speaking the truth under the influence of alcohol?¡±


    Willis raised his hand to his forehead, somewhat irritably saying, ¡°I¡¯ve had too much to drink. I might say things that upset you. Just go.¡±


    Afraid that he might say something even more cruel, afraid that the situation might escte irreversibly, Susan, teary-eyed, reluctantly left.


    After she left, Willis called her father to keep an eye on his daughter, preventing her from attempting suicide again.


    The next day at noon.


    Antique Attic.


    Helena received a bank card sent by someone on behalf of Willis.


    The person delivering the card said, ¡°Helena, this is a littlepensation from Mr. Santana. The password is your birthday.¡±


    Helena looked at the card and smiled self-mockingly.

 Chapter 14: Helena fight back（2）

    Money is a good thing, but sometimes, giving money is a kind of veiled insult.


    She pushed the card back, saying, ¡°Tell him I don¡¯t need money.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Santana insists that you take it. He asked me to convey a message: appearances can be deceiving, and whatever decision you make, he agrees.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    After the person left, she sat silently for a while, then got up to pack her things and went to a nearby restaurant for lunch.


    As she stepped outside, she ran into the pitiable Susan, dressed in all white, holding a bouquet of white roses.


    In a soft voice, Susan said, ¡°Helena, can we talk?¡±


    Helena restrained her emotions, looked at her indifferently for a few seconds, and said, ¡°Fine.¡±


    The two went to a nearby western restaurant.


    After sitting down, Susan ced the flowers on the table.


    Fondly caressing the velvety rose petals, she said with a happy face, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Willis to be so romantic. Early in the morning, he sent someone to deliver flowers to me. After three years, he still remembers that I love white roses the most. Twenty roses represent unwavering love.¡±


    Helena had mixed feelings.


    They had been married for three years, and on every holiday, Willis had only given her a card, not even a single flower.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It turned out he wasn¡¯t ignorant of romance; he just wasn¡¯t willing to be romantic with her.


    Twenty roses, unwavering love. Their love would never change. So touching.


    The waiter brought coffee to the table.


    Susan picked up a spoon and stirred her coffee slowly, saying coquettishly, ¡°Willis and I grew up together, and he has always taken care of me¡­¡±


    Helena took a sip of her coffee and said calmly, ¡± Could you get to the point? I¡¯m busy, and I don¡¯t have time for your nonsense.¡±


    Susan shrugged, ¡°So, Helena, you do have a temper. You just hide it well in front of Willis, good at pretending.¡±


    Helena sneered, ¡°I am still Willis¡¯s wife. You invaded my home, hugged my husband, and kissed him. If I didn¡¯t ssh coffee on your face, it¡¯s because of my good upbringing. Please don¡¯t test my patience.¡±


    ¡°Wow,¡± Susan stuck out her tongue, making a surprised expression, ¡°Helena, you look like a mother tiger in this state.¡±


    Helena¡¯s hand holding the coffee cup trembled slightly; she really wanted to ssh it on Susan¡¯s face.


    After waiting for a while and not seeing Helena pour coffee on her, Susan felt a bit disappointed.


    Having set a trap for Helena, and seeing her not falling into it, Susan could only resort to the next move.


    Staring straight at Helena¡¯s face, Susan said, ¡°Helena, you¡¯re a smart person. Seeing my appearance, you should be able to guess that you are a substitute arranged by Willis. Now that the real person is here, shouldn¡¯t you leave?¡±


    ¡°The real person?¡± Helena wanted tough. ¡°didn¡¯t youck education, or are you legally blind? Willis and I are a legally married couple, protected by thew. I am the real person.¡±


    Susan clicked her tongue twice, mocking, ¡°So, Helena, you do have a temper. You just didn¡¯t show it in front of Willis, trying to act noble.¡±


    Helena straightened her back, ¡°As long as we are together, you can¡¯t act arrogantly.¡±


    Susan snorted, ying her trump card, ¡°Three years ago, you married Willis for ten million. I¡¯ll give you double.¡±


    She took out a check from her wallet and pped it on the table, ¡°This is twenty million. Please take the money and leave him immediately!¡±


    Helena casually nced at the check and said, ¡°When I married Willis back then, it wasn¡¯t solely for money.¡±


    Susan burst intoughter, ¡°ying innocent and righteous, how hypocritical of you.¡±


    Helena pressed her lips, looking at her with a cold gaze, truly wanting to p her.


    With a contemptuous tone, Susan said, ¡°Three years ago, your grandmother suffered from uremia and urgently needed a kidney transnt. Your family even sold the house, scraping the bottom of the barrel. You only joined Mr. Willis for a few years, yet you¡¯ve forgotten your own background? Just a wild girl crawling out of a poor mountain valley. No matter how high you climb, you can¡¯t change your impoverished appearance!¡±


    She pushed the check forward arrogantly, lifting her chin with a condescending tone, ¡°Take it. Don¡¯t pretend to be high and mighty!¡±


    Surprisingly, Helena remained calm.


    ncing at the seal on the check, she said faintly, ¡°Did you ask your father for this check? When you needed money, did you have to beg quite a bit? Does your whole family support you being a homewrecker? What a peculiar family. What¡¯s the use of your family¡¯s wealth? It still can¡¯t cover up your ugly hearts.¡±


    Susan¡¯s face turned red and then pale, ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±


    Helena stood up, looking down at her, ¡°I restore antique books and paintings. If I wanted to make money, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult. Three years ago, if I didn¡¯t marry Willis, I could still earn ten million with my own hands.¡±


    She grabbed the check and threw it at Susan¡¯s face, ¡°Take your money. Stay wherever you feelfortable; don¡¯te out and disgust people!¡±


    The check hit Susan¡¯s face, infuriating her!


    She suddenly lunged at Helena, reaching out to grab her face!


    But just in the nick of time, a figure rushed out from the side, grabbed Susan, and delivered a hearty beating to her face!

 Chapter 15: A Helping Hand（1）

    Caught off guard, Susan received several ps out of the blue, leaving her bewildered.


    Her face stinging and ears ringing, she saw stars before her eyes.


    Throughout her life, no one had dared toy a finger on her.


    Furious, she grabbed the other person¡¯s arm and scratched wildly.


    The two struggled with each other.


    The Varley family¡¯s driver, who had been hiding in the corner, hurried over and forcefully separated the two.


    Only now did Susan see that the one who had pped her was Willis¡¯s own sister, Nancy Santana, and she was immediately dumbfounded.


    Seeing Nancy being attacked, Helena quickly ran over, shielding her behind.


    Casting a nce at Nancy¡¯s wrist, which was scratched and bleeding, Helena felt a pang in her heart. She took out a band-aid from her bag and carefully applied it, asking softly, ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Nancy winced in pain, saying, ¡°It¡¯s okay, Sister-inw. Did she manage to scratch your face?¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°No.¡±


    Nancy stared at Susan angrily, ¡°To deal with someone like her, you don¡¯t need to be polite. Just give her a p. What¡¯s the use of reasoning? Reasoning is for those who listen, and she¡¯s not one of them!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Susan was infuriated.


    Suppressing her anger, she forced out a couple of tears and said pitifully, ¡°Nancy, we grew up together, like sisters. How could you¡­¡±


    Nancy rolled her eyes, ¡°Cut the crap. I don¡¯t have a sister like you. My brother has been so good to you, and our entire family has treated you well. Yet, as soon as my brother had some trouble, you ran away faster than a rabbit. Now that you see my brother¡¯s leg is better and everything¡¯s back to normal, youe back to vie for his attention and even bully my sister-inw. Have you no shame?¡±


    Susan¡¯s face turned from pale to red. ¡°I have my reasons¡­¡±


    ¡°Reasons my foot! My brother might believe you, but I certainly don¡¯t!¡±


    As Nancy finished speaking, Helena¡¯s phone rang.


    ncing at the caller ID, it was Willis calling.


    After a brief hesitation, Helena answered.


    Willis asked, ¡°Where are you?¡±


    ¡°At the entrance of Antique Street, at a restaurant to the south.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m passing by. Be there in three minutes.¡± He hung up.


    Images ofst night, when he and Susan were embracing, shed through Helena¡¯s mind, making her uneasy.


    Seeing the white roses he had given to Susan on the table made her chest even tighter, as if a massive stone was pressing down on her, making it hard to breathe.


    In a few minutes, Willis, apanied by his men, walked into the restaurant.


    Tall and graceful, with pale skin and handsome features, Willis walked like a breeze, exuding an air of elegance. Beneath his ck trousers, his long legs moved gracefully, creating a dignified aura. All eyes in the restaurant were immediately drawn to him.


    Upon seeing him, Susan¡¯s eyes lit up, and she ran towards him, calling out with a choked voice, ¡°Willis!¡±


    Willis furrowed his brows slightly, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    With teary eyes, Susan said, ¡°I was looking for Helena to exin what happenedst night, but after just a few words, she scolded me, and Nancy even hit me.¡±


    She pointed to her swollen cheek, pouting, ¡°It hurts.¡±


    Willis turned to Helena, ¡°Did she provoke you? Why would she scratch your face?¡±


    Helena smiled.


    She never thought that the beloved person Willis had in mind would be someone like Susan, not only heartless but also deceitful, making false usations.


    Indeed, those favored always had a sense of entitlement.


    Before Helena could speak, Nancy chimed in, ¡°me me if you need to. Nancy is venting for me.¡±


    Looking at Helena, Willis¡¯s gaze softened. He took out an imported scar removal ointment from his bag and handed it to her. ¡°This is scar removal cream sent from abroad. Apply it ording to the instructions; the wound on your neck shouldn¡¯t leave a scar.¡±


    Helena stared at the ointment, feeling a mix of emotions.


    Knowing that he didn¡¯t love her, sometimes she felt that he still cared about her.


    Quickly, she self-mockingly smiled. If he truly cared, how could such an incident have happenedst night?


    Nancy took the ointment, handed it to Helena, and scolded Willis, ¡°If you dare to mistreat my sister-inw, I won¡¯t recognize you as my brother!¡±


    Willis calmly responded, ¡°Adult matters, children shouldn¡¯t interfere.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m only one year younger than my sister-inw; I¡¯m not a child!¡±


    Ignoring her, Willis took Helena¡¯s hand and said gently, ¡°Have you eaten? If not, let me take you to eat.¡±From N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 16: A Helping Hand（2）

    Helena recoiled as if shocked, pulling her hand back from his, ¡°I¡¯m full.¡±Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Willis looked down at her, his gaze unusually gentle, ¡°Do you believe thatst night was a misunderstanding?¡±


    Helena straightened her neck, her usually gentle voice carrying a hint of sharpness, ¡°I happened toe at the wrong time, disturbing you.¡±


    Willis¡¯s smile was profound, tinged with a hint of helplessness, ¡°Forget it, let me take you back.¡±


    Helena picked up her bag and walked out.


    Willis took long strides, catching up with her, with his assistant following at a distance.


    Exiting the western restaurant, they passed by a flower shop. Helena pushed the door open and walked in.


    Surveying the ce, she pointed at a bouquet of white roses, ¡°Give me a bunch.¡±


    The clerk asked, ¡°How many would you like?¡±


    Thinking of the twenty roses Willis gave Susan, Helena said stubbornly, ¡°Make it two hundred.¡±


    The clerk hesitated for a moment and then smiled, ¡°Please wait.¡±


    After a long wait, the flowers were finally wrapped up. It was then that Helena realized why the clerk had hesitated.


    Two hundred roses, packed, were nearly a meter in diameter.


    Veryrge and very heavy.


    She struggled to carry it, but it felt satisfying. Why wait for someone else to send flowers when she could buy them herself? It¡¯s not like she couldn¡¯t afford it.


    Willis took out his card to pay, and Helena handed over the card, saying, ¡°I have money of my own.¡±


    She said it firmly.


    The flowers were bought with her hard-earned money.


    Willis smiled faintly, knowing that she was being stubborn.


    After settling the bill, Helena walked out carrying the oversized bouquet of white roses.


    The bouquet was sorge that it made her slender figure appear even more delicate, like a slender, straight bamboo, graceful yet with resilience.


    Willis reached out to take it.


    Helena sidestepped, avoiding his hand.


    Willis¡¯s hand froze in mid-air, retracting slowly after a second.


    The two walked side by side.


    Watching her with the densely packed roses in her arms, Willis asked, ¡°Do you also like white roses?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Why did you buy so many if you don¡¯t like them?¡±


    ¡°Hmm!¡±


    A yful smile tugged at the corner of Willis¡¯s eyes, ¡°I never thought you¡¯d like flowers. I thought you only liked paintings.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m still a woman!¡±


    ustomed to her gentle temperament, Willis witnessed her looking upset for the first time and found it refreshing. ¡°So, what flowers do you like? I¡¯ll send them to you next time.¡±


    Helena pursed her lips in silence.


    Growing up with her grandparents at the foot of the mountain, she liked wildflowers such as chamomile, dandelions, and the irises, pink peas, and sunflowers nted under the window.


    She had sentiments for these in and robust little flowers, but she had no feelings for the precious and delicate imported roses in her arms.


    Buying so many was purely to vent her frustration.


    As they neared Antique Attic, Helena suddenly stopped and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to send me any further.¡±


    Willis raised an eyebrow, ¡°Are you afraid your colleagues will see me?¡±


    ¡°Whether we divorce sooner orter, isn¡¯t it?¡± Her voice trembled, and her heart was shaking.


    The current situation, to divorce or not, felt like a dull knife cutting through the flesh, causing a painful and lingering ache.


    Willis fell silent.


    For a moment, he stopped and silently watched her figure gradually move away, his gaze as deep and calm as a tranquil sea.


    Helena reached the entrance of Antique Attic and met Alick, the young master of the shop.


    He smiled, ¡°Such arge bouquet, did your boyfriend send it?¡±


    ¡°No, I bought it myself.¡±


    Alick¡¯s smile deepened, ¡°It must be heavy. Let me carry it for you.¡±


    Helena handed him the flowers, smiling, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Alick half-jokingly said, ¡°You¡¯re the boss here; what¡¯s carrying a bouquet for you?¡±


    ¡°Alick, you¡¯re joking.¡±


    The two chatted andughed, walking into the shop side by side.


    Willis stood there, tall and handsome, watching from a distance, his eyes chilling, shrouded in a cold atmosphere.


    He couldn¡¯t exin the taste in his mouth.


    It was like carefully tending to a small cabbage at home for three years, and suddenly, a pig barged in, wanting to root around.


    Almost instinctively, he wanted to drive the pig away.


    Only then did he realize that he wasn¡¯t as magnanimous as he had imagined.


    Licking his lips, Willis instructed his assistant behind him, ¡°Have someone check that man.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Santana.¡±


    In the car, on the way back to thepany.


    The assistant answered a phone call, reporting to Willis, ¡°Mr. Santana, the man¡¯s name is Alick, a doctor by profession, and Antique Attic is his grandfather¡¯s shop. Three years ago, he hadmunication records with Mrs. Santana.¡±


    Willis raised his gaze, a cold light gleaming in his eyes, ¡°Check Alick¡¯s nickname and see if it¡¯s Jay.¡±

 Chapter 17: Urgent Matter（1）

    Back at thepany, the day extended into the evening, keeping Willis busy.


    Willis loosened his tie, his gaze cold as he looked at his assistant, ¡°Did you find what I asked you to?¡±


    The assistant replied, ¡°Mr. Santana, Alick doesn¡¯t have a nickname. His family calls him Alick or just Alick.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes showed a hint of disinterest, as if he had expected this.


    Jay was the man buried deep in Helena¡¯s heart. Before the divorce, she wouldn¡¯t easily be involved with him.


    She was still young but always acted with discretion.


    Willis pushed the chair back, stood up, and fastened the suit button with one hand, saying, ¡°Go in my ce for the dinner tonight; I have something to attend to.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Mr. Santana.¡± The assistant began gathering the documents on the table.


    Leaving the Santana Tower, Willis drove to Antique Street.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky darkened.


    Sitting in his car, Willis called Helena, ¡°I¡¯m outside your shop. Come out.¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena¡¯s voice sounded mildly surprised over the phone, ¡°We¡¯re having dinner outside, a colleague gathering.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    ¡°All the colleagues from the shop.¡±


    ¡°Is Alick there too?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he¡¯s the young master of our shop.¡±


    Thinking of the way the two of them hadughed and chatted at noon, Willis felt a subtle difort in his heart. Nevertheless, his voice remained calm, ¡°Call me after dinner; I¡¯lle to pick you up.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Her tone was restrained and distant, deliberately creating distance between them.


    Feeling a bit uneasy listening to this, Willis tightened his grip on the phone.


    After ending the call, he dialed Yale¡¯s number, ¡°Come out for a drink.¡±


    ¡°My goodness, drinking already at this hour?¡± Yale¡¯szy andnguid tone came through, as if he hadn¡¯t woken up yet.


    Willis¡¯s voice was sharp and decisive, ¡°Bring the official seal and thend sale contract. Be at Today¡¯s Drunk within half an hour, or the offer is void.¡±


    Yale shook off his drowsiness, ¡°Alright! Brother, I¡¯ll be there soon!¡±


    Half an hourter, at Today¡¯s Drunk, Wondend.


    The room was crowded with people, bustling with activity-signing contracts,pleting procedures, transferring funds.


    Once the tasks were done, everyone left, leaving only Willis and Yale.


    The fair and handsome young man loungedzily, his arm casually draped over the back of the chair, a pair of beautiful peach blossom eyes assessing Willis, ¡°Feeling bad?¡±


    Willis took a sip of his drink, nonchnt, ¡°Not really.¡±


    His hand holding the wine ss was slender and pale, almost unbelievably exquisite.


    Yale teased, ¡°Most people would find some pleasure with women when they¡¯re in a bad mood. But look at you, buyingnd on such a grand scale. Next time you¡¯re feeling down, remember to find me. My old man still has several pieces ofnd in his hands.¡±


    ¡°Stop taking me for a fool. I had nned to sign this contract anyway, just a week earlier than intended.¡± Willis put down the wine ss.


    Picking up a porcin bottle, Yale poured him more liquor, ¡°Heard Susan returned to the country. Are you two getting closetely?¡±


    Willis lifted an eyebrow, ¡°What do you want to say?¡±


    ¡°Helena is a good girl. Don¡¯t let her down.¡± For once, Yale looked serious, his eyes focused on Willis.


    Willis lightly tapped the tabletop, his smile faint, ¡°When I wanted to marry her back then, who was it that thought she wasn¡¯t good enough, saying she didn¡¯t match up to me? Now, how has that changed?¡±


    ¡°At that time, I thought she was just after wealth, willing to marry anyone for money. Later, I found out it wasn¡¯t true. She genuinely cared for you. Most gold diggers run off as soon as they get some money. They wouldn¡¯t stick around to take care of you for so long.¡±


    Willis¡¯s deep eyes turned ck and solemn, ¡°She is quite good.¡±


    ¡°Then why¡­¡±


    Willis lowered his gaze, staring at the clear liquor in the ss, his tone extremely light, ¡°She¡¯s an excellent youngdy. Three years ago, she was forced to marry me because her family needed money. Although she doesn¡¯t say it, she must have felt wronged. I¡¯ve made her endure this for three years, and I don¡¯t want to see her continue to suffer.¡±


    Yale was astonished, ¡°Just for this, you want to divorce her?¡±


    ¡°Something like that.¡±


    Yale sighed with regret, ¡°Such a good girl, are you really letting her go?¡±


    ¡°What else can I do?¡± Willis¡¯s face remained calm, but a hint of dark shadow lingered in his eyes.


    He couldn¡¯t bear to keep her by his side forever, watching her suffer from nightmares, crying out for her Jay brother in her dreams.


    He couldn¡¯t bear to see her in pain.

 Chapter 18: Urgent Matter（2）

    Also unable to endure that kind of humiliation, he was a man, a man who couldn¡¯t tolerate any insult.


    However, truly letting go was also heart-wrenching.


    Quite contradictory.


    Willis held the wine ss to his lips, finishing the remaining drink in one go.


    The white liquor was pungent, a knife-like sensation shing down his throat.


    It felt stuck below his chest, burning fiercely.


    Suddenly, a knock on the door echoed from outside.


    Yale called out, ¡°Come in.¡±


    The door opened.


    With a melon-seed face and delicate features, Susan entered the room. She wore a white bubble-sleeved chiffon princess top tucked into a tight half-skirt. She adorned aplete set of Cartier jewelry, with a Chanel coat draped over her arm and an Herm¨¨s ostrich-skin bag in hand.


    It was Susan.


    Seeing her, Willis¡¯s eyes cooled slightly. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Twisting her slender waist, Susan gracefully walked behind him, her arm resting on the back of his chair. She leaned down, her red lips brushing against his ear as she exhaled a fragrant breath, ¡°Heard that Willis ge is also dining here, so I came to say hello.¡±


    Willis¡¯s ear was tickled by the warmth of her breath, and he shifted slightly to the side, avoiding her. Seeing that she showed no intention of leaving, he spoke without much emotion, ¡°Sit if you want.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Willis ge.¡± Susan pulled out a chair, draping her coat over the back.


    A waiter promptly set the table for her.


    Willis pushed the menu toward her, ¡°Order whatever you want.¡±


    Susan nced at the table full of dishes, pushed the menu away, and sweetly smiled, ¡°No need to order. I love whatever Willis loves.¡±


    Yale raised his hand to wipe the goosebumps that had risen on his arm.


    Susan turned a te of Arctic sweet shrimp towards herself, looking at Willis with watery eyes, ¡°Willis ge, I want to eat shrimp.¡±


    Yale sneered, ¡°Can¡¯t you peel it yourself?¡±


    Puffing out her cheeks, Susan said with a hint of grievance, ¡°I¡¯ve never peeled shrimp myself. At home, my parents always did it for me. When I used to dine out with Willis, he always peeled them for me.¡±


    She reached out and sped Willis¡¯s arm, acting coquettishly, her voice sweet and dripping, ¡°Willis ge, I want to eat shrimp peeled by you. Will you do it for me?¡±


    Willis cast a faint nce at her, retracted his arm, put on disposable gloves, and picked up a shrimp from the te.


    For some reason, a scene of Helena peeling shrimp for him shed in his mind.


    Her hands were incredibly skillful, extracting the shrimp meat cleanly while leaving the shell intact.


    He had tried several times but couldn¡¯t do it.


    After peeling one, he held the shrimp meat and ced it on Susan¡¯s te.


    Suddenly, Susan lowered her body, capturing the shrimp with her mouth, intentionally taking his finger along with it.


    Her tongue gently circled around his fingertip, kissing it lightly.


    With eyes glistening, she looked at him, her brows and eyes full of affection, a desire evident in her gaze.


    Quickly spitting out his finger, she smiled charmingly, gently biting the shrimp meat, and said softly, ¡°The shrimp peeled by Willis ge is delicious.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression subtly froze, an indescribable feeling settling in.


    He removed the disposable gloves and tossed them aside.


    Picking up a sterilized towel from the table, he wiped the finger that she had touched.


    Yale¡¯s entire body erupted in goosebumps, feeling the urge to p her. They hadn¡¯t even divorced yet, and she was acting so wanton!


    Flirting in front of him, treating him like he was invisible?From N?velDrama.Org.


    Yale grabbed his phone and sent a text to Helena: Sister-inw, your husband has had too much to drink. He¡¯s acting crazy,pletely out of his senses. Come pick him up. We¡¯re at Today¡¯s Drunk, third floor, Wondend.


    Helena was at Kyoto Grand Hotel with her colleagues, receiving the message, she called Yale to get more details.


    The phone rang once and was immediately hung up.


    Helena dialed Willis¡¯s number, about to ask more about the situation.


    Just then, another message from Yale popped up:  hurry! Urgent!

 Chapter 19: I’m your cousin?（1）

    Thinking that something had happened to Willis, Helena stood up, grabbed her coat, and without saying a word, headed towards the exit.


    Alick, who was dining at the same table with her, noticed her unusual expression. He picked up the car keys, caught up with her, and asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Helena forced a smile and said, ¡°I need to make a quick trip to Today¡¯s Drunk. You guys continue with your meal.¡±


    Alick jingled the car keys in his hand and offered, ¡°I¡¯ll drive you.¡±


    Feeling anxious, Helena didn¡¯t refuse this time and thanked him quietly.


    Twenty minutester, the car stopped outside Today¡¯s Drunk.


    Helena got out of the car and quickly walked towards the hotel entrance. The wind lifted the hem of her trench coat, revealing her beautiful slender legs.


    She took the elevator and hurried to the third floor, Wondend.


    Helena pushed the door open directly.


    Coincidentally, she saw Susan holding a soup spoon, offering it to Willis¡¯s lips.


    Their shoulders were close, Susan¡¯s cheeks blushing, eyes filled with tenderness as she fed him soup. The corners of her eyes and brows disyed such affection.


    Helena froze.


    Her fingers, gripping the door handle, turned white at the joints. It felt like there was a thorn lodged in her heart, painfully pricking her.


    Bloodshot and painful, it hurt.


    Floating gazes were directed towards Willis.


    Although he held a wine ss in his hand, his eyes were clear, and he carried himself with an air ofposure. Where was the slightest sign of intoxication?


    Seeing Helena arrive, Susan provocatively moved closer to Willis, her smile carrying a hint of triumph.


    Helena managed a self-deprecating smile.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± Dropping this sentence, she turned and walked away.


    Yale quickly pulled out a chair and caught up with her, grabbing her arm and guiding her back to Willis¡¯s side, pressing her into the seat. ¡°Sister-inw, the one sitting next to Cousin should be you. Stay calm.¡±


    He patted her shoulder gently, indicating that she shouldn¡¯t act impulsively.


    Willis stared at Helena as she was being patted by Yale, pausing for a moment. Then, he picked up a sterilized towel and wiped her shoulder.


    Helena smiled.


    Her shoulder had been touched by Yale, and he felt it was dirty.


    Then what about him?


    He hugged and kissed Susan, feeding each other intimately. Who was dirtier?


    Helena tightly pressed her lips together, afraid that if she spoke, all sorts of unpleasant words woulde out.


    In three years of marriage, she had never argued with him, never had a disagreement, not even during the first two years when he couldn¡¯t stand up, had mood swings, threw tantrums, and broke things. She had never said a word.


    Now, on the verge of divorce, it was even more unnecessary to break that vow.


    She only med herself.


    Hearing that he was in trouble, she shouldn¡¯t have panicked and rushed over here, bringing humiliation upon herself.


    A brief standoff.


    Willis turned his head and said to Susan, ¡°Susan, you go back first.¡±


    Susan pouted her lips slightly, a bit unwilling, but still stood up. She said to Helena, ¡°Sister Helena, don¡¯t be angry. Cousin and I were just having a meal. Brother Yale can testify.¡±


    Yale sat on the side, his eyes almost rolling to the sky.


    Just having a meal? They were practically having an erotic rendezvous with the way they fed each other shrimp and soup. If he hadn¡¯t been watching, these two would probably have ignited a spark already.


    Seeing that no one stopped her, Susan picked up her coat and was about to leave.


    With a ¡°tter,¡± the corner of her coat knocked over a teacup on the table, causing it to break into several pieces.


    Susan quickly bent down to pick it up, but her index finger touched a sharp shard, instantly cutting her skin.


    ¡°Ahh!¡± she screamed, holding her injured finger. Tears welled up in her eyes, and her trembling fingertip oozed blood.


    Supporting herself against the table, she quivered her lips and said to Willis, ¡°It hurts, my hand hurts, Cousin Willis, can you take me to the hospital to bandage it?¡±


    Yale rolled his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll take you. Sister-inw is here; you don¡¯t need to provoke her.¡±


    Susan¡¯s eyes hardened, and she raised her bloody hand, tightly grabbing Willis¡¯s sleeve, eyes teary, staring at him like a pitiful little rabbit. ¡°Cousin Willis, I just want you to take me.¡±


    Willis remained silent for a moment, then stood up and said to Helena, ¡°Let Yale take you home. I¡¯ll take Susan to the hospital and then find you.¡±


    After saying this, he picked up Susan¡¯s bag, supported her shoulder, and walked out.


    Helena surprisingly remained calm.


    She calmly called a waiter, settled the bill, and packed up the untouched dishes one by one.


    After packing, she politely thanked the waiter and handed over a hundred yuan tip.


    Carrying the packed dishes and leaving with Yale.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    This was to avoid Willis and Susan.


    She didn¡¯t want to see them cuddling and showing deep affection for each other.


    Too heart-wrenching.


    While waiting for the elevator, Yale silently looked at Helena, who remained unusually calm. He sighed, ¡°Sister-inw, you¡¯re a good woman.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Helena stood straight and elegant, her face wearing an eternal smile, like a serene portrait.


    ¡°A good woman is excellent in every aspect, but being too good can be a bit boring. Men like women to be dignified and elegant outside but at home, you better be a bit more wild and adventurous. Be lively, be versatile, be yful when you need to, be weak when you need to, have thick skin when necessary, and be strategic when it¡¯s time. Sister-inw, put in a little more effort; otherwise, you won¡¯t be able topete with Susan.¡± Every word Yale spoke was sincere.


    ¡°Is Susan wild?¡± Helena asked softly.


    ¡°Damn, she¡¯s wild as hell.¡± Just mentioning it made Yale angry. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t been sitting next to them just now, these two would probably have started a world-shaking affair. Sister-inw, you must find a way to keep Cousin¡¯s heart.¡±


    Helena forcefully pinched the ties of the packaged bag, her heart filled with mixed emotions.


    She thought that loving someone was enough to be sincere and good to them, but it turned out to be far from sufficient.


    But she couldn¡¯t be wild; she couldn¡¯t afford it.


    She grew up with her grandfather and grandmother. Her grandfather was serious and earnest, her grandmother dignified and refined, and her mother was passionate and straightforward.


    Wildness was something she fundamentallycked.

 Chapter 20: I’m your cousin?（2）

    The two of them descended the stairs.


    Willis didn¡¯t leave; he stood by the car, smoking, waiting for her.


    Seeing theme out, he extinguished the cigarette, walked over, gently held her shoulder, slightly bent down to look at her, and his whole demeanor appeared exceptionally gentle. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon, don¡¯t overthink it.¡±


    Helena smiled through her sadness.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He might as well just hurt her thoroughly once, so she could find a reason to hate him. But he was so refined, polite, with a gentle and affectionate demeanor. She couldn¡¯t even bring herself to hate him.


    She could only say, half gentle and half out of stubbornness, ¡°You should quickly take her to the hospital.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Seeing that she wasn¡¯t concerned, Willis turned and got into the car.


    The driver started the car and headed towards the direction of the hospital.


    Helena said to Yale, ¡°I came with my colleagues for dinner, and it¡¯s not over yet. You don¡¯t need to apany me. Go back to your business.¡±


    ¡°Sure, but don¡¯t forget what I said. Among us, you¡¯re the only sister-inw.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Helena walked to Alick¡¯s car and got in.


    Alick started the car, reversing while asking, ¡°Who is that man to you?¡±


    ¡°Which one?¡±


    ¡°The second young master of the Santana Group, Willis.¡±


    Helena hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to answer.


    Calling him an ex-husband wouldn¡¯t be urate; they weren¡¯t divorced yet. Calling him a husband would be incorrect since he had already proposed a divorce, paid the separation fee, and his heart had long moved to Susan.


    After a moment of silence, she said, ¡°A rtive.¡±


    ¡± Is he your cousin?¡±


    Helena absentmindedly nodded.


    Three years ago, because Willis had a leg injury and couldn¡¯t have a proper wedding ceremony, they only got the certificate. Except for close people, no one knew they were married.


    Now, on the verge of divorce, there was no need to make a fuss about it. He could just be her cousin.


    Seeing her low spirits, Alick asked, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense, clearly troubled.¡±


    ¡°Shen, what kind of women do men like?¡± Helena had a knot in her heart.


    Alick smiled, ¡°Different strokes for different folks. Some like the curvy, some prefer the slim. As for me¡­¡±


    He nced at her side out of the corner of his eye.


    With her melon seed face, fair and symmetrical, big watery eyes, and long eyshes like a pair of butterflies, the light from the streemp sprinkled on her face, a bit distorted yet vaguely beautiful like a painting.


    His heart skipped a beat. ¡°I appreciate someone like Helena, gentle, calm, beautiful but unaware, with evident talent but not unting it, not restless.¡±


    Helena gave a faint smile.


    So, there were men who appreciated this type of woman.


    It turned out that being liked didn¡¯t require so much effort.


    ¡°But she¡¯s just a craftsman repairing cultural relics; it¡¯s not as exaggerated as you said,¡± Helena¡¯s mood improved slightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not exaggerating. Your proficiency in repairing ancient books and paintings is already top-notch in the industry. Many so-called experts can¡¯t reach your level even in their lifetime.¡±


    ¡°Talent and effort are also essential, as well as personality. Repairing ancient books and paintings requires great patience. Nowadays, not many young people are willing to learn; the skill is almost dying out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±


    When the car turned, Helena said, ¡°Can you take me home? I don¡¯t want to go back to the hotel.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    They arrived at the Parvis family¡¯s residential area.


    Helena, carrying the packed dishes, got out of the car.


    Alick followed suit. ¡°It¡¯ste; let me take you upstairs.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Taking the packed dishes from Helena¡¯s hands, Alick smiled. He had been surrounded by wealthy youngdies and gentlemen from childhood until now. This was the first time he saw someone who packed up after a meal.


    Repairing ancient books and paintings might be a niche but lucrative profession. Talent was scarce, and he had offered her a very high sry. She shouldn¡¯t be this frugal.


    After escorting Helena downstairs, Alick seemed reluctant to leave. He pulled her and chatted for a while, mostly about work.


    The moon was beautiful, and even just talking to her made him feel unexpectedly good.


    Suddenly, Helena¡¯s eyes stiffened.


    She saw a tall and straight figure approaching them, from far to near.


    This person was exceptionally tall, with a straight posture and a charming presence. Even from a distance, Helena recognized him at a nce; it was Willis.


    She wondered silently. Wasn¡¯t he supposed to be taking Susan to the hospital? How did hee back so quickly?


    Sensing her unease, Alick turned to look and said with a smile, ¡°Your cousin is here.¡±


    Helena hesitated for a moment, responding with a faint acknowledgment.


    As Willis approached, Alick extended his right hand politely. ¡°You must be Helena¡¯s cousin. Hello, I¡¯m her colleague, Alick.¡±


    Willis lowered his gaze to Helena, his eyes cold and icy. ¡°I¡¯m your cousin?¡±

 Chapter 21: Extremely Seductive (1)

    Helena tilted her face slightly to look at him, her expression calm. ¡°Yes, cousin.¡±


    There was a clear stubbornness in her eyes.


    A person ustomed to gentleness was still so quiet even when resisting.


    Willis initially wanted to scold her, but suddenly couldn¡¯t bear it. He raised the corner of his lips and said, ¡°Alright, cousin it is.¡±


    With a lift of his hand, he pulled her into his embrace.


    Unprepared, Helena fell into his arms. She could smell his pleasant masculine scent mixed with the lingering aroma of cigarettes and alcohol, along with a strange sweetness, Susan¡¯s scent.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena felt a wave of disgust. She shrugged her shoulders, trying to free herself from his embrace.


    Willis tightened his arm, possessing her in a domineering manner. With polite yet distant tones, he said to Alick, ¡°Thank you for bringing her back.¡±


    Alick said, ¡°No need to thank me.¡±


    However, his eyes lingered on the arm Willis ced around Helena¡¯s shoulders. He couldn¡¯t help but feel that these two cousins seemed too intimate, beyond the usual rtionship between rtives.


    Willis cast a cold nce at him, hooked Helena¡¯s shoulder, and led her to the elevator.


    While waiting for the elevator, he stared at the ever-changing numbers on the panel, casually asking, ¡°Is he pursuing you?¡±


    ¡°Not really, just admiring.¡±


    ¡°When a man says he admires a woman, the intentions are rarely pure.¡± He changed the subject, ¡°Have you been in contact with him for the past three years?¡±


    Helena¡¯s expression changed slightly. She pulled herself out of his arms. ¡°Are you investigating me?¡±


    Willis raised his hand to rub her head, speaking in a gentle tone. ¡°Don¡¯t make it sound so unpleasant, call it concern.¡±


    Helena moved back, avoiding him. ¡°His grandfather knows my grandfather. Three years ago, he once offered a high sry to poach me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, so our Helena is so outstanding.¡± His tone was affectionate with a hint of teasing, and there was a subtle smile on his lips.


    Helena¡¯s ears tingled.


    They had been married for three years, and this was the first time she heard the term ¡°Helena¡± so affectionately from him. It felt somewhat ufortable and bittersweet.


    With a ¡°ding,¡± the elevator doors opened.


    There was no one inside.


    Willis pressed the button for the 21st floor and turned to look at Helena. His gaze was deep, and a faint glint of sharpness shed, as if some suppressed emotion was about to be released.


    A usually refined and restrained person suddenly showed a bit of a wolfish nature.


    Helena felt a bit oppressed. Instinctively, she moved towards the corner, looking at him with big ck eyes. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Willis blocked the surveince with his back, towering over her, looking down at her. ¡°Did you intentionally tell him I¡¯m your cousin to give him a chance?¡±


    Helena understood; this was his way of settling the score.


    ¡°Well, I¡­¡± She was about to speak, but her lips were suddenly sealed by him.


    He was skilled in kissing, whether it was a light touch or a deep plunge, he could stir one¡¯s emotions.


    Helena¡¯s heart pounded, the turmoil within her resembling boiling water.


    Worried that someone mighte in and see, she raised her hand to push him away. In her heart, she was also annoyed. He had been so close to Susan, yet here he was kissing her.


    However, she was slender, and how could she push a tall and sturdy man like him?


    In vain.


    Instead, it gave an impression of yielding in the face of refusal, adding a subtle allure.


    Willis pressed down her restless hands, the other hand pinching her chin, kissing more forcefully, even lightly biting her.


    No matter how you looked at it, it carried a hint of venting frustration.


    Helena was kissed breathless, her breathing bing erratic.


    Only then did Willis release her, adjusting her disheveled hair and cor. He deliberately threatened her, ¡°Dare you call me cousin again in front of others?¡±


    Helena blushed at his teasing, flipping her eyes at him without saying a word.


    Willis chuckled, his gaze lowered to examine her.


    Her lips, slightly parted and moist, and the big watery eyes, resembling a young deer, were extremely seductive.


    Just now, when she stubbornly called him cousin in front of Alick, he really wanted to teach her a lesson. He wanted to see if she would dare to call him cousin in front of others again in the future.


    A person who was usually gentle, asionally revealing a bit of sharpness, easily stirred up his desire to conquer.


    The elevator rapidly ascended.


    Suddenly, Willis asked without rhyme or reason, ¡°Do you regret marrying me three years ago?¡±

 Chapter 22: Extremely Seductive (2)

    Helena looked up at him with a slight surprise, gazing at his excessively handsome features. Her eyes seemed a bit trance-like, as if looking at him, yet not quite.


    Her voice was low but determined, ¡°No regrets.¡±


    ¡°Three years ago, I was a useless person who couldn¡¯t walk, had a terrible temper, and even caregivers and servants despised me. You, a youngdy with a bright future, married me. You¡¯ve never regretted it?¡±


    He stood there with one hand in his pocket, clear and upright, his features refreshing, his posture tall and straight like a pine tree. The noble air emanating from him was truly enchanting under the cold white light.


    One could no longer see the deste appearance from three years ago.


    Helena said earnestly, ¡°You arranged for someone to help my grandmother find a kidney source, saving her life. You bought a house for our family, and even provided a huge dowry, saving our entire family from dire straits. I am grateful beyond words. Since I was young, my grandfather taught me to repay kindness.¡±


    Willis listened silently, and when he heard thest word, he raised an eyebrow and asked emotionlessly, ¡°Is your feeling towards me just gratitude?¡±


    Helena fell silent.


    In the past, if he had asked such a question, she would have answered without hesitation that, in addition to gratitude, there was also the love that grew over time.


    But now, since he had asked for a divorce and was getting so close to Susan, presenting her heart to him again seemed self-deprecating.


    She pursed her lips and remained silent.


    The elevator door opened.


    The two walked out.


    Helena took out the keys from her bag and opened the door.


    They entered.


    Willis silently watched her change her shoes.


    When she straightened up, he suddenly leaned against the wall with one hand, enclosing her in his arms. He lowered his gaze to look at her, persistently asking, ¡°Is your feeling towards me only gratitude, and nothing else?¡±


    Helena raised her head, looking up at him.


    His face was calm as water, and his deep ck eyes seemed to contain a gxy, just looking at her faintly could be thrilling.


    Unfortunately, in his heart, she was just a substitute for Susan.


    Helena felt a bit ufortable, lowered her eyshes, and said softly, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s just gratitude.¡± There was a bit of a defiant tone in her words.


    Willis self-mockingly curled his lips.


    It was expected. All her love had been given to her beloved Jay, and now, there was only gratitude left for him.


    What was the point of a marriage based on gratitude?


    Suddenly, Willis felt a sense of dullness. The fire he had ignited in the elevator hadpletely extinguished.


    He withdrew his hand, put it in his pocket, looked around the living room absentmindedly, and asked, ¡°Is your mother not at home?¡±


    ¡°The caregiver taking care of my grandmother took leave, and my mother went to fill in these days. Please have a seat; I¡¯ll go wash up and make tea for you.¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    As she was about to leave, Willis¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    He took it out of his pocket and nced at it; it was a call from Susan.


    Being close, Helena also saw the two words ¡°Susan¡± on the phone screen.


    She felt a bit uneasy, as if she had swallowed a fly, and hurriedly walked towards the bathroom.


    Willis looked at her hurried departure, remained silent for a moment, answered the call, and walked to the window, asking, ¡°Is your finger bandaged?¡±


    Susan¡¯s voice sounded a bit tearful, as if she were aggrieved. ¡°Yes, bandaged. I just got in the car and am about to go home. Helena, sister, isn¡¯t angry, is she?¡±


    ¡°No, she has a good temper and rarely gets angry.¡±


    Susan pursed her lips, and although her voice was soft, she pretended to be surprised. ¡°She didn¡¯t say anything bad about me, did she?¡±


    Willis felt a bit annoyed listening to her, ¡°Susan, Helena has never said anything bad about you in front of me. In the future, I don¡¯t want to hear such things from your mouth.¡±


    Susan was taken aback, hurriedly changed her tone, and said, ¡°I was wrong. Brother Willis, I just don¡¯t want you to be deceived by Sister Helena.¡±


    Willis frowned, ¡°There¡¯s nothing else. I¡¯m hanging up.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t hang up; tomorrow¡­¡±


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    A loud noise suddenly came from the bathroom.


    Willis grabbed his phone, took a long stride, and walked over quickly. He asked urgently, ¡°What happened, Helena?¡±

 Chapter 23: More Important Than My Life (1)

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I identally knocked over the vase,¡± Helena bent down, about to pick up the broken pieces.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it; don¡¯t touch it. You might hurt your hand,¡± Willis quickly walked into the bathroom, pulling her aside. He casually ced his phone on the sink, forgetting to hang up.


    Helena found a trash bin and handed it to him, cautioning, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    ¡°I have thick skin; I won¡¯t get cut,¡± Willis picked up a fewrge shards and threw them into the trash.


    ¡°That¡¯s nonsense. Whose skin can¡¯t be cut?¡± Helena squatted down next to him, helping to pick up the pieces.


    Willis stopped her, preventing her from touching, ¡°In those two years, my temper was bad. I often threw things around, and you followed behind me, cleaning up every day. It must have been very frustrating for you.¡±


    Thinking about those two years of hardship, Helena¡¯s nose tingled, and tears almost fell.


    She quickly lowered her eyes, saying gently, ¡°I didn¡¯t feel frustrated, really.¡±


    Willis stared at her lowered long eyshes, said after a while, ¡°You, with such a good temper, don¡¯t seem like a real person.¡±


    Thinking of Yale¡¯s words, Helena asked softly, ¡°Is my personality somewhat boring?¡±


    Willis chuckled, ¡°It¡¯s a bit.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll hit you.¡± Helena lightly pushed his leg.


    Willis smiled and held her hand.


    Listening to the sweet talk between the two in the phone, Susan hung up in frustration.


    With a loud ¡°bang,¡± she threw her phone onto the car seat.


    She didn¡¯t speak all the way back.


    Back at the Varley family.


    Grace saw Susan¡¯s bandaged finger, her face pale, and asked, ¡°What happened to your hand? Why are you so angry?¡±


    ¡°My hand is fine, just a minor injury.¡±


    ¡°Then why are you angry?¡±


    Susan was resentful, ¡°Just a country girl who served as Willis¡¯s maid for three years, and he protects her like that. I casually mentioned a few words about her, and he got upset, even hung up on my call. She picks up a broken vase, and he¡¯s afraid she¡¯ll cut her hand. He was supposed to take me to the hospital tonight; halfway through, he received a call from Yale, saying Helena got into her colleague¡¯s car. He immediately got off, hailed a taxi, and went to find her.¡±


    Grace couldn¡¯t figure it out, ¡°If he cares so much about her, why does he want a divorce?¡±


    Susan kicked off her high heels, ¡°Who knows? Last time, when Willis was drunk, he said the divorce with her wasn¡¯t all because of me. He even said that proposing to me was just a diversion. I don¡¯t know if he was telling the truth or just venting.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s probably just venting.¡±


    Susan slipped on her slippers, walked to the sofa, and plopped down, reminiscing about the events of the day, growing angrier as she thought about it.


    Graceforted her, ¡°If Willis, who looks like you, married Helena, it means he can¡¯t let go of you. Don¡¯t be anxious; take it slow and give him the process of reepting you.¡±


    Susan frowned, ¡°Seeing how well they get along, how can I not be anxious?¡±


    ¡°Being anxious won¡¯t help. In situations like this, patience is key. Think of ways to win him back; that¡¯s the real deal.¡± Grace handed her a cup of water.


    Susan took the cup, pouted, andined, ¡°It¡¯s all your fault. A year ago, Willis could already stand up. I said I would suspend my studies and go back to China to find him, but you stopped me, saying we should observe for a year. Now, look, they have feelings for each other, and I¡¯m almost irrelevant.¡±


    Grace gave her a disdainful look, ¡°Even car idents have consequences. If we don¡¯t observe carefully, what if he rpses and ends up in a wheelchair? Would you be willing to take care of him for the rest of your life?¡±


    Susan fell silent, sulking and drinking water.


    After a few quiet seconds, Grace asked, ¡°Did Helena ept the check you gave her?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Grace was surprised, ¡°She doesn¡¯t appreciate it? Three years ago, she was willing to marry even a person with lower body paralysis. What¡¯s she pretending for?¡±


    Thinking of this matter, Susan felt annoyed, ¡°It¡¯s all your fault.¡±


    At the mention of this matter, Susan became infuriated. ¡°Do you know how arrogant she is? She threw the check in my face, saying that if she hadn¡¯t married Willis three years ago, she could still earn with her own hands.¡±


    ¡°With her own hands?¡± Grace sneered, ¡°Someone who restores ancient paintings, is she that amazing?¡±


    ¡°I had someone look into it. Her grandfather, Ken, was quite famous in the industry, and she inherited his skills.¡±


    ¡°So what?¡± Grace scoffed, ¡°If her hands be useless, let¡¯s see how arrogant she can be.¡±


    Susan suddenly widened her eyes, staring at her, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t mess around!¡±


    One weekter, at noon.From N?velDrama.Org.


    Antique Attic.


    Helena locked the door to the restoration room and went downstairs to a nearby restaurant for lunch.


    Entering a Hong Kong-style restaurant, she ordered a bowl of shrimp and egg fried rice, found a seat by the wall, and quietly began to eat.


    Her temperament was gentle and calm, her skin porcin white, her features delicate, and her slender fingers held the ebony chopsticks. She chewed slowly and elegantly, her refined manners standing out in the bustling restaurant.


    After finishing the meal, Helena settled the bill, picked up her bag, and gracefully walked to the door, lifting her right hand to push the ss door.

 Chapter 24: More Important Than My Life (2)

    The ss door was a bit hard to push. Helena managed to open a crack and used her left hand to push it open with force, leaning against the doorframe.


    Suddenly, a figure rushed over from outside, forcefully banging the door open with a loud bang.


    Helena tried to pull her hand back, but it was toote.


    A searing pain radiated from her fingertips.


    The pain was so intense that she was on the verge of passing out.


    Her legs trembled, and she couldn¡¯t stand. She squatted on the ground, holding her left hand. Tears streamed down her face.


    Four fingers on her left hand visibly swelled, the finger bones seemed to be broken, blood oozing out and dripping onto the ground, bright red and chilling.


    In a daze, she heard someone apologizing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to.¡± The voice was harsh, belonging to a woman wearing a yellow food delivery uniform and a motorcycle helmet.


    She took a stack of money from her bag and ced it by Helena¡¯s feet. ¡°This money is for your medical expenses. I have urgent matters to attend to; I¡¯ll contact youter, okay?¡±


    Helena was in too much pain to speak.


    She tearfully looked at her own hand.


    Her hand, the hand she had worked tirelessly with, day and night, diligently for nearly twenty years, inheriting the skills of her grandfather and five generations of ancestors.


    Her hand, which she had always considered more important than her life.


    And now it was ruined.


    She trembled all over, her face pale, her eyes filled with sorrow, so desperate.


    When the owner of the restaurant heard themotion and came over, the person who had hurt Helena was long gone.


    The owner drove her to the hospital.


    After stopping the bleeding and undergoing an X-ray, Willis arrived.


    Dressed in a high-end suit with a tie, he had left a third of the way through a meeting after receiving a call about Helena¡¯s injury, leaving his subordinates to handle things, and rushed over in haste.


    Helena, supported by the restaurant owner, walked out of the radiology department.


    A slender figure, unable to stand steadily, with red eyes and tears streaming down her face, she looked lost and disheartened.


    Anyone who saw her would feel heartbroken.


    Willis¡¯s face was ugly. He stepped forward to take Helena, suppressing his anger, and asked the restaurant owner, ¡°Who injured her? Where is the person?¡±


    The owner, a woman in her forties, was a bit scared. Her voice trembled as she said, ¡°ording to the customers in the restaurant, it was a delivery person, and she has already run away.¡±


    Willis gritted his teeth and instructed his assistant, ¡°Go find her! Find that person for me!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Santana.¡± The assistant could sense that Willis¡¯s emotions were reaching a critical point, on the verge of eruption. He dared not dy and immediately led the team to investigate.


    The restaurant owner, not daring to waste time, hurriedly followed the assistant to the store to cooperate in checking the surveince footage.


    The X-ray results would take a while, so Willis helped Helena to a chair, cradling her with extreme care. It was as if he held a fragile baby.


    Helena continued to tremble, her hands and feet ice-cold.


    With one hand, Willis unbuttoned his suit, took it off, and draped it over her. Holding her tightly, he rested his chin on her head, his expression stern.


    When the X-ray results came out, Willis brought them to the doctor.


    After seeing the X-ray, the doctor informed Willis that Helena¡¯s middle finger and ring finger were fractured and needed to be cut open for surgery and realignment.


    Willis arranged for the best orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Bai, to perform the operation.


    A little over an hourter, the surgery waspleted.


    After the observation period, Helena was transferred to a hospital room, her fingers swollen like carrots. Her broken fingers were splinted, and she needed intravenous fluids.


    Her condition was very poor; she remained silent, lying like a wooden figure, her eyes full of despair as if the sky had copsed.


    Willis, his face solemn, watched her for a while. He took a towel, dipped it in warm water, and gently wiped her face. After wiping, he fed her porridge and medicine.


    Helena obediently drank the porridge and took the medicine but remained silent.


    Around eight in the evening, the person who had injured Helena was caught.


    The assistant approached Willis and whispered something to him.


    The more Willis listened, the colder his expression became. At the end of the conversation, he clenched his jaw, and his brow twitched with anger several times.


    He took a few deep breaths to calm his emotions.


    Bending down, he said to Helena, ¡°I¡¯m going out for a moment. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 25: Get Revenge for Her (1)

    Helena stared nkly at the ceiling, seemingly oblivious to everything.


    Willis sighed, gently patting her shoulder, and then turned and left.


    Outside, he instructed the bodyguard at the door, ¡°Protect Helena well. Call me immediately if anything happens.¡±


    The bodyguard replied, ¡°Yes, Mr. Santana.¡±


    In the car, the assistant reported to Willis, ¡°I checked all the surveince along the route, mobilized several resources, and finally found Lily. When we caught her, she was in a ck taxi, trying to escape to the countryside, intending to hide.¡±


    Willis¡¯s gaze turned icy. ¡°Who is this person?¡±


    ¡°Lily is Leo¡¯s sister. Leo is the bald guy who previously took thedy to restore an ancient painting. After that incident, it was discovered that he was involved in a tomb-robbing gang and was sentenced to seven years. Surveince shows that Lily, in the past few days, disguised herself as a delivery person, wandering around the antique market, waiting for an opportunity to retaliate against thedy.¡±


    Willis clenched the hand hanging by his side, his knuckles turning white.


    Arriving at the building where Lily was detained.


    Lily, with short hair, had a waxenplexion, red eyes, and dry, peeling lips. She looked quite neutral, resembling the bald guy.


    Willis sat on the sofa, nced at her with cold eyes, and asked, ¡°Why did you injure Helena¡¯s hand?¡±


    Lily, full of resentment, gritted her teeth and said, ¡°She ruined my brother¡¯s life!¡±


    Willis sneered, ¡°Your brother was involved in tomb-robbing and kidnapped Helena. He deserved to be in prison.¡±


    Lily red at him but remained silent.


    Willis smirked, lifting one corner of his lips. He calmly said, ¡°I never hit women, but you are truly despicable.¡±


    As he spoke, he grabbed the ashtray from the coffee table and smashed it towards Lily¡¯s head.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Lily tried to dodge but was held down by the assistant and couldn¡¯t escape.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    The ashtray shattered her eyebrow bone, and fresh blood flowed down her face.


    The ss ashtray, when it hit the ground, broke into pieces.


    The assistant kicked Lily¡¯s leg.


    ¡°Thud!¡± She knelt on the broken ss shards, trembling in pain, whimpering continuously.


    Willis stood up from the sofa, stepped on her hand, and ground it a few times, sharp ss shards piercing into her fingertips.


    Lily, in pain, pleaded, ¡°My hand hurts, it hurts.¡±


    Willisughed, ¡°You know it hurts. When you used the door to crush Helena¡¯s hand, did you think about whether she would feel pain?¡±


    Those were the hands she considered more important than her life.


    Those hands, over the past two years, tirelessly massaged his legs and gentlyforted his body and mind.


    Such a good girl, gentle and peaceful, had her most precious fingers broken by this scum.


    Suppressing his anger, Willis nonchntly said, one hand in his pocket, ¡°Your hands are too cheap; might as well chop them off.¡±


    The assistant quickly replied, ¡°Yes, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Willis turned and left.


    Once the door closed, the sound of a woman¡¯s scream, devoid of any dignity, echoed from behind.


    The assistant raised the knife.


    Lily copsed in a pool of blood, her left hand¡¯s four fingers severed.


    Back at the hospital, Willis sat by Helena¡¯s bedside.


    Watching her expressionless and dazed state, Willis felt a twinge in his heart. Just as he was about to speak to tell her that revenge had been taken, her hand suddenly grabbed his sleeve.


    Although she appeared gentle, internally, she was resilient and seldom revealed her vulnerable side.


    In this moment, she seemed fragile and helpless, relying on himpletely.


    Softening, Willisforted her, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. I won¡¯t leave. I¡¯ll be with you these days.¡±


    Helena slowly released his sleeve.


    Willis carefully tidied her disheveled hair behind her ears and said, ¡°Close your eyes and rest for a while. I¡¯ll watch over you while you sleep.¡±


    However, Helena couldn¡¯t sleep. The four swollen and throbbing fingers, fingertips connected to her heart, pained with each heartbeat.


    The nail beds had turnedpletely ck and purple, a horrifying sight.


    With closed eyes, she endured second by second, feeling a deep sadness in her heart.


    Her fingers were broken. If they couldn¡¯t heal properly, it would be a betrayal to her grandfather¡¯s careful cultivation over the past dozen years.


    ¡°Knock, knock.¡± Someone knocked on the door.


    Willis got up to open it.


    Standing outside in a white coat, with a tall figure, was Alick, holding a bouquet of white roses.


    He called out, ¡°Cousin,¡± and said, ¡°I just got off the operating table and heard that Helena¡¯s hand was injured. I came to see her.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression remained unchanged, but his tone was quite indifferent.

 Chapter 26: Get Revenge for Her (2)

    Alick smiled and said, ¡°My main profession is a doctor, and Antique Attic is my grandfather¡¯s store.¡±


    Willis ignored him and walked to Helena¡¯s side, taking a seat.


    Alick ced the flowers on the bedside table and examined Helena¡¯s hand, asking gently, ¡°Is your finger still hurting?¡±


    Helena nodded.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. I heard that Dr. Bai performed the surgery on you. His medical skills are superb, and you are young. Your fingers will surely heal well,¡± Alick reassured.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Helena whispered.


    Alick focused on her ck and purple nails and remarked, ¡°There¡¯s blood stasis in your fingers. We need to release some blood; it will alleviate the pain a bit.¡±


    He called a nurse to bring a syringe.


    Willis raised an eyebrow, looking at him, ¡°Can you do this?¡±


    Alick shed his work ID, ¡°Attending physician, been on the operating table, drawing blood isn¡¯t difficult.¡±


    Soon, the nurse brought the syringe and disinfectant cotton.


    Alick disinfected the needle and inserted it along the edge of Helena¡¯s nail, squeezing out a significant amount of stagnant blood.


    After the bloodletting, Helena felt a slight relief in the pain of her fingers.


    Alick cleaned up, gently patting her arm, ¡°It¡¯ste; get some rest. I¡¯lle to see you again tomorrow.¡±


    Willis stood up and calmly said, ¡°I¡¯ll escort you.¡±


    The two left the room one after the other.


    Willis closed the door, and Alick gave him a cool nce, indifferently saying, ¡°Helena doesn¡¯t like your type. Please refrain from pursuing her in the future.¡±


    Alick¡¯s expression changed slightly, and he smiled, ¡°Which type does Helena like then?¡±


    Willis couldn¡¯t imagine what type Jay was, so he said, ¡°She likes my type.¡±


    Alick¡¯s smile deepened, ¡°Unfortunately, you¡¯re her cousin.¡±


    Willis¡¯s gaze turned icy, and he said coldly, ¡°I am her¡­¡±


    ¡°Ring, ring,¡± Alick¡¯s phone rang.


    He took the phone out of his white coat and waved it at Willis, saying, ¡°Cousin, I¡¯ll take this call.¡±


    Answering the call, he walked away.


    Willis held back his anger, his face darkening. He returned to the ward and saw Helena in such difort, calming him down again.


    Checking his watch, it was gettingte.


    Willis instructed the maid to bring three basins of hot water.


    He used a towel to wipe Helena¡¯s face, then lifted a corner of the nket, picked up her feet, and prepared to wipe them.


    Helena pulled her feet back, not letting him.


    Willis spoke gently, ¡°For those two years when I couldn¡¯t stand, you took care of me for a full two years. Now, it¡¯s my turn to take care of you.¡±


    Helena remained still, her eyes slightly red.


    After wiping her feet, Willis intended to remove her pants.


    Helena suddenly realized what he was about to do and tightly closed her legs, preventing him from undressing her.


    Willis smiled faintly, ¡°We are husband and wife. You are so fond of cleanliness; it must be ufortable without washing. Let me help you.¡±


    Helena looked at him with a slightly resentful expression.


    ¡°Divorce,¡± the two words, with Susan stirring things up in the middle, even without officially obtaining a divorce certificate, their rtionship had changed somewhat. Making him wipe such an intimate area felt awkward.


    Seeing her reluctance, Willis remained silent for a moment and said, ¡°Shall I ask maid to do it for you?¡±


    After a few seconds of silence, Helena slowly rxed her tightly closed legs.


    Compared to maid, Willis was obviously more intimate.


    Lao had a good sense of understanding and quickly retreated.


    Willis was very serious in his actions.


    Helena blushed like a burning charcoal.


    After wiping, Willis also wiped her legs and upper body.


    Maid came over to remove the basin.


    As it approached midnight, Helena finally fell asleep.


    Willisy beside her, afraid to sleep. He worried that if she moved her hands in her sleep, it might cause the finger bones to misalign. So, he continued to support her.


    After an unknown amount of time, Helena had another nightmare, shivering and curling up.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Willis held her in his arms, gently patting her, as if soothing a child.


    Feeling a sense of security, Helena subconsciously arched towards him, muttering in her sleep, ¡°Ah¡­¡±


    Willis raised his hand to cover her mouth, blocking thest two words. After a while, when he saw her calm down, he removed his hand from her mouth and whispered, ¡°You heartless little thing.¡±


    In her dream, Helena turned over gently.


    She was unaware of his words, nor did she realize how many times she had called out ¡°Jay¡± in her nightmares.

 Chapter 27: I’m the whole world for her(1)

    The next day,te at night.


    Helena¡¯s fingers were still painful. She tossed and turned in bed, finally falling asleep with difficulty.


    Willisy beside her, holding her.


    Suddenly, the phone vibrated. Afraid of waking Helena, Willis silenced it and gently pulled his arm from under her neck, intending to answer the call outside.


    Unexpectedly, as he pulled away, Helena woke up. She opened her eyes, looking at him with a sleepy expression, and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Willis pointed at the phone, ¡°I have to take a call.¡±


    ¡°Just answer it here, don¡¯t go out. It¡¯s chilly outside,¡± she said considerately.


    Willis made a sound of agreement and answered the call, ¡°Josh, what¡¯s up?¡±


    Susan¡¯s brother, Josh Varley, politely said, ¡°Sorry for disturbing you sote. Susan¡¯s hand was smashed with a hammer. She has aminuted fracture in four fingers of her left hand, and her condition is very poor. She has been crying and insists on seeing you. Can youe over to see her now?¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis¡¯s expression changed, sitting up straight, he asked, ¡°When did it happen?¡±


    ¡°Over two hours ago.¡±


    Willis frowned and said, ¡°I¡¯lle right away.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll send you the room number in a moment.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    After hanging up, Willis started unbuttoning his sleepwear, doing it quickly.


    Seeing him so anxious, Helena had an intuition that he probably wouldn¡¯t be back tonight. Most likely, he would take care of Susan just like he did for her-hugging andforting her.


    Helena¡¯s heart felt like it was being stabbed. Remembering what Yale had said about being tender when necessary, she realized that she couldn¡¯t bring herself to act cute at a time like this. Being fragile was still manageable, after all, vulnerability was a woman¡¯s nature.


    She suddenly wrapped her arms around Willis¡¯s waist, burying her head in his chest. The message was clear-she didn¡¯t want him to go.


    Willis, halfway through unbuttoning, hesitated and raised his hand, gently prying apart her fingers that were wrapped around his waist.


    After changing into his clothes, he left.


    Helena stared nkly at the closed door, her self-esteem shattered.


    In a few more hours, it would be daylight, and he couldn¡¯t wait.


    Regardless of how the substitute acted, he couldn¡¯tpare to the childhood sweetheart, the white moonlight.


    Helenaughed self-deprecatingly, enduring the pain in her hand. She got out of bed and locked the door to the ward.


    Lying back down, she wiped her eyes. Her heart felt so heavy.


    Willis arrived at Susan¡¯s ward.


    She had just returned from the operating room, lying on the hospital bed, curled up in pain. Her face was pale, eyes swollen, and she looked miserable.


    Four broken fingers were set in splints, the back of her hand was swollen high, and the skin was stretched thin, showing various bruised and battered wounds.


    Grace was covering her face, crying uncontrobly.


    Susan¡¯s father stood by the corridor window, smoking one cigarette after another.


    Seeing Willis arrive, Josh greeted him, ¡°Willis, sorry to trouble you sote.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    Willis calmly replied and walked to the bedside. He bent over, looked at Susan, and softly called, ¡°Susan.¡±


    Susan, who had been staring nkly, turned her head slowly upon hearing Willis¡¯s voice. When she saw his face, she burst into tears.


    Willis sat down by the bed, bending over to pat her arm gently, saying, ¡°Susan, be strong.¡±


    Tears streamed down Susan¡¯s face as she cried, ¡°My hand, Willis, my hand is ruined.¡±


    Willisforted her, ¡°You¡¯re still young; it will heal.¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t. Comminuted fracture, piecing together bone fragments bit by bit. My life is over.¡± Susan cried in despair, her pain echoing in heart-wrenching sobs.


    Watching Susan cry so heartbreakingly, Willis couldn¡¯t help but recall Helena¡¯s eyes filled with despair when her fingers were broken.


    He tore off some tissues and gently wiped away her tears, coaxing her, ¡°Don¡¯t cry. Be optimistic.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t be optimistic, sob.¡±


    No matter how long Willis tried tofort Susan, she continued crying inconsbly.


    Willis felt a bit annoyed. ncing at his watch, it had been almost an hour since he came out.


    Helena must be angry by now.


    After some contemtion, he took out a card from his wallet and ced it on the bedside table, saying, ¡°I rushed here too quickly and didn¡¯t bring any gifts. This is a little token from me. The password is 618618. It¡¯ste, and Helena is still waiting for me in the ward. I¡¯ll go back first.¡±

 Chapter 28: I’m the whole world for her(2)

    Susan immediately stopped crying, looking at him in disbelief. With a choked voice, she said, ¡°Willis, I¡¯m in this state, and you still want to leave?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯lle see you again tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Please don¡¯t go, okay?¡± Susan, with teary eyes, pouted and reached for his hand, with needles still attached to the back of her hand.


    She looked so fragile and helpless.


    After a moment of silence, Willis gently withdrew his hand and said, ¡°Listen, you have your parents and brother to apany you. Helena only has me, I¡¯m the whole world for her.¡±


    Unwillingly, Susan said, ¡°But she has her mother too, right?¡±


    ¡°Her grandmother is in the hospital, and her mother is taking care of her grandmother these days.¡±


    Disappointed, Susan said, ¡°Willis, you¡¯ve changed. You used to be so caring. When I had a fever, you would stay with me the whole night.¡±


    She burst into tears again.


    Josh furrowed his brows and said to Willis, ¡°Willis, you should go back. Susan has us to take care of her.¡±T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis nodded slightly, stood up, and asked, ¡°Who did it? Was the person caught?¡±


    Josh shook his head, ¡°No. The person ambushed Susan in the underground parking lot. As soon as she got out of the car, she was knocked unconscious, dragged to a corner, and her left hand was smashed with a hammer. Valuables in her bag were stolen, but she wasn¡¯t assaulted. It¡¯s not a robbery or a sexual assault; it¡¯s clearly an act of revenge.¡±


    Willis pondered for a moment. ¡°I¡¯ll send someone to investigate.¡±


    ¡°No need; the police have already been informed. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Willis turned and left.


    Once the door was closed, Susan grabbed a pillow and threw it on the ground, crying loudly. ¡°Willis and I, childhood sweethearts for over ten years, why can¡¯t wepare to his three-year marriage with Helena? I hate her; I hate that hillbilly to death!¡±


    Josh picked up the pillow and ced it back on the bed. ¡°When you were with Willis, he was spirited and full of energy. But when Helena was with him, it was during his most difficult and desperate days. As the saying goes, true love is revealed in times of adversity. Your ten years can¡¯tpete with their three.¡±


    Susan¡¯s emotions spiraled out of control, and she shouted at him, ¡°Why are you taking his side too? Are you my real brother, or hers?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m objective, not taking sides. I¡¯m helping you analyze rationally.¡± Josh said calmly.


    Susan cried even more hysterically.


    Susan¡¯s father, standing on the side, said in a low voice, ¡°Josh, say a little less. Your sister¡¯s hand is already in that condition.¡±


    Willis returned to Helena¡¯s ward, pushed the door, but it didn¡¯t budge. The door was locked from the inside.


    He knocked on the door for a while, but Helena refused to open it or answer the phone.


    He raised his hand and rubbed his temples, asking the bodyguard to find a way to unlock the door.


    A few minutester, the door was unlocked.


    Willis walked in.


    Helena was lying on the bed, facing the inside, ignoring him.


    Willis changed into his sleepwear,y down beside her, and pulled her into his arms.


    Helena struggled a bit but didn¡¯t resist. Her eyes were red, and her voice was cold. ¡°Prepare the divorce agreement tomorrow.¡±


    Willis tightened his hold on her hand, remained silent for a long time, and then said softly, ¡°Tired, let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    In the morning, Willis apanied Helena for breakfast.


    He reached out to touch her face, his gaze tender. ¡°I have a meeting in the morning, but I¡¯ll be back for lunch.¡±


    Helena turned her head away, saying indifferently, ¡°No need. Don¡¯t forget about the divorce agreement.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Grandma has not been feeling well recently, and your hand is injured again. Let¡¯s talk about itter.¡±


    He stood up, changed his clothes, and left.


    After the doctor came to change the dressing, Helena took a book and sat quietly on the bed, reading.


    Until noon, the bodyguard knocked on the door, saying, ¡°Madam, Susan¡¯s mother is outside and wants to visit you.¡±


    Helena remained silent for a few seconds and then said, ¡°Let her in.¡±


    The door was pushed open, and Grace walked in with swollen eyes, ring at Helena and gritting her teeth. ¡°It¡¯s you, right?¡±


    Helena was taken aback. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Did you send someone to smash Susan¡¯s hand with a hammer?¡±


    Helena paused for a moment and then calmly said, ¡°It wasn¡¯t me.¡±


    Grace approached, grabbed her cor, and through gritted teeth, used her, ¡°You cruel girl! You stole Susan¡¯s sweetheart and now you want to ruin her hand! I only have one daughter, one daughter I cherish more than anything. You actually smashed her hand! Today, I¡¯ll fight you!¡±


    Themotion caught the attention of the maid, who hurriedly came out of the bathroom, pulled Grace away from Helena.


    Grace, still being pulled by the maid, continued to lunge forward, swearing and trying to hit Helena.


    ¡°Bitch,¡± ¡°wretched girl,¡± ¡°hillbilly,¡± all sorts of foulnguage continuously poured out of her mouth, making her look like a shrew.


    Helena listened quietly, enduring it for a good seven or eight minutes. Then she said to the maid, ¡°Step aside, please.¡±


    The maid hesitated for a moment, then slowly let go of Grace and stepped aside.


    Helena picked up the stainless steel thermos from the bedside table and threw it at Grace¡¯s face.


    With a loud bang, the thermos hit her nose, causing blood to flow instantly.


    Helena pointed to the door and said, ¡°Get out!¡±

 Chapter 29: Is it Jay? (1）

    Grace was nearly knocked unconscious by the impact.


    Instinctively covering her nose, her mind went nk.


    She didn¡¯t expect that Helena, who appeared gentle and easy to bully, would suddenly strike so ruthlessly.


    Looking down, her fingers were covered in bright red.


    In pain and frustration, she let out a sharp scream and lunged towards Helena.


    The maid rushed forward to intercept, wrapping her arms around Grace.


    Hearing themotion, the bodyguard burst into the room and pulled Grace away.


    Willis, apanied by his assistant, entered with a stern expression. He nced coldly at Grace, then turned to Helena. Seeing that she was unharmed, his expression softened slightly.


    Grace, covering her bloodied nose,ined to Willis, ¡°Look, this is your so-called good woman. She looks gentle and docile but is actually so vicious! A cup thrown at me almost took my life!¡±


    Willis spoke in a tone devoid of emotion, ¡°Helena has always been gentle and calm, indifferent to disputes. If she took action against you, it must be because you provoked her.¡±


    He looked at Helena and gently asked, ¡°How did she provoke you?¡±


    Helena was surprised; she didn¡¯t expect Willis to take her side at this moment, considering that Grace was the mother of his sweetheart.


    She pressed her lips together and nced at the maid, signaling her to exin.


    The maid hurriedly said, ¡°Helena was peacefully reading a book on the bed. Grace suddenly barged in, scolded her, and even attempted to physically assault her, but I managed to stop her. She kept verbally abusing Helena, saying extremely offensive things. Even as an outsider, I couldn¡¯t bear to listen. Helena maintained herposure and listened quietly for quite some time. In the end, unable to endure it any longer, she took action.¡±


    Willis¡¯s gaze suddenly turned cold. He said to Grace, ¡°Apologize to Helena.¡±


    Grace was a bit intimidated, but apologizing meant losing face.


    She straightened her neck and stubbornly said, ¡°Willis, I¡¯m the one injured here. If anyone should apologize, it should be her apologizing to me. Look at how viciously she attacked me. I¡¯m sure she¡¯s the one who had Susan¡¯s hand smashed too.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression became even colder. ¡°Susan¡¯s hand is injured. You¡¯re upset and emotionally out of control. I can understand that. But without evidence, you can¡¯t casually use Helena. Physical harm is harm, and emotional harm is also harm. You insulted Helena first, so you must apologize.¡±


    His voice was not loud, and his emotions remained steady, yet it gave an inexplicable sense of oppression.


    Grace felt a bit overwhelmed, but offering an apology meant losing face.


    She lifted her chin, bravely saying, ¡°Willis, the Santana family and the Varley family have been business partners for many years. I hope you consider the bigger picture and reconsider who should apologize.¡±


    Her words carried an implicit threat.


    Willis nced at her for a second, lifted the corners of his lips in a quasi-smile, picked up his phone, and dialed a number. Speaking into the phone, he said, ¡°Josh, your stepmother caused trouble in Helena¡¯s ward. Please send someone to handle it.¡±


    Josh hesitated for a moment and replied, ¡°I¡¯m in Susan¡¯s ward. I¡¯ll be right over.¡±


    Willis nodded slightly, ended the call, and turned his attention back to Helena. He sat down by her bed, tidying up her wrinkled cor, and asked gently, ¡°Are you hurt?¡±


    Helena shook her head.


    He touched her hand. ¡°Is your hand still hurting?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    He wrapped his arm around her shoulder, looked into her eyes, and asked softly, ¡°Are you still angry?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°You did the right thing today. If someone bullies you, fight back.¡±T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena raised her eyes, staring into hisrge, watery ones, silently thinking, How do I fight back against you?


    But with outsiders present, she refrained from asking, knowing that unity was essential in facing external threats.


    Watching the two of them, so engrossed in each other, Grace couldn¡¯t stand it any longer and wanted to leave.


    However, leaving like this was uneptable, and staying made her furious.


    Before long, Josh arrived with some people.


    After greeting Willis, he looked at Grace, who was covered in blood, then turned to Helena. His gaze lingered a bit longer on her face, and he politely said, ¡°Susan injured her hand, and my stepmother was too distressed, causing her emotions to spiral out of control. She acted impulsively. On behalf of her, I apologize to you.¡±

 Chapter 30: Is it Jay? (2）

    He slightly bent down, lowering his head, and sincerely said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Helena, being a reasonable person, responded casually, ¡°Forget it.¡±


    Grace, in anger, protested, ¡°You can forgive, but I can¡¯t! My nose is in so much pain from your attack, and I¡¯m going to get a disability assessment done! Susan¡¯s hand is most likely also your doing, I¡¯m going to sue you for intentional harm!¡±


    Josh frowned and impatiently waved to his subordinates, saying, ¡°Quickly take her to treat her wounds.¡±


    His subordinates hurriedly approached, escorting Grace away.


    Josh politely said to Helena, ¡°After you are discharged, I¡¯ll invite you and Willis to dinner. Consider it an apology from my stepmother.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but look at him a little more and replied, ¡°You¡¯re being too polite.¡±


    She detested Susan, but for some reason, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to detest Josh. He seemed like a person with clear principles and a lot of cultivation.


    Willis asked Josh, ¡°Has the person who harmed Susan been caught?¡±


    Josh¡¯s face darkened slightly. ¡°No. That person has strong anti-surveince capabilities, almost avoiding all monitoring along the way. There were no fingerprints left at the scene. Due to being an underground parking lot, there were too many footprints, making it difficult for the police to collect evidence. The only clue is a blurry image captured from the surveince camera, matching the time of the incident.¡±


    Willis raised an eyebrow. ¡°Did you bring the photo? Let me see it.¡±


    Josh took an envelope from his trench coat, pulled out a seven-inch photo, and handed it over.


    Willis took it, holding it carefully and examining it closely.


    The photo was indeed quite blurry. In dim lighting, the silhouette of a man¡¯s back could be vaguely seen.


    The man was tall, with long legs, wearing a ck windbreaker, a ck baseball cap on his head, ck gloves on his hands, and holding a sledgehammer. His movements were agile, withrge strides as he walked.


    Even with just a blurry silhouette, it was evident that this person was extraordinary, exuding an aura that ordinary people did not possess.


    Thinking of someone, Willis tightened his grip on the photo.


    He said to Josh, ¡°Give me this photo. I¡¯ll have my people help investigate.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡±


    After Josh left, Willis asked the maid to leave the room.


    Once the door was closed, the room fell silent.


    Willis said to Helena, ¡°Remember the bald guy who took you away to restore the ancient painting?¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°I remember.¡±


    ¡°His sister is the one who severed your finger. She resented you for sending her brother to prison and sought revenge on you. I¡¯ve already avenged you by cutting off her left hand.¡±


    Helena listened with a trembling heart.


    Lowering her head to look at her left hand with the splint, she couldn¡¯t help but feel sad.


    What was the use of revenge? Her finger was already severed, and she didn¡¯t know what the future held.


    Willis said, ¡°This matter has nothing to do with Susan. You sought revenge against the wrong person.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She suddenly raised her head, stared at Willis, and her voice trembled, ¡°Do you suspect that Susan¡¯s hand was injured because I had someone do it?¡±


    Willis¡¯s gaze deepened, holding her shoulder, he said, ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. I believe it¡¯s not you. What I mean is, someone is secretly helping you get revenge. But they got the wrong person; it wasn¡¯t Susan who hurt you; she¡¯s innocent.¡±


    Helena restrained her emotions and asked, ¡°Then who do you think is secretly helping me?¡±


    Willis handed her the photo. ¡°It¡¯s this person.¡±


    Helena took the photo, staring at the blurry figure carefully.


    But with just a back view, it was challenging to identify who it was.


    Willis watched her with profound meaning. ¡°Is the person in the photo Jay?¡±


    Helena¡¯s nose tingled, and her eyes suddenly turned red. Holding the photo tightly, her emotions surged as she vehemently said, ¡°It¡¯s not him! It¡¯s impossible for it to be him!¡±

 Chapter 31: Blacklisted (1)

    Seeing Helena defend Jay like this made Willis very ufortable.


    His face didn¡¯t show much change, but his eyes concealed restrained emotions.


    ¡°I¡¯m going out for a smoke,¡± he said coldly and walked out.


    When closing the door, he used more force than usual.


    But Helena didn¡¯t notice.


    Her mind was filled with the night thirteen years ago, that nightmare-like evening with howling winds, raging mes, endless pain, and desperate cries.


    Jay was the key to unlocking that nightmare. Just mentioning him would make her feel like her heart was being pierced by needles, stirring up turbulent waves that took a long time to calm down.


    A tear silently slid down from the corner of her eye, falling onto the blurry photo.


    After a long while, Helena regained herposure.


    She wiped her damp eyes with the back of her hand, and her gaze returned to the photo. She wondered, who was secretly helping her?


    She hadn¡¯t even told her biological mother about her injured hand, fearing she would worry. Only a few people, including Willis, knew about it.


    Excluding Willis, he wouldn¡¯t harm his beloved. Could it be Alick?


    Helena picked up her phone and called Alick, asking, ¡°Alick, do you know Susan?¡±


    Alick paused and said, ¡°I think I¡¯ve heard that name somewhere. What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Someone used a hammer to smash her handst night.¡±


    Alick said, ¡°Oh, do you want me to help find a doctor for her?¡±


    ¡°No need, everything is fine now.¡± Helena hung up.


    Clearly, it wasn¡¯t Alick either.


    Helena picked up the photo again and examined it carefully.


    Since marrying Willis, she had been living a secluded life. Being introverted and reserved, she had very few friends, especially male friends.


    She racked her brain, but she couldn¡¯t figure out who the figure in the photo was.


    Willis smoked half a pack of cigarettes outside to regte his emotions.


    He pushed the door open and walked in.


    Seeing Helena sitting on the hospital bed, holding the photo with a worried expression, he paused, then walked to the bedside and sat down. He gently smoothed out the fine lines on her forehead, his gaze focused on her eyes for a while. Then, he pulled her into his arms and hugged her.


    The hugsted longer than a normal embrace.


    Helena smelled the strong scent of smoke on him and asked softly, ¡°Did you smoke a lot?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve worked so hard to quit; don¡¯t smoke. Smoking too much is bad for your health.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    After a while, he apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you sad earlier.¡±


    Helena wanted to say something but didn¡¯t know where to start. She could only say, ¡°I¡¯m hungry; let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Willis let her go, called a bodyguard to bring in the food, and then went to thepany.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    In the evening, Nancy came with arge bouquet of flowers to visit Helena.


    As soon as she sat down, she startedining, ¡°why didn¡¯t you tell me you were injured? If it weren¡¯t for Josh mentioning it casually, I wouldn¡¯t have known you were in the hospital.¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°You have to go to school; visiting me would affect your studies.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m about to graduate, not looking for a job, and don¡¯t want to take the postgraduate exam. I¡¯m bored every day. If you had told me, I would havee to chat with you. As long as you don¡¯t find me annoying.¡±


    Helena said softly, ¡°You won¡¯t.¡±


    Nancy nced at her swollen and red hand with the splint, angrily saying, ¡°Who¡¯s that damned person? Does he want to die? He dared to harm you so severely.¡±


    ¡°Some tomb raiders caused trouble recently, and a bald guy went to jail. His sister came for revenge.¡±


    Helena briefly exined the cause and effect to her.


    Nancy was furious after hearing it.


    The two chatted for a while, and as the night fell, Nancy checked her watch, picked up her phone, and called Willis, ¡°Bro, I came to the hospital to see Sis-inw. I want to drink milk tea. Can you bring me a cup on your way back? You still remember what I like, right? Don¡¯t forget to get a cup for Helena too.¡±

 Chapter 32: Blacklisted (2)

    The phone carried Willis¡¯s indifferent voice, ¡°I¡¯m at the hospital. If you want to drink, ask the bodyguard to buy it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in Helena¡¯s room and didn¡¯t see you.¡±


    ¡°I came to see Susan. I¡¯ll be back in half an hour.¡±


    Nancy couldn¡¯t sit still. She stood up from the chair, walked to the window, and said, ¡°Brother, you disappoint me. My sister-inw is injured, already in a bad mood, and you provoke her like this. Don¡¯t you know what women hate the most? It¡¯s when their men get too close to their ex-girlfriends.¡±


    Willis remained silent for a moment and said, ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    ¡°Youe back now, hurry up.¡±


    Willis hung up the phone.


    Nancy, looking upset, walked to Helena¡¯s bed and sat down. Seeing Helena hesitating to speak, she couldn¡¯t hold back and said, ¡°Helena, has my brother been getting close to Susantely?¡±


    Helena made a sound of agreement.


    Nancy sighed, ¡°Sis-inw, you¡¯re too straightforward, and you can¡¯t outy her cunning. She¡¯s always been petty, especially when ites to men. She¡¯s so coquettish and affected. Even I can¡¯t outy her.¡±


    Helena listened absentmindedly and casually said, ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she used topete with me for my brother. Our families have business dealings, and we often gather for meals during festivals. She clung to my brother, calling him ¡®Willis¡¯, asking my brother to serve her dishes, peel shrimps for her, acting spoiled and affected. My brother, like he was possessed, treated her so well, indulging her in everything.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart ached, but her face showed no emotion.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Nancy continued, ¡°Later, I couldn¡¯t stand it and went to pursue her brother. I also called him ¡®Josh brother,¡¯ and I made him run around for me. It infuriated her.¡±


    Helena had a good impression of Josh and said, ¡°They don¡¯t seem much like siblings; their personalities are quite different.¡±


    ¡°They have different mothers. Susan¡¯s mom is my brother¡¯s real aunt, but she became the mistress. She¡¯s a real seductress,¡± Nancy rolled her eyes.


    Helena listened quietly.


    ¡°Speaking of which, Josh has a hard time.¡± Nancy suddenly became mncholic,menting, ¡°His real sister died a few months after birth, and his real mom went crazy due to the shock. His real sister was originally engaged to my brother, and if she were alive, she would be about the same age as you.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t know what to say and just smiled lightly.


    Not long after, Willis returned.


    He held two cups of coffee. One cup was Helena¡¯s favoritett¨¦, and the other was Nancy¡¯s favorite cappino.


    Willis inserted the straw into thett¨¦ and handed it to Helena, saying, ¡°Bought it from your favorite shop.¡±


    Helena took it, and as she reached for the cup, she caught a faint sweet fragrance on his suit sleeve.


    It was the perfume Susan often used.


    Her gaze wandered, and she noticed a small red mark on his shirt cor, about the size of a fingernail. It was a cherry red.


    Thest time she saw Susan, she was wearing exactly this shade of lipstick.


    Helena felt like she had been bitten by a cat, and her heart skipped several beats in pain.


    It wasn¡¯t the first time she had experienced something like this, but it was always so ufortable, a hellish torment.


    Helena gripped the cup tightly, smiled self-deprecatingly, and said, ¡°Thank you for your hard work, being so busy and still helping us buytt¨¦.¡±


    Willis casually said, ¡°Had the driver do it.¡±


    Nancy took the cappino from him, gave him a disdainful look, and said, ¡°Brother, you can pretend all you want, but if you overdo it, you¡¯ll lose your wife. A woman as good as my sister-inw is hard to find. If you lose her, it¡¯ll be hard to find someone like her again.¡±


    Willis¡¯s peripheral vision fell on Helena. She was slowly sipping the milk tea with the longshes hanging down, revealing no expression.


    He casually said, ¡°Adult matters, don¡¯t interfere, little girl.¡±


    Nancy, with an iron-willed expression, said, ¡°I¡¯m doing it for your own good. If you don¡¯t listen to me, you¡¯ll regret it in the future. Hmph!¡±


    Ten dayster, at noon.


    Willis returned to the hospital after inspecting the subsidiarypany.


    The two bodyguards stationed at the door were gone, and Willis¡¯s expression slightly darkened.


    He pushed open the ward door and saw a stranger lying on the hospital bed.


    Willis¡¯s heart trembled, and he quickly asked the nurse who approached, ¡°Where¡¯s the patient named Helena who was staying here before?¡±


    The nurse thought for a moment and said, ¡°She has been discharged. She left early this morning.¡±


    Willis¡¯s face sank. They had agreed that he woulde to pick her up, but she left without even saying goodbye.


    He picked up his phone, dialed Helena¡¯s number.


    The mechanical female voice came from the phone, ¡°The user you are calling is currently switched off.¡±


    He opened WeChat, sent a message to Helena, but the message couldn¡¯t be sent.


    She cklisted him.

 Chapter 33: Overnight Search (1)

    Willis¡¯s face grew even darker.


    He picked up his phone and called the bodyguards responsible for Helena¡¯s protection. ¡°You were supposed to watch over Helena. Where is she?¡±


    The bodyguard spoke respectfully, ¡°Helena said we¡¯ve been guarding her for so many days and needed a break. She granted us two days off, saying it was your decision.¡±


    Willis raised his lips slightly, almost smiling. The usually gentle and obedient woman had actually falsely imed his orders.


    He asked coldly, ¡°Where did she go?¡±


    Sensing his displeasure, the bodyguard cautiously replied, ¡°She didn¡¯t say.¡±


    Willis hung up the phone and dialed the maid¡¯s number.


    Her phone was also turned off.


    Frowning, Willis instructed his assistant, ¡°Check the surveince.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Santana,¡± the assistant promptly led a team to the hospital¡¯s surveince room.


    Ten minutester, the assistant called, ¡°Mr. Santana, all the surveince footage showing Mrs. Santana has been deliberately deleted.¡±


    Willis clenched the phone in his hand, gradually applying more force, almost deforming it.


    After a moment of contemtion, he stood up and walked towards the Nephrology department.


    Entering Helena¡¯s grandmother¡¯s ward, he knocked on the door and entered.


    Zena was tucking in her old mother with a nket.


    Seeing Willis, she raised an eyebrow without much expression and asked, ¡°Anything wrong?¡±


    Willis calmly said, ¡°Mom, Helena has been discharged. Do you know where she went?¡±


    Zena chuckled, ¡°You¡¯re her husband, and you don¡¯t know where she went. How would I know?¡±


    ¡°She misunderstood me and left in anger. A young girl with an injured hand running around is dangerous. Please tell me where she went so I can find her.¡±


    He spoke politely, but there was a hint ofmand in his tone.


    Zena, perceptive as she was, noticed.


    She pulled a chair and sat down, crossed her legs, grabbed a handful of melon seeds, and nonchntly said, ¡°In those two years when your health was poor and your temper was bad, she served you diligently. Day and night, she took care of you with all her heart. Now that you¡¯re recovered, you don¡¯t need a caretaker, so naturally, you don¡¯t want her anymore.¡±


    Willis¡¯s gaze deepened, and he pursed his lips in silence.


    Zenaughed at herself, ¡°Well, it¡¯s true. In your eyes, my daughter is just a maid. Now that you¡¯re back on your feet, you don¡¯t need a maid, so naturally, you don¡¯t want her.¡±


    Willis curved his lips, ¡°I¡¯ve never treated her as a maid.¡±


    Zena gave him a sidelong nce, ¡°Don¡¯t just say nice things. If you want her, be more dedicated. If you don¡¯t, divorce her straightforwardly. My daughter is beautiful, has a good temper, is intelligent, and skilled. Even if she gets divorced, she¡¯s only twenty-three. What kind of guy can¡¯t she find? There are plenty of divorced men nowadays, it¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    Willis¡¯s lips curved a little more, but the smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes. He said coolly, ¡°You¡¯re busy; I¡¯ll keep looking.¡±


    He turned and left.


    The door made a rather loud sound when closed.


    Zena clicked her tongue twice, saying to the olddy who was dozing off on the hospital bed, ¡°Mom, look at his temper. I said a few words to him, and he got angry and mmed the door. Helena followed him; who knows how much grievance she¡¯s suffered.¡±


    The olddy moved her eyelids but didn¡¯t speak.


    ¡°When she got married, those rtives behind our backs ridiculed me, saying I sold my daughter to a disabled man for money. Thinking he stood up, I thought Helena¡¯s good days hade, but I didn¡¯t expect him to be restless again. Marrying someone from a different background is looked down upon; they¡¯ll bully you if they want to and humiliate you as they please.¡± Zena turned away, secretly wiping the corners of her eyes.


    The olddy sighed, taking her time to say, ¡°It¡¯s my fault for burdening her.¡±


    ¡°Mom, please don¡¯t say that. It¡¯s because I¡¯m useless,¡± Zena¡¯s throat felt dry.


    Next, Willis and his team searched all the ces Helena might have gone. As the night dragged on, they still hadn¡¯t found her.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    In the middle of the night, lying on therge bed in his bedroom, Willis tossed and turned, unable to sleep.


    After much contemtion, he suddenly thought of a ce.


    He immediately put on his clothes, took his team, and rushed to Parvis Vige.


    Parvis Vige was Helena¡¯s grandfather¡¯s hometown.


    Helena grew up there.


    When the group arrived at Parvis Vige, it was already three or four in the morning.


    Willis got out of the car, pushed the courtyard door, but it didn¡¯t budge.


    Helena should be asleep by now, and he didn¡¯t want to wake her. Willis opened the car door, reclined the seat, and closed his eyes, intending to take a short nap.


    After all themotion, tiredness overwhelmed him, and he drifted into sleep as soon as he closed his eyes.


    When he opened his eyes again, the sky was already bright.


    Willis pushed open the car door and got out.


    One of the bodyguards hurried over, saying, ¡°Mr. Santana, someone is talking in the yard, and it sounds a lot like Helena.¡±


    Willis nodded slightly, walked to the courtyard gate, and pushed it.


    This time, the gate opened.

 Chapter 34: Overnight Search (2)

    ncing around, the yard was quiterge.


    Unused for a long time, weeds grew in the corners.


    In the east corner, there was a flourishing pear tree, and beneath it sat a woman with a gentle and graceful demeanor.


    Wrapped in a long white knit sweater, it outlined her slender figure. Her ck hair was charming, and her fair skin, delicate features, and a faint smile at the corner of her lips created a picturesque scene.


    When the wind blew, white pear blossoms fluttered down and adorned her hair.


    It was as beautiful as a painting.


    Next to her, a tall man in a light blue shirt was bending down to apply medicine to her hands.


    They spoke softly andughed,pletely unaware of someone entering.


    The woman was Helena, whom Willis had searched for from day to night.


    The man was Alick, the doctor and heir to Antique Attic.


    Willis¡¯s gaze changed, taking on an indescribable coldness. His lips curled, carrying a hint of self-mockery as he looked at the two.


    After a while, he suppressed his anger and spoke, ¡°Helena, why didn¡¯t you tell me you wereing to your grandfather¡¯s house?¡±


    Helena, as if just noticing him, looked over from a distance. Her voice was without a trace of ripples, ¡°You¡¯re too busy. I didn¡¯t want to disturb you.¡±


    Alick turned around and looked over, a hint of surprise in his eyes. He smiled, ¡°Cousin, you¡¯re here? Come in quickly.¡±


    Willis cast him an indifferent nce and walked towards Helena.


    Standing in front of her, he lowered his gaze, looked at her, and curved his lips. However, there was no hint of a smile in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking for you since yesterday afternoon, and I¡¯ve been searching until now.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to go through so much trouble,¡± Helena said coldly and indifferently, her ck eyes showing a stubbornness.


    ¡°That day, when Susan got out of bed to go to the bathroom, she almost fell. I helped her. Her lipstick stained my shirt, and I didn¡¯t notice it at the time. I only found out when I took off my clothes that night.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to exin to me,¡± Helena¡¯s tone was somewhat dismissive.


    These details made her feel disgusted, instinctively repulsed.


    This time, she left without saying goodbye because her emotions had umted to a certain extent, not just because of the lipstick mark.


    Willis paused for a moment and said, ¡°Susan¡¯s hand was smashed with a hammer by a guy named Jay. She was already severely depressed, and this injury added insult to injury. Worried that she might think of suicide again, I visited her a few more times.¡±


    Helena fell silent for a while, slowly stood up, and said, ¡°Please follow me.¡±


    Willis gave a faint acknowledgment and followed.


    The two walked out of the gate, one after the other, heading towards the back of the vige.


    The road was a rural dirt path, and with the strong spring wind, dust flew in the air.


    After walking for about ten minutes, they arrived at a grove of willow trees.


    The willow trees were thick and lush, with long branches dancing in the wind. Beneath the trees were rows of densely packed graves.


    Even in broad daylight, this ce was eerie, noticeably cooler than elsewhere.


    asionally, a crow or two would swoop down from above, emitting a mournful cry.


    Helena didn¡¯t feel afraid at all. She walked around and stopped in front of a small, old grave, staring at it with gradually pained eyes.


    After a long time, she whispered, ¡°Jay is here.¡±


    ¡°He has been dead for a long time. A dead person cannot harm anyone. Someone else is responsible for smashing Susan¡¯s fingers. As for who that person is and why they wanted to retaliate against her, I really don¡¯t know.¡± Helena¡¯s voice was incredibly calm, but ayer of teardrops slowly formed on her lower eyshes.


    Willis lowered his gaze to the grave.


    It was an ordinary grave, as ordinary as it could be, looking like it had been there for quite some time. In front of the grave was a bunch of withered wildflowers, and there were ashes of burnt paper on the ground.


    The grave was so simple that it was almost crude, made of yellow soil without even a tombstone.


    Willis faintly curved his lips. When he asked her before who Jay was, she evaded the question.


    After reviewing the surveince footage of Jay¡¯s back, she randomly chose a small grave to appease him.


    She didn¡¯t know that when she shouted ¡°Jay¡± for the first time in her dream, he had already sent someone to this small vige to secretly investigate Jay.


    In the entire vige of exactly ny-eight households, men and women of all ages unanimously imed that there was no one named Jay in the vige. Therefore, the person buried in this grave could not possibly be Jay.


    Her usual sincerity and honesty now led her to tell lies in order to protect her ¡°Jay¡± brother.


    Willis felt quite ufortable. A vague anger surged, and he was about to expose her lie. However, he saw theyer of tears in her eyes and the sorrowful look as she stared at the grave.


    The wind blew, making her fragile figure sway, and Willis couldn¡¯t help but feel pity for her.


    Softening his heart, he suppressed the anger. He raised his hand and pulled her into his arms, saying gently, ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t pursue it anymore. Stop crying.¡±


    Helena pressed her face against his cor, silently shedding tears, quickly dampening the fabric. Her slender shoulders trembled slightly.


    Willis caressed her thin back, his tone scolding but with a hint of indulgence. ¡°Next time youe out, let me know in advance. Remember that, okay?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena softly murmured.

 Chapter 35: Can’t stop loving her (1)

    Back at Moon Vi, their residence.


    They got out of the car.


    Willis held her hand and walked towards the front door.


    Helena lowered her head to nce at the hand he was holding. They rarely held hands outside before, always maintaining a respectful rtionship. Recently, however, there seemed to be more intimacy.


    But thinking about this hand holding Susan¡¯s before, Helena felt a bit ufortable.


    Upon entering the house, Helena ced her bag down, opened the shoe cab, and was about to fetch slippers for Willis.


    He held her shoulders, preventing her from bending down, and said, ¡°Your hand is injured, let me do it.¡±


    He took out slippers from the cab, helped her take off her shoes, gently slid her feet into the slippers, and even carefully adjusted her socks.


    Previously, she used to do all these things for him, and now suddenly being taken care of by him made Helena feel a bit uneasy.


    Willis seemed to sense her difort and chuckled, ¡°Between husband and wife, we should take care of each other. You used to take care of me, now it¡¯s my turn to take care of you.¡±


    Helena softly said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°What are you thankful for? It¡¯s my duty.¡± Willis changed into slippers, helped Helena take off her coat, and said, ¡°You haven¡¯t showered for many days. Let me help you wash upter.¡±


    Helena¡¯s face suddenly blushed.


    Before, at the hospital, he helped her bathe every day, which was already awkward. Now, suggesting he would help her shower was too embarrassing.


    Willis stared at her blushing face, his lips curving with a teasing smile, ¡°You¡¯re not a child anymore. Why do you blush so easily? We¡¯ve been married for three years, yet you¡¯re still as shy as a young girl.¡±


    She asked softly, ¡°Is it that men don¡¯t like women to be too reserved and prefer them to be a bit more open?¡±


    Willis couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Who told you that?¡±


    Helena blushed even more.


    ustomed to being reserved, she really couldn¡¯t be more open. But she wanted to outdo Susan.


    Having learned restoration of ancient books and paintings from her grandfather since childhood, she had actually smoothed out her edges and corners long ago. She led a simple life, indifferent to worldly affairs.


    Somehow, she was suddenly stimted by Susan¡¯s strongpetitive desire.


    She thought for a moment, lifted her foot, hooked Willis¡¯s calf, and let her fingers slide through his shirt, touching his abdominal muscles. She looked at him with big watery eyes and asked very seriously, ¡°Is it like this?¡±


    Willis burst intoughter, held her hand that was exploring, preventing her from moving recklessly, and asked, ¡°Who taught you this?¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I read it in novels when I was young.¡±


    Willis lowered his eyes, carefully examining her eyes, ¡°Your gaze is wrong, too serious. It makes me want to discuss academic issues with you.¡±


    He pinched her waist, ¡°The body movements are too stiff, it doesn¡¯t seem like flirting, more like martial arts. You need to rx, soften your waist, and make your eyeszy and charming.¡±


    Suddenly realizing something, Helena raised her eyebrows and red at him, ¡°How do you know all this?¡±


    Willisughed, ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard the saying ¡®I haven¡¯t eaten pork before, but I¡¯ve seen pigs run away.''¡±


    ¡°All you men seem to like the coquettes.¡± Helena said gloomily and turned to walk towards the sofa.


    Seeing her inexplicably sulking, Willis chuckled, ¡°I¡¯ll go run the bathwater.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    After preparing the bathwater, Helena walked into the bathroom.


    With Willis¡¯s help, she undressed and sat in the bathtub.


    She lifted her injured left hand high to avoid getting it wet and said to him, ¡°You can go out; I can wash myself.¡±


    Willis rolled up his sleeves, picked up the pink bath towel hanging on the wall, and said, ¡°Let me help you scrub your back. It¡¯s been almost half a month since you¡¯ve had a proper bath; you must be dirty.¡±


    Helena was about to say ¡°No need.¡±


    Suddenly feeling an itch on her back, Willis had already started scrubbing. While scrubbing, he scolded, ¡°So much dust, honey.¡±


    Helena felt embarrassed. She retorted, ¡°I¡¯m not dirty.¡±


    Willis deepened his smile, ¡°Alright, not dirty. Our Helena is clean.¡±


    Helena¡¯s ears tingle slightly. This man was bing more and more skilled in teasing.


    While scrubbing, she heard the man¡¯s breath behind her gradually changing.


    She was about to turn around to see what was wrong, but his hand, from her back, slid down to her waist, gripping her.


    He hugged her from behind, kissing down from her earlobe.


    Helena tried to move her shoulders to resist.


    He held her shoulders and turned her around, lowering his head to kiss her lips.


    Helena quickly turned her head to avoid, staring at him with wide eyes, full of vignce. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Willis pinched her petite chin, casually saying, ¡°It¡¯s definitely not about discussing academic issues with you.¡±


    Helena pressed her finger against his chin, preventing him from getting close to her mouth, and said seriously, ¡°You said you wanted a divorce.¡±


    Helena lowered her eyshes, ¡°I don¡¯t want to do this with you now.¡±


    Willis raised his eyebrows slightly, ¡°Who was seducing me just now?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t. I mean, I¡­¡± Helena suddenly didn¡¯t know how to express herself.

 Chapter 36: Can’t stop loving her (2)

    In her haste, her face blushed again.


    Not just her face, but her neck and wrists were also tinted with a shallowyer of warmth from the hot water, like delicate blossoms on white snow.


    Pure and charming, mixed with a hint of coquettishness, it was both innocent and irresistible.


    Willis pressed his lips against hers, not allowing her to speak again. His thumb gently massaged her soft lips, ¡°You¡¯re quite enticing right now.¡±


    Enticing?


    Helena was momentarily stunned, never expecting to align herself with such a captivating word.


    She moved back a little, her watery eyes gazing at him, ¡°Could you please leave first?¡±


    Willis used his fingers to sweep aside her damp strands of hair, tucking them behind her ear, and said in a gentle tone, ¡°Let¡¯s go out together.¡±


    Without waiting for Helena¡¯s response, he bent down, lifting her dripping form from the water. He turned on the shower, rinsed away the foam from her body, then wrapped her in arge bath towel, cradling her like one would carry a child into the bedroom.


    cing her on the bed, he carefully moved her injured hand to the top of her head.


    He covered her, lightly biting her chin, then began kissing down along her corbone with meticulous attention.


    Helena¡¯s body couldn¡¯t resist his teasing, but her heart was resistant.


    She tried to push him away with her uninjured hand.


    However, his strength was overwhelming, and her feeble attempt only added to his amusement¡­


    After finish sexed.


    Helena, breathing lightly, said, ¡°I thought you liked coquettes. Why did you touch someone like me?¡±


    Willis, unaware of her difort, pinched her waist and casually remarked, ¡°You were coquette just now. I liked it a lot.¡± He added a hint of seductiveness to his tone.


    Helena didn¡¯t believe men¡¯s flirtatious words in bed.


    She raised her head, gazing at his handsome jawline, thinking, ¡°Men are truly mysterious creatures. They can love one person, yet it doesn¡¯t stop them from sleeping with someone else.¡±


    Women, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t do that. If the heart didn¡¯t love, the body couldn¡¯t ept.


    Willis¡¯s hand slid down her back, gripping her waist, and he nuzzled her hair. He said, ¡°At the end of the month, it¡¯s my mother¡¯s birthday. Since you¡¯re not workingtely,e over in the evening and join the celebration. It would be lively, and you¡¯re too quiet.¡±


    Said unintentionally, heard intentionally.


    Helena felt a ripple in her heart and asked, ¡°Too quiet? Does that mean I¡¯m boring?¡±


    Willis thought for a moment, ¡°No, you¡¯re interesting. The way you seduced me just now could make meugh for a year.¡±


    ¡°opps.¡± Helena lightly tapped his chest.


    Willis chuckled, holding her hand, ¡°What I mean is, you¡¯re so young; you should be full of vitality. Being too restrained is not good for your physical and mental well-being.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go tomorrow to buy a birthday gift for my mom. What should I get her?¡±From N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Anything will do. She likes bags.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The two of themy quietly for over ten minutes.


    Willis picked up her injured hand and examined it carefully, asking, ¡°Did your hand get bumped just now?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°How about your legs? Are they sore?¡±


    Helena moved her legs and said, ¡°Yes, they¡¯re sore.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you a massage.¡±


    He lifted the nket, grabbed one of her legs, and gently started massaging, first the calf, then the thigh, with a quite skillful technique.


    Helena was extremely sensitive to his touch. After a few rubs, her face turned red, her heartbeat elerated, and her body gradually warmed up.


    She met him and married him on their first encounter. In the first two years, he couldn¡¯t stand on his legs, and his temper was bad.


    Even with a handsome face, it was difficult to love him when he was always gloomy. At that time, she felt more grateful toward him.


    True love only blossomed in thest year. For her, they were still in the honeymoon phase. Unfortunately, he abruptly severed it with a simple ¡°let¡¯s break up.¡±


    Feeling a bit upset, her eyes unintentionally became misty.


    Willis, unaware of her thoughts, looked at her wet eyes, recalling her serious attempts to tease him earlier, and became interested again. He said, ¡°If your legs are sore, another round should fix it and make them feel better.¡±


    Helena always felt his reasoning was a bit twisted.


    But he didn¡¯t give her time to carefully consider; he pressed down again¡­


    Suddenly, the phone rang.


    However, men in such moments had no interest in answering calls.


    He held Helena¡¯s slender waist with one hand, reaching for the bedside table with the other. He casually swiped across the phone, inadvertently epting the call.


    Susan on the other end of the phone perked up her ears, listening to a series of sweet and delicate calls through the phone.


    The voice was so charming that it made the scalp tingle.


    A sense of blockage filled her heart, as if someone had inserted a piece of prickly pear cactus, causing a stinging pain.


    She gritted her teeth and listened for a while, hung up in annoyance, thru the phone onto the sofa, and said to Grace with frustration, ¡°Mom, I want to kill Helena.¡±


    Grace stared at Susan¡¯s splinted left hand, then touched her own nose, saying bitterly, ¡°I want to kill her too.¡±


    ¡°Has there been any news from Lily?¡±


    ¡°I inquired. She was sold to a remote mountainous area in the northwest. It¡¯s a ce with poor mountains and treacherous waters, rough locals, no phone signal, and no electricity. She¡¯ll be forced to bear many children, and if she tries to escape, her legs will be broken, and she¡¯ll be tortured into madness. She won¡¯t be able to leave that ce for the rest of her life.¡±


    Susan nodded, a trace of ruthlessness shing in her eyes. ¡°I want to sell Helena to that ce too. Can you contact that human trafficker?¡±


    Grace suddenly became emotional, ¡°No! Please don¡¯t act recklessly!¡±


    Susan, annoyed, clenched her teeth, ¡°But seeing her being intimate with Willis annoys me!¡±


    ¡°That BITCH, as soon as her hand got injured, after two days, your hand got smashed with aminuted fracture. The man who smashed your hand is tantly warning you not to provoke Helena; otherwise, your fate will be worse than hers. Before identifying that man, you must not touch Helena. Remember that?¡±


    Susan sneered, ¡°Who is that man? It¡¯s been so many days, why hasn¡¯t he been caught?¡±


    ¡°That man is very cunning. The police dispatched a special squad, searched for more than ten days, but couldn¡¯t find him. There¡¯s only a blurry picture of his back, and we can¡¯t even issue a wanted order. Your dad and your brother also sent people to look for him, but with no results.¡±


    Susan rubbed her throbbing temples impatiently, ¡°Have you checked Helena¡¯s call records?¡±


    ¡°We did. There are not many people in her call records, and we can¡¯t find any suspicious ones. Judging from Helena¡¯s demeanor, she probably doesn¡¯t even know who it is.¡±


    Susan sneered, ¡°ording to what you¡¯re saying, is that man silently guarding her from behind?¡±


    ¡°Most likely, but I don¡¯t know what he¡¯s after.¡± Grace disdainfully curled her lips.


    Susan sarcastically remarked, ¡°A country bumpkin like him, how can he have such a defender? Is that man blind? What does he love Helena? Besides a decent face and proficiency in restoring ancient paintings, what does she have? She¡¯s like a block of wood.¡±


    The block of wood in her mouth, Helena, sexed with Willis tonight.


    Tired, shey in his arms like she had no bones, soon falling into a deep sleep.


    Willis got up to take a shower.


    Returning to bed, hey down next to her, propping his chin with his hand, staring at her quietly and delicate face for a long time.


    He lowered his head, gently kissed her forehead, and said in a low voice, ¡°If you call out for your ¡®Jay¡¯ in your dreams again tonight, I¡¯ll be really angry.¡±

 Chapter 37: The Substitute is You (1)

    Helena didn¡¯t sleep wellst night at her grandfather¡¯s ce, and tonight, she was tossed around by Willis. She slept deeply, not even bothering with nightmares.


    If she didn¡¯t dream about the nightmare from thirteen years ago, she wouldn¡¯t talk in her sleep, let alone call out ¡°Jay¡± in her dreams.


    Early the next morning, she opened her eyes and looked to the side; Willis had already gotten up.


    Carefully avoiding her injured hand, she put on her clothes and got out of bed.


    Entering the bathroom, she saw that Willis had even squeezed toothpaste for her.


    She smiled and picked up the toothbrush, brushing her teeth slowly.


    After freshening up, Helena descended the stairs with the support of the railing.


    Willis was busy preparing breakfast and setting the table.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing her, he greeted with a handsome smile, full of spring warmth, ¡°Come over and eat. It¡¯s all your favorite.¡±


    He seemed to be in a very good mood.


    His handsome appearance, sculpted features, sword-like eyebrows, and starry eyes with a slight smile on his thin lips created a charming aura, both affectionate and carefree, causing a ripple in people¡¯s hearts.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but smile as well. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me? I can do this.¡±


    ¡°Your hand is still not healed, and I can cook. It¡¯s just a small favor.¡±


    Helena walked to the table and sat down. Willis handed her a spoon.


    Breakfast was rich, blending Western and Chinese elements with fried eggs, steak, salmon, Tiramisu, toast, and even eight-treasure porridge, along with a te of sliced fruits.


    Helena sipped the porridge slowly, finding it well-cooked and delicious.


    Suddenly, Willis said, ¡°Helena, let¡¯s have a child. If you get pregnant, we won¡¯t divorce.¡±


    Helena, holding the spoon, was surprised. It had always been him avoiding having a child, and he was the one who brought up divorce. Now, he suddenly wanted a child, and the one who didn¡¯t want a divorce was also him.


    Helena fell silent for a moment, slowly raised her head, and looked at him. She asked seriously, ¡°Can you stay away from Susan in the future?¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes flickered slightly. After a moment, he said, ¡°She has severe depression, and it¡¯s rted to me. I asked the doctor. Emotions are crucial for that condition. If she can¡¯t handle it for a while, she might attempt suicide. Besides, the Santana family and the Varley family have business dealings and are in the same city. We see each other often.¡±


    After saying so much, the answer boiled down to two words: he couldn¡¯t.


    Helena self-mockingly smiled, lowered her eyelids, stared at the porridge in her bowl, and said softly, ¡°I can endure anything, except sharing my husband with another woman. I¡¯m really not as tolerant as you think. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Willis paused for a moment. ¡°In my eyes, her status is almost the same as Nancy¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°Nancy doesn¡¯t call you every night, summoning you to her and embracing you.¡±


    Willis lifted the cup and took a sip of water, his tone extremely calm. ¡°There is no perfect marital rtionship. Most couples endure each other, tolerate each other. It¡¯s mutual amodation.¡±


    Helena always felt there was more to his words.


    After pondering for a while, she finally grasped some clues.


    She took a deep breath and said, ¡°Jay passed away a long time ago. There¡¯s no need for you to endure, and I don¡¯t want to endure Susan.¡±


    Willis¡¯s lips curved into a cold smile, his gaze deep, staring at her for a long time with an ambiguous meaning. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t respond, lowered her head, and continued to eat her porridge.


    If she continued, it would lead to an argument, and she didn¡¯t want to argue with him.


    Arguing damages rtionships, and their already fragile marriage would break even faster.


    Until now, she still loved him very much.


    In all her years, she had never loved someone like this.


    She was a bit slow to warm up, finding it hard to fall in love with someone. But once she did, it was hard to pull back.


    After finishing the meal, Helena stood up to clean the dishes.


    Willis held her hand and said, ¡°Let the housekeeper and the hourly worker clean upter. If you want to read at home, read. If you want to go shopping, go. When you go out, call the driver, and be careful on the way.¡±


    He took out a card from his wallet and handed it to her. ¡°Use my card.¡±


    Helena declined, ¡°I have money.¡±


    Willis stuffed the card into her pocket. ¡°The password is your birthday, 618618. When you go out, call the driver to take you. Be careful on the way.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    After Willis left, Helena also went out to choose a birthday gift for her mother-inw, Jenny.


    Jenny was a famous bridal gown designer, founder of the ShuQ brand. She used to focus on her career in Paris, but this year, she shifted her focus back to internal.

 Chapter 38: The Substitute is You (2)

    Helena didn¡¯t have much interaction with Jenny, only knowing that she had an elegant temperament, a cold personality, and spoke very little.


    She entered the Herm¨¨s boutique to pick a bag for Jenny.


    She chose a 30cm amber yellow tinum bag, costing over a hundred thousand, and needed to be paired with items of simr value, such as scarves, pillows, and the like.


    While making her selection, she heard a delicate voice behind her, ¡°Helena, are you also choosing a bag?¡±


    Helena¡¯s scalp tingle slightly as she turned to look-Susan.


    Susan, d in luxury brands, holding a pricey crocodile skin tinum bag, walked with an affected and arrogant demeanor.


    Helena responded with a faint ¡°Yes.¡±


    Susan, like a toffee, approached, asking the sales assistant, ¡°Which one has caught Helena¡¯s eye, sister?¡±


    The sales assistant picked up the amber yellow tinum bag Helena had chosen and replied, ¡°It¡¯s this one.¡±


    A trace of scorn shed in Susan¡¯s eyes as she stared at the bag Helena had on her shoulder, unable to discern its brand. She sneered, ¡°Helena, whoes from a little vige, might not be very familiar with luxury goods. To purchase a bag here, you need to spend over a hundred thousand to qualify. Do you have that?¡±


    Helena¡¯s gaze chilled, ¡°Certainly.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t obsessed with luxury goods. The bag she had was picked up casually; she couldn¡¯t remember its brand, but it was convenient for carrying things.


    However, during festivals or special asions, she would pick gifts that Nancy and the olddy liked. Nancy especially loved Herm¨¨s bags, and Helena had given her several.


    Susan responded with an ¡°Oh,¡± and sarcastically remarked, ¡°Helena, spending Willis¡¯s money without any hesitation, huh?¡±


    Helenaughed, ¡°He¡¯s my husband. I spend as I wish. No need for you, an outsider, toment, right?¡±


    Susan snorted, ¡°Willis and I have known each other since childhood, for more than ten years. We grew up together, sharing many life experiences. If we really have to talk about it, you¡¯re the outsider. You might not know, my first Herm¨¨s bag was a gift from Willis.¡±


    Helena paid little attention to Susan¡¯s lip service and picked several scarves, essories, an ashtray, and a nket, adding up to over a hundred thousand.


    She took out a card from her wallet and handed it to the sales assistant, saying, ¡°Please use this card.¡±


    ¡°Sure, please wait a moment,¡± the sales assistant replied, taking the card to the cashier.


    Helena needed to sign, so she walked over.


    Susan also approached, saying sarcastically, ¡°Is this Willis¡¯s card? You really spare no expense with him. Maybe you¡¯re with him just for his money?¡±


    Helena¡¯s expression remained indifferent as she addressed the sales assistant, ¡°Could you please inform Susan of the ount holder¡¯s name on this card?¡±


    The sales assistant smiled and told Susan, ¡°Susan, the ount holder¡¯s name on this card is Helena Parvis.¡±


    Helena smiled nonchntly and asked in aposed manner, ¡°What is the remaining bnce in the card? Please check for me.¡±


    The sales assistant stared at theputer, speaking respectfully, ¡°To Helena, the bnce in your card is 156 million.¡±


    She remained silent for a while.


    Helena gazed at her face, lightly curling her lips.


    She was never one to indulge inparisons, but dealing with someone like Susan, this method was truly satisfying!


    The 100 million in the card was the separation fee Willis had given her not long ago, and the 56 million was scattered amounts he had given her over the past three years.


    Whenever he lost his temper, he wouldpensate her with money, and his generosity was remarkable.


    In the past, Helena always found it dismissive when he used money to deal with her. But today, she felt that this way of tossing money around when angry was just super cool!


    Sending flowers and bags to Susan, how much money was that?


    Each time he gave himself a card or a check, the minimum amount was a million.


    After swiping the card, Helena elegantly signed her name.


    The sales assistant returned the card to her.


    Helena held the bank card, swaying it in front of Susan, and said lightly, ¡°I¡¯m afraid your ount doesn¡¯t even have 50 million, right? In the future, don¡¯t use your ignorance to seek attention in front of me; it¡¯s truly low. As for handing me a 20 million check to leave Willis, you don¡¯t need to do that again in the future. It¡¯s like acting as a clown.¡±


    Susan¡¯s face twisted in anger, and she sarcastically retorted, ¡°What¡¯s with the arrogance? If my mother hadn¡¯t forcibly taken me abroad three years ago, where would this recement thing of yourse from?¡±


    ¡°Recement, huh, recement,¡± Helena¡¯s face paled, and she tightly pinched her palm with her fingers.


    It was a thorn deeply embedded in her heart, and every time it was touched, it caused a piercing pain.


    Suddenly, a cold and icy voice came from behind, ¡°Susan may not be aware, but you are the one who got reced.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 39: Helena felt moved (1)

    ¡°The one engaged to our Willis was your sister. Unfortunately, she passed away, and that gave you the chance to get close to Willis. In the future, refrain from saying such things about Helena being a recement; you are nothing more than a stand-in.¡± The woman spoke without mercy, showing no face to Susan.


    Helena turned around.


    About ten meters away stood an elegant woman with lingering charm. Tall and slim, she wore a long ck windbreaker, revealing a pair of stunning legs beneath. Her back was upright and straight.


    It was Willis¡¯s mother, Jenny Melford.


    Helena was slightly surprised, then smiled and called out, ¡°Mom.¡±


    Jenny gracefully nodded in response.


    Susan, a little bewildered, was about to react when she noticed it was Jenny. Quickly putting on a fake smile, she eximed, ¡°Jenny, you¡¯re back in the country?¡±


    Almost jogging over, she hugged Jenny¡¯s waist warmly, saying, ¡°I missed you so much. Just a few days ago, I told my mom that your birthday wasing up. I came today to pick a gift for you. I didn¡¯t expect to run into Helena here and chatted with her a bit.¡±


    Helena admired Susan¡¯s brazen-faced ability.


    Even when Jenny showed her no face.


    She could still approach Jenny as if nothing had happened, chatting andughing, trying to get close.


    Jenny¡¯s expression remained indifferent as she held Susan¡¯s arm, moved it away from her waist, and took a step back, creating distance between them.


    Unfazed, Susan continued smiling, ¡°Aunt, why are you here today? Is there anything you¡¯d like to buy? Let me help you choose.¡±


    Jenny nced at the bag on Helena¡¯s shoulder, speaking indifferently, ¡°I¡¯m here to buy a bag for my daughter-inw. This little girl is too frugal. Clearly, her husband is wealthy, yet she insists on carrying a cheap unknown brand bag when going out. If seen by some shallow people, they mightugh.¡±


    Susan¡¯s smile froze on her face.


    Those shallow people referred to her.


    After a while, she stammered, ¡°Ah, indeed. Helena is too frugal. Clearly so beautiful, yet she doesn¡¯t like to dress up. Aunt, you work in the fashion industry, and she¡¯s so¡­¡±


    Helena could discern Susan¡¯s words, implying she was in.


    She usually wore simple shirts, long pants, windbreakers, or casual knitwear. None of them were luxurious brands; just something convenient she picked up at the mall. She rarely wore jewelry.


    Compared to Susan¡¯s extravagant outfits, sparkling and dressed like a butterfly, Helena¡¯s style was indeed in.


    But she didn¡¯t mind. Comfort and decency were what mattered to her.


    Susanined about her being in, but Helena found Susan ostentatious. Every time, she dressed like she was walking on a red carpet, with jingling jewelry all over her body. It looked exhausting.


    Jenny¡¯s gaze toward Susan turned cold. She calmly said, ¡°My daughter-inw has a natural and refined temperament, focusing on inner beauty. Even if she wears a bedsheet, she would still be so beautiful that people can¡¯t look away. Confident people don¡¯t need these cumbersome external decorations.¡±


    Susan couldn¡¯t find the words to reply. She bit her lip and fell silent.


    Helena felt moved in her heart.


    She admired her mother-inw for unexpectedly defending her at every turn, making Susan lose face every time.


    At this moment, the saleswoman held a pastel tinum bag and walked over to Jenny, saying respectfully, ¡°the bag you reserved has arrived.¡±


    Jenny took it and handed it to Helena. ¡°This is from Mom, don¡¯t just buy bags for Mom and Nancy. Even if it¡¯s a few hundred dors, you should still carry a bag. In this circle, appearance matters. If others have it, you should too.¡±


    Helena took it and thanked her with a smile. ¡°Thank you, Mom. It¡¯s a beautiful bag.¡±


    ¡°Good, if you like it.¡± Jenny handed her card to the saleswoman for payment.


    Helena then handed the amber tinum bag she bought to Jenny. ¡°Mom, this is a birthday gift I picked for you.¡±


    Jenny immediately had it unwrapped, putting all her belongings from her bag into the one Helena bought. ¡°From now on, I¡¯ll only use this bag. A bag given by my daughter-inw carries significant meaning.¡±


    With every ¡°daughter-inw,¡± Jenny¡¯s words felt like stabs, piercing into Susan¡¯s heart.


    She stood there, motionless, looking at the two of them, each carrying a new bag, chatting andughing as they left the store.From N?velDrama.Org.


    Left alone, Susan was in disarray.


    The saleswoman, experienced in observing people, had already seen through some nuances and now, looking at Susan, her eyes carried a subtle meaning.


    Outside the store.


    Jenny suddenly spoke, ¡°Having a former girlfriend around must be annoying, huh?¡±


    Helena smiled lightly. ¡°It¡¯s quite annoying.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much about whether Willis will forget her. What matters now is that he loves you.¡±

 Chapter 40: Helena felt moved (2)

    Helena remained silent.


    Unfortunately, Willis¡¯s heart wasn¡¯t truly hers; it belonged to Susan.


    The sudden decision not to divorce her was due to his grandmother¡¯s repeated dissuasion.


    His kindness towards her was rooted in the fact that during his most difficult and desperate times, she had taken care of him with all her heart. He was, in reality, someone who valued loyalty.


    Checking her wristwatch, Jenny suggested, ¡°It¡¯s still early. How about having a cup of coffee together?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Helena got into Jenny¡¯s car and went to a coffee shop they often visited.


    After sitting down, each ordered a cup of coffee.


    Jenny, gently supporting her chin with her left hand, examined Helena, saying, ¡°Willis had a terrible temper in the past couple of years. You must have had a tough time, right? Even I, his biological mother, wouldn¡¯t want to take care of him. Originally, I thought you wouldn¡¯tst a few days, but unexpectedly, you held on until now.¡±


    Helena lightly traced her finger on the cup in her hand and replied, ¡°It was manageable.¡±


    ¡°One hundred and fifty-six million. Willis must have thrown many tantrums and treated you terribly topensate you so desperately. If it were me, I couldn¡¯t endure it, no matter how much I loved him.¡±


    Helena paused.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She knew Jenny had overheard her conversation with Susan.


    With a smile, she said, ¡°I learned restoration of ancient books and paintings with my grandfather since I was little, cultivating resilience and endurance. I didn¡¯t find it unbearable. Those years when he was in distress, expressing his anger was better than suppressing it, as it could lead to mental problems.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re quite considerate of him.¡± Jenny nced at Helena¡¯s injured hand. ¡°Having such an important hand broken must have been very painful.¡±


    Helena lowered her head to look at her hand in a cast and said with a bitter smile, ¡°Indeed, it felt like the sky was falling.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll get better.¡± Jenny consoled me.


    She called the waiter over, handed him the car keys, and asked him to fetch a gift box from the trunk of her car.


    After the gift box arrived, Jenny opened it and pushed it toward Helena. ¡°This was personally designed by me for you, prepared a long time ago. Wear this for my birthday at the end of the month.¡±


    She nced at Helena¡¯s white shirt, saying, ¡°Simplicity is a virtue, but some shallow people always like to judge others by their appearance. We do have the conditions, so feel free to wear it.¡±


    Helena lowered her eyes to see a midnight blue starry sky dress.


    The soft chiffon fabric was adorned with numerous sparkling artificial diamonds, resembling the stars of the Milky Way. Even without putting it on, she could imagine how stunning this dress would be.


    Suddenly remembering something, Helena whispered, ¡°Mom, wearing such a gorgeous outfit on your birthday, won¡¯t it be a bit too attention-grabbing?¡±


    Jenny lifted her coffee cup and took a sip, smiling faintly. ¡°No, you¡¯re my daughter-inw. The more beautiful and radiant you are, the more radiance there will be on my face as a mother-inw.¡±


    Helena was truly moved.


    She used to think Jenny was aloof, spoke little, and seemed indifferent to others. She never expected that beneath Jenny¡¯s cold exterior, there was such warmth.


    As Helena was about to close the box, her phone suddenly rang.


    ncing at the caller ID, it was Willis calling.


    Answering the call, Helena asked softly, ¡°Is something wrong, Willis?¡±


    ¡°Where are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m having coffee with Mom.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re with my mom? Which coffee shop are you at? I¡¯ll be done with work soon, and I¡¯lle to you.¡±


    Helena hesitated and said, ¡°You focus on your work; there¡¯s no need toe.¡±


    ¡°Give the phone to her.¡±


    Helena handed the phone to Jenny.


    Taking it, she said, ¡°Hello.¡±


    In a warning tone, Willis said, ¡°Don¡¯t make things difficult for Helena. If there¡¯s an issue,e to me directly.¡±


    ¡°Make things difficult?¡± Jenny reached up to her ear.

 Chapter 41: Surprised and Cherished (1)

    ¡°Why would I make things difficult for Helena?¡± Jenny furrowed her brows and asked.


    Willis, without showing any emotion, said, ¡°You know your personality.¡±


    Jenny didn¡¯t say anything. She directly hung up the phone, opened WeChat, and sent him a location.


    Returning the phone to Helena, she chuckled self-mockingly, ¡°The brat actually thought that if I was looking for him, it was to make things difficult for him. Do I really seem like such an evil mother-inw?¡±


    Helena, recalling the confrontation between Jenny and Susan at the Herm¨¨s store earlier, recognized the significant impact of Jenny¡¯s words. But since it was directed at Susan, Helena found it satisfying and even moving.


    She smiled, ¡°No, you¡¯re the most beautiful mother-inw.¡±


    Jenny¡¯s anger turned into amusement, ¡°That brat, even though his wife is on the verge of leaving because of him, I kindly tried to help him pacify his wife. But what does he do? He doesn¡¯t recognize the goodwill of good people.¡±


    Helena now understood everything.


    Certainly, it was either his grandmother or Nancy who had said something to Jenny. That¡¯s why, despite her usually cold demeanor, Jenny hade to give her a bag and a dress upon her return to China.


    Helena felt genuinely surprised and cherished.


    In families like the Santana family, which belonged to the upper ss, they always emphasized thepatibility of social status.


    In the past, when Willis couldn¡¯t stand and sat in a wheelchair, essentially a disabled person, they were considered a somewhat suitable match.


    Now that Willis¡¯s legs were better, he had returned to thepany as the CEO of the Santana Group, a listed corporation,manding attention and respect.


    Helena, even with her skill in restoring ancient paintings,cked the support of a prestigious family, making her influence limited.


    She herself felt this way, let alone others.


    So, Susan, who had the status of a wealthy heiress, would boldly provoke her time and again.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Willis to arrive.


    Pushing the door open, he stood at the entrance, scanning the coffee shop.


    When he saw Helena, he strode over, grabbed her hand, pulled her up from the chair, and said in a deep voice, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Helena pulled her hand back, looked up at him, and smiled, ¡°Go where? I¡¯m having a good time chatting with Mom.¡±


    She pointed to the bags and gift box on the table, ¡°These are all gifts from Mom.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression eased slightly. He asked, ¡°She didn¡¯t say anything that made you ufortable, did she?¡±


    ¡°No, Mom is very kind to me.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis raised an eyebrow slightly, ¡°You¡¯re not lying to me?¡±


    ¡°Why would I lie to you?¡±


    ¡°As long as you¡¯re not lying, we can leave after finishing the coffee.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve barely had a chance to catch up with Mom,¡± Helena said, not particrly eager to leave.


    Holding her coffee, Jenny smiled and said, ¡°You better go with him. If you don¡¯t leave soon, he might be cursing me in his heart.¡±


    Helenaughed, ¡°He wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Jenny scolded Willis with a nce, ¡°You don¡¯t understand. Men, after marrying their wives, forget their mothers. Now, in his eyes, there¡¯s only you as his wife, and where¡¯s his mother?¡±


    Although it was aining remark, it made Helenaugh.


    As sheughed, a trace of sadness crept into her heart. How wonderful it would be if what Jenny said was true.


    On thest day of the month.


    It was Jenny¡¯s birthday.


    In the evening, Helena changed into the blue starry sky dress Jenny had given her and meticulously applied light makeup. She was then driven to the Santana family.


    The vi was brightly lit.


    The spacious and bright living room, with its nine-meter-high ceiling, was beautifully decorated. The luxurious long table was filled with various high-end buffet dishes, delicacies from bothnd and sea, a variety of drinks, fruits, and exquisite desserts.


    Male guests were dressed in suits with ties, while female guests wore a variety of evening gowns, adorned with pearls and jewels.


    Everyone raised their sses, toasted, and chatted, making the atmosphere lively.


    Jenny, who appeared calm and cold on the outside, was adept at socializing. She shuttled through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries,ughing and chatting, showing great versatility.


    It was Helena¡¯s first time celebrating such a lovely birthday since she married into the Santana family.


    Before, when Willis had his car ident and couldn¡¯t stand on his legs, the entire Santana family was shrouded in a shadow.

 Chapter 42: Surprised and Cherished (2)

    Even when the olddy celebrated her birthday, it was a simple affair with only a few close people invited to the old mansion for a meal to keep things low-key.


    As Helena entered the room, everyone turned their gaze towards her.


    Men and women alike were stunned by her beauty.


    Helena was already beautiful without makeup, but with a touch of it, she became breathtaking. In her elegant dress, she resembled a celestial being descended to the mortal world.


    Her wless melon seed face was adorned with two finely arched dark eyebrows. Herrge, sparkling eyes radiated charm.From N?velDrama.Org.


    With a slender and graceful figure, she wore a long night-blue dress that trailed on the floor, adorned with numerous small diamonds, resembling scattered stars.


    The lights and the starlight on her dressplemented each other, creating an ethereal atmosphere as she walked.


    Jenny also noticed Helena and immediately weed her warmly, taking her arm and introducing her to everyone, ¡°Let me introduce you all. This is my daughter-inw, Helena.¡±


    Everyone was surprised, and someone asked, ¡°When did your son get married? Why didn¡¯t you inform us?¡±


    Jenny smiled, ¡°It¡¯s been three years since the marriage. We¡¯ll have a wedding ceremony soon.¡±


    A middle-ageddy in a purple evening gown, who was closer, observed Helena and praised, ¡°So beautiful and elegant, she must be a daughter from some prestigious family.¡±


    Helena¡¯s eyes darkened slightly, and she was about to speak.


    Jenny squeezed her hand and said, ¡°Helena is the granddaughter of the ¡®Restoration Saint¡¯ Ken in ancient paintings, from a schrly family.¡±


    Thedy in the purple evening gown was not familiar with antiques and naturally didn¡¯t know about Ken¡¯s reputation. Her expression subtly changed, and she said, ¡°Coming from a schrly family is also good.¡± Her tone, however, became noticeably indifferent.


    The smiles on the faces of others also became somewhat ambiguous.


    Sensitive to the change, Helena felt a bit ufortable, though she didn¡¯t show it on her face.


    Jenny led her inside and whispered in her ear, ¡°Don¡¯t mind those people; they are all quite vulgar and ignorant.¡±


    Feeling warm inside, Helena smiled at Jenny, ¡°Thank you, Mom, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Jenny patted her shoulder, ¡°That¡¯s good. Sit here for a while, grab whatever you want to eat, and call a servant if you need anything. Willis will be here soon. I¡¯ll go greet them first.¡±


    Helena nodded slightly, ¡°You go ahead, don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    As Jenny walked away, Helena found a seat.


    Having been married to Willis for three years, she had always kept a low profile. This was the first time she had been exposed to so many people.


    Everyone present, except Jenny, was a stranger to her, making her feel a bit uneasy.


    Helena took a ss of juice and sipped it lightly, scrolling through her phone.


    Suddenly, a sarcastic voice came from behind, ¡°Oh, Helena is here today too. I almost didn¡¯t recognize you.¡±


    The words were too piercing.


    Helena¡¯s scalp tingle slightly, and she turned to look.


    A tall, slender woman in a ck evening gown stood not far away. Well-maintained, her true age was hard to discern. With a long and thin face, high cheekbones, and a bit of sharpness in her features, she was Willis¡¯s aunt, Amanda Santana.


    Helena stood up, smiling politely, ¡°Hello, Auntie.¡±


    Amanda, holding a ss of red wine, walked over in high heels, squinting at her, ¡°This little girl must have burned incense for eight lifetimes to marry my nephew. Money, family background, appearance, and demeanor, everything is outstanding.¡±


    Helena smiled faintly, not humble or overbearing, ¡°Willis is outstanding, but I¡¯m not inferior either.¡±


    ¡°You are not inferior, but your family cannotpare. Tsk, you can¡¯t match our Santana family,¡± Amanda sneered, sipping her wine.


    Helena endured it for a moment and said calmly, ¡± Willis treats me well. Not only Willis, but grandfather, grandmother, mom, and Nancy also respect me a lot.¡±


    Amanda, not expecting Helena to be assertive despite her gentle appearance, became angry, ¡°That¡¯s because they¡¯ve cultivated you well. You may not be up to par. Don¡¯t try to embellish yourself!¡±


    Suddenly, a stern male voice sounded, ¡°Helena doesn¡¯t need to embellish herself. She¡¯s a treasure by herself, more than enough for me!¡±


    Helena turned her head at the sound.


    A tall and handsome man in a dark suit, with deep contours and striking features, walked over with broad steps.


    Stopping in front of her, he stood tall and looked down at Amanda, saying word by word, ¡°My woman, it¡¯s not the ce for an aunt to criticize and interfere!¡±


    Amanda¡¯s face turned iron blue, and she couldn¡¯t say a word.


    ¡°Darling, you¡¯re here,¡± Helena raised her eyes, running towards him, holding her dress.

 Chapter 43: I Can’t Do It (1)

    Coming to Willis¡¯s side, Helena looked up at him and smiled.


    He was tall and stood there like a pine tree, handsome to the point of unreality, illuminated by the surrounding lights.


    Helena looked at him with curved brows and shining eyes, her small fingers gently rubbing against his slightlyrger ones.


    Willis felt it and smiled, holding her hand while using his other hand to stroke the back of her head, his voice gentle, ¡°There was traffic on the way, I apologize for beingte.¡±


    Helena smiled lightly, ¡°It¡¯s okay, I just arrived too.¡±


    Amanda watched with a disturbed expression, wanting to say a few words but fearing to provoke Willis. She shifted to another ce, holding her wine ss.


    Willis led Helena to the table and sat down.


    He picked up a piece of fresh bluefin tuna sashimi with silver chopsticks and offered it to Helena¡¯s mouth, ¡°Bluefin tuna, just arrived from abroad this morning. This is the best belly meat; give it a try.¡±


    Helena opened her mouth and slowly chewed on the sashimi.


    The raw fish had a refreshing taste, excellent sticity, a lingering fragrance, and an exceptionally delicious vor.


    After swallowing, Helena smiled at him, ¡°Delicious.¡±


    She picked up the chopsticks and also picked up a piece, offering it to his lips, ¡°You eat too.¡±


    Willis pushed it back, ¡°You eat it yourself, don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    Jenny, busy as she was, nced over at Willis and Helena from afar. Seeing this scene, a slight smile appeared on her lips.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Next to her, ady in a green qipao also saw it and said, ¡°Your son is really good to your daughter-inw.¡±


    Jenny humbly replied, ¡°It¡¯s okay. My daughter-inw deserves it; she has an excellent character.¡±


    Thedy in the green qipao said, ¡°That¡¯s good. But this schrly family background doesn¡¯t seem to be of much use to those of us in business, right?¡±


    Jenny smiled casually, bent down to pick up a piece of cake from the table, and handed it to her, ¡°The desserts ordered this time taste good; give it a try.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Thedy in the green qipao took it, picked up a spoon, and started eating, effectively silencing her gossiping mouth.


    Suddenly, a smallmotion came from outside.


    Helena turned her head to look at the door.


    A man in a ck suit, over sixty years old, strode in with amanding presence. He remained tall and broad-shouldered, with neatly trimmed gray-white hair, sharp eyebrows, and an aura of authority.


    It was Willis¡¯s father, Ryan Santana.


    Helena was about to stand up to greet him.


    Seeing Ryan followed by a petite young woman, Susan, she hesitated.


    What a coincidence, she was also wearing a navy blue starry gown, adorned with numerous bright diamonds, shining brightly.


    The only difference was that Helena wore a floor-length gown, while Susan¡¯s was a short dress with a fluffy design, revealing her two straight and white legs.


    Helena leaned towards Willis, ¡°Did you invite them?¡±


    Willis shook his head slightly, ¡°Neither my mom nor I invited her. It should be my dad who called her over. He and Susan¡¯s father were childhood friends andter took over the family business together. They¡¯ve always had business dealings and a good rtionship.¡±


    Helena pursed her lips in silence.


    She rarely interacted with Ryan.


    Only on holidays or family gatherings at the old mansion would she asionally see him.


    After Susan entered the room, she busied herself with familiar greetings to the male and female guests.


    Despite her injured hand, she held a sweet smile, appearing gentle and obedient.


    The people around praised her, ¡°A woman undergoes a tremendous change; Susan is getting more beautiful as she grows older.¡±


    Susan, with her eyes squinted into a line, smiled, ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    Willis noticed that Helena had been staring at Susan and lightly tapped her hand, saying, ¡°They are from the same circle. These people have seen Susan grow up, and they¡¯re familiar with her.¡±


    Whether it was her own imagination or something else, at this moment, Helena felt like an outsider. She identally intruded into their circle and couldn¡¯t seem to fit in.


    Soon, Susan spotted Willis, her eyes lighting up. She skipped over in high heels, happily calling out, ¡± Willis!¡±


    Compared to her enthusiasm, Willis¡¯s attitude was noticeably more indifferent. He only slightly curved his lips and nodded slightly in response.


    Susan didn¡¯t feel awkward at all. She ran over, stood next to him, and looked at Helena, eximing, ¡°Oh, Helena, you look so beautiful today.¡±


    She pushed down the overly exaggerated skirt, shyly saying, ¡°We coincidentally matched today. How lucky!¡±

 Chapter 44: I Can’t Do It (2)

    Helena imitated Willis¡¯s manner and nodded slightly at Susan, then picked up a Tiramisu and began to eat, lowering her head.


    She didn¡¯t bother to engage with Susan, not even with perfunctory responses.


    Feeling wronged, Susan said to Willis, ¡°It seems like Helena doesn¡¯t like me.¡±


    Willis raised his chin slightly and pointed to a seat across from them, ¡°Go sit over there.¡±


    Susan looked at him, hesitated, and reluctantly said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    As she walked to the opposite seat, her gaze lingered on Willis.


    After Ryan and the others finished their socializing, they walked towards Willis and Helena.


    When they were close, Helena stood up, smiled, and called out, ¡°Dad.¡±


    Ryan nced at her indifferently, made a very light acknowledgement, and said to Willis, ¡°Come with me to the study upstairs.¡±


    Willis gave a slight nod, spoke gently to Helena, ¡°Take your time to eat, eat whatever you want. Don¡¯t feel restrained in your own home. If there¡¯s anything, call me.¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°Sure, you go ahead.¡±


    As soon as Willis left, Susan approached with a wine ss, looking quite pleased, ¡°So what if everyone in the Santana family likes you? Ryan likes me; I am the chosen one for the best daughter-inw in his heart.¡±


    Thinking of Ryan¡¯s cold attitude towards her just now, Helena assumed Susan had something to do with it. After all, she often say the bad words like added fuel to the fire, and it wasn¡¯t the first or second time.


    Feeling ufortable, like she had swallowed countless flies, Helena tightened her grip on the cup and said coldly, ¡°Are you done? If you are, please disappear from my sight immediately. Go wherever you want. Today is my mother-inw¡¯s birthday, and I don¡¯t want to spoil everyone¡¯s mood.¡±N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Susan looked at the cup in Helena¡¯s hand, recalling thest time she had thrown a thermos on her mother¡¯s face. She instinctively felt a soreness in her nose, subconsciously touched her nose, and then turned away.


    Around nine o¡¯clock.


    Jenny came over and asked Helena, ¡°Where¡¯s Willis?¡±


    Helena stood up and said, ¡°Dad called him to the study upstairs.¡±


    Jenny checked her watch, ¡°It¡¯s time to cut the cake. Go upstairs and call them.¡±


    Helena smiled and said, ¡°Sure, Mom.¡±


    She lifted her skirt and went upstairs.


    The second floor was extremely quiet, and Helena walked softly to avoid disturbing their conversation.


    Arriving outside the study.


    She raised her hand to knock on the door but heard Ryan¡¯s voice from inside, ¡°Susan is more suitable for you. I have been working with her father for so many years, and many businesses are inseparable from each other. If you two get married, it will greatly help our family business. On the way here, I subtly asked Susan, and from what she said, she really likes you.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart skipped a beat. It felt like someone had poured a bucket of cold water on her, chilling her from head to toe.


    After a long time.


    She heard Willis say, ¡°Helena has been with me through my most difficult and hopeless times.¡±


    Ryan sneered, ¡°Money is all you need. There¡¯s nothing money can¡¯t solve. Three years ago, if you didn¡¯t have money, she wouldn¡¯t have married you. Over the years, you¡¯ve given her so much money, bought a house for her family, helped her grandmother find a kidney source, covered all medical expenses for three generations of her family, and you¡¯ve done more than enough.¡±


    Willis fell silent for a moment and said, ¡°The biggest difference between humans and animals is that humans have emotions.¡±


    Ryan frowned, ¡°You are a man. Men should not be immersed only in love and affection. The business world is unpredictable, with ups and downs. It¡¯s safer to have two ships sailing together than a single boat. After marrying into the Varley family, if anything happens to thepany, the Varley family can also lend a hand. What can Helena do?¡±


    Helena stood quietly outside the door, like a once prosperous tree struck by lightning, now withered. She felt a deep and powerless sorrow.


    Yes, what could she, a restorer of ancient paintings, do for the Santana group?


    Different professions were like different mountains. She couldn¡¯t help with anything.


    But she didn¡¯t leave. She wanted to hear what Willis had to say.


    However, she waited for a very long time and didn¡¯t hear his voice.


    Sheughed at herself.


    She thought he proposed divorce because of lingering feelings for Susan. Now it seemed that it wasn¡¯t just lingering feelings; there was anotheryer of reasons.


    Helena turned and walked away. When she lifted her foot, she realized her legs were extremely weak.


    As she supported herself against the wall, she struggled to make it downstairs. When she finally reached the bottom, Willis¡¯s voice came from the study, ¡°I¡¯m sorry; I can¡¯t do it.¡±


    Unfortunately, Helena couldn¡¯t hear it anymore.

 Chapter 45: Can’t Keep Her (1)

    After going downstairs, Helena turned a corner and entered the bathroom.


    Closing the door, she sat on the toilet seat, hands covering her face, calming herself for quite a while before remembering the main purpose.


    She took out her phone and sent a text to Willis: ¡°Mom wants you guys toe down; it¡¯s time to cut the cake.¡±


    Willis replied: ¡°Okay.¡±


    Helena sat for a few more minutes, stood up, opened the door, walked to the sink, and turned on the tap to wash her hands.


    Looking up, she saw her extremely pale reflection in the mirror.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She forced a smile, trying to make herself appear more normal.


    ¡°Dada,¡± the crisp sound of high heels approached.


    Then the door was pushed open, and a charming figure entered.


    Dressed in a midnight blue starry gown was Susan.


    She nced at Helena, grinned insincerely, and said, ¡°Meeting again, Helena.¡±


    Helena responded with a faint ¡°Hmm¡± and reached for a towel to dry her hands.


    Susan circled around her, walked to the mirror, took out lipstick from her delicate purse, bent over, touched up her makeup while sneakily ncing at Helena in the mirror. She said with a hint of sarcasm, ¡°Helena, this dress isn¡¯t bad for a knockoff. Did you get it from a street market?¡±


    Helena paused, her hands still, and replied with a half-smile, ¡°The dress was personally designed by my mother-inw. If your eyesight is failing, I suggest visiting an eye doctor.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Susan feigned surprise, turning her head to look at Helena again, ¡°A dress designed by Jenny, yet you managed to give it a knockoff vibe.¡±


    She pursed her lips, making meaningful ¡°tsk tsk¡± sounds.


    Implying that even if one wore the genuine article, it wouldn¡¯t look authentic if the person looked like a knockoff.


    Helena remained silent, quietly observing herself and Susan in the mirror.


    Despite Susan being a well-bred heiress, Helena somehow appeared more like a traditional debutante, probably due to her early art education. She exuded a pure and elegant aura, with bright, clear eyes that were neither ttering nor evasive.


    Susan, on the other hand, despite her morous appearance, had a wandering gaze, full of coquetry, reminiscent of the eyes of a concubine from the past.


    In Nancy¡¯s words, she was provocative and full of airs.


    Helena lifted her chin, pointing at the mirror. ¡°Open your eyes wide and take a good look. I¡¯m taller, more beautiful, and more outstanding than you. The difference between the authentic and the knockoff is clear at a nce.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Susan¡¯s face turned red with anger. She exerted force, breaking the lipstick in her hand.


    Helena turned to leave.


    As she reached the door, Susan¡¯s arrogant voice came from behind, ¡°Being a third party with such a sense of superiority, Susan is indeed one of a kind. I hope your dad lives to be two hundred years old and keeps protecting you in this circle.¡±


    ¡°I have a brother!¡± Susan retorted.


    Thinking of Ryan¡¯s words, Helena felt as if hundreds of ants were crawling in her heart.


    It was so ufortable.


    She gripped her dress tightly, turned to face Susan, and said nonchntly, ¡°Being a mistress with such confidence, Susan is indeed unique. I suggest finding ways to buy more life-extending medicines for your dad; the longer he lives, the more protection you get.¡±


    ¡°Bang!¡± Susan angrily mmed the bathroom door.


    Helena¡¯s smile gradually froze.


    What use was winning a war of words?


    In Willis¡¯s eyes, she had genuinely lost.


    Reality was so cruel; no matter how hard she tried, having a good father was better than everything else. In this circle, having a good father even added points to one¡¯s marriage.


    After Ryan and Willis came downstairs, Helena had alreadyposed herself.


    Casually, she joined them in singing birthday songs for Jenny, blowing out candles, and cutting the cake.


    After finishing the cake, Willis said to her, ¡°Let the driver take you home first; I¡¯ll be hometer.¡±


    Helena smiled and nodded, ¡°Sure, take your time.¡±


    After bidding farewell to Jenny, Helena left the Santana family and got into the car.


    Passing by a 24-hour pharmacy on the way, she asked the driver to stop, went in, and bought a box of emergency contraceptive pills.


    She and Willis had been intimatest night, and she was in her ovtion period. They hadn¡¯t used any protection.

 Chapter 46: Can’t Keep Her (2)

    At times like these, it was not suitable to have a child.


    Willis was indecisive, and who knew if he might decide to get a divorce one day.


    Helena had never experienced paternal love since birth, understanding the feeling of being unloved too well. She didn¡¯t want her child to walk the same path.


    Back home, Helena followed the instructions and took one pill, washing it down with warm water.


    The other pill had to be taken 12 hourster, and Helena casually ced the medicine box next to the water dispenser on the cab.


    After taking a quick shower upstairs, shey in bed but couldn¡¯t sleep, her mind spinning in circles.


    It was almost midnight when Willis finally returned, having a drink with some guests.


    Changing into slippers, he unbuttoned his suit jacket with one hand, took it off, and hung it on the rack.


    Picking up a cup, he walked to the water dispenser to pour himself a drink. Suddenly, his gaze hardened as it fell upon the contraceptive pills ced on the cab.


    He picked them up and examined them.


    Indeed, they were contraceptive pills.


    One pill remained; Helena had already taken the other.


    She didn¡¯t want to have his child.


    Willis¡¯s eyes gradually turned cold. He picked up his phone and dialed Yale¡¯s number.


    Not long after, azy male voice came through the phone, ¡°Bro, in the middle of the night, what do you need?¡±


    Willis, devoid of emotion, asked, ¡°What does it mean when a woman refuses to have a child with her husband?¡±


    Yale, half-asleep and slow to react, casually replied, ¡°What else could it mean? This woman doesn¡¯t love her husband.¡±


    Willis¡¯s heart jolted, then he calmly said, ¡°Understood.¡±


    He ended the call, his face surprisingly calm, but his grip on the phone tightened until it almost deformed.


    After a while, a few coldughs escaped his lips. He found himself ridiculous for thinking he could tie her down with a child ¨C tie down a woman who didn¡¯t love him.


    Throwing the phone onto the table, he picked up a ss, opened the liquor cab, took out a bottle of red wine, and poured a full ss.


    Sitting on the sofa, he raised the ss to his lips and took a big sip.


    Recalling Yale¡¯s words, he gripped the ss tightly, veins protruding on the back of his hand.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, there was a sharp sound ¨C the ss shattered in his hand.


    The sharp ss cut into his palm, but he didn¡¯t feel the pain.


    Helena, who had been unable to sleep, suddenly heard a clear sound of breaking downstairs. Startled, she climbed out of bed.


    Walking to the railing, she looked down.


    She saw Willis¡¯s right hand covered in dark red liquid, unable to distinguish if it was wine or blood, and broken ss shards on the floor.


    Hurriedly, she went to her room, opened the cab, found the first aid kit, and headed downstairs.


    As she rushed down the stairs, Willis had already gone to the window to make a call.


    His tall and straight figure stood by the French window, indifferent and dignified, like a pine tree in the wind and snow.


    Some men, with just their backs, could bewilder the bloom of youth.


    Helena stopped in her tracks, silently waiting for him to finish the call.


    Hearing him ask, ¡°Have they found the man who hurt Susan¡¯s hand?¡±


    Not knowing what the other party said, Willis suddenly lost his temper, ¡°A bunch of useless people! Why is it so difficult for you to find one person? Go and find him again! If you can¡¯t find him, all of you can get lost!¡±


    Helena froze, feeling an icy chill in her heart.


    He cared so much about Susan.


    In the middle of the night, he was still helping her find the perpetrator.


    She even came down with the first aid kit, intending to help him bandage his wound. How pathetic!


    Helena bent down, gently ced the first aid kit on the floor, turned around, and walked away.


    After a few steps, she heard Willis¡¯s voice again from behind, ¡°Has that woman named Lily been caught?¡±

 Chapter 47: Do You Love Me? (1)

    With just one sentence, Willis sessfully piqued Helena¡¯s curiosity.


    Recalling her grandmother¡¯s words about Lily possibly being influenced by someone, she nced at Susan, her eyes filled with intriguing thoughts.


    Helena lowered her head to look at her left hand in a splint.


    She was eager to know if Lily¡¯s disappearance had any connection to Susan.


    After waiting quietly for a while, Helena heard Willis utter a low ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Turning back, she picked up the first aid kit and walked toward him, asking, ¡°Has Lily been caught?¡±


    Willis pinched his phone, turned to look at her, and said, ¡°She¡¯s missing.¡±


    ¡°Missing?¡± Helena furrowed her brows slightly.


    ¡°Yes, my people searched her home and rtives¡¯ homes thoroughly, but she wasn¡¯t found. Her family has reported it to the police; we¡¯ll wait for updates.¡±


    Helena¡¯s eyes became subtle. ¡°Her disappearance is quite coincidental. You sent people to find her, and she immediately went missing.¡±


    Willis sat on the sofa, legs crossed, and said indifferently, ¡°Her brother got caught stealing from tombs. After he was arrested, unable to bear the pressure, he would surely reveal some names. Naturally, there will be people seeking revenge, so her disappearance isn¡¯t surprising.¡±


    Helena remained silent.


    It waste at night, and she didn¡¯t want to argue with him.


    Arguing without evidence was meaningless; it would only lead to quarrels, and quarrels couldn¡¯t solve any problems, only consume emotions.


    After cing the first aid kit on the coffee table, Helena walked to his side, picked up his right hand, and carefully examined it.


    His palm and fingers had several small shards of broken ss embedded in them.


    She scolded, ¡°Why are you so careless? I injured my left hand, and now you¡¯ve injured your right hand. Injuries shoulde in pairs, huh?¡±


    Willis pulled his hand back, indifferent. ¡°Just a little skin and flesh injury. It¡¯ll be fine in two or three days, it doesn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    ¡°How can it not hurt? You¡¯re not made of iron.¡±


    Helena took a cotton ball, cleaned the alcohol and blood off his hand, brought a bright shlight to inspect, and used tweezers to carefully remove the embedded ss shards.


    During those years when Willis couldn¡¯t walk, he was often in a depressed and irritable mood, frequently breaking things and getting injured. Helena had long practiced dealing with wounds-quick and skillful.


    After cleaning, she applied medicine to his hand, gently advising, ¡°Be more careful next time. If you keep injuring yourself, I¡¯ll be angry.¡±


    Her voice, a mix ofint and admonishment, was softer and more soothing than the medicine.


    Some of the pent-up difort in Willis¡¯s heart eased a bit.


    Lowering his eyes, he watched her check his hand with a gaze that gradually deepened. Still, his voice remained calm, ¡°Didn¡¯t we agree to have a child? Why are you taking contraceptives?¡±


    In his expression, joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness were indistinguishable, suppressing his true emotions.


    Helena was momentarily stunned, and soon her face turned slightly away. Calmly, she said, ¡°I think we¡¯re still young. There¡¯s no need to rush having a child. A child isn¡¯t a toy; it¡¯s a life. Once born, we have to be responsible for them. Children can ease conflicts, but they can also intensify them. They can¡¯t solve the fundamental issues.¡±


    Willis raised a corner of his lips, his gaze fixed on her innocent and beautiful profile. Emotions flickered in his eyes, their meaning unclear. ¡°You¡¯re quite determined.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t respond, closed the medicine box, and caught a faint scent of alcohol from him. She asked, ¡°How much did you drink?¡±


    ¡°Not much.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make you a sobering soup.¡± She stood up, but Willis grabbed her wrist.


    With a slight pull, he drew her into his arms, his chin rubbing against her ear as he whispered, ¡°No need, didn¡¯t drink much. Your hand is injured; don¡¯t bother.¡±


    Helena was embraced by him, her back against his broad chest, feeling the rapid beating of his heart.


    Normally, she would have found it warm, her heart racing, and her body warming.


    But now, her heart was filled with mixed emotions. Silently for a few seconds, she said, ¡°It¡¯ste; go wash up and sleep.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Willis released her and stood up.


    The two went upstairs and entered the bathroom.


    Helena helped him remove his watch and unbutton his shirt, loosening his belt. She asked, ¡°Do you want me to help you wash?¡±


    ¡°No need; my left hand still works. Just a quick rinse will do.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Helena went to the shower area, turned on the showerhead, and adjusted the water temperature for him.


    Exiting, she waited quietly at the door.


    This was something she had be ustomed to in the past two years.

 Chapter 48: Do You Love Me? (2)

    When the sound of water in the bathroom ceased, she pushed the door open and entered the room, grabbing a towel to help Willis wipe away the water droplets.


    He took care of the front himself.


    She assisted in reaching the areas on his back that he couldn¡¯t.


    Looking at his robust physique, the beautiful muscr contours, and the vigorous back, her nose felt a bit sour.


    In the past, seeing him sitting in a wheelchair, gloomy every day, she hoped he could stand up. However, when he did, his aunt and his father felt she wasn¡¯t worthy of him anymore.


    People in their so-called high society prioritized wealth over everything else.


    After finishing, Willis put on a robe.


    When tying the belt of the nightgown, Helena used her right hand, and he used his left hand.


    Each holding one end of the nightgown belt, they seamlessly tied a knot together, in perfect coordination.


    Willis chuckled, ¡°What are we doing?¡±


    Helena thought for a moment, tilted her head, and looked at him with twinkling eyes, ¡°Mutual support in adversity?¡±


    Willis, not knowing what came to his mind, half-slowly replied, ¡°Yes, mutual support in adversity.¡±


    He lowered his gaze, focusing on her delicate eyebrows and eyes, and asked, ¡°If three years ago, I had no money, would you have married me?¡±


    Helena felt a twinge in her heart.


    These were the words Ryan spoke to him tonight, and now he was asking her. A ominous premonition slowly crawled up her heart.


    She yfully responded, ¡°Why ask such a meaningless question?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s quite meaningless. Then, let¡¯s change it. If I were to lose all my money now, would you leave me?¡±


    Helena thought for a moment and said seriously, ¡°I have money; I¡¯ll support you.¡±


    Willis raised his eyebrows imperceptibly, ¡°How much money do you have?¡±


    ¡°Fifteen million six hundred thousand.¡±


    Willis smiled, feigning surprise, ¡°How do you have so much money? You haven¡¯t spent the money I gave you all these years?¡±


    ¡°I can hardly spend much. My grandmother¡¯s medical expenses are taken care of by you regrly. As for living expenses, she receives a pension every month, and so does my mother. Every time I give my mother money, she refuses to take it and asks me to save it myself. For my daily expenses, you take care of them. Buying clothes and cosmetics, I use the shopping cards you give me.¡±


    Willis patted her head, ¡°Our Helena is really good at saving money.¡±


    Helenaughed even more sweetly, ¡°Not only am I good at saving money, but I can also earn money. When my hand recovers, I¡¯ll go back to work. You may not know, but I make quite a bit from restoring ancient paintings. By the way, in our field, we can also make money by finding undervalued items. The copies I made used to be sold under my grandfather¡¯s name. In the Hongcheng auction, the highest-priced one was sold for five hundred thousand. If you run out of money, I¡¯ll paint more in the future.¡±


    Willis¡¯s smile deepened, praising, ¡°Our Helena is amazing.¡±


    Unable to resist praising herself further, she added, ¡°I also know a bit about financial management. A few days ago, I deposited one hundred fifty-six million for a three-year fixed term. The bank offered a 4% interest rate for arge-sum fixed deposit. That¡¯s eighteen million in interest alone.¡±


    She cupped his face, saying sweetly, ¡°Husband, even if you run out of money, I can still support you well.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis¡¯s pitch-ck eyes shimmered, as if adorned with starlight. He lifted her into his arms, gently kissing her hair, and asked in a low voice, ¡°Why are you so good to me?¡±


    ¡°Because you are good to our entire family.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes slightly darkened. ¡°Is it only because of that?¡±


    Helena felt he was being a bit sentimental tonight andughed, ¡°How do you want me to answer? Why ask such a pointless question?¡±


    Gazing at the shadow cast on the ground, Willis¡¯s eyes became deeper and more profound. After a long while, he spoke, ¡°Do you¡­ love me?¡±


    Helena suddenly woke up, the smile on her face freezing.


    Love was naturally love, but at a time like this, saying ¡°I love you¡± seemed meaningless.


    A crumbling marriage, no matter how much love, couldn¡¯t withstand reality.


    She didn¡¯t believe that a light and airy ¡°I love you¡± could change anything. In the end, he would still listen to his father.


    After a while, Helena smiled, withdrew from his embrace, tiptoed, and gently kissed his chin, saying tenderly, ¡°Let me blow-dry your hair; it¡¯s time to sleep.¡±


    Turning around, she picked up the hairdryer from the cab and asked him to sit down. She skillfully began to blow-dry his hair.


    Listening to the humming sound of the hairdryer and smelling the faint fragrance from her body, Willis lifted the corners of his lips, seemingly smiling but not quite.


    She was willing to treat him well but didn¡¯t love him.


    No matter what he did, he couldn¡¯t rece her Jay.


    After drying his hair, the two went to bed.


    This time, Helena fell asleep quickly.


    In the middle of the night, a loud rumble of thunder sounded, prating through the half-open window. Helena was instantly awakened.


    Rubbing her sleepy eyes, she looked to the side, finding it empty.


    Willis was nowhere to be seen.


    Suddenly, a thought struck Helena. She jolted awake, got up, grabbed her clothes, draped them over herself, and jumped out of bed to find him.

 Chapter 49: Goodbye, Uncle (1)

    In the past two years, Willis couldn¡¯t stand up due to his injured legs, and his will sank with tendencies towards suicide.


    Helena developed a habit during that time. Whether it was day or night, whenever he disappeared, she worried that he might be in despair. She tirelessly searched until she found him, only then could she rx.


    Even though his legs recoveredter, this habit persisted.


    Helena pushed open the door to the adjacent guest room, but it was empty. She then checked the study, which was also vacant.


    The bathroom, shower, balcony, downstairs, even the kitchen ¨C she searched everywhere, but there was no sign of Willis.


    Her heart raced irregrly, fluttering like someone ying drums on it.


    Even though she knew he wouldn¡¯t attempt suicide again, the instinctive fear still lingered.


    She pushed the door open and briskly walked towards the courtyard.


    Suddenly, a massive lightning bolt struck across the sky, illuminating the pitch-ck night as bright as day, followed by a thunderous roar.


    Helena covered her ears, her footsteps continuing to search despite the thunder.


    In the dim light, she saw a tall figure ahead, walking towards her with a cold and clear demeanor. His snow-white shirt was tucked into ck trousers, his waist was straight and firm, and his figure was imposing and upright.


    A clear and handsome face exuded a touch of weariness, but it did not diminish his refined and noble air.


    It was Willis.


    Helena breathed a sigh of relief, leaning against a tree, covering her chest, panting in short breaths. Her eyes, however, remained glued to the man.


    Upon seeing Helena, Willis quickened his pace and walked towards her.


    When he reached her, he held her hand, his cool palm enveloping her fingerspletely. He asked, ¡°Why did youe out?¡±


    Helena looked him up and down, seeing that he was safe and sound. Only then did her suspended heart return to her chest, and she said somewhat breathlessly, ¡°It¡¯ste, where did you go?¡±


    Due to her panting, her voice trembled a bit.


    Willis looked at her, a subtle change in his expression, and said in a soft voice, ¡°Went out for a smoke. It thundered, and I was afraid you¡¯d be scared, so I came back.¡±


    Having said that, he held her hand and walked back into the house.


    As soon as they reached the doorway, rain poured down, sshing a muddy scent all around.


    The rain was falling so urgently, unlike spring rain, more like summer rain.


    Once inside, Helena smelled a strong scent of smoke on him and scolded, ¡°Didn¡¯t you quit smoking? Howe you sneakily smoked again? You¡¯re not being good.¡±


    Her tone was a mix of scolding andining, as if reprimanding a child. Willis, amused, responded, ¡°I won¡¯t smoke again next time.¡±


    ¡°Every time you promise so nicely, but you end up smoking again.¡± Helena was a bit angry.


    ¡°Feeling upset tonight, I¡¯ll try to smoke less in the future.¡± He sounded like he was making a pledge.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Thinking about Ryan¡¯s words, Helena guessed what was bothering him.


    Grandma didn¡¯t allow him to divorce, but his father was forcing him to divorce. He was probably caught in the middle, feeling torn.


    Helena tentatively asked, ¡°Did I make you upset?¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes slightly hesitated, then he rubbed her head and whispered, ¡°Yeah, little dumpling, you made me upset with your dullness.¡±


    This had a bit of a teasing tone.


    Helena, who was initially feeling a bit sad, burst intoughter at his use of ¡°little dumpling.¡± She yfully rolled her eyes at him. ¡°You¡¯re the real little dumpling.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes glinted with a smile. ¡°Next time, don¡¯te looking for me. I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Helena softly said, ¡°It¡¯s a habit.¡±


    Willis paused, tightened his grip on her hand, and didn¡¯t release it for a long time.


    The two changed into slippers and went upstairs side by side.


    Helena said, ¡°You smoked; go brush your teeth.¡±


    ¡°I already did tonight.¡±


    Helena gently pushed him with her shoulder. ¡°Go do it again.¡±


    Willis chuckled, holding her shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve been a bit differenttely.¡±


    ¡°How am I different?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve be more clingy and talkative.¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°Don¡¯t all you men like a bit of coquetry?¡±


    ¡°Well, yes.¡±


    He let go of her, entered the bathroom, and she followed.


    Since his right hand was injured, it was inconvenient to squeeze toothpaste, so she did it for him.


    Willis took the toothbrush with his left hand and brushed his teeth in front of the mirror.


    Maybe people were more emotional at night, Helena thought of the days they spent together. There might not be many such days left, and a sense of sadness crept into her heart. Involuntarily, she hugged his waist from behind, burying her head on his back.


    She didn¡¯t say anything, but her heart was full of reluctance.


    Objectively speaking, except for the Susan incident, which was nauseating, he was a decent person.


    After brushing his teeth and rinsing his mouth, Willis held her hand and said, ¡°Helena, you¡¯ve been a bit clingytely.¡±


    Helena raised an eyebrow, ¡°Do you find me annoying?¡±


    ¡°Dare not.¡±


    He smiled and held her hand, walking towards the bedroom.

 Chapter 50: Goodbye, Uncle (2)

    The wind picked up, rustling the curtains.


    Willis walked to the window and closed it.


    Both of themy on the bed.


    Another thunderous roar, louder than the previous ones, shook the room.


    Helena shivered instinctively.


    Willis pulled her into his arms, covering her ears. He kissed her forehead and whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯m here. Sleep now.¡±


    Helena murmured in agreement, snuggling into his embrace like a kitten finding afortable spot, quickly drifting into a deep sleep.


    One weekter.


    After having breakfast with Willis, Helena got into the driver¡¯s car to visit her grandmother at the hospital.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As soon as she got out of the car, she received a call from an unfamiliar number, a young man who imed to be Ryan¡¯s assistant. He politely said, ¡°Helena, our chairman would like to meet with you.¡±


    Thinking about what Ryan had said to Willis on Jenny¡¯s birthday, Helena felt a heavy weight in her heart, as if she were about to undergo a painful trial.


    But Ryan was an elder, and she had no reason to refuse to meet him.


    They agreed to meet at a coffee shop near the hospital at 10 am.


    Helena arrived ten minutes early.


    Exactly ten minutester, Ryan arrived punctually.


    He had a stern appearance, a solemn expression, and an imposing presence. Even without saying a word, he made people feel an inexplicable pressure.


    Helena felt a slight nervousness as she stood up and greeted him with a polite ¡°Dad.¡±


    Ryan nodded, signaling her to sit.


    Once seated, he ordered a ck coffee, nced at his watch, and said, ¡°I¡¯m busy, and I don¡¯t have much time to beat around the bush, so I¡¯ll get straight to the point.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart pounded, but she maintained a polite smile. ¡°Please go ahead.¡±


    Ryan lifted his coffee cup, took a sip, and continued, ¡°As you know, I have two sons, Bruce and Willis. Although Willis is the younger one, he is more talented, and I value him more. Three years ago, he joined thepany and quickly distinguished himself. Unfortunately, he had an identter. If not for the ident, considering your background, you would never have crossed the ss barrier to marry him. You two are frompletely different worlds.¡±


    His words were cutting, as if he was pointing at her and using her of being a lower-ss person who had climbed too high.


    The smile on Helena¡¯s face froze, and she gripped the cup handle tightly with her fingers.


    Ryan looked at her meaningfully. ¡°The Santana and the Varley have been doing business for many years, and Willis and Susan have known each other since childhood. We always considered Susan as a potential daughter-inw. When Susan went abroad, you, looking like her, were chosen as Willis¡¯s wife. Willis needed someone to apany him, and that person could be you or anyone resembling Susan.¡±


    Helena always thought she had a strong mental fortitude.


    But at this moment, she truly felt a bit overwhelmed.


    She tightly pressed her lips, said nothing, and held the cup firmly in her hands, lowering her head.


    Tears welled up in her eyes, seemingly ready to overflow in the next second.


    Ryan¡¯s ruthless voice echoed in her ears again, ¡°You¡¯ve devoted three years of your youth, helped Willis a lot, but he has also helped you a lot. Let¡¯s talk about money. The money you received from Willis is something many people can¡¯t earn in their entire lives. Being wise, Helena, you should know when to stop. You¡¯re an intelligent girl; you should know what to do.¡±


    After a while, Helena made a low sound of acknowledgment.


    Seeing her agreeing, Ryan showed a slight smile. ¡°Our meeting today, don¡¯t tell Willis about it. You¡¯re a reasonable child, and you probably wouldn¡¯t want to see any distance between me and him because of such trivial matters.¡±


    Trivial matters?


    Helenaughed at herself.


    For her, it was a significant matter, but for him, it was a trivial matter.


    She forcibly held back her tears, lifted her head, and looked at him. She said lightly, ¡°I understand.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°You¡¯re a good child. Uncle actually likes you. The only problem is your family. Uncle is a businessman, and thepany is the result of generations of effort from our Santana family. Don¡¯t me Uncle for being realistic. That¡¯s how society works.¡±


    The term ¡°Uncle¡± made Helenaugh.


    He probably had never considered her as family.


    ¡°I understand, Uncle, goodbye.¡± With that, Helena grabbed her bag, stood up, and left.


    Because she had prepared herself mentally, Helena didn¡¯t feel too sad.


    When she left the Western restaurant, her face was remarkably calm, as if nothing had happened. Her back was straight and upright.


    She didn¡¯t cry; not a single tear was shed.


    However, when she returned to the hospital, she sat in the small garden for the entire morning.


    There was a wisteria in the garden.


    She sat on a bench under the wisteria, quietly admiring the flowers.


    The wisteria was in full bloom, hanging inrge clusters on the branches. Tiny flowers gathered closely together.


    She used to think that these were lively and vibrant flowers, but today she discovered that they were quite sorrowful. The densely packed flowers seemed to be filled with unceable sadness.


    A sadness on the verge of overflowing.


    She focused so much on the flowers that she didn¡¯t notice someone watching her from a distance.


    It was a tall man with well-defined muscles, dressed in high-quality casual ck attire, and wearing a mask on his face.


    He had very beautiful eyes, deep and ck, with long, dark eyshes. While his eyes were cold when looking at others, they were warm and full of affection when he looked at Helena. His gaze was clear, moist, and naturally carried a sense of deep emotion.


    Helena sat for a long time, and he silently watched for a long time.


    Only when Helena left safely did hepletely disappear into the crowd.

 Chapter 51: Grandma strongly opposed

    After a long silence, he asked, ¡°Did my father approach you?¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She hadn¡¯t expected Willis to figure it out so quickly. Recalling Ryan¡¯s advice not to let Willis know as it might affect their father-son rtionship, she casually said, ¡°You¡¯ve mentioned divorce a long time ago. I told you I couldn¡¯t stand Susan.¡±


    Willis¡¯s fingers traced her spine, gently caressing. ¡°Lies. I¡¯ve been consciously keeping my distance from her recently.¡±


    With a subtle lift of her lips, Helena, though,cked the amusement in her eyes. She calmly stated, ¡°I am just a caretaker you hired with money. Now that your leg is healed, it¡¯s time for this caretaker to withdraw.¡±


    Her self-deprecating words weighed on Willis¡¯s heart, and he held her even tighter.


    Being tall and straight like a pine tree, with well-defined features, he, a stern man, whispered gently above her head, ¡°I¡¯ve never regarded you as a caretaker. Truly. You are my legitimate wife, and I¡¯ve always respected you.¡±


    A pang of sourness struck Helena¡¯s heart, and despite her smile, she retorted softly, ¡°You initiated the divorce because of me¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine, divorce,¡± Helena hastily interrupted him, fearing she might relent. ¡°Long pain is not as good as short pain. It¡¯s like a blunt knife cutting through flesh, too tormenting.¡±


    Willis slowly released her, lowered his gaze, and quietly examined her pale face. In a low voice, he said, ¡°Grandmother won¡¯t agree.¡±


    Helena turned her head to avoid his gaze, unable to meet his eyes directly. ¡°We¡¯ll talk to her this weekend when I go with you. Try to persuade her properly.¡±


    Willis kissed her forehead gently and hugged her for a while before saying in a very understated manner, ¡°Alright.¡±


    The word ¡°alright¡± was like a stone dropped into ake, creating ripples in Helena¡¯s heart.


    She felt no relief, only a mixture of emotions.


    Untangling herself from his embrace, she reached up to unbutton his suit, intending to return it to him.


    Willis held her hand. ¡°Keep it on. There¡¯s air conditioning in the car.¡±


    Her hands paused, and he tucked her wind-blown hair behind her ear, his deep gaze fixed on her. ¡°Take care of yourself.¡±


    Helena¡¯s nose tingled, ¡°You too. Keep your right hand dry, be careful of wound infections. Smoke and drink less, eat on time.¡±


    Willis nodded softly, ¡°Go back, it¡¯s windy.¡±


    Forcing a cheerful smile on her face, Helena said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Willis opened the car door, bending inside.


    It wasn¡¯t until the car vanished from sight that Helena turned and walked back.


    Her fingers fiddled with his buttons, a smile on her face, but her heart ached terribly.


    That profound sense of powerlessness washed over her once again.


    Ever since she was little, her grandfather had told her that with effort, one could achieve sess. However, the enormous gap in family background was something her hard work couldn¡¯t change.


    Saturday evening.


    Helena and Willis arrived together at the Santana family¡¯s old mansion.


    As they entered, Grandma greeted them with a beaming smile, warmly saying, ¡°Helena is here.¡±


    Helena politely greeted, ¡°Hello, Grandma.¡±


    ¡°Very good, very good. Quickly, have a seat, have a seat.¡± The olddy warmly took her hand, led her to the sofa, and nced at Helena¡¯s t belly, asking mysteriously, ¡°Girl, are you pregnant?¡±


    Helena shook her head, smiled apologetically, and said, ¡°Grandma, I¡¯m getting a divorce from Willis, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Grandma was momentarily stunned, and her smile froze on her face. Disappointment filled her eyes. ¡°We agreedst time, promising me a big, chubby grandchild. Howe you changed your mind so quickly?¡±


    Helena lowered her eyes, silent.


    Originally, she thought it was reasonable not to have children, but seeing Grandma¡¯s disappointed eyes, she felt guilty.


    Grandma was a reasonable person.


    Seeing Helena¡¯s appearance, she guessed something happened.


    She patted Helena¡¯s head, lifted an eyebrow, and stared at Willis. ¡°Did you recently get entangled with Susan again, making Helena angry?¡±


    Willis raised the corner of his lips, his expression indifferent. ¡°Helena and I have been getting along welltely. My mother also likes Helena, not to mention Nancy.¡±


    Implicitly, he was saying, ¡®You can guess for yourself.¡¯


    Grandma frowned, thought for a while, and said, ¡°Could it be your father causing trouble again?¡±


    Willis nodded.


    The olddy was furious. She picked up her phone and called Ryan, ¡°You brat, I have something to find you. You have half an hour toe back and see me!¡±


    Ryan was entertaining clients at a dining table and was annoyed by the olddy¡¯s yelling. He stood up, walked to the door, and held the phone away from his ear, impatiently saying, ¡°Mom, are you out of your mind? I¡¯m with clients and can¡¯t leave. I¡¯m busy every day, unlike you with so much free time.¡±


    ¡°If you have many subordinates, assign it to them. You immediatelye to me!¡± The olddy finished speaking and hung up the phone.


    Half an hourter, Ryan returned exactly on time.


    Entering the house and seeing Helena, his face darkened instantly. His expression was unpleasant, and the strong disdain and disgust in his eyes were unreserved.


    Helena¡¯s pride was crushed into pieces, and the humiliation almost made her cry.


    She had always been a person with a strong sense of self-esteem, thin-skinned like paper.


    Because she was obedient and sensible from a young age, excelling in both academics and character, and had the skill to restore ancient paintings and books, she had never been so directly despised by someone.


    Willis sensed it, covered her palm with his, and with his other hand, gently cradled her face, pulling her into his embrace, avoiding Ryan¡¯s sharp gaze.


    Helena nestled in his arms, her fingers instinctively grabbing his shirt.


    The scent of his refreshing and pleasant cologne enveloped her, emanating a dependable warmth. The difort in her heart seemed to alleviate a lot.


    She pressed her face against his chest, leaned in, and leaned in again.


    Grandma patted Helena¡¯s back gently, stared at Ryan with sharp eyes, changed from her previous kindness, and scolded, ¡°What¡¯s with your gloomy face? Who are you showing it to? Helena told me, and I figured it out myself. I knew you, old boy, can¡¯t stay put. I have such a good daughter-inw, why are you messing around? When Willis was in a wheelchair before, you didn¡¯t force him to divorce. Now that Willis is on his feet, you¡¯re driving away the young girl. You heartless thing, are you still a human?¡±


    Ryan, who had been in a high position for many years, had never been scolded so mercilessly.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Especially in front of the younger generation, especially in front of Helena, he was scolded without mercy.


    He couldn¡¯t maintain his old face anymore.

 Chapter 52: I really don’t want to part with you (1)

    Ryan, with a dark expression, said, ¡°I am a businessman. Businessmen value profits, and a businessman who doesn¡¯t prioritize profits is not a qualified one. As for why I¡¯m doing this, I¡¯ve discussed it in detail with Helena a few days ago, and she agreed at that time.¡±


    Remembering the humiliation she endured in the cafe that day, Helena¡¯s scalp tingle.


    She really didn¡¯t want to go through it again.


    She gently pushed away Willis¡¯s hand, stood up, and said to Ryan, ¡°Dad, no, Ryan, I¡¯d like to talk to you alone.¡±


    Ryan nced coldly at her and said, ¡°Follow me to the study.¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Willis stood up, wanting to go in with Helena.


    She shook her head at him, ¡°No need.¡±


    Willis squeezed her hand, speaking softly, ¡°Come out if you¡¯re not happy. There¡¯s no need to endure.¡±


    Helena responded with a nod.


    They went to study, one after the other.


    The old man was also there, holding a brush and writing big characters.


    Seeing Helenaing in, the old man raised his head, smiled kindly at her, and said, ¡°Helena, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Helena greeted politely, ¡°Grandpa.¡±


    Ryan pulled out a chair and sat down, gesturing for her to sit too.


    Helena didn¡¯t sit. She stood straight, polite yet distant, saying to him, ¡°Uncle, you¡¯ve misunderstood. I didn¡¯te here today toin to Grandma. I came to persuade her to agree to our divorce. Grandma has always been kind to me. Since she¡¯s leaving, I came to bid farewell.¡±


    Ryan looked at herplicatedly for a few seconds and said, ¡°Willis¡¯s properties are prenuptial notarized and have nothing to do with you. As for thepensation, a few months ago, your ount suddenly increased by one billion. Was it given by him?¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Ryan opened his briefcase, took out a stack of documents, and handed them to her. ¡°This is a divorce agreement drafted by my people. Take a look. If there are no objections, sign it.¡±


    Helena took it, quickly scanning through the contents, which were simr to what she had in mind.


    Flipping to the signature area, she picked up a pen from the desk and signed in triplicate.


    She handed it to Ryan.


    Ryan took it, carefully checked it, and when he confirmed it was correct, his sullen face turned from anger to a smile. ¡°Uncle likes children like you who don¡¯t entangle and don¡¯t cause trouble. Considering that you took care of Willis personally for two years, if you encounter any difficulties in the future, give me a call. I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Helena calmly replied, ¡°No need. I¡¯m engaged in artifact restoration, and you¡¯re in business. They arepletely different industries. There¡¯s nothing you can help me with.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s face turned cold, and his eyes became disdainful and arrogant, a look that clearly said: you don¡¯t know how to appreciate favors.


    Helena smiled faintly, meeting his gaze withposure.


    The old man, unable to finish thest stroke of the character ¡°A,¡± sighed and put down the brush. He looked at Helena and said kindly, ¡°Helena, even if you divorce Willis, you are still Grandpa and Grandma¡¯s child. Come back often in the future. This will always be your home.¡±


    Helena¡¯s tense heart instantly melted.


    Her eyes stung, and tears almost fell.


    Her throat tightened as she said, ¡°Thank you, Grandpa. I will definitelye to visit you and Grandma often.¡±


    The old man raised his hand to cover his eyes, reclining in the grandmaster chair, and waved his hand toward her. In a hoarse voice, he said, ¡°You two go out. I want some quiet time.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Grandpa.¡± Helena looked at him deeply, pushed the door, and walked out.


    Hearing the door close, Willis stood up from the sofa.


    With long strides, he came over, cing his left hand on Helena¡¯s shoulder. He lowered his head to examine her expression, asking in a low voice, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Helena shook her head, forcing a smile at him, her big eyes moist.


    The olddy also stood up from the sofa, watching Helena from afar. She wanted to smile but couldn¡¯t manage it.

 Chapter 53: I really don’t want to part with you (2)

    Helena walked over and silently embraced the olddy. After a while, she spoke, ¡°Grandma, your legs ache. Remember to take calcium tablets on time every day, get more sunlight in winter, and don¡¯t overuse the air conditioner in summer. Also, avoid eating too much watermelon; your stomach can¡¯t handle the cold.¡±


    The olddy instantly understood everything, and tears uncontrobly flowed down her face.


    She hugged Helena tightly, ¡°Child, we, the Santana family, owe you. Grandma is so reluctant to let you go.¡±


    Helena felt a needle-like difort in her heart, choked up and said, ¡°Thank you for taking care of me these past three years, Grandma.¡±


    The olddy sobbed, ¡°No, Grandma should be grateful to you. If it weren¡¯t for you, apanying Willis for those two years, who knows if he could have made it through.¡±


    Ryan stood on the side, coldly observing, unable to resist interjecting, ¡°Willis sent someone to revive her grandmother, bought a house for them, andpensated Helena with a lot of money. We don¡¯t owe her anything.¡±


    The olddy raised her eyelids, staring at him, ¡°Money, money, money! That¡¯s all you care about! In the future, just follow the money!¡±


    Ryan¡¯s face darkened like a storm cloud.


    ¡°I still have something to do; you guys continue talking.¡± With these words, he angrily left, carrying his expensive briefcase.


    The chef prepared dinner, and the servants brought the dishes to the table.


    Despite the abundant food, everyone at the table ate as if chewing wax.


    All present felt exceptionally gloomy.


    After a difficult meal, Willis and Helena bid farewell to the grandparents.


    After getting in the car, Willis helped Helena fasten her seatbelt in silence and started the car.


    The two remained silent throughout the journey.


    Upon reaching the Parvis family¡¯s residence, Willis parked the car and turned off the engine.


    Helena unfastened her seatbelt and said, ¡°Drive home slowly.¡±


    Willis did not respond. His handsome and noble face remained cold and expressionless, with thin lips slightly pursed, revealing no emotions.


    ¡°I¡¯m going home.¡± Helena softly said, reaching to push the car door.


    Suddenly, her wrist was grabbed by Willis.


    He didn¡¯t look at her, gazing nkly ahead, and emotionlessly asked, ¡°Have you truly decided?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, the prepared divorce agreement, I¡¯ve already signed it. When you have time, sign it too. Bring your household register and ID on Monday morning, and we¡¯ll go through the formalities.¡± Helena¡¯s tone was unusually calm, calm beyond her age.


    Only then did Willis turn his head, looking at her with an indistinct meaning, ¡°Finally free?¡±


    His voice was low, his perfectly curved lips slightly curled, a smile with a hint of coldness, more like self-mockery.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Helena sighed gently, ¡°finally free.¡±


    No more enduring Susan¡¯s contempt.


    No need to endure Ryan¡¯s mood swings.


    That feeling of being despised and looked down upon was truly unbearable, like a thorn in the back.


    Clearly, she hadn¡¯t done anything wrong, but it felt like she had done many things wrong.


    Willis smiled silently, gently cing her injured left hand in his palm. His fingers gently rubbed her middle finger and ring finger.


    Helena remained still, letting him massage.


    After massaging for a long time, he finally spoke, ¡°I originally wanted to help you with rehabilitation. After all, you helped me with my legs for a full two years.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart tightened, pain pulsating through it, yet she smiled and said, ¡°You¡¯ve given me so much money, something many people can¡¯t earn in a lifetime, so you don¡¯t have to feel indebted to me, really.¡±


    Willis lowered his gaze to her, the smile gradually disappearing from his face.


    He lifted his hand to cradle her head, touching foreheads with her. After a long time, he spoke in a low voice, ¡°I really don¡¯t want to part with you.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart sharply ached, as if something had gripped it tightly, making her extremely ufortable. She really wanted to tell him: Don¡¯t leave, let¡¯s not part.


    But thinking about what Ryan had said, that he chose her to be Willis¡¯s wife because Susan went abroad and she happened to look like her.


    This person could be her, or any other woman who resembled Susan.


    Helena instantly felt less significant.


    With any other woman, spending three years with Willis day and night, he would feel reluctant to let go.


    It¡¯s like raising a little cat or dog, suddenly lost. Surely there will be sadness for a while, but not long after, it will be forgotten. asionally, when you think about it, you just sigh.


    Helena restrained herself from letting tears fall, gently touching his jaw, and smiling, she said, ¡°It¡¯ste, you should go back.¡±


    Willis held her hand, ¡°I¡¯ll walk you downstairs.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t refuse.


    The two of them got out of the car and walked into the residential area.


    The night breeze was slightly tipsy, tree shadows swayed, and the crescent moon hung in the sky like a wound.


    In just a short distance, the two walked very slowly.


    The shadows on the ground, pulled long by the pale streetlights, clearly in pairs but looking so lonely.


    Neither of them spoke.


    At times like this, anything said would feel superfluous.


    When they reached downstairs, waiting until Helena¡¯s figurepletely disappeared, Willis turned around and left.


    Back in the car, he picked up his phone, dialed his assistant¡¯s number, and instructed, ¡°You don¡¯t need to find the person who hurt Susan¡¯s left hand.¡±


    The assistant, who had been pushing to find the person, was suddenly puzzled and asked, ¡°Mr. Santana, what happened?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Willis hung up the phone.


    The person who hurt Susan¡¯s hand was undoubtedly Jay.


    Once they divorced, it wouldn¡¯t take long for Jay to return to Helena.


    If he sent someone to hurt her beloved Jay, she would definitely hate him.


    Willis didn¡¯t want her to hate him.


    Silently finishing a cigarette, he started the car.

 Chapter 54 Presumptuous Love

    After washing up, Helena entered the living room.


    Breakfast wasid out on the table, and Zena had gone to the hospital.


    The household registration was ced next to the breakfast, with a note on top.


    Helena picked it up and read it. The note said: Darling, I¡¯ve sorted out the household registration for you. Happy divorce! The sooner you leave, the sooner you escape the sea of suffering! In a few days, Mom will arrange blind dates for you! One in the morning, one in the evening! It will drive Willis and that old scoundrel Ryan crazy!


    Helena chuckled, but as sheughed, she felt sad again.


    She thought that after the divorce, it might take her a long time to ept another man.


    After finishing breakfast, Helena put the household registration and ID card in her bag and made ns to go through the divorce with Willis today.


    Suddenly, her phone rang; it was Willis calling.


    His voice sounded a bit distant as he said, ¡°Yesterday afternoon, there was an issue with the overseas branch. I came to deal with it. Let¡¯s talk about the divorce when I get back.¡±


    Helena breathed a sigh of relief, but quickly tightened up again, asking, ¡°How long will you be back?¡±


    ¡°Shortest is a week, longest is half a month.¡±


    Helena paused, ¡°Then I¡¯ll wait for you toe back.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Just as she was about to hang up, something crossed her mind. Helena said, ¡°Susan¡¯s face was hit by someonest night, but it wasn¡¯t me who had someone do it.¡±


    Willis spoke calmly, ¡°I know.¡±


    Helena was slightly surprised, ¡°You know?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it should be the same person who smashed her left handst time.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Jay.¡±


    In just two words, Helena¡¯s heartstrings were suddenly pierced.


    Her emotions surged suddenly, and almost instinctively, she shouted, ¡°It¡¯s not him!¡±


    Her usually gentle voice became sharp and brittle, even though she felt it sounded strange.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After a moment of stunned silence, she softened her tone and said, ¡°It¡¯s not him. He passed away a long time ago, in a fire. Last time, at my grandfather¡¯s house, I took you to see his grave, do you remember?¡±


    Willis didn¡¯t say anything, just made a faint sound of acknowledgment.


    She felt that he still didn¡¯t believe her, just casually acknowledging to get her to shut up.


    But she didn¡¯t want to argue anymore. Calming her emotions, she said, ¡°Call me when you¡¯re back in the country.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    One weekter.


    A young girl named Shirley came to the door and greeted, ¡°Senior, hello, I¡¯m Shirley Lepucius, Alick is my brother.¡±


    Helena had received a call from Alick in advance and let her in.


    She invited her to sit down and served a cup of tea.


    Shirley introduced herself, ¡°I¡¯m also from the Archaeology Department, but only studied for half a year before going abroad as an exchange student for international archaeology. I just graduated this year and now work at the city museum. I¡¯ve heard of Senior¡¯s name for a long time. You were quite a prominent figure in our school back then.¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°You don¡¯t have to call me senior, just use my name. I started school early, skipped a grade in elementary school, so even though I graduated early, I might be younger than you.¡±


    The two checked their ages and surprisingly shared the same birthdate.


    Helena was a few hours younger than Shirley.


    Shirley came to represent the museum, inviting Helena to participate in the restoration of an ancient painting.


    When Helena followed her to the city museum, she learned that the painting to be restored was a secluded painting by M. H.


    This secluded painting was taken away by ¡°the tall man¡± and the bald man two or three months ago for her to restore.


    At that time, they only uncovered the painting and hadn¡¯t had a chance to repair it before the case was solved.


    Helena wondered, ¡°Why hasn¡¯t this painting been restored for such a long time?¡±


    Shirley sighed, ¡°Stolen goods have to go through procedures, be transferred to the national treasury, and then distributed to museums. Once in the museum, experts have toe for identification and research, followed by restoration experts providing a restoration proposal. This process takes two to three months. This time, you were invited to participate in the restoration along with other experts because you uncovered the painting. Of course, it was also my brother¡¯s idea.¡±


    Helena understood that Alick did this for her own good.


    In the private sector, no matter how well things are done, there is always a bit of a wild vor.


    Official procedures make things appear more formal.


    By participating in this restoration, she could add a goldenyer, although she didn¡¯t really need it.


    Arriving at the Department of Cultural Heritage Protection, Helena entered the restoration room and saw a group of experts sitting inside.


    The youngest in the room were in their forties or fifties, mostly with white hair, and they were elite talents from all over the country.


    Helena was the youngest.


    But because she was Ken¡¯s granddaughter and had some reputation in the field, no one dared to underestimate her.


    After discussing restoration ns with those experts for a whole morning, during lunchtime, Helena didn¡¯t want to sit at the table with a room full of old men, so she left.


    Outside, Shirley was already waiting for her at the door, smiling and saying, ¡°Our director asked me to personally take care of you.¡±


    Both of them were archaeology professionals, had amonnguage, and were of simr age, so they quickly became acquainted.


    Of course, the main reason was Shirley¡¯s lively personality and natural friendliness.


    While walking, Helena received a WeChat message from Alick, asking about the situation today.


    Helena replied to him as she walked.


    Suddenly, Shirley¡¯s eyes lit up, and she eximed while covering her mouth, ¡°Wow, handsome guy! Our director is apanying an extremely handsome guy, walking towards us. My goodness, he¡¯s too handsome! ¡±


    She frantically touched her face, fixed her hair, and straightened her clothes, nudging Helena with her elbow, ¡°Quick, help me check if my makeup is smudged. Is my hair and clothes okay?¡±


    Helena was still looking down at her phone, listening to Shirley and ncing at her, she said, ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    Blushing, Shirley said, ¡°He¡¯s looking over here, and he¡¯s smiling at me. Do you think he¡¯s interested in me?¡±


    Helena looked in the direction Shirley was pointing.


    The man was indeed quite handsome.


    Young, handsome, tall and slender, with a paleplexion, exquisite facial features like a sculpture.


    Dressed in a dark suit, he exuded elegance and extraordinary temperament.


    But this handsome guy was Helena¡¯s soon-to-be ex-husband, Willis.


    His gaze was clearly directed at her, not Shirley.


    Perhaps women tend to be self-delusional, Helena thought.


    As their eyes met, Willis smiled and nodded slightly at her, then exchanged a few words with the director before striding towards them.


    Shirley abruptly stopped in her tracks, vigorously wiping her clothes with her hands.


    Helena also stopped, looking at her with a slightly puzzled expression, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you moving?¡±


    With wide eyes, Shirley stared at Willis, who was now excited and seemed to have forgotten Helena¡¯s question.


    When Willis approached them.


    Shirley quickly reached out her hand, enthusiastically saying, ¡°Hello handsome, I¡¯m Shirley. Nice to meet you. What should I call you?¡±


    Willis didn¡¯t extend his hand for a handshake, just gave her a faint nce and said, ¡°I¡¯m looking for Helena.¡±


    Shirley hastily grabbed Helena¡¯s arm, smiling, ¡°She¡¯s my good friend. We share the same birthday. If you¡¯re looking for her, you¡¯re looking for me too.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but find it amusing.


    She didn¡¯t expect Shirley to be so amusing.


    Willis clearly had no patience to deal with her, directly lifted his hand, ced it on Helena¡¯s shoulder, and pulled her into his embrace, saying, ¡°Having lunch together?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Helena replied.


    Shirley was dumbfounded, ¡°Helena, do you know this handsome guy? Who is he to you? Why is he hugging you?¡±


    Helena chuckled, ¡°We know each other, and our rtionship is somewhat close.¡±


    As a couple, sometimes intimate, sometimes distant, like strangers.


    Hearing that their rtionship was somewhat close, Shirley thought they were rtives, her eyes shining again. Just as she was about to speak, Willis¡¯s patience had run out. He directly put his arm around Helena and walked away.


    Shirley was left bewildered.

 Chapter 55: Warning and Threat (1)

    The two arrived at the parking lot and got into the car.


    Helena fastened her seatbelt and curiously asked, ¡°Howe you came to the museum?¡±


    Willis started the car casually, saying, ¡°I went abroad for business and took some cultural relics along. I¡¯m donating them to the museum on my way back.¡±


    Helena, with respect, said, ¡°On behalf of the country and the people, thank you.¡±


    Willis nced at her indifferently, ¡°Just a few days of not seeing each other, and you¡¯re talking to me so formally? Don¡¯t think of me as that great. Donating cultural relics can enhance thepany¡¯s reputation and also provide a reasonable tax avoidance.¡±


    Helena paused, looking at his handsome and profound profile, and smiled, ¡°You¡¯re bing more and more like a qualified businessman.¡±


    Willis smirked, ¡°Making fun of me for being too business-like?¡±


    Helena chuckled, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°Where do you want to eat?¡±


    ¡°Anywhere.¡±


    Willis drove her to a standalone building near the river.


    The ancient-looking que at the entrance was engraved with two majestic characters: Wonder Pce.


    It looked like a small pce, with its exterior resembling an exquisite and magnificent building.


    Luxury cars were parked at the entrance, and their license tes were all covered.


    After getting out of the car, Willis handed the car keys to the parking attendant at the entrance.


    Following him inside, the club operated on a membership basis, ensuring high privacy.


    Willis seemed to be a frequent visitor, and as soon as they entered the lobby, the manager warmly weed them, exchanged greetings, and politely led them inside.


    They reached a private room at the end of the corridor.


    Entering the room, seating themselves, and after the manager exchanged a few pleasantries, he left.


    Willis handed the menu to Helena, ¡°What do you want to eat, feel free to choose.¡±


    Helena took the menu and only ordered a dish she liked, letting Willis order the rest.


    In three years of marriage, she knew everything about him like the back of her hand, and she couldn¡¯t forget it.


    After she finished ordering, Willis moved the menu in front of himself. He had the waiter remove the dishes he liked and reced them all with what Helena liked.


    The waiter who took the order was now filled with question marks, unable to understand this kind of love.


    When the dishes arrived, Willis used the public chopsticks to pick up food for Helena, saying, ¡°Eat more.¡±


    Helena also picked up a dish for him, looking at his slightly lean face and asked, ¡°Were you busy during the week abroad? You seem to have lost some weight.¡±


    Willis picked up a piece of fish and put it on Helena¡¯s te, saying, ¡°It¡¯s okay, the food overseas isn¡¯t as delicious as what you make.¡±


    Helena smiled knowingly, understanding that he was deliberately teasing her.


    Wherever he went, he stayed in the best hotels, and naturally, he ate the best food.


    How could the dishes made by world-renowned chefspare to her home-cooked meals?This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    When they were almost done eating, Willis went out to take a business call.


    Helena got up to go to the bathroom.


    The interior decoration was quite distinctive, even the bathroom was designed with an antique style, very elegant.


    Coming out of the bathroom, Helena walked back along the corridor.


    Just as she was about to turn the corner, a sudden force pulled at her clothes, pushing her into a small garden on the side.


    Helena quickly turned to look.


    The person who grabbed her was Susan.


    Being entangled one after another, even if someone had a good temper, Helena was a bit impatient now, frowning and asking, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Susan remained silent, dragging her behind a tall and dense ficus tree, ring at her aggressively, and said angrily, ¡°You malicious woman, I hate you!¡±


    But Susan couldn¡¯t swallow her pride, her face turned purple, choking, ¡°Why did youe here?¡±


    Helena spoke calmly, ¡°To the restaurant, of course, to eat. What else could I do?¡±


    Susan bit her lip, ¡°Is it because of Willis?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Susan¡¯s expression changed, looking sinister, and sarcastically said, ¡°You¡¯ve already signed the divorce agreement, about to get divorced, and yet you follow Willis out for a free meal and drink. Shameless!¡±


    Her words were too harsh.

 Chapter 56: Warning and Threat (2)

    They haven¡¯t divorced yet; as long as they are legally married, having a meal together is still within their rights, and she still has the right to voice her opinions.


    Helena stood tall, her posture unwavering, and said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s not that I look down on you. If our conditions were equal, and wepeted fairly, you wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against me because you¡¯re too impulsive.¡±


    Susan sneered, ¡°Even if you¡¯re moreposed, so what? Without a good father, everything is in vain. I¡¯m better at being born into a good family, and being born into a good family is a skill. I¡¯ve won against you since birth!¡±


    Helena burst intoughter, ¡°I used to envy you, but now I realize how pitiful you are. Besides having a good father, you¡¯re worthless!¡±


    Such words were a huge insult to Susan, who considered herself a proud woman.


    Already filled with anger, Susan erupted, lifting her foot to kick Helena¡¯s leg.


    Helena quickly dodged, then heard a rapid footstep.


    In an instant, everything went dark as she was pulled into the embrace of a tall figure.


    Susan missed her kick and stared dumbfounded at the man who had appeared out of nowhere.


    Helena recognized the familiar masculine scent-clean and warm with a hint of tobo. Looking up, she saw Willis.


    She sighed in relief, covering her pounding chest and smiling at him, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Willis¡¯ expression remained unchanged, but his eyes were cold. He looked at Susan and said to Helena, ¡°After the call, I didn¡¯t see you when I returned, so I asked the waiter and found you. Are you hurt?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena shook her head.


    Susan reacted quickly, immediately restraining her previously rebellious attitude. She stood there obediently, lowering her head and saying, ¡°Willis, I wasn¡¯t trying to kick Helena just now. My shoes were ufortable, and I raised my foot to check the heel. You misunderstood me.¡±


    Willis sneered, ¡°I¡¯m not blind.¡±


    Susan was slightly startled, pouting as if she wanted to cry, ¡°Willis, don¡¯t wrongly use me.¡±


    ¡°Susan, Susan, where are you?¡± A slightly older male voice suddenly came from nearby.


    Susan¡¯s eyes lit up, tilting her head and responding, ¡°Dad, I¡¯m in the small garden over here.¡±


    The footsteps approached.


    Soon, a man in his sixties walked over, with gray-white temples, thick eyebrows, and a robust figure. He was dressed in a well-made dark gray suit, wearing an expensive watch on his wrist, exuding a deep and refined temperament.


    He was Susan¡¯s father, Owen Varley.


    Owen nced at Helena, smiled, and greeted Willis, ¡°Willis, you¡¯re here too.¡±


    Willis responded with a faint ¡°Hmm,¡± his lips lifting slightly, but his eyes showed no trace of a smile. He spoke coldly, ¡°Owen Varley, please control the words and actions of your precious daughter in the future. If this continues, you¡¯ll spoil her.¡±


    The title ¡°your precious daughter¡± was quite distant.


    Susan¡¯s eyes welled up with tears instantly.


    Touching her own face, she tearfully said, ¡°Willis, you¡¯re biased. Clearly, it was Helena who bullied me first.¡±


    Willis ced a finger on Helena¡¯s shoulder, calmly stating, ¡°Don¡¯t provoke her in the future, and you won¡¯t have any trouble.¡±


    Susan wanted to say more.


    Willis lost patience, looked down at Helena, and said gently, ¡°I¡¯ll take you back to the museum.¡±


    Helena nodded.


    Willis stepped forward.


    Helena didn¡¯t move, as Owen was staring at her with a strange look.


    That gaze was eerie,plex, carrying disdain, contempt, disgust, resentment, and hatred. It made her ufortable, feeling like she was being roasted on a fire and fried in a pan, an indescribable difort.


    It was hard to imagine such an ufortable gazeing from this refined and elegant old man.


    They say eyes can kill, and today Helena truly experienced it.


    She wanted to leave this ce immediately, but her legs seemed to have rusted, unable to take a step.


    Willis walked a few steps, seeing that Helena was still standing motionless with a pale face.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you leaving?¡± He came back, catching a glimpse of Owen¡¯s gaze that he hadn¡¯t had time to retract.


    Willis¡¯s expression suddenly changed, then he grabbed Helena¡¯s hand, holding it in his palm. Ignoring Owen, he just looked ahead indifferently, casually saying, ¡°This woman has gone through difficulties with me. Anyone who touches her will have a problem with me.¡±


    His tone was nonchnt, his face showed no expression, but it gave people an invisible sense of oppression.


    It was like a warning, yet also a threat.


    Owen¡¯s face darkened immediately.


    Susan cried out, running away in tears.


    ¡­


    ¡°Susan!¡± Owen shouted, ncing coldly at Helena. He lifted his foot and followed after Susan.


    The small garden regained its tranquility.

 Chapter 57: Grandma passed away

    Arriving at the hospital.


    Helena had already cried her eyes out, her pale face stained with tears. She lookedpletely lost and devastated, evoking sympathy from anyone who saw her.


    Helena¡¯s mind was consumed by thoughts of her grandmother, who had passed away.


    She no longer had her grandmother.


    Willis drove the car swiftly.


    Finally reaching the hospital, he got out and opened the car door.


    Helena stumbled out of the car, her legs so weak that she could barely walk.


    Willis simply lifted her into his arms again, taking brisk steps towards the inpatient department.


    In the hospital room, Zena was covering her face, crying inconsbly.


    Grandmothery on the hospital bed, covered with a white sheet, her face concealed.


    It felt like something had copsed. Helena¡¯s heart tightened, as if someone had tied a rope around it, making it impossible to breathe.


    She struggled to get out of Willis¡¯ embrace, staggering towards the bed.


    Willis quickly reached out to support her.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The doctor uncovered the white sheet, allowing her onest look.


    Grandmother¡¯s eyes were tightly closed, her face pale and almost gray, lips showing a bluish tint.


    With a ¡°thump,¡± Helena knelt down, tears blurring her vision.


    She desperately wiped them away.


    She wanted to get a good look at her grandmother, but no matter how hard she wiped, the tears wouldn¡¯t stop.


    She knelt beside the bed, embracing her grandmother¡¯s waist, hysterically crying and calling out, ¡°Grandma, oh, Grandma.¡± But her grandmother could no longer respond.


    She tried to pat her face, attempting to wake her up, but her grandmother would never wake again.


    She cried like a child, feeling incredibly lonely, an abyss of sadness deep within her.


    Grandfather had left, and now her grandmother too.


    The two dearest people to her had left one after another.


    She felt like an orphan, utterly alone.


    Fearful that her knees would get cold on the icy floor, Willis helped her up.


    Helena stubbornly remained kneeling.


    Willis had no choice but to bring a pillow to cushion her knees, and he went to the bathroom to fetch warm water, constantly wiping away her tears with a wet towel.


    After crying for so long, Helena couldn¡¯t shed any more tears. Her throat was hoarse, and she just knelt there motionless, staring at her grandmother¡¯s face.


    Zena decided to send her mother¡¯s remains back to their hometown, Parvis Vige, to be buried alongside her father.


    Willis went out to call his assistant, arranging for the hearse and funeral details.


    An hourter, their subordinates brought the hearse, lifting grandmother¡¯s body inside.


    A procession of several cars drove solemnly towards Parvis Vige.


    A professional funeral team quickly set up the funeral tent, dressed grandmother in burial clothes, and ced her inside the coffin.


    At night, Helena, dressed in mourning attire, stood vigil with Willis by her side.


    As the night deepened, he urged her to get some sleep.


    Helena lightly shook her head.


    Willis had someone bring a mat and insisted on making her lie down for a while.


    During these days of vigil, Helena spent most of her time kneeling, only closing her eyes briefly when she couldn¡¯t endure any longer.


    She refused to sleep, and Willis stayed awake with her, silently watching over her.


    Afraid that she might faint from excessive grief, afraid of her loneliness and fear, afraid she might do something drastic, and most of all, afraid of losing her.


    He didn¡¯t know how tofort her, so he simply held her hand tightly, offering his shoulder for her to lean on, silently apanying her.


    Under the bright light.


    Her beautiful face was as pale as a cold moon, herrge watery eyes filled with profound sorrow. Her long eyshes drooped like the wings of a dying butterfly.


    She looked so different, frail and lost, kneeling in front of her grandmother¡¯s coffin, unmoving.


    In the orange light and shadow, her slender figure seemed to fade away.


    During these days, he felt more heartache for her than ever before.


    So much so that many yearster, Willis couldn¡¯t forget this scene. When he recalled it, his heart clenched painfully.


    In the courtyard.


    A cheeky rtive approached Zena and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t your son-inw¡¯s legs fine? I heard he was disabled and had to use a wheelchair?¡±


    Zena knew they were mocking her behind her back, insinuating that she had sold her daughter to a disabled man for money.


    She raised her swollen eyes and gave the rtive a sideways nce, ¡°My son-inw was just injured. He used a wheelchair temporarily, and his legs were healed a year ago.¡±


    The rtive curled her lips, ¡°Really? That¡¯s a fast recovery.¡±


    ¡°Of course, my son-inw is fortunate, and good things happen to good people.¡±


    The rtive chuckled and said with a sarcastic tone, ¡°I heard your inws are wealthy. Will Helena suffer in their family? Our small household can¡¯tpare to those big families.¡±


    Zena gave her a cold look, ¡°Not at all. Their family respects my daughter.¡±


    The rtive sneered, ¡°Then why haven¡¯t your inws shown up? Deep down, they must look down on us. It¡¯s hard to climb the high branches, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°They haven¡¯te in person, but the funeral money has arrived. My mother-inw and my father-inw each transferred two hundred thousand to my ount. My son-inw treats my daughter extremely well. He¡¯s been by her side day and night these past few days, never taking his eyes off her. Can your son-inw do that without money?¡±


    Zena was always quick with words, never leaving grudges overnight.


    The rtive, her cousin, had been jealous of her since childhood for being more aplished.


    Thinking she could take this opportunity to berate Zena, she ended up getting a taste of her own medicine. Clicking her tongue a few times, she walked away with a disgruntled expression.

 Chapter 58: Jay Appears

    Three dayster.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    It was time to take Grandma¡¯s body for cremation.


    As the day broke, Willis brought a bowl for Helena, urging her to eat.


    Helena had no appetite, but local customs dictated that the descendants should not have an empty stomach before the cremation.


    Helena took a few bites hastily.


    The hearse arrived, and Willis¡¯ subordinates, along with some rtives, lifted Grandma onto the funeral car.


    Zena and several elderly rtives wailed loudly.


    Helena, with tears streaming down her face, stood beside the funeral car, closest to her grandmother.


    In her heart, she quietly said, ¡°Grandma, don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯m here.¡±


    It was customary for the family to assist the funeral car as it left. The procession behind the car was quite impressive, including not only rtives from the vige but also Grandma¡¯s students.


    The funeral car slowly started moving.


    Helena, holding onto the handle of the car, tears streaming down her face, followed the funeral car out of the vige.


    As the car approached the road and began to elerate, her outstretched hand moved farther away from the cold car door.


    It felt like the sky was copsing.


    Overwhelmed with sadness, she didn¡¯t know what to say, just desperately reaching out her hand and running to catch up with the funeral car.


    Afraid she might be in danger, Willis hurriedly stopped her.


    Helena cried until she felt weak and copsed.


    Willis lifted her up, holding her tightly in his arms like a child.


    Unable to walk, she reached out her hand, but it couldn¡¯t touch the funeral car that was getting farther away.


    Watching the car gradually disappear, she cried until she couldn¡¯t make a sound.


    On the way back home, she vomited several times on the roadside.


    Willis wiped her mouth clean andforted her gently.


    She could hear his voice around her ears, but couldn¡¯t make out what he was saying.


    All she knew was that the person on the funeral car was her grandmother, about to be cremated.


    She was about to lose her grandmotherpletely.


    After Grandma¡¯s cremation, her ashes were brought back.


    On the day of the burial, the sky was gloomy, and a light drizzle floated in the air.


    The wind blew through the muddy path, chilling them to the bone.


    With Willis supporting her, Helena, along with her mother and rtives, came to a willow grove behind the vige to bury Grandma next to Grandpa.


    The willow grove was eerie, even in broad daylight, it felt chilling.


    But with Grandpa buried here, and now Grandma about to be buried here, Helena didn¡¯t find it frightening at all.


    Grandpa¡¯s grave wasn¡¯t far away, resting beside Jay, who had once saved her life.


    Her three beloved people rested together.


    She found this ceforting.


    Leaning quietly against Willis, Helena watched as the yellow soil was gradually poured onto Grandma¡¯s coffin. The pit was filled, forming a new grave, and a well-carved tombstone was quickly ced on top.


    The paper sedan and paper effigy were burned, mes roaring and turning half of the cold willow grove red amidst the wind¡¯s mournful cries.


    Crows cawed and flew to distant trees.


    Helena stared at the photo of her grandmother on the tombstone, tears pouring down.


    Willis kept wiping away her tears.


    Amidst her tears, Helena suddenly smiled, her eyes red as she said to him, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t be sad. I should be happy for Grandma. She¡¯s gone to be with Grandpa, who she most wanted to be with. They¡¯re buried together, keeping each otherpany, never to be lonely again.¡±


    Willis nodded, silently staring at her swollen eyes. He wanted to say, ¡°Let¡¯s be buried together a hundred yearster.¡±


    He opened his mouth, but in the end, didn¡¯t say anything.


    It was neither the right time nor did he want to make promises he might not keep.


    He said nothing, just tightened his grip on her hand, tilting the umbre toward her side.


    After the funeral, Willis supported Helena as they walked back.


    In the following days, Helena continued to lose weight, with no appetite for food or tea.


    Her frail figure resembled bamboo, thin and fragile, as if a gust of wind could knock her over.


    Seeing her like this, Willis felt the pain in his heart, wishing he could bear all her suffering.


    As they walked.


    Suddenly, his pupils contracted. He noticed a tall figure standing near the broken bridge at the vige edge, looking in their direction from afar.


    The man had a sharp figure, wearing a ck windbreaker, with jet-ck short hair and a face covered by a mask. His legs were long, and he exuded an aura that ordinary people didn¡¯t possess.


    He stood there like a statue, motionless, and his dark eyes gazed at Helena with deep and poignant affection.


    Willis¡¯s heart sank.


    Instinctively, he felt that it was Jay.


    The figure was almost identical to the one in the photo Josh had provided.


    A frosty feeling gradually spread in Willis¡¯s heart. He tilted the umbre forward, blocking Helena¡¯s line of sight, preventing her from seeing Jay and preventing Jay from seeing her again.

 Chapter 59: Not Getting Divorced Anymore

    After smoking half a pack of cigarettes, Willis¡¯s restless mood still couldn¡¯tpletely settle down.


    His phone suddenly rang.


    With a cigarette between his lips, Willis took out his phone from his pocket and nced at the caller ID. It was Susan.


    He furrowed his brows and directly ended the call.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    A few minutester, the phone rang again, this time it was from his father, Ryan.


    He answered the call.


    Ryan asked, ¡°When are youing back?¡±


    Willis, without much emotion, replied, ¡°Helena¡¯s grandmother was buried today. I¡¯ll be back early tomorrow.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s voice carried a hint of reproach, ¡°Why did it take so long? It¡¯s almost four days in total.¡±


    ¡°Her grandmother passed away, and she¡¯s very upset. I can¡¯t leave her alone.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t she have a mother and rtives?¡±


    ¡°Her mother is also very upset, too overwhelmed to cope. As for her rtives, they are just like that. Right now, I¡¯m the only one she can rely on.¡±


    Ryan let out a snort, ¡°You¡¯re getting a divorce, why are you still treating her so well? Just give her more money. Your time is much more valuable than money. Because of your absence, several projects you¡¯re involved in have been dyed. Do you know how much loss this has caused thepany?¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyelids narrowed slightly as he calmly said, ¡°Deduct the losses caused to thepany from my personal ount.¡±


    Ryan, displeased, said, ¡°It¡¯s not about the money, it¡¯s about thepany¡¯s reputation!¡±


    Willis fell silent for a moment and then said, ¡°This time only, it won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Ryan grunted and ordered, ¡°Remember to get the divorce done when youe back. Dragging it out is too troublesome.¡±


    On the bedroom side.


    Helena turned over in her sleep, subconsciously reaching out to hold Willis, only to find empty space.


    Her heart skipped a beat, and she woke up.


    With sleepy eyes, she didn¡¯t see him and felt a bit empty, with a vague worry lingering.


    Rubbing her eyes to clear the drowsiness, she lifted the nket, put on some clothes, and got out of bed to find him.


    After searching a few rooms and not finding him in the courtyard, Helena became anxious and hurriedly ran to the front gate.


    In the light at the door, she saw a tall and proud figure standing by the pond, talking on the phone. The tips of his left fingers faintly showed a weak orange glow.


    It was Willis.


    He was so distinctive that even just a silhouette could easily distinguish him from others.


    Her anxious heart suddenly calmed down upon seeing him like this.


    Afraid of disturbing his call, she tiptoed towards him.


    As she got closer, she overheard him saying on the phone, ¡°I am a human, not an animal. In my most difficult times, it was Helena who apanied me. Now that she is so fragile, I cannot abandon her. Let¡¯s forget about the divorce.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart warmed, and her nose felt a bit sour.


    Quickening her steps, she approached him and, without a word, embraced him, burying her head in his back, her arms tightly around his waist.


    It was as if she was afraid that if she let go, he would disappear.


    Willis¡¯s eyes flickered slightly. When he turned around and saw her, his gloomy expression softened a bit.


    With her hugging him like this, the tension he held inside dissipated by more than half.


    How weak of him, he thought.


    She hadn¡¯t said a word, and he was already soothed.


    After giving a couple of perfunctory responses to Ryan, Willis ended the call, flicked the cigarette butt onto the ground, extinguished it with his foot, and then held Helena¡¯s hand. His voice softened as he asked, ¡°Why did youe out? It¡¯s chilly outside, wear more.¡±


    ¡°I thought you left,¡± Helena whispered, her hoarse voice sounding particrly helpless.


    Willis stroked her head, affectionately pulling her into his arms, ¡°I would never leave without saying goodbye. You can rest assured.¡±


    Helena looked up, her eyes moist, gazing at him, ¡°Are you leaving tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you cane back with me tomorrow.¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°I want to stay here for a few more days, at least until Grandma¡¯s seven days have passed.¡±


    Willis hesitated for a moment, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll leave two people here to protect you.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Helena noticed the scattered cigarette butts and asked, ¡°Why did you smoke so much?¡±


    Willis casually replied, ¡°Feeling a bit bothered. It¡¯s nothing now.¡±


    Helena stared into his eyes, ¡°Is it because of the divorce?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s work.¡± Willis shifted his gaze away, avoiding her eyes.


    As he raised his head, he caught a glimpse of a slender and sharp figure on the opposite side of the pond.


    In the woods over there.


    Standing there was a figure in a ck windbreaker, with jet-ck short hair, and a mask on his face.


    It was Jay again!


    His gaze instantly turned colder, his eyes fixed on that figure for several moments, a sinister smile tugging at the corners of his lips.


    Pinching Helena¡¯s petite chin, Willis lowered his head, kissing her deeply, as if to erase the sight of Jay from his mind.

 Chapter 60: Take Good Care of You (1)

    Helena was momentarily stunned, unable to understand why Willis suddenly wanted to kiss her, and a deep kiss at that.


    Even though it was nighttime, people were still passing by.


    The vige wasn¡¯t as open as the city, and it wouldn¡¯t be good if someone saw them like this. Moreover, her grandmother had just been buried, and engaging in intimate moments at a time like this was inappropriate.


    Helena reached out to push him away.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Willis held both of her wrists with one hand, preventing her from moving.


    Helenacked the strength to break free, so she closed her eyes and let him kiss her.


    He kissed her with force, even one could say with dominance. It wasn¡¯t as gentle as before, more like he waspeting with someone.


    Helena remembered the words he spoke on the phone with Ryan just now, and she was certain it was about that.


    She thought he might be acting out against Ryan.


    Only when she was almost breathless from the kiss did Willis finally release her, wiping away the moisture from her lips with his hand. He spoke gently, ¡°We¡¯re not getting divorced.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a suggestion but a direct decision.


    Helena¡¯s thoughts were in turmoil, ¡°I appreciate you considering my feelings at a time like this, but your father¡­¡±


    Willis calmly said, ¡°I will talk to him when I go back.¡±


    Thinking of what Ryan said about winning or losing, Helena¡¯s eyes darkened, ¡°I don¡¯t want you to be caught in the middle between me and your father.¡±


    Willis cupped her small face, ¡°Stop talking. It¡¯s the deal.¡±


    This time, it was an order, and he pulled her hand, leading her towards the front gate.


    After a few steps outside, Willis turned back and nced at the woods on the other side of the pond.


    The man named Jay was no longer there.


    He smirked, but there was no hint of a smile in his eyes.


    For the first time, he realized that his possessiveness was unexpectedly strong.


    All those promises of letting go and giving way, he found he couldn¡¯t do it at all. Humans were indeed humans, and worldly desires were inevitable.


    Back at Grandpa¡¯s house.


    As soon as they entered the bedroom, Zena brought a tray of food over.


    Four dishes, one soup, and two bowls of rice.


    cing the dishes on the table, she warmly greeted Willis, ¡°Willis, are you hungry? Come and eat. It¡¯s still hot. I just cooked it, and no one else has touched it. I know you like things clean; you won¡¯t eat anything others have touched.¡±


    Willis paused. Thest few times he met her, her attitude was quite cold.


    Today, she suddenly became so enthusiastic; it caught him off guard.


    After attending to him, Zena looked at Helena, ¡°Helena, why don¡¯t you go back with Willis tonight? No need to wait for your grandmother¡¯s seven days. I¡¯ll take care of things here.¡±


    Helena was a bit puzzled, ¡°I¡¯ve already taken a leave. I¡¯m not in a hurry to leave.¡±


    ¡°Go back. Your grandmother definitely wants you and Willis to go back. You two are happy together, and she would be happier than anyone else.¡± Zena¡¯s eyes reddened, and she smiled, ¡°You two, eat well. I¡¯ll leave you alone for now.¡±


    After saying that, she turned and left.


    Willis smirked, ¡°Zena is acting unusually tonight.¡±


    After thinking for a moment, Helena said, ¡°Maybe she was moved by your hard work in taking care of me these past few days. My mom, despite her harsh words, has a soft heart. She¡¯s like a tiger with a gentle heart.¡±


    ¡°Your mother is indeed a straightforward person.¡± Willis smiled faintly and picked up chopsticks to hand to Helena.


    Taking the chopsticks, Helena sat down next to him and picked up a piece of crispy meat, cing it on his rice. ¡°This meat is especially delicious, so fragrant. You should try it.¡±


    Willis picked it up and tasted it, chewing a few times. ¡°It¡¯s quite fragrant.¡±


    Usually, he didn¡¯t eat this type of food. It was too oily and unhealthy. However, if it was Helena who picked it, he might even eat rat meat.


    After finishing the meal, Zena came in to clean up the dishes, urging the two, ¡°You should leave soon. It¡¯s only a two or three-hour drive back home. Go wash up and get a good night¡¯s sleep. Willis will be back to work at thepany early tomorrow. You¡¯ve dyed him for so long; it¡¯s affecting his work.¡±


    Willis was pleased with that.


    Staying here for a long night could lead to more dreams. He was afraid of Helena meeting Jay.


    Feeling repulsed was one thing, but if he had to give in, he found that he couldn¡¯t and was unwilling to.


    Suddenly, he wanted to be selfish for once, to keep her by his side.


    Helena didn¡¯t want to go back.


    She wanted to stay for her grandmother, at least until the seventh day.


    However, despite resisting Zena¡¯s efforts, she was pushed out and directly shoved into Willis¡¯s car.


    As the car left the vige, Helena received a message from Zena: My daughter, Mom suddenly discovered that Willis is still good to you. You two don¡¯t need to get divorced if possible. After a divorce, the next man might not be better than Willis. Besides, he¡¯s getting better, and you have contributed to half of it. Why should you work so hard for so long and let someone else take it away?


    Helena furrowed her brows slightly and replied: But his father disagrees.


    Zena replied: Parents ultimately can¡¯t resist their children. You two should work hard; don¡¯t give up without trying. You¡¯ll regret it in the future if you don¡¯t try.


    Helena fell silent for a moment and replied: Okay.

 Chapter 61: Take Good Care of You (2)

    At ten o¡¯clock in the evening, the two returned to their home in Moon Vi.


    Helena went into the bathroom to wash her hair and take a shower.


    When she came out, she picked up the hairdryer and was about to blow-dry her hair.


    Willis, having finished showering in another room, came over to her, took the hairdryer from her hand, and offered to help her blow-dry.


    Helena smiled, ¡°My left hand is almost fine now, I can do it myself.¡±


    Willis, with a stoic expression, gently pressed her onto the small sofa nearby and calmly said, ¡°I just want to take good care of you.¡±


    His words were full of tenderness, andbined with his cool and restrained appearance, it didn¡¯t sound cloying at all. On the contrary, it was particrly enticing.


    A warm feeling surged in Helena¡¯s heart, and she said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Willis plugged in the hairdryer, raised an eyebrow, and casually remarked, ¡°We agreed to support each other, so there¡¯s no need to thank me.¡±


    Helena smiled.


    She liked the idea of supporting each other, which felt stronger and warmer than just being polite.


    Although Willis was a big man, he was surprisingly gentle while blow-drying her hair. At first, he seemed a bit uncertain about the pressure, but soon enough, it felt even morefortable than when Helena did it herself.


    After drying her hair, the two went to bed.


    Helena had taken a nap in the afternoon and couldn¡¯t fall asleep now. She simply closed her eyes, nestled in Willis¡¯s arms, and missed her grandmother.


    Willis knew she was feeling sad. He gently patted her, likeforting a child. Before long, he actually managed to lull Helena to sleep.


    Seeing her breathing steadily, he lowered his head, kissed her forehead, and whispered, ¡°If you dare to call for ¡®Jay¡¯ in your dreams again, I might just spank you.¡±


    Perhaps it was the change of environment, but surprisingly, Helena didn¡¯t have any more nightmares.


    The next morning, when she woke up and opened her eyes, she saw Willis leaning on his pillow, looking at her with tender eyes, seemingly in a very good mood.


    She curved her lips and asked, ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    ¡°Because you¡¯re beautiful.¡± He reached out to touch her face, his voice as gentle as if it were mixed with moonlight.


    Helena felt something was a bit off about him, but she couldn¡¯t quite put her finger on it.


    After freshening up, the two went downstairs.


    A rich breakfast wasid out on the table.


    In addition to various exquisite pastries, there were several bowls of nourishing soup, emitting a fragrant aroma, making one¡¯s appetite soar.


    Willis said, ¡°I had the hotel staff deliver this. You haven¡¯t had a proper meal in days, so eat more.¡±


    He was so considerate, and Helena felt even more reluctant to let him go.


    Perhaps what her mother said was true-without making an effort, she might regret it in the future. She didn¡¯t want to lose him.


    After finishing breakfast, Willis had to go to thepany.


    He picked up his watch and put it on his wrist.


    As usual, Helena helped him tie his tie.


    Her most skilled asset was her hands, and she tied the tie quickly and beautifully.


    After tying it, Willis suddenly pulled her into his arms, hugged her, and admonished, ¡°Stay at home as much as possible; the world outside is chaotic.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena became more and more convinced that something was wrong with him. Why was the world outside chaotic?


    It¡¯s not like it¡¯s a wartime situation.


    Moreover, they had a driver, a robust and strong man who doubled as a bodyguard. One phone call, and he would be at their service.


    She smiled, ¡°I still need to visit the museum.¡±


    Willis raised an eyebrow, ¡°Didn¡¯t you take bereavement leave?¡±


    Helena was speechless and had to say, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Willis hugged her but refused to let go. He lowered his head, gently rubbed her nose, and kissed her ear.


    It seemed a bit intimate.


    He resembled a man deeply in love.


    Helena felt a little puzzled.


    He wasn¡¯t usually clingy like this. What happened today?


    No, it seemed strange sincest night.


    She was about to ask when Willis suddenly brushed her earlobe with his lips and softly said, ¡°I really want to shrink you, so I can put you in my pocket and take you wherever I go.¡±

 Chapter 62: You genius（1）

    Willis¡¯s voice was enchanting-deep, maic, and clear, like a melodious cello ying in her ears, gently sliding into her ear canals.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but feel her heart racing.


    It was as if a little deer was vigorously pounding against her chest with its antlers.


    She stood there motionless.


    Words spoken by a loved one could indeed trigger the release of dopamine in the brain.


    Helena raised her eyes, tilted her small face upwards, and gazed at his handsome and alluring face. She said, ¡°Thank you forforting me so much.¡±


    Willis chuckled, pinched her cheek, and looked at her with yful eyes. ¡°I¡¯ve noticed you¡¯re quite straightforward, little straight girl.¡±


    Helena¡¯s expression slightly froze, and she awkwardly smiled, ¡°I mightck a bit of charm. Yale used to say the same thing about me.¡±


    Willis raised one corner of his lips, ¡°What did he say?¡±


    ¡°He said I¡¯m a good woman but a bit too good, which might make me seem a bit boring. He advised me to be a bit more wild, a bit more daring, be coquettish when needed, be fragile when needed, have thick skin when needed, and be cunning when needed.¡±


    Willis pondered for a moment, ¡°Being wild is okay, but only in front of me. Coquettish and fragile are fine, but forget about having thick skin or using cunning methods.¡±


    Helena obediently said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Willis patted her head, ¡°Wait for me at home. What do you want for dinner tonight? I¡¯ll bring it for you.¡±


    Helena hasn¡¯t had much of an appetite these past few days, so she said, ¡°I don¡¯t have any specific cravings.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bring something, then. Let the servants prepare lunch; you don¡¯t have to do anything.¡±


    Helena felt like she had transformed from a maid into a princess, and she meekly responded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡± Willis hugged her again, picked up his briefcase, changed his shoes, and reached for the doorknob.


    Suddenly, Helena ran up from behind, hugged his waist, and whispered, ¡°I really want to shrink and be tucked into your pocket so that wherever you go, I can follow you.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t good at sweet talk, but she felt obliged to respond somehow. So, she awkwardly came up with this sentence.


    Willis was almost amused to death.


    Speaking sweet nothings to her seemed to be a challenge, almost like solving a riddle.


    While others effortlessly produced such lines, she had to think for a long time toe up with such awkward words.


    He slowly turned around, cupped her small face, lowered his head, and kissed her on the lips. Suppressing hisughter, he said, ¡°Why is my Helena so cute?¡±


    Cute?


    Helena was a bit bewildered.


    Once Willis left, the spacious room felt empty. Helena began to miss her grandmother again.


    She walked to the balcony and sat on a lounge chair, staring into space with vacant eyes.


    Just as she was immersed in sadness, her phone rang.


    She picked it up and nced at it; it was Shirley calling.


    After answering, she said, ¡°Helena, the restoration work on M. H¡¯s painting has started, and now we need to choose someone to take over. The museum has gathered a group of skilled copyists from all over the country. Each person will copy a part of the painting, and we will select the best. My brother wants you to contribute a copy as well.¡±


    To take over meant to restore the missing or damaged parts of an ancient painting, ensuring that the restoration remains undetectable.


    Taking over tested a person¡¯sprehensive aesthetic literacy and mastery of basic techniques.


    Copying involved using one¡¯s abilities and methods to meet certain standards, while taking over required a collision with those standards, directly entering the role of the original artist, demanding a higher level than mere copying.


    That¡¯s why the museum called for skilled individuals to choose the best among them.


    Helena replied, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Shirley continued, ¡°I have photos of the full ¡®Hermitage¡¯ painting on my phone. I¡¯ll send them to youter.¡±T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena casually said, ¡°No need, I¡¯ve memorized it.¡±


    ¡°What? You¡¯ve memorized it?¡± Shirley was extremely surprised. ¡°That painting is soplex, can you remember the entire thing? Even the missing parts, can you remember them?¡±


    Helena casually replied, ¡°My grandfather deliberately trained me since childhood. I can remember any kind of ancient painting after looking at it for a few minutes. Come back, and in less than half a month, I can reproduce an identical one.¡±


    Shirley was stunned, ¡°My goodness, you genius!¡±


    Helena thought to herself, I can¡¯t even say sweet words properly, what kind of genius am I?


    ¡°That¡¯s enough talk; I¡¯m going to work on a partial drawing. I¡¯ll give it to you tonight.¡±

 Chapter 63: You genius（2）

    Shirley was surprised again, ¡°So fast?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Helena walked into her own study.


    The study was equipped with aplete set of tools for restoring ancient books and paintings.


    Grandpa loved collecting ancient calligraphy and paintings, which were not easy to preserve. Over the past few years, Helena had been helping maintain and restore them.


    This set of tools was arranged by Willis.


    Helena took a sheet of rice paper, skillfully dyed it with old tea water, and had a servant help grind the ink.


    Once the paper dried, she picked up a brush and, relying on the images stored in her mind, began to paint.


    M. H.¡¯s paintings were rich inyers and changes in brushwork and scenery. The technique was distinctive, using unique cracked strokes and fine strokes with ox hair. The ink was thick, theposition intricate, with multipleyers of mountains and repeated reflections in the water. The scenery was profound and elegant.


    Guided by her grandfather from a young age, Helena had copied many of his works.


    Familiar with his painting techniques and brushwork, she effortlessly painted a partial drawing based on her memory.


    In the evening, Helena finished the drawing and contacted Shirley.


    Shirley rushed over, received the drawing, andpared it to the photos on her phone. It was almost identical.


    The only difference was that Helena had already repaired the missing parts that were absent in the original painting.


    Shirley eximed repeatedly, couldn¡¯t help but fiddle with Helena¡¯s head, looking left and right. ¡°Sis Helena, you You genius!¡±


    Helena felt a bit embarrassed by Shirley¡¯s antics and gently pushed her away, saying, ¡°I was born a few hourster than you; you can still call me Helena.¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re my Helena. Sister represents the position in the world, regardless of age.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t argue with her and let her call her whatever she wanted.


    Shirley carefully rolled up the drawing, ced it in the car, and said, ¡°My brother has gone abroad for a medical exchange. He heard from his colleagues that your grandmother passed away, so he specifically called me to apany you more. Where do you want to go? I¡¯ll apany you.¡±


    Having some free time to miss her grandmother, Helena also wanted to go out and clear her mind, so she said, ¡°Let¡¯s go on the Ferris wheel.¡±


    Shirley raised an eyebrow, ¡°What¡¯s so good about that?¡±


    Helena felt a bit awkward, ¡°I¡¯ve never been on one.¡±


    ¡°What? You¡¯re in your twenties and haven¡¯t been on a Ferris wheel?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, never.¡±


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Helena got into Shirley¡¯s car.


    After having a meal together, they went to thergest amusement park in Kyoto.


    The giant Ferris wheel, over a hundred meters tall, had colorful lights installed on each small cabin. It looked beautiful like a rainbow at night.


    Helena and Shirley got into one of the cabins.


    About ten minutester, they reached the highest point of the Ferris wheel.


    There were telescopes inside each cabin for visitors to enjoy the night view.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena and Shirley picked up the telescope and looked outside. They could see the entire Kyoto, with thousands of lights, colorful and dazzling, and countless stars in the sky, creating an iparable night scene.


    Suddenly, Shirley patted Helena¡¯s shoulder and shouted, ¡°Look! That handsome guy, Willis!¡±


    Helena adjusted the telescope and looked in the direction Shirley pointed.


    On the opposite side, in front of the Capital Hotel, a man and a woman descended from a stretched luxury car.


    The man was tall and handsome, dressed in a dark suit, walking gracefully with long strides and a charismatic demeanor.


    The woman was beautiful, stylishly dressed, exuding a luxurious aura.


    The man was Willis.


    The woman was Susan.


    They walked shoulder to shoulder towards the main entrance of the hotel, chatting as they walked.


    The telescope provided a clear view, and even Susan¡¯s smiling face was visible.


    She looked so happy.


    The smile on Helena¡¯s face froze.

 Chapter 64: Running into Jay (1)

    Helena felt as if someone had taken a sharp knife and stabbed it fiercely into her heart, causing excruciating pain.


    Her face turned as pale as paper, and she could barely stand.


    She gripped the railing with force, her fingers turning white.


    This was the man who just this morning reluctantly let her go, saying he wanted to shrink her and carry her in his pocket, taking her wherever he went.


    In the blink of an eye, he was casually chatting andughing with his ex-girlfriend, strolling together.


    Indeed, a man¡¯s words were deceitful ghosts.


    Shirley was rmed by Helena¡¯s state, holding her hand and anxiously asking, ¡°Helena, what¡¯s wrong? Are you feeling unwell? Is it the fear of heights from the Ferris wheel?¡±


    Helena nodded numbly, her chest rising and falling rapidly.


    After what seemed like an eternity, her paleplexion gradually returned to normal, and she gave a self-deprecating smile.


    No wonder Willis didn¡¯t want her to go out. He imed it was due to the chaotic state of the world, but it was probably just to prevent her from witnessing him being affectionate with Susan.


    She couldn¡¯t understand him. If he couldn¡¯t forget Susan, why did he divorce her and marry Helena? Why did he insist on getting entangled with Susan?


    Helena sat quietly, expressionless, saying nothing.


    Shirley sat beside her, reaching out to touch her head. ¡°Do you feel nauseous?¡±


    Helena forced a smile. ¡°How much longer until we can get off?¡±


    Shirley checked her watch. ¡°Soon, just a little more.¡±


    After a few more minutes, the Ferris wheel descended.


    Helena and Shirley got off together.


    Shirley looked at her with concern. ¡°Feeling better? Let me take you home.¡±


    ¡°Feeling a bit better. Take me to The Capital Hotel instead.¡±


    Shirley realized, ¡°Are you going to see that handsome guy, Willis?¡±


    Helena nodded.


    She wanted to witness firsthand the scene of the two intimately dating, so she couldpletely let go and leave him without any lingering attachments.


    Shirley fetched her car and drove Helena to The Capital Hotel.


    After getting out of the car, Helena said, ¡°Thank you. You can go back now.¡±


    Shirley didn¡¯t think too much about Helena¡¯s earlier abnormal reaction, assuming it was fear of heights. She replied, ¡°Alright, contact me if you need anything.¡±


    Helena just uttered an ¡°okay¡± and walked into The Capital Hotel.


    Helena took a deep breath, pushed open the door, and saw arge round table with seven or eight people sitting around it. Two assistants were standing by.


    Ryan and Owen sat in the main seats.


    Ryan sat next to Willis.


    Owen sat next to Susan.


    Willis and Susan were not sitting together.


    The assistants held contracts in their hands, indicating a business engagement rather than the imagined private meeting between a man and a woman.


    Helena¡¯s heart, which had been pushed up to her throat, suddenly thudded back down into her stomach.


    But as soon as she thought of the two of them getting out of the same car and chatting intimately just moments ago, with Susanughing so happily, her entire being felt uneasy again.


    Helena sat down quietly, expressionless, politely nodded at the cold-faced Ryan, and apologetically said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I walked into the wrong room.¡±


    Without waiting for his response, she quickly closed the door.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Because Ryan¡¯s face was too ugly, and so was Owen¡¯s. They looked darker one after another, and Helena didn¡¯t want to see them in the nightmare tonight.


    Helena turned and left.


    Walking about twenty steps away, she suddenly heard Willis¡¯s voice behind her, ¡°Helena.¡±


    Helena¡¯s steps paused, then she walked even faster, determined to ignore him. She was angry that he and Susan shared a car when thepany had so many vehicles. Why did they have to ride in the same one?


    Willis, with his long legs, caught up in strides.


    Helena decided to briskly walk away, determined to make him regret sharing a car with Susan.

 Chapter 65: Running into Jay (2)

    Turning a corner without paying attention to the road, Helena hastily collided with someone.


    The person was exceptionally tall, with a thin shirt that revealed well-defined chest muscles.


    Helena¡¯s face stung from the impact, especially her nose, which felt sore and made her eyes teary.


    She quickly covered her aching nose and apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. Is your nose okay?¡± The man¡¯s voice was somewhat cold, but distinctive, like a foreigner speaking Chinese, a bit rigid.


    Helena raised her head.


    She saw a handsome and profound face with short hair.


    Before she could see his features clearly, she was captivated by his eyes.


    They were very beautiful eyes, deep and dark like the sea, mncholic and cold. The double eyelids were deeply folded, and the eyshes were ck and thick.


    Looking into his eyes, Helena¡¯s heart trembled.


    Those eyes were so much like Jay¡¯s, even more so than Willis¡¯s.


    Thoughts of Jay, who had died saving her, made her heart ache again.


    At first, it was a dull pain, but after a while, it became a sharp, twisting agony.


    She clutched her chest, leaning against the wall, her face turning extremely pale.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± The man reached out to help her.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Before his fingers touched Helena¡¯s arm, she forcefully pushed him away.


    A tall figure loomed over.


    Willis rushed over.


    He pulled Helena into his arms, exhibiting possessiveness. Cupping her face, his expression was cool, but his eyes showed concern as he asked, ¡°Where did you hit yourself?¡±


    Helena shook her head, and when she wanted to look at the man she collided with, he had disappeared.


    She stared at the empty hallway, lost in thought for a moment.


    Willis noticed the daze in her eyes.


    The man just now looked exactly like the one she saw at Parvis Vige yesterday, and was quite simr to the man in the photo Josh provided, in terms of height and physique. The only differences were the clothes and hairstyle.


    A shadow crossed Willis¡¯s eyes, but his face showed no emotion. He asked in a calm tone, ¡°Do you know that man from just now?¡±


    Helena truthfully replied, ¡°No, I don¡¯t know him. I just felt his eyes were familiar.¡±


    Willis pondered for a moment, seemingly assessing the credibility of her words.


    After a while, he nonchntly helped her into the elevator, pressed the button for the first floor, and asked gently, ¡°Why did youe out?¡±


    Helena stared fixedly at the elevator¡¯s number buttons, absentmindedly responding, ¡°Shirley needed a partial image of M. H¡¯s hermitage painting for the museum¡¯s selection of restoration artists. I painted it and gave it to her. It happened on my way here.¡±


    Willis took her hand, examined it carefully, and remarked, ¡°Can your hand still paint?¡±


    Helena withdrew her hand, saying indifferently, ¡°Painting primarily uses my right hand, so it¡¯s not a big issue.¡±


    ¡°What do you want to eat? I¡¯ll take you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already eaten with Shirley.¡± Helena still avoided looking at him.


    Willis sensed her difort and exined, ¡°Susan has joined her father¡¯spany as his assistant. The Santana Group and the  Varley Corporation have many business coborations, so it¡¯s inevitable that we will run into each other. But rest assured, I¡¯ll be careful.¡±


    Helena pursed her lips without responding.


    She knew about Susan.


    Several times she witnessed Susan hugging and cuddling Willis, acting overly intimate.


    That woman was beautiful, coquettish, good at acting cute and charming, with thick skin and many tricks. Over time, which man could resist?


    Moreover, she was Willis¡¯s childhood sweetheart, with over a decade of affection, and also the prospective daughter-inw acknowledged by Ryan.


    With heavy thoughts, Helena walked out of the hotel lobby with Willis.


    Seeing them, the driver immediately started the car and drove over.


    Willis instructed the driver, ¡°Take Helena home.¡±


    The driver got out of the car, opened the rear door, and respectfully said, ¡°Madam, please get in.¡±


    Helena thanked him and got into the car.


    As soon as she entered, she smelled a sweet and nauseating perfume ¨C Susan¡¯s.


    Covering her nose, she felt a strong repulsion.


    It was like taking a bite of an apple and finding half a worm inside, with the other half already swallowed.


    Willis watched the car leave and returned to the hotel.


    Entering the lobby, he picked up his phone and called his assistant, instructing, ¡°Go check the surveince footage on the third-floor corridor of the hotel. Find out the name and background of the person Helena collided with just now.¡±


    Half an hourter, the assistant handed the information to Willis.


    He took it, lowered his gaze, and stared at the name on the document. His eyes gradually turned icy.


    In ck and white, the name was written clearly: Jay Santana.


    Jay.


    Jay is the one that Helena had been thinking about day and night.

 Chapter 66: I won’t betray you(1)

    Willis¡¯s grip on the documents tightened as he continued reading.


    Jay is the Vice Chairman of Sam Auction House, and his father is named Sam Santana.


    Sam is the main founder and thergest shareholder of Sam Auction House.


    Sam Auction House, affiliated with Sam Arts and Crafts Import and Export Trading Company, has an annual turnover of over a hundred billion, making it one of thergest antique auction houses.


    Perhaps Sam is too low-key, or maybe he doesn¡¯t engage much in domestic activities; Willis hasn¡¯t heard much about this person.


    However, with such a family background, they certainly aren¡¯tcking in money.


    He stared at the documents, lost in thought.


    Three years ago, Helena chose him over Jay.


    At that time, he was paralyzed from the waist down due to a spinal cord injury from a car ident, left with nothing but money.


    Helena married him mainly because the family needed money, so he always thought Jay was a poor guy.


    Looking at the information now, Jay doesn¡¯t seem to becking in money.


    Seeing Willis frowning while holding a stack of documents, Ryan, who was sitting beside him, asked, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Willis casually replied, ¡°Just checking some information someone had gathered.¡±


    Without revealing much, he discreetly folded the documents and set them aside.


    Ryan, sharp-eyed, caught a glimpse of ¡°Sam¡± and pondered for a moment before saying, ¡°Sam, I know a bit about this person. ording to the family tree, I should address him as my cousin. His grandfather and my grandfather were cousins. However, their branch immigrated abroad many years ago, so we¡¯ve grown distant.¡±


    To Willis, it sounded like a distant rtive.


    Due to Helena¡¯s reasons, he didn¡¯t want to have any connection with Jay.


    Ryan asked, ¡°Why are you investigating him?¡±


    ¡°Just helping a friend with some inquiries,¡± Willis casually replied, providing a simple excuse.


    After finishing their business discussions and having dinner, the group got up to leave.


    Ryan stopped Willis and said, ¡°Can you take Susan home?¡±


    Willis subtly furrowed his brows and replied, ¡°When I came, you mentioned Susan was near the office, so I picked her up on my way here. But now that we¡¯re going home, she can ride with Owen; it¡¯s on the way for them, unlike me.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s expression instantly darkened, but in front of Owen and the others, he couldn¡¯t easily react.


    Being bluntly rejected by Willis, especially in front of so many people, made Susan lose face, and her dislike for Helena grew even stronger.


    If it weren¡¯t for the convenient timing of her grandmother¡¯s death, they would have divorced long ago.


    In their family, Susan silently cursed Helena and her grandmother.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Back at home, Helena was sitting on the sofa, reading an ancient book, when she heard the door opening and smelled alcohol. Assuming Willis had gotten drunk, she hurriedly stood up and went to the shoe cab to fetch slippers.


    It was something she used to do.


    Willis held her, gently preventing her from getting the slippers, and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t drink much, and my legs have been fine for a long time. Don¡¯t take care of me like before; you are my wife,¡± not a servant.


    He didn¡¯t say thetter part aloud because Helena had been doing the work of a maid before.


    Helena pursed her lips, standing still. She felt a bit uneasy, especially after Willis and Susan shared a car.


    Willis changed his shoes by himself.


    Helena helped him take off his watch and then started to unbutton his suit jacket.


    Although it was just a gesture, she actually wanted to check if there were any traces of Susan on him.


    While taking off the suit, she covertly checked his cor, looking for lipstick marks. She even sniffed lightly to check for perfume, trying to determine if Susan had hugged him and where.


    She thought she concealed it well, but Willis noticed everything.


    Amused, he leaned down and gently rubbed his nose against hers, teasing, ¡°Why are you sniffing around like a little dog?¡±


    Being caught on the spot, Helena felt a bit embarrassed.

 Chapter 67: I won’t betray you(2)

    She remained silent, turned her back, and hung his coat on the nearby rack.


    Willis guessed her little thoughts and said, ¡°When we went to the hotel, my dad arranged for Susan to get in my car. As soon as she got in, I told her that I¡¯m a married man and asked her to keep her distance to avoid unnecessary trouble. During dinner, she wanted to sit next to me, but I found an excuse to avoid it. After dinner, my dad wanted me to give her a ride, and I refused. Helena, I won¡¯t betray you. If you don¡¯t believe it, you can check the car¡¯s dash cam or ask my assistant.¡±


    Having said that, there was no room for falsehood.


    Helena¡¯s suppressed anger dissipatedpletely, and she even felt a bit touched.


    Touched that he was willing to go against Ryan for her sake.


    That was his father, the one who also determined his future.


    Helena extended her arms and silently hugged him, wanting to say something affectionate to praise him, but the more she tried, the more unsure she became of what to say.


    Flirting wasn¡¯t her forte.


    Her grandparents¡¯ rtionship was very subtle, expressing love silently. Her parents divorced early, and her mother¡¯s fiery temperament made her feel morefortable with a good scolding than a sweetpliment. Helena had learned a fair share of retorts while dealing with Susan.


    She hugged Willis for a while, searched her mind, but failed to utter a single word.


    Willis knew her personality, raised his hand, patted her head, and said in a gentle tone, ¡°It¡¯s okay. Love isn¡¯t something you say; it¡¯s something you make, which means make love¡±


    His words easily led Helena¡¯s ears to turn warm as her face blushed.


    Willis unbuttoned Helena¡¯s nightgown, starting to kiss her along her snowy shoulders.


    Helena protested with a ¡°don¡¯t,¡± but her entire body became tender, as if electrified, and she softened in an instant.


    She tried to push his hands away, but at some point, her hands had already wrapped around his waist.


    The two entangled together¡­


    Willis¡¯s index finger touches her lips, rubbing them. Helena wants Willis to kiss her so deeply.


    Her hands went down to neck, slowly making their way to her breasts. She let out a small sigh as he pinched the nipple, twisting it delicately.


    Then her touch goes down to the waist, stroking it up and down with her fingertips.


    Until finally his middle and index fingers touch her core, sending a delightful sensation throughout her body.


    He rubs her clitoris slowly, then faster and faster until her knees can¡¯t hold the weight of her body.  Helena craved Marco so much, wanted him to fuck her, and hoped for him to smash her into pieces until she couldn¡¯t wake up the next day.


    The room is filled to the brim with her sighs and moans. And the situation was so crazy that Helena was calling Marco¡¯s name over and over again in frustration. She moaned, the body really could barely bear the sensation. Until finally she felt an overwhelming relief and her body was sshed by her own orgasmic juices.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Afterwards, Willis held her and said, ¡°These days, I¡¯ve started quitting smoking and drinking. Let¡¯s prepare to have a child.¡±


    This was the second time he brought up the idea of having a child.


    Helena didn¡¯t want to have children.


    She no longer felt secure in this marriage.


    But when she thought about what her mother had said ¨C to strive for it and avoid future regrets ¨C she nodded and said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Willis¡¯s dark eyes suddenly lit up, sparkling like a starry sky.


    He pulled her into his arms, seeming somewhat incredulous, ¡°Are you really willing to have a child for me?¡±


    Helena hesitated for a moment, ¡°Let¡¯s give it a try.¡±


    Willis, holding her close, kissed her lips firmly, and his fingers gently stroked her fair shoulders, ¡°Let¡¯s have a son. If we have a son in the first pregnancy, we won¡¯t need a second. Childbirth is too much suffering.¡±


    Helena agreed, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Willis rubbed her hair and smiled, ¡°Thank you for your hard work.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do.¡± Helena nestled into his embrace, but thoughts of Ryan¡¯s dark, coal-like face shed in her mind.


    She feared that if she had a child, Ryan might tear them apart. It would be tough on the child to grow up without a father.


    After falling asleep, Helena started dreaming again.


    She dreamt of thirteen years ago when she went to the hospital to see Jay for thest time.


    Hey on the hospital bed, covered in injuries, wearing an oxygen mask. His deep, ck eyes gazed at her with a mncholy and painful look.


    Helena felt a heart-wrenching pain and was about to walk toward him.


    Suddenly, Jay disappeared.


    She frantically searched everywhere but couldn¡¯t find Jay. Instead, Willis appeared out of nowhere.


    He held her, cradled her face gently, and kissed her tenderly, saying, ¡°Come home with me. Let¡¯s have a child, and I will treat you well.¡±


    In her dream, Helena instinctively nestled into Willis¡¯s embrace, holding onto his waist, murmuring softly, ¡°Willis¡­¡±


    Willis, who had been awake all this time, heard the soft call, and the icy knot in his heart instantly melted.


    For the first time in three years, she called his name in her dream.


    Finally, ¡°Jay¡± was no longer a curse.


    He extended his arm, embracing her in his arms, with a smile on his lips and starry gleams in his eyes.

 Chapter 68: Deep Affection(1)

    Restoration of the painting.


    It took Helena three days to piece together the M. H painting.


    It was so fragmented that it gave her a headache.


    After piecing it together, she began the restoration process.


    After oveing numerous difficulties, she finally restored the painting without a trace.


    Uponpletion, she was quite satisfied with the painting.


    With the restoration done, the next step was to find a buyer.


    She called Shirley, ¡°Which auction house is more reliable?¡±


    Shirley was surprised, ¡°You fixed such a broken painting in such a short time?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you can¡¯t see any signs of repair.¡±


    ¡°Goodness, you¡¯re amazing!¡±


    Helena raised an eyebrow slightly and held the phone a bit away from her ear.


    She felt that Shirley and Alick, despite being siblings, had quite different personalities. Shirley was too lively.


    But it was a goodplement to herself-one active, one calm.


    Shirley offered to find out and then hung up.


    Shortly after, she called back, ¡°I¡¯ve inquired. The biggest auction houses are Sam Auction House and Dragon Art Auction. Sam Auction House has a sess rate of up to 80%. These two auction houses have umted more than half of the high-end collectors in the country. These collectors have worths ranging from tens of billions to even over a hundred billion.¡±


    Helena asked, ¡°Which one is closer to us?¡±


    ¡°Sam Auction House is a bit closer.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go to Sam Auction House.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll pick you up.¡±


    An hourter, Helena and Shirley arrived at Sam Auction House.


    As they entered the hall, they found a long queue.


    At least fifty or sixty people were in front of them, all carrying collections from various parts of the country for auction.


    Because before the auction, there were procedures such as appraisal, verification, and negotiation of the starting price, the process was quite cumbersome.


    Since they had alreadye, Helena and Shirley joined the line.


    From morning until noon, the queue in front of them only decreased by half, and both of them were tired from standing.


    Helena said, ¡°Maybe we should try another one.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a bit longer; the other one might not have fewer people.¡± Shirley bent down to massage her sore legs.


    After a while, she stood up and stretched, suddenly eximing, ¡°Look, handsome guy!¡±


    Her voice was not soft.


    Everyone turned to look at her.


    But they only nced at her and shifted their gaze to Helena, who was standing next to her.


    Because Helena was just too eye-catching.


    With her ck hair, red lips, white glowing oval face, beautiful autumn water eyes with a calm gaze, she stood there gracefully like someone who had traveled through time from an ancient painting.


    In full view of everyone, Helena felt a bit embarrassed.


    She turned her head to avoid everyone¡¯s gaze and followed Shirley¡¯s pointing direction.


    The man was indeed handsome.


    He was tall, wearing a stylish ck jacket, ck trousers, with short hair, and had a handsome and profound facial features. Especially those eyes, dark and deep, with a story of their own, piercing Helena¡¯s heart.


    At a nce, Helena recognized him.


    He was the man she bumped into at the Capital Hotel a few days ago.


    He had a pair of eyes that resembled Jay¡¯s.


    Thinking of Jay, Helena felt a tightness in her chest, making it difficult to breathe, and her heartache gradually contracted into a small lump.


    She pressed her chest, frowning slightly.


    It seemed that the man noticed them and told the people behind him before leaving.


    Not long after, a staff member in a suit with a tie came over to Helena and said, ¡°Excuse me, are you Miss Helena?¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°Yes, I am.¡±


    ¡°Our young director would like to see you.¡±


    Helena was slightly surprised, ¡°I don¡¯t know your young director.¡±


    The staff member nced at the painting she held, ¡°Aren¡¯t you here to auction ancient paintings?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Our young director wants to see the painting in your hands.¡±

 Chapter 69: Deep Affection(2)

    Helena and Shirley followed the staff, taking the elevator to the office of their young director.


    The office was spacious, decorated with an antique style.


    The young director sat on a ck leather chair.


    He looked very young, appearing to be around twenty-five or twenty-six years old. He had a handsome and neat appearance, dressed in a ck jacket. His modern attire seemed a bit out of ce with the antique-style decoration.


    The young director was the man Helena had seen in the hall earlier, the one with eyes so simr to Jay¡¯s.


    Helena was stunned.


    Up close, the man¡¯s eyes looked even more like Jay¡¯s, almost identical.


    However, the resemnce was only in the eyes. Other features such as the nose, face shape, skin tone, and height were dissimr.


    In Helena¡¯s memory, Jay was a fair and slender young man, as if he had walked out of a manga.


    The man in front of her had a darkerplexion, a strong and robust physique, short hair, and sharp, well-defined facial features. All masculine characteristics were distinctly visible.


    He was a handsome and mature man with sharp features.


    Shirley¡¯s eyes began to shine again, whispering, ¡°The young director is so young, handsome, and stylish.¡±


    The man stood up from his chair, striding toward them with long legs.


    Helena stood quietly, staring directly into his eyes.


    Those eyes were like keys unlocking painful memories for her. When opened, they revealedyers of untouchable pain.


    The man reached Helena and extended his right hand, politely saying, ¡°Hello, Helena, I¡¯m Jay.¡±


    Upon hearing the name ¡°Jay,¡± Helena hesitated for a moment. Subconsciously, she looked at the hand he was extending-long, powerful fingers, with a thin callus on both sides of the index finger.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    It was the hand of someone who had held a gun for a long time.


    Shirley, seeing Helena standing motionless, gave her a nudge, ¡°Helena, shake hands with him.¡±


    Helena then reached out to shake his hand.


    They shook hands for a very long time, longer than a normal handshake.


    Since Helena saw Jay¡¯s eyes, her mind had been in a daze, and she was not aware that the handshake had taken too long.


    It wasn¡¯t until Shirley coughed and said, ¡°Helena, quickly open the painting,¡± that Helena realized she had lost herposure. She hurriedly withdrew her hand from his.


    Jay reached for the painting, and with a slight lift of his eyshes, he nced at Helena¡¯s left hand, which had been injured by a door being mmed.


    Such a beautiful set of fingers now had a scar, and the nails were still tinged with a dark purplish color, notpletely healed.


    His gaze turned cold, and he took the painting, unfolding it without showing any emotion. He carefully examined the image, the paper, and the several red seals on it, saying, ¡°This is a genuine work by M. H. How much do you n to sell it for?¡±


    Shirley hastily said, ¡°I checked online, and the transaction prices over the years have all been over ten million.¡±


    Jay ignored her and asked Helena again, ¡°How much do you n to sell it for?¡±


    Pale-faced, Helena was absent-minded, absentmindedly saying, ¡°Whatever.¡±


    Jay ced the painting on the table and calmly stated, ¡°I¡¯ll offer twelve million. I¡¯ll buy this painting.¡±


    Helena was extremely surprised, ¡°You want to buy it?¡±


    Jay nodded slightly, ¡°My father is an avid collector.¡±


    Seeing that he was serious, Helena regained herposure and said, ¡°This painting is severely damaged. I repaired it, and there¡¯s no need to offer such a high price.¡±


    Whether it had been repaired or not could be determined by instruments.


    Helena didn¡¯t want to hide it, and she couldn¡¯t hide it.


    Jay looked down at her with an expressionless face, ¡°Money can¡¯t buy what I like. Let¡¯s settle at twelve million. Cash or bank transfer?¡±


    Helena hesitated for a moment, ¡°Either is fine.¡±


    ¡°Provide the ount number; I¡¯ll have the finance department transfer the money to you.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t expect him to be so straightforward. After a moment¡¯s hesitation, she said, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to have an appraiser authenticate it first?¡±


    Jay nced at the painting on the table, his tone decisive, ¡°M. H¡¯s works are top-notch, and it¡¯s hard for ordinary people to imitate. Even if they do, they can only imitate the form but not capture his charm. This painting has both form and spirit, a genuine piece. The seals on it are also genuine. I trust my own eyes.¡±


    Helena wanted to say more.


    Shirley touched her hand, indicating that she shouldn¡¯t say more.


    Helena then provided her bank ount.


    It seemed that the young director had enabled the real-timerge-sum transfer function. After signing the contract, Helena received a notification of twelve million credited to her ount.


    Things went too smoothly, and Helena felt a bit unreal, dazed and dreamlike.


    After expressing her ¡°thank you¡± to Jay, she left with Shirley.


    Outside the door, she heard the man call out from behind, ¡°Helena.¡±


    That ¡°Helena¡± sounded as if it contained deep affection.


    For some reason, Helena¡¯s eyes suddenly had a thinyer of tears.

 Chapter 70: He’s not the Jay I mentioned (1)

    Although the two Jays were very different, Helena suddenly felt that the one who had just called her was Jay.


    She paused for a moment, raising her hand to wipe her eyes.


    Turning around, she looked at Jay¡¯s handsome and sharp face.


    It was a facepletely different from Jay¡¯s.


    She regained herposure, smiling, ¡°Did you call me?¡±


    Jay picked up a business card from the cardholder on the table and walked towards her, ¡°This is my business card. If you need anything in the future, you can contact me directly.¡±


    Helena reached out to take it, saying, ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°We have a concentration of high-end collectors here, and there are many enthusiasts of ancient books and paintings. If there are clients in need of restoration, can we contact you?¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°Of course.¡±


    Jay¡¯s lips curled up, ¡°That¡¯s settled then. We¡¯ll contact you when the timees.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Helena put his business card into her bag.


    As they left, they took the elevator.


    Shirley nced at Helena, ¡°I feel that your rtionship with him is unusual, but listening to you two talk, it sounds like you just met.¡±


    Helena put her hands in the pockets of her trench coat, stared at the elevator buttons, and absentmindedly replied, ¡°His eyes resemble someone I know.¡±


    Shirley thought for a moment, ¡°Like Willis? Their eyes do look very simr-big eyes, dark pupils, deep double eyelids, and long, dense eyshes. Handsome people tend to look alike, and each ugly person has their own unique ugliness.¡±


    Helena remained silent.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She didn¡¯t like revealing her personal matters all at once.


    After getting into the car,


    Helena asked, ¡°Is your Alipay ount your phone number?¡±


    Shirley started the car, casually saying, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Helena picked up her phone, lightly swiping a few times.


    After a while, Shirley heard her phone ringing.


    During a red light, she took out her phone for a nce.


    Upon seeing it, she was greatly surprised.


    Paypal received a transfer of one hundred thousand .


    The sender was Helena.


    Shirley panicked, ¡°Helena, I can¡¯t ept this money. I¡¯ll transfer it back to you immediately.¡±


    Helena held her hand, ¡°It¡¯s not much. Take it and have some tea.¡±


    ¡°A hundred thousand isn¡¯t much? It¡¯s even higher than my annual sry at the museum.¡±


    ¡°Just take it. You¡¯ve apanied me these days, and it¡¯s a small token of appreciation. Don¡¯t refuse; it¡¯ll be impolite.¡±


    Shirley hesitated for a moment, leaned over, hugged her, and nted a big kiss on her cheek, ¡°Thank you, Helena.¡±


    Helena smiled, lowered her head, and sent a message to Willis.


    Inviting him to the revolving restaurant for a Western meal tonight.


    Willis received the message, instructed his assistant to handle the evening¡¯s arrangements, and personally replied.


    At seven in the evening,


    The two arrived at the revolving restaurant, one after the other.


    The restaurant was located on the top floor of the tallest building in Kyoto.


    It was a circr restaurant with entirely transparent floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a 360-degree view of Kyoto.


    It rotated every two hours, providing a panoramic view of the city lights.


    Due to the impromptu decision, they couldn¡¯t secure a VIP room.


    They settled in the main dining area.


    Although itcked the privacy of a private room, it was still eptable.


    The restaurant was elegantly decorated, with golden lights shining on the frosted ss, creating a beautiful scene like a fairnd. A violin yed softly.


    The atmosphere was incredibly romantic.


    Most of the diners were couples.


    As they enjoyed their Western meal, Helena nced at the colorful night scene outside and said to Willis with a smile, ¡°Last time you brought me here for dinner, I was happy the whole night.¡±


    Willis chuckled, ¡°That easily satisfied? Then I should bring you here more often.¡±


    ¡°asionally is good. If it¡¯s too frequent, it¡¯ll lose its novelty.¡±


    ¡°That makes sense.¡± Willis pushed the steak towards Helena after cutting it. ¡°Eat it while it¡¯s hot.¡±

 Chapter 71: He’s not the Jay I mentioned (2)

    Helena took a few bites with her fork; the beef was tender and had a great texture.


    Midway through the meal.


    She took out a card from her bag and pushed it towards Willis, saying generously, ¡°This is what Sister earned, spend it as you wish. The password is your birthday.¡±


    Willis curled his lips, teasing, ¡°Sure enough, women turn bad when they have money.


    Helena chuckled, raising her chin, ¡°Of course, wealth determines family status.¡±


    Willis was amused by her, reaching over to ruffle her hair, ¡°Look at our Helena, flourishing in her sess.¡±


    Helena pouted, ¡°Are you praising me or mocking me?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m praising you.¡±


    Helena gave him a sly look, ¡°I¡¯m not stupid.¡±


    Having said that, she picked up a piece of beef and fed it to him.


    Willis leisurely chewed, swallowing the meat before asking, ¡°Did you sell the painting you repaired a few days ago?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I found a buyer I liked. And the payment was transferred on the spot.¡±


    Willis praised her, ¡°Netting over ten million, a great return on investment. You¡¯re impressive.¡±


    Helena put down her knife and fork, cleared her throat, and looked at him with bright eyes, saying seriously, ¡°I want to earn a lot of money in the future, work hard to deserve you.¡±


    Willis smiled, cing his hand on top of hers, ¡°You are more than worthy of me now; there¡¯s no need to work too hard.¡±


    Helena was deeply moved, feeling both joy and mncholy in her heart. She said in a choked voice, ¡°I want to be excellent to the point where even your father thinks I¡¯m worthy of you.¡±


    Willis fell silent for a moment, gently holding her hand in his, his dark eyes softening, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the hardship you¡¯ve endured.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    Suddenly, Helena¡¯s phone rang.


    She took out her phone from her bag.


    While taking out her phone, she identally brought out a business card, but she didn¡¯t notice.


    ncing at the caller ID, it was a call from Zena.


    Helena answered, ¡°Mom, is something wrong?¡±


    Zena spoke quickly, ¡°I just received a text message, indicating that there¡¯s an extra five million in the ount. Did you transfer it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I transferred it at noon. The confirmation took a bit of time.¡±


    Zenained, ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you? Don¡¯t give me the money Willis gives you. I have a pension, enough to cover expenses.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not from him; I earned it myself.¡±N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Zena was extremely surprised, ¡°How did you make so much money?¡±


    ¡°I restored a painting and coincidentally found a buyer who liked it. You can spend the money freely; buy whatever you want. By the way, n a trip when you have time to rx.¡±


    ¡°You brat, always spending money recklessly.¡± Despite her words, Zena was incredibly touched.


    After hanging up the phone, Helena looked at Willis with a bright smile.


    However, she noticed that his expression had be gloomy at some point, and he was staring down at a business card beside her bag.


    Following his gaze,


    It was the business card that Jay had given her before leaving.


    Helena casually picked up the card, putting it in her bag, saying, ¡°This is the business card of the deputy head of Sam Auction House. We might need it in the future.¡±


    Willis lifted one corner of his lips, his emotionsplex, ¡°Did you sell your painting to him?¡±


    Helena honestly replied, ¡°Yes, Shirley told me that Sam Auction House is reputable, so we went there. While waiting in line for the appraisal in the hall, Jay sent someone to bring us to his office. After seeing the painting, he said his father likes the painting and happened to be missing an Ink Lotus painting. ording to the auction prices in previous years, he bought it.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes changed, a kind of indescribable coldness, his lips slightly raised, carrying a hint of self-deprecation, and he said coldly, ¡°Did I run out of money, so you went to ask him for money.¡±


    Helena was stunned.


    This was too hurtful.


    It not only denied her capabilities but also insulted her character.


    It was her hard-earned money; how did it be her asking Jay for money?


    Like a bucket of cold water poured over her head, Helena¡¯s good mood waspletely ruined.


    She looked at Willis with a resentful gaze, a deeply wounded expression on her face.


    Willis hated seeing her like this.


    Silently watching her for a few seconds, hepromised first.


    Raising his hand to rub his forehead, he dispelled the chill in his eyes, and slowly said, ¡°I spoke too harshly just now. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Helena bit her lip, not saying a word.


    After a pause, Willis grabbed her hand on the table, gently rubbing the back of her hand, and said tenderly, ¡°I don¡¯t like you getting too close to that person.¡±


    This was his way of seeking reconciliation.


    Helena took the opportunity to let it go, no longer insisting.


    After carefully considering his thoughts, she responded slowly, ¡°Although Jay Santana¡¯s name is also Jay, the Jay I mentioned passed away thirteen years ago. Hisst name was Smith, Jay Smith.¡±

 Chapter 72: If you don’t leave, I’ll be with you

    Josh and Susan got into the car.


    Josh started the car and began reversing.


    Susan fastened her seatbelt and said, ¡°I spent some money to find the nurse who took care of Helena¡¯s grandmother that day, and I got some information. The nurse said Helena¡¯s grandmother¡¯s health, although not good, would have been okay for another two or three months. On the day they divorced, the olddy cleared everyone out of the ward and secretly turned off the instruments on her body. You see, these people from small families are quite scheming. In order to prevent Helena and Willis from divorcing, the olddy actually yed suicide.¡±


    Josh remained silent for a moment, ¡°Back then, Helena married Willis to treat her grandmother. Now, the olddy sacrificed herself to help Helena. The bond between this grandmother and granddaughter is exceptionally deep.¡±


    However, Susan didn¡¯t see it that way.


    Sheined, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for the old woman dead at that time, those two would have divorced long ago. As long as Helena leaves, Willis will eventually reconcile with me. It¡¯s all because of that dead woman, ruining my good opportunity!¡±


    ¡°Respect the deceased, will you?¡± Josh stepped on the gas, elerating.


    Susan leaned against the car window, propping her cheek on her hand, and looked at him for a long time. Suddenly, an idea came to her.


    She moved closer to him, acted coquettish, and said, ¡°Brother, dear brother, how about sacrificing a bit of charm to seduce Helena? What do you think?¡±


    Josh¡¯s face darkened, ¡°Stop talking nonsense. How could I like her?¡±


    Susan pinched his earlobe, ¡°Not liking her, then why are your ears red?¡±


    Josh swatted away her hand, ¡°My ears are red because you pinched them. Stop making these jokes; they¡¯re not funny.¡±


    Meanwhile, in another car.


    Willis was driving with Helena, heading straight along the riverside avenue.


    Helena sensed something was wrong and asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t this the way home?¡±


    ¡°No, taking you somewhere.¡±


    ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know when we get there.¡±


    An hourter, Willis parked the car by the river.


    The wind was strong, and the river water was turbulent, surrounded by dense woods.


    It was eerily quiet around, with no signs of any other people.


    Helena looked out through the car window at the roaring river, wondering, ¡°Why did wee here?¡±


    ¡°Get out of the car.¡± Willis opened the car door and got out.


    Helena followed suit.


    Willis handed her the car keys, ¡°Help me get something from the trunk.¡±


    Helena, confused, took the car keys and walked to the rear of the car.


    Opening the trunk, she was pleasantly surprised by what she saw-a trunk filled with red roses.


    Legendary roses imported from the Nethends.


    With petals asrge as bowls, velvety texture, captivatingly red, exuding both retro charm and elegance.


    So beautiful.


    This was the first time Willis had ever given her flowers.


    Casually, Willis said, ¡°I didn¡¯t know what flowers you liked. The florist said red roses represent sincere love, so I chose them.¡±


    ¡°Sincere love,¡± these five words were more heart-stirring than the roses in the trunk.


    A flood of emotions welled up inside Helena. She looked up at him, eyes shining with gratitude.


    Caught in her intense gaze, Willis felt a spark ignite within him.


    Taking a step forward, he took her wrist, pulled her into his arms, tilted her face, and began kissing her, his hand exploring beneath her clothes.


    Helena restrained his hand, ¡°Not here.¡±


    She had never been intimate with him outdoors before.


    Bending down, he lifted her up, like carrying a child, and took her to the front of the car.


    With her arm around his neck, Helena smiled, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°You know, making¡­..¡±


    The smile froze on Helena¡¯s face.


    Thinking about what he was going to do next, her earlobes turned slightly red.


    Willis, with one hand holding her, opened the car door and ced her inside.


    He leaned over, starting to kiss her neck casually, saying, ¡°I heard that doing it outdoors increases the chances of having a son.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but cry out, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be so biased towards having a son. What if I give birth to a daughter?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about me. I don¡¯t care. As long as it¡¯s your child, I¡¯ll like it. Mainly, Grandpa and Grandma want a grandson. If you have a son in the first pregnancy, you won¡¯t have to go through it again. If it¡¯s a daughter, you¡¯ll have to endure it once more.¡±


    Helenaughed, ¡°You¡¯re surprisingly good at caring for people.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°With just one, if I don¡¯t take care of you, who will I take care of?¡± His breath brushed against her neck, warm and moist.


    Helena felt an inexplicable ticklish sensation.


    This man, always cold and restrained, exuded an aura that discouraged others from approaching, remained indifferent and reserved.


    During the three years of their marriage, they had always been polite and used few words, let alone sweet talk.


    Recently, as if he had suddenly awakened, his words were affectionate and made her feel tickled.


    Helena wasn¡¯t used to it.


    As her clothes were lifted by him, her skin touched the cool leather seat.


    An unusual excitement surged within her.


    Helena abandoned her restraint, wrapped her arms around Willis¡¯s waist, and kissed him back softly. She whispered, ¡°Why are you so good at this? ¡±


    His fingers were back at work, and within moments she was writhing beneath his touch.


    ¡°Going toe,¡± she murmured.


    ¡°Not yet you¡¯re not.¡± He slowed his pace, teasing her swollen flesh as she rocked her hips into his touch, vying for more attention. ¡°Together,¡± he whispered, kissing her lips again. ¡°Grip her a little tighter.¡±


    Helena obeyed.


    ¡°That¡¯s it,¡± he grunted. ¡°Fuck.¡±


    He was so sexy like this, so masculine. Helena loved how bossy he was during sex. How vocal.


    Still kissing me, Willis returned his attention to herdy bits, making white light spark behind my eyelids.


    ¡°I¡¯m so close,¡± She whispered against the onught of his kisses.


    ¡°Take your time. I¡¯m in no rush.¡±


    she¡¯d forgotten that about him-his stamina¡­and a delicious shback of their night together ripped through my brain.


    ¡°Willlis¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it. Come for me. I¡¯m right behind you.¡±


    Helena pumped her hand firmly up and down, her climax crashing through me just as I felt his hot, sticky release. Together.


    She actually wanted to ask, did you and Susan do this too?


    Willis guessed her thoughts.


    As a kind of punishment, he bit her shoulder lightly.


    He whispered, ¡°I haven¡¯t reached that point with her. You are my first woman. Remember to take responsibility for me.¡±


    Usually, these words were said by women to men.


    When spoken by a man, it seemed especially flirtatious and a bit amusing.


    Helena chuckled, making a promise, ¡°Alright, if you don¡¯t leave, I will be with you.¡±

 Chapter 73: Difficult to Part, Difficult to Leave (1)

    One weekter.


    Helena was in the restoration room, finishing the final touches on an ancient painting in her hands.


    Shirley came to Antique Attic with an important matter to discuss with her.


    Since Helena couldn¡¯t be disturbed during work, Shirley quietly sat on the first floor, sipping tea, waiting for her toe down.


    Busy until noon, Helena descended the stairs.


    Shirley greeted her with a smile, ¡°Helena, on behalf of our archaeological team, I¡¯d like to ask for your help.¡±


    Helena raised an eyebrow, ¡°Archaeology? When did you switch jobs?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not exactly a switch. We¡¯re still within the same system. I used to work at the museum, my mom arranged it for me. But archaeology is my true passion. I studied tomb structures and mechanical traps abroad.¡±


    Helena slightly smiled, ¡°Which tomb are we talking about?¡±


    ¡°Dragon Mount. We¡¯ve discovered a noble tomb there, and we¡¯re conducting emergency excavations. Inside, there are many precious murals and silk paintings that urgently need restoration. I rmended you to our leader.¡±


    Helena pondered for a moment, ¡°Isn¡¯t Dragon Mount quite far from here?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a bit far, in the northwest region.¡±


    Helena hesitated, ¡°Can¡¯t you send the paintings over here for restoration?¡±


    ¡°Helena, to put it bluntly, we value your rapid memory function. Once the tomb is opened, the silk paintings, when exposed to oxygen, will quickly oxidize and fade. But you can memorize them quickly. Your brain works better than a camera.¡±


    Helena asked, ¡°Have you talked to your brother about this?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve already talked to him.¡± Shirley firmly held Helena¡¯s hand, speaking earnestly, ¡°Helena, we need you, the country needs you.¡±


    With such a noble reason presented, what else could Helena say?


    From childhood to adulthood, she had restored countless ancient books and paintings-some handed down through generations, others unearthed from ancient tombs.


    But she had never been down a real tomb pit.


    There was a bit of curiosity, so she agreed.


    That evening, back home.


    Helena entered the bedroom to pack her bags.


    She carefully ced various makeup samples into her cosmetics bag and packed a few changes of clothes.


    This time, she would be away for at least ten days to half a month.


    When Willis returned from work, he saw Helena packing her suitcase, and his gaze instantly cooled.


    He curled his lips, suppressing his emotions, and said, ¡°Helena, if there¡¯s something, say it clearly. Don¡¯t just leave without a word, ying runaway.¡±


    Helena chuckled.


    Every time he said something like this, she felt like he cared a lot about her.


    Whether it was an illusion or not, being cared for like this felt quite happy.


    Helena stood up, walked over to him, and wrapped her arms around his waist. Fluttering her eyshes, she asked, ¡°Are you really so afraid of me running away from home?¡±


    Willis pinched the soft flesh on her waist, ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Being pinched made Helena a bit ticklish. Sheughed, evading his hand, and said, ¡°I¡¯m not running away from home. I¡¯m going to Dragon Mount tomorrow. They¡¯ve excavated a noble tomb from the Warring States period, and some murals and silk paintings need restoration.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression darkened, ¡°When did your store¡¯s business expand so much?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not our store; it¡¯s the archaeological team. Shirley rmended me to their leader.¡±


    Willis¡¯s face became even colder, ¡°Stay away from that infatuated girl Shirley. She keeps causing trouble for you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that about her. She¡¯s your little fangirl. Grandpa taught me so much, and it¡¯s only right for me to contribute to future generations. Those murals and silk paintings are cultural treasures left by our ancestors. If they¡¯re not restored, future generations will never see them.¡±


    ¡°There are so many experts in museums for restoration. Why should it be you?¡± There was a hint of displeasure in Willis¡¯s voice.


    He really couldn¡¯t bear to see her go to such a remote ce and suffer.


    Helena smiled, ¡°I can memorize quickly, work fast, and I¡¯m still young. The older experts will also be transferred eventually. They¡¯re in their fifties, sixties, seventies, or eighties, and they¡¯re full of energy. I¡¯m so young, if I keep dragging my feet, it won¡¯t be convincing.¡±


    Willis didn¡¯t say anything more, released her, walked to the wall, put one hand in his pocket, leaned against the wall, and looked into the dark with an emotionless gaze. He asked without much emotion, ¡°How long will you be gone?¡±


    ¡°About half a month.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s too long. At most, you can only stay for three days.¡±


    Helena looked at him somewhat helplessly, ¡°Mr. Santana, I¡¯ve noticed that you¡¯ve been a bit clingytely.¡±


    Willis raised his wrist to check the time and said, ¡°Dragon Mount is in a mountain vige, right? The environment must be bad, and it¡¯s an ancient tomb. A delicate young girl like you, running into a tomb, mingling with a bunch of wild men, what does that sound like?¡±


    ¡°Shirley will be with me. Although the archaeological team works outdoors, they are not a bunch of wild men.¡±


    Willis looked at his watch, ¡°I¡¯ll apany you.¡±


    Helena gazed at him, somewhat puzzled.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    They had been married for three years, always maintaining a respectful and courteous rtionship. The recent divorce incident seemed to have improved their rtionship a lot. Their current close and affectionate appearance was like a newlywed couple.


    After thinking for a moment, Helena said, ¡°I¡¯m going for work. It can¡¯t be done in just one or two days. At least ten days to half a month. Your work is usually so busy; don¡¯t let me dy your time.¡±

 Chapter 74: Difficult to Part, Difficult to Leave (2)

    Willis pondered for a moment, ¡°Should I assign a few more bodyguards to protect you? Would four be enough?¡±


    Helena, upon hearing this, found it a bit exaggerated. Four well-dressed bodyguards apanying her to restore a mural? The idea of such a spectacle gave her a headache.


    ¡°Just bring one. I¡¯m going for archaeology, not a battle. Others don¡¯t bring bodyguards, and if I do, it would seem ostentatious and have a negative impact.¡±


    ¡°At least two, taking turns to protect you,¡± Willis insisted, leaving no room for objections.


    Helenapromised, ¡°Alright, two it is.¡±


    Willis picked up his phone and went outside to make arrangements.


    Helena shook her head lightly, thinking, ¡°This man, he¡¯s too much, but it feels sweet inside.¡±


    After Willis finished the call and returned to the room, he headed straight to the study. It wasn¡¯t until bedtime that he returned to the bedroom.


    His handsome face remained cold and expressionless, without a word, he lifted the nket andy down, leaving Helena with a chilly back.


    Helena was a bit puzzled for a moment. What was wrong with this man? He was perfectly fine earlier.


    Helena approached him, gently rubbing her face against his back, and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Willis remained silent.


    He felt that he still didn¡¯t hold much weight in her heartpared to ancient paintings. How could she think of leaving for half a month just to restore a few paintings?


    Of course, he couldn¡¯t voice such thoughts. Saying it out loud would be too embarrassing and make him appear petty.


    After waiting for a while and seeing no response from him, Helena lifted a corner of the nket, flipped over, andy opposite him. Propping her chin with her hand, she gazed into his eyes and asked tenderly, ¡°Why so upset?¡±


    Willis stared at her for a while, leaned closer, kissed her forehead, the tip of her nose, then turned her face to kiss her lips, his hand slipping inside her clothes¡­


    Helena was stirred by his actions, her heart pounding like a drum.


    It was amusing to her how he went through such long words just to express what he wanted. A big man like him was unexpectedly awkward.


    After a considerable amount of teasing, Willis finally let her go.


    Helena was left feeling weak and exhausted from his yful antics, her legs like willow branches.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Lying on her side, panting lightly, she looked at Willis¡¯s handsome face and thought, ¡°This man, once he gets passionate, it¡¯s really something.¡±


    The next day, early in the morning.


    Willis personally drove Helena to the airport.


    Just before going through security, he helped her adjust her cor and instructed, ¡°Don¡¯t get too close to those wild men in the archaeological team. Men are all up to no good; if they¡¯re being overly kind to you, it¡¯s because they want to take advantage of you. Don¡¯t eat or drink anything given by strangers. Call me immediately if anything happens, remember?¡±


    Helena felt a bit helpless, but also appreciative. Looking at him, she said, ¡°I remember.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye.¡± Helena waved at him and pulled her suitcase toward the entrance.


    After a few steps, Willis¡¯s voice came from behind, ¡°Helena, did you forget something?¡±


    Helena stopped, looked down, and checked-her phone and suitcase were both there. She turned back and said, ¡°Nothing¡¯s missing, I have everything I need.¡±


    ¡°Think carefully again.¡± Willis¡¯s tone was slightly cold, his posture upright, and his whole aura seemed a bit low.


    Helena thought for a while, suddenly smiled, and put down her suitcase. She walked to his side, tiptoed, and nted a firm kiss on his chin, sweetly saying, ¡°Is this good enough?¡±


    Willis responded with a faint acknowledgment, still showing no sign of a smile on his face, which was full of dignity.


    Helena gently rubbed his face and said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯m going in now. If I don¡¯t board the ne soon, it will be dyed.¡±


    After saying this, she grabbed her suitcase and swiftly entered the airport.


    The two bodyguards followed closely, and as she walked away, Willis¡¯s face became exceptionally somber.

 Chapter 75: Extremely Perilous (1)

    Two hourster, Helena and Shirley disembarked from the ne.


    Someone from the archaeological team came to pick them up at the airport.


    The group traveled by car, bouncing along the road until they reached Dragon Mount, located in the ancient city in the northwest.


    Therge tomb was situated at the foot of the mountain behind the vige, and the mountain itself was named Dragon Mount.


    Surrounded by numerous mountains, Dragon Mount faced a vastke.


    Though remote, this location was an excellent Feng Shui site.


    Guided by the reception staff, Helena and Shirley arrived near the ancient tomb at Dragon Mount.


    The area was deste, with a sparse poption.


    Therge tomb had already been excavated halfway.


    Leading the archaeological team was Professor Gale Linister, a renowned contemporary historian and archaeologist.


    He, along with his team, weed Helena.


    Professor Linister, with gray-white hair, appeared to be in his fifties or sixties.


    His face, with distinct angles, was adorned with ck-framed sses, behind which his eyes shone with a wise light.


    Upon seeing Helena, Professor Linister¡¯s eyes flickered with a hint of surprise.


    He hadn¡¯t expected her to be so young and beautiful.


    In his previous experiences, girls who looked too beautiful were like vases, all style and no substance.


    The team members behind Linister, upon seeing Helena, were equally astonished, staring at her with wide eyes, their gazes filled with admiration.


    Not surprisingly, the archaeological team spent most of their time working outdoors.


    They rarely encountered women, let alone a young beauty like Helena.


    Professor Linister was the first to react. He coughed a couple of times into his fist, extended his right hand, and smilingly said, ¡°Wee, Dr. Parvis.¡±


    The unfamiliar title made Helena feel a bit embarrassed.


    She politely shook his hand and said, ¡°Professor Linister, you can just call me Helena.¡±


    Professor Linister spoke earnestly, ¡°No, you are the specially invited artifact restoration expert for our archaeological team. You should be addressed ordingly.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t insist and just nced at the tomb behind him. She asked, ¡°Can we start now?¡±


    Seeing her being so efficient, not even taking a break, and ready to work directly, Professor Linister couldn¡¯t help but raise his opinion of her.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Professor Linister instructed someone to bring masks and special shoes for Helena, handing them over to her.


    Helena put on the mask, bent down to change her shoes, and followed Professor Linister into the tomb.


    The Warring States tomb was deep, more than ten meters underground.


    The tomb was eerie and the temperature much colder than above ground.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but shiver involuntarily.


    Due to the urgency of the rescue excavation, some parts of the tomb were still being excavated.


    Short-handed, they hired local vigers to assist.


    Many members of the archaeological team were crouched on the ground, using brushes to sweep away the dust from the pottery.


    All of them were men.


    Professor Linister pointed to the mottled murals on the wall and said, ¡°When the tomb was just opened, these murals were colorful and beautiful. However, upon exposure to oxygen, they quickly oxidized. I didn¡¯t even have time to take pictures before they faded like this. What a pity.¡±


    Helena carefully observed the murals on the wall.


    Despite the severe fading and ancient discoloration, she could still recognize the high artistic skill of the painter.


    Ancient people possessed a lot of wisdom that was difficult forter generations to surpass.


    Shirley, staring at the murals, sighed with regret, ¡°Our Helena¡¯s brain is even more effective than a camera. She can remember everything at a nce and reproduce it exactly. We should have invited her earlier.¡±


    Hearing this, Professor Linister¡¯s eyes showed admiration, praising, ¡°Heroes emerge in each generation. Young people of your generation are truly talented.¡±


    Shirley raised an eyebrow, ¡°Of course, my Helena is a rare genius once in a hundred years.¡±


    Helena nudged her elbow lightly, signaling her to stop talking.


    Professor Linisterughed heartily and asked, ¡°I heard you¡¯re Ken¡¯s granddaughter?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about his name for a long time. I¡¯ve cooperated with him many times before. Unfortunately, the old man has passed away.¡±


    Thinking of her deceased grandfather and grandmother, Helena felt a sharp pain in her heart.


    After pausing for a while, she continued to listen to Professor Linister¡¯s introduction.


    The burial items in this tomb were very rich and had great research value.


    Many archaeology experts and team members were invited for this excavation.


    Following Professor Linister, Helena arrived at the main burial chamber.


    Someone carried a piece of silk painting on a tray and approached.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena took a closer look.


    The painting was mottled, severely oxidized, faded, and had holes, making it quite challenging to restore.

 Chapter 76: Extremely Perilous (2)

    Professor Linister pointed to the silk painting and said, ¡°This was taken from the ear chamber next door, found in a coffin. The coffin in the main chamber should also have one. When Little Shen mentioned you, we left it untouched, specifically waiting for you to arrive before opening it.¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°I can memorize quickly. Once I remember it, I can restore it exactly as it is.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Professor Linister gestured to the people beside the coffin, ¡°Open it.¡±


    The coffin had fiveyers, meaning it was fivefold.


    The outer fouryers had already been opened in advance, leaving only the finalyer.


    Shirley, fearing that Helena would be scared, held her fingertips and whispered, ¡°Helena, don¡¯t be afraid. There¡¯s actually nothing scary about dead people. It¡¯s not like they turn into zombies as in the movies.¡±


    Helena nodded and whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t talk; I need to concentrate.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Helena, you can do it!¡±


    After several people opened the coffin together, inside was a decaying skeleton.


    The skeleton was dressed in clothes.


    The clothing was made of silk, rtively well-preserved, still colorful, but visibly oxidizing.


    The burial items in the coffin were diverse, including various gold and silver objects,cquerware, and bronze artifacts.


    As expected, there was a scroll of silk painting beside it.


    Professor Linister bent down to pick up the silk painting and quickly unfolded it.


    A staff member with a camera started taking photos, with the sh turned off to avoid damaging the painting.


    Helena, on the other hand, focused her attention, staring at the silk painting, ready to make a mental note.


    The spacious tomb suddenly fell silent.


    Everyone dared not make a sound, afraid of disturbing her.


    In what seemed like the blink of an eye, the silk painting had faded.


    Professor Linister looked at Helena with a questioning expression.


    Helena nodded, ¡°It¡¯s done. I¡¯ve also memorized the colors of the clothing.¡±


    Professor Linister breathed a sigh of relief and handed the silk painting to his assistant, saying, ¡°Earlier, Shirley mentioned that your brain is more powerful than a camera, and I didn¡¯t believe it. Now I know that the younger generation surpasses the older. ¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°Wait until I finish restoring the painting, and you can praise me then.¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°I believe in you. The painting of M. H¡¯s retreat in the museum exhibition was perfectly restored by you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Next, Helena had to restore the silk painting.


    Because it required absolute quiet, she was arranged to stay in the town¡¯s guesthouse.


    While other team members either slept in tents or stayed in the vige, Helena and the group came to the guest house.


    After settling in, she began to study how to restore the silk painting.


    Once she figured it out, she made a list of materials and asked Shirley to send someone to prepare the restoration materials.


    She opened her suitcase, took out the painting tools, and carefully dealt with the dust on the silk painting.


    Busy until the evening, she had dinner with Shirley and the two bodyguards.


    Shirley looked at her room and asked, ¡°Helena, are you scared at night? Do you want me to sleep with you in the same room?¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°No need.¡±


    The guesthouse had basic facilities, and there was only one bed in the room.


    Sharing a bed meant sharing a pillow with Shirley.


    Her temperament was reserved, making it difficult for her to feel close to people.


    After dinner, Helena called Willis to report her safety, and they chatted for a while.


    After hanging up the phone, she continued working.


    When she was busy, she often forgot the time.


    Busy untilte at night, feeling tired, she finally washed up and went to sleep.


    After a day of traveling, tomb exploration, and then focusing on cleaning the painting, she was exhausted.


    Helena had justid down for a short while when she felt a chill on her body, and her nket was lifted.


    Immediately after, someone started stripping her clothes.


    Helena was suddenly shocked awake, seeing a dark figure in front of her.


    A pair of rough hands violently tore at her nightgown, the calluses on the hands scraping across her delicate skin, making her nauseous.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Helena asked in fear, struggling to get off the bed.


    The man remained silent, breathing heavily, grabbing her arms and pushing her back onto the bed.


    ¡°Help! Help!¡± Helena shouted loudly.


    The man covered her mouth with his hand, stuffing a piece of cloth into her mouth.


    ¡°Let go of me! Let go of me!¡± Helena¡¯s heart raced, and she kept swinging her arms, desperately struggling.


    In the critical moment, a loud bang was heard, and the door was kicked open from outside.


    Then a tall and sturdy figure walked in quickly, reaching the bed in the blink of an eye.


    The man paused, hurriedly stopping his actions, and slowly raised his hands.


    Because a rigid gun was pointing at the back of his head.

 Chapter 77: Heroic Rescue (1)

    Helena hastily grabbed her coat and put it on, jumping off the bed to turn on the lights.


    The thunderous light illuminated every person in the room.


    Helena, panting heavily, saw the man who had just molested her ¨C a rough-looking guy with dark skin, a robust physique, and an unattractive face.


    Judging by his attire, he appeared to be a local.


    The man holding the gun against the back of his head was Jay Santana, with a deepplexion, a crew cut, a handsome and stern face, and a powerful presence in a stylish ck jacket.


    It was Jay Santana.


    Helena quickly closed her coat, fastened it, and tidied her messy hair before speaking, ¡°Jay Santana, what are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Over here to meet a client,¡± Jay replied calmly. He moved the gun to the man¡¯s temple and sternly asked, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    The man with trembling hands and rough lips muttered in a strong local dialect, ¡°Mike.¡±


    ¡°Who sent you?¡± Jay pressed the gun against his temple, leaving a deep indentation.


    Mike stammered, ¡°No, no one sent me. It¡¯s my own idea.¡±


    ¡°Tell the truth, or I¡¯ll shoot you!¡± Jay threatened.


    Mike, desperate and near tears, said, ¡°Really, no one sent me. When I was digging soil in the tomb during the day, I saw her looking pretty, so I sneaked over when it got dark.¡±


    ¡°If you really want to die, I can fulfill your wish.¡± Jay coldly raised the gun.


    Mike, terrified, could barely stand and dropped to his knees.


    With his hands sped in a begging gesture, he pleaded, ¡°No, no one told me to do this. I just thought she looked good, and since she was living alone, I couldn¡¯t control myself. I waited until the guards at the door left, and then I sneaked in. I didn¡¯t n to do anything to her; I just wanted to touch her. I hadn¡¯t even taken off her clothes, and you came.¡±


    Jay¡¯s expression became increasingly stern. Suddenly, he kicked Mike, sending him sprawling on the ground.


    Then, he ruthlessly kicked towards Mike¡¯s legs.


    This kick was directly aimed at a sensitive area.


    Mike immediately felt intense pain, his face turned pale, and he clutched his crotch, wailing and rolling on the ground.


    ¡°Bang, bang, bang.¡±


    Urgent footsteps were heard outside the door.


    A bodyguard, holding a pack of cigarettes and panting, rushed in.


    Upon seeing the chaotic scene, he was startled.


    He quickly approached Helena, scrutinizing her up and down, and cautiously asked, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Helena shook her head.


    The bodyguard kept apologizing, ¡°I felt drowsy, so I went downstairs to buy a pack of cigarettes. Little did I know, in the blink of an eye, this scoundrel took advantage. Fortunately, you¡¯re okay. If something happened, Mr. Santana would have to kill me¡­¡±


    Before he could finish speaking, there was a p.


    Jay had pped the bodyguard hard.


    It happened so fast that the bodyguard only saw a sh, and suddenly, half of his face swelled.


    Jay stood tall, his eyebrows cold, rebuking, ¡°Don¡¯t make excuses for your negligence! If I hadn¡¯t coincidentally encountered this, do you know how serious the consequences could have been? If anything happened to her, your lives wouldn¡¯t be enough topensate!¡±


    The bodyguard covered his face, not daring to make a sound.


    Helena stared at Jay¡¯s handsome and stern face, feeling indescribably moved.


    Considering they had only met a few times, he cared so much about her.


    She recalled his words: ¡°You¡¯re smarter than I imagined. You¡¯ll be famous in the future.¡± Perhaps he valued talent, like those old experts in the museum who showed special consideration because they valued talent.


    Or maybe it was because he had a strong sense of justice.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She didn¡¯t want to presumptuously think that he liked her.


    Another bodyguard, who was on the next shift and had heard themotion, hurriedly put on his clothes and rushed over.


    Seeing the situation, he turned pale with fright.


    Before Jay could act, he pped himself twice.

 Chapter 78: Heroic Rescue (2)

    Due to Jay¡¯s forceful actions, that p had left his colleague with a red and swollen face. It wasn¡¯t just a p; it was more like a strike with iron sand palm.


    Jay grabbed Mike¡¯s clothes and pushed him out of the room, saying, ¡°Move,e with me to the police station!¡±


    He intended to take him to the station to investigate if someone had instructed him and, if so, who it was. They needed to file a case.


    Helena, as the victim, had to apany them.


    To safeguard the valuable ancient painted silk in the room, Helena called a member of the archaeological team to guard it.


    The group drove to the town¡¯s police station overnight.


    Jay pushed Mike into the lobby and coldly told the on-duty officer, ¡°Check if this guy has a criminal record.¡±


    As Mike was a local, being known in the small vige made people somewhat lenient towards him.


    Seeing the police officer, Mike lost his fear.


    Trying to y the victim, he pointed at Jay and said, ¡°Report to the officer, this man has a gun, and carrying a gun is against thew.¡±


    The police officer turned to Jay,manding, ¡°Hand over the gun.¡±


    Jay, with an indifferent expression, pulled out a small card from his pocket, waving it in front of them, ¡°I have a gun license.¡±


    ¡°Where did you get this gun license?¡± The police officer, half skeptical, took it and examined it closely. It was in English.


    He tried tranting with his limited English and found that it was a gun license issued by a foreign paranormal unit.


    He scrutinized it, looking puzzled, and asked, ¡°Is this license genuine?¡±


    Jay calmly replied, ¡°It has a code on it; you can verify it.¡±


    The police officer left a colleague to watch the situation and went to the adjacent records room. After checking, he returned, handing the license back to Jay without saying a word.


    The status of paranormal units abroad was unknown to him. He only knew that domestically, paranormal units were more prestigious than criminal investigators, not to mention their low-level police status.


    The police officer dared not be negligent, acting diligently as he began interrogating Mike, recording statements, and investigating his criminal history.


    Mike did have a criminal record; he was a habitual offender.


    A few years ago, he was arrested for rape and sentenced to three years.


    He was released just the previous year and was now repeating his offenses.


    Jay just wanted to know if someone had instructed him.


    However, Mike insisted he acted on his own, refusing to admit otherwise.


    After a moment of silence, Jay turned to Helena, ¡°You stay here for now; I¡¯ll go question him. If there¡¯s someone behind him, it won¡¯t be safe for you to stay here.¡±


    Helena nodded, expressing her gratitude, ¡°Thank you, especially in the middle of the night, for taking the time.¡±


    Jay silently gazed at her pale face, disturbed by the shock, and his stern voice softened a bit. He whispered, ¡°Not a problem.¡±


    As he turned away, his expression returned to its resolute state. He grabbed Mike¡¯s clothes and pulled him towards the interrogation room.


    Once inside, Jay told the police officer, ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡±


    The police officer handcuffed Mike, securing his hands to the chair, and took a seat across from him, starting the routine interrogation.


    Jay lit a cigarette and nonchntly stood to the side, casually listening to the police officer¡¯s meticulous questioning.


    After five minutes, Jay found it too verbose.


    He directly pulled Mike aside and, with amanding tone, said, ¡°Turn off the surveince.¡±


    The police officer felt his authority being encroached upon and became somewhat irritable.


    However, considering that Jay was a retired member of a foreign paranormal unit, he patiently said, ¡°It¡¯s currently not allowed to use torture for confession.¡±


    Jay, with gritted teeth, said, ¡°Turn it off.¡±


    The police officer hesitated for a moment, then made a call to have the surveince turned off.


    With the surveince off, Jay grabbed Mike¡¯s head and violently mmed it against the wall.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    A loud bang echoed.


    Mike¡¯s head hit the hard wall, and his eyebrow bone instantly fractured. Blood dripped, and the pain made him grimace.

 Chapter 79: Thoroughly torture Mike

    ¡°Speak! Who instructed you?¡± Jay grabbed Mike by the neck, his tone fierce.


    Mike¡¯s rough face was stained with blood, and he winced in pain. He spoke intermittently, ¡°Tru-truly, no one. If there were, I would have confessed long ago. Even if you beat me to death, I, I still wouldn¡¯t be able to say.¡±


    Seeing that no matter how he was interrogated, Mike wouldn¡¯t admit, Jay instructed the police officers, ¡°Check his call records and find out who he has met recently.¡±


    The police officers hurriedly responded, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll start investigating right away.¡±


    Afterwards, they regretted why they listened to him. Why should they? Although he was a retired member of a foreign paranormal unit, this was China, not abroad. There was no direct connection.


    But they didn¡¯t dare to say much. This group of people seemed quite special, with an air of importance, like they came from a big city and had significant backgrounds. These were not people low-level investigators could afford to offend.


    Jay nced at the clock on the wall, his face cold, ¡°You handle the person; we¡¯ll go back first. Although it¡¯s an attempted rape, it has caused severe psychological harm to the victim. Please ensure a severe punishment, and I will follow up on the case at any time.¡±


    Seeing him so resolute, the police officers didn¡¯t dare to be negligent. One said, ¡°Rest assured, we¡¯ll handle the case impartially, without favoring anyone guilty.¡±


    Jay responded indifferently and walked out of the interrogation room.


    Helena approached, subtly observing him.


    She had heard a loud noise and painful screams from the interrogation room.


    Worried that Jay might be injured, especially on someone else¡¯s turf, she breathed a sigh of relief when she saw himing out unharmed.


    The group exited the lobby and headed towards the parked cars.


    Halfway there, the bodyguard¡¯s phone rang.


    He took it out of his pocket, saw the caller ID, and turned pale, hesitating to answer.


    He held the phone as if holding a hot potato, hesitating for quite a while.


    He nervously said to Helena, ¡°Today¡¯s incident was my negligence, my fault, and I deserve to die. However, could you forgive me and not let Mr. Santana know? We are also having a hard time with elderly parents and young children.¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    He knew she had a good temper and a kind heart, hoping she would keep this matter quiet.


    Helena remained silent for a moment before agreeing, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Despite the scare, she hadn¡¯t suffered any substantial harm. These two bodyguards had traveled a long way with her, taking turns to protect her day and night in this remote ce. Besides, Jay had already reprimanded him.


    She wasn¡¯t the type to hold a grudge.


    The bodyguard thanked her profusely, ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Su, thank you so much. We¡¯re truly grateful.¡±


    Helena nodded slightly.


    The bodyguard dared to answer his phone.


    By now, Willis had called three times.


    Upon answering, a cold and displeased voice came from Willis, ¡°Why did you answer the phone sote?¡±


    There was a hint of dissatisfaction in his words.


    The bodyguard stopped in his tracks, cautiously saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Santana. I was afraid of disturbing you, so I put my phone on silent and just noticed it.¡±


    Willis, with an emotionless tone, asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Helena?¡±


    The bodyguard looked at Helena, who was getting farther away, and lied, ¡°Helena is staying at the guest house arranged by the archaeological team and is currently sleeping.¡±


    Willis paused for a moment, asking indifferently, ¡°Is that so?¡±


    The bodyguard felt that something was off with his tone but persevered, ¡°Yes, Helena is sound asleep. She worked hard all day, and she¡¯s exhausted. Can you call her tomorrow? She¡¯ll appreciate it.¡±


    Willis cryptically responded, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    The bodyguard, sweating, said, ¡°I¡¯m sure.¡±


    The call ended with a busy tone.


    Willis hung up.


    The bodyguard wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, his heart pounding rapidly. He felt an ominous premonition, as if something unfortunate was about to happen.


    They got back into the car.


    Returning to the guest house.


    The person from the archaeological team, who came over to help guard the ce, saw Helena returning. His gaze carried a somewhat strange look as he greeted, ¡°Professor Parvis, you¡¯re back.¡±

 Chapter 80: Willis had actually come!

    Listening to such a formal address, Helena still felt a bit ufortable. She politely said, ¡°Thank you, go and rest. You¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    ¡°Not at all. You also rest well,¡± the person replied before leaving.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena took out her keys from her bag and was about to open the door when she noticed that the door, which had been locked, was now open. Someone had entered.


    A chill ran down Helena¡¯s spine, and she hurriedly pushed the door open.


    To her surprise, there were suddenly three big men inside.


    Sitting on a shabby sofa against the wall was a remarkably handsome and imposing man. Two bodyguards stood beside him.


    Willis had actuallye!


    Helena could hardly believe her eyes.


    After dinner, she called him.


    At that time, he didn¡¯t mentioning, only advising her not to work toote and to get some rest.


    Unexpectedly, he had flown over during the night to find her.


    Helena was thrilled for a moment, her heart feeling a mix of sour and sweet emotions, a myriad of feelings washing over her.


    The tightly held emotions suddenly softened.


    A multitude of grievances wanted to rush through her throat, to tell him everything.


    It was that feeling when you endure grievances outside, pretending to be strong, but once you return home and see the person you love the most, all pretenses melt away, revealing the vulnerability and tenderness within.


    Helena¡¯s eyes reddened, and she walked towards Willis.


    She wanted to throw herself into his arms, let him hold her,fort her, and seek sce.


    This kind offort was something only he could provide.


    When Helena was about to reach Willis, he stood up, nced over her, looked at Jay and the bodyguard outside, his expression cold and indifferent, radiating a chilling aura.


    However, his words were directed at Helena, ¡°You traveled thousands of miles toe here, using the excuse of restoring paintings, just to have a secret meeting with him? Even my bodyguard has been bribed by you; quite impressive.¡±


    A thunderous noise echoed in her mind!


    Helena¡¯s steps halted, staring at Willis in disbelief.


    Her eyes were filled with disappointment and grievances.


    There were a thousand words stuck in her throat, but she couldn¡¯t utter a single one.


    She and Jay were innocent, so how did it turn into a secret meeting?


    The bodyguard was not bribed by her; he begged her out of fear of punishment.


    She just did a small favor.


    Helena struggled to mask her inner disappointment, sadness, and grievances with dignity.


    The anger in her eyes was quickly concealed by the forced pride.


    Various emotions crowded her face, and her expression trembled slightly.


    To others, it was a nearly helpless state.


    Observing Helena¡¯s seemingly helpless and wronged appearance from a distance, Jay¡¯s gaze suddenly sharpened.


    He sarcastically said, ¡°She was almost vited, and as her husband, is this your attitude?¡±


    Willis frowned, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Jay coldly said, ¡°While your bodyguard was away buying cigarettes, someone broke in and harassed her. If I hadn¡¯t happened to pass by, something bad would have happened!¡±


    Every word in this sentence was like a heavy bomb detonating in Willis¡¯s ears.


    He was infuriated, his eyebrows twitching several times. His jaw clenched and then rxed.


    His fist tightened, and the veins on the back of his hand became visible.


    Everyone in the room could sense his emotions reaching a critical point.


    A touch-and-go situation.


    After taking a few deep breaths, Willis gritted his teeth and spoke in a harsh tone, ¡°Where is he?¡±


    Jay calmed his emotions, saying indifferently, ¡°He¡¯s already been taken to the town¡¯s police station. Local guy named Mike, a repeat offender. Imprisoned for three years a few years ago for rape, released two years ago. I suspect there might be someone behind him; you have many connections, send someone to investigate.¡±


    Suppressing his anger, Willis said, ¡°Understood.¡±


    Jay acknowledged with a nod and turned to leave.


    Once the door was closed, Willis suddenly raised his hand and threw it towards the bodyguard behind Helena.

 Chapter 81: I Miss You (1)

    Crack!


    The bodyguard received another heavy p.


    The force of the blow pushed him back several steps, nearly causing him to stumble.


    Half of his face swelled up instantly, disying a clear set of five finger marks symmetrically matching those on the other side.


    Willis¡¯ gaze turned extremely dark, and he scolded sternly, ¡°I assigned you to protect Helena, and this is how you protect her! Something happened, and you didn¡¯t inform me immediately, but dared to lie and deceive me! A bunch of worthless cowards!¡±


    It had been a long time since he had been so furious.


    His handsome face became incredibly gloomy, and his whole body exuded a frightening pressure.


    The room fell intoplete silence.


    No one dared to utter a word.


    Once the bodyguard realized the situation, he immediately raised his hands and began to p himself on the face recklessly.


    For a moment, the room was filled with crisp pping sounds.


    The bodyguard, while hitting himself, kept confessing, ¡°Mr. Santana, I was wrong, utterly wrong. I shouldn¡¯t have gone downstairs to buy cigarettes. I was only out for a few minutes, and Helena was taken advantage of. I shouldn¡¯t have been afraid of punishment, lied, and made Helena help me cover up, causing a misunderstanding between you two. If you want to punish me, I leave it entirely to your discretion.¡±


    Seeing Willis¡¯ intense expression, Helena knew this situation couldn¡¯t go on, or it would end badly.


    She turned her head and said to the bodyguard, ¡°You all can leave; it¡¯s gettingte, and we need to rest.¡±


    The bodyguard hesitated for a moment and stopped the self-getion.


    He cautiously nced at Willis, seeing him silent.


    The bodyguard spoke carefully, ¡°Mr. Santana, you and Mrs. Santana should rest. I will ept any punishment tomorrow.¡±


    Willis, with a cold expression, said, ¡°Get out!¡±


    Without daring to dy any further, all the bodyguards quickly exited the room.


    They were afraid of provoking him again.


    After everyone left, Willis picked up his phone and called his assistant, instructing in a low voice, ¡°At the Dragon Mount side in the town¡¯s police station, a repeat offender named Mike was just brought in. Have someone investigate him thoroughly, check if there¡¯s anyone behind him, and inform me immediately!¡±


    The assistant, sensing Willis¡¯ displeasure, hurriedly responded, ¡°Understood, Mr. Santana. I¡¯ll arrange for someone right away.¡±


    Willis grunted in acknowledgment, and the assistant reminded, ¡°Mr. Santana, you have an important meeting at 10 a. m. tomorrow. Can you make it back? I¡¯ll arrange a car to pick you up at the airport.¡±


    ¡°I can,¡± Willis replied before ending the call.


    He tossed the phone onto the table and grasped Helena¡¯s shoulder.


    Examining her from head to toe, he saw no apparent injuries, and only then did he let out a sigh of relief. He asked, ¡°Are you hurt?¡±


    Helena shook her head.


    Willis focused on her eyes. ¡°Really not?¡±


    In a t tone, Helena replied, ¡°Really not.¡±


    After a moment of silence, Willis apologized, ¡°I was too impulsive just now. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Helena pursed her lips but remained silent.


    Understanding that she was still angry, Willis exined patiently, ¡°After finishing work at thepany, I took a night flight to surprise you. However, when I arrived at the ce where you were staying and didn¡¯t find you, I called your phone. It was turned off. I then called the bodyguard¡¯s phone, and he said you were sleeping inside. Shortly after, I saw youe back with Jay. If you were in my shoes, what would you think?¡±


    Only now did Helena remember that when she reported the case at the police station, she called the archaeological team.


    After the call, her phone ran out of battery and automatically shut down.


    She absentmindedly stuffed the phone under her pillow before leaving.


    Considering the situation, if she were in Willis¡¯ position, she would probably misunderstand and feel angry as well.


    However, what Willis said just now was truly hurtful.


    How could he say that she was using the excuse of restoring paintings to secretly meet Jay here?


    What did he take her for?


    Helena raised her hand and lightly punched his chest. ¡°You don¡¯t trust me.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Her tone was a mixture of annoyance andint.


    The force of the punch wasn¡¯t light.


    Willis slightly rxed his furrowed brows, gripping her wrist.


    A light punch was a good thing; it meant she was starting to let out her frustration.


    He was afraid she would keep everything inside, letting the anger build up.


    With a gentle tone, he asked again, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re not hurt?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it so many times, no,¡± Helena responded with a somewhat irritated tone.


    Willis smiled gently, lowered his head, and kissed her hair. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    His previously tense heart temporarily settled back in his chest.


    But when he thought about how she had almost been vited, a dark look returned to his eyes.


    Helena nced at the watch on his wrist. It was past 1 a. m.


    Considering the assistant¡¯s reminder about Willis¡¯ important meeting at 10 a. m. tomorrow, she urged, ¡°Go to sleep; you have to get up early tomorrow.¡±


    Willis pinched her chin, staring into her eyes, ¡°Are you not angry with me anymore?¡±


    In a distracted tone, Helena mumbled, ¡°Mm.¡±

 Chapter 82: I Miss You (2)

    How could he not be angry?


    In front of so many people, he said such things about her, almost scraping her dignity off on the ground.


    It not only insulted her but also made Jay lose face.


    Others could insult her, but he couldn¡¯t.


    Because he was her closest and dearest, different from everyone else.


    Helena turned to leave, but Willis hooked her waist.


    He pinched her soft waist and muttered, ¡°You still won¡¯t forgive me.¡±


    Helena wanted to go to sleep. Seeing that he couldn¡¯t let go, she tiptoed, gave him a perfunctory kiss on the chin, and said, ¡°I forgive you.¡±


    Only then did Willis let her go.


    Helena went to wash her hands and returned to bed, undressing for sleep.


    Willis went to the bathroom to freshen up.


    Usually, when he traveled, he stayed in five-star hotels, often in presidential suites.


    How could he have stayed in such a simple guest house?


    Upon entering the bathroom and seeing the cramped and rudimentary toilet, sink, and the persistent dirt in the corners that hadn¡¯t been cleaned for years, he couldn¡¯t help but furrow his brows.


    What kind of ce was this for people to live in?


    Helena came to help.


    How could the archaeological team arrange for her to stay in such a dirty and messy environment?


    But she didn¡¯tin at all, just doing her work calmly.


    Willis couldn¡¯t help but admire her a bit more.


    Tonight¡¯s visit to Helena was impromptu, and he hadn¡¯t prepared any toiletries. The disposable toothbrush provided by the guesthouse was of poor quality.


    So, he used her pink electric toothbrush to brush his teeth.


    This was the first time he used her toothbrush.


    For someone with such cleanliness habits, using her toothbrush to brush his teeth felt surprisingly good, like indirectly kissing her.


    Good-looking people even made used toothbrushes smell good.


    After freshening up, Willis returned to bed.


    Helena faced away from him, lying on her side.


    Willis didn¡¯t bring any sleepwear either. He took off his jacket and outer pants, got into bed, and reached over, his hand around her waist, flipping her slightly to face him.


    He pressed down, lowered his head, and kissed her cheek. ¡°The disposable toothbrush at the guesthouse was too lousy. I used your toothbrush; you don¡¯t mind, right?¡±


    Helena was surprised for a moment.


    He, with such a severe cleanliness obsession, such attention to detail, actually used her toothbrush to brush his teeth.


    But considering they kissed each other every day, what was the point of separating things?


    She said, ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    He nibbled her nose tip. ¡°Is it fragrant?¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    Wasn¡¯t he the man she remembered, cold, restrained, and not one for smiles andughter?


    Now, he seemed like¡­Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    She couldn¡¯t find the right word to describe him for a moment.


    Suppressing herughter, she replied calmly, ¡°Fragrant.¡±


    ¡°Then, taste whether it¡¯s sweet or not.¡± He bit her soft lip, and his tongue lightly tapped her teeth, kissing her slowly and sensually.


    It wasn¡¯t a straightforward and real kiss but more like a hook, luring her.


    The teasing meaning was especially apparent.


    He was too good at teasing.


    Helena couldn¡¯t resist.


    Despite holding onto some remaining rationality, she raised her hand to push his chest.


    She wanted to push him away.


    Touching his chest through the thin shirt, feeling the clearly defined muscles, it was so pleasant.


    Hard, sexy, and stylish.


    Images of the two of them facing each other naked shed in her mind, and Helena¡¯s earlobes turned red.


    Willis stared at her reddened earlobes and chuckled. He grasped her wrist, lifted her hand above her head, and deepened the kiss.


    From gentle at the beginning to gradually more intense.


    It felt like caring, like possession, like asserting dominance, and like deep love?


    Helena was quickly kissed into a faster heartbeat, and her breath became a bit erratic.


    After a long and powerful deep kiss, Willis let go of her.


    Helena, breathing slightly heavily, nestled in his arms and asked, ¡°You came to this remote ce in the mountains in such a rush when you have an early meeting tomorrow. Why?¡±


    Willis locked onto her eyes with his cool, deep gaze and replied in silence.


    Helena softly said, ¡°You tell me.¡±


    Willis imprisoned her, buried his head in her neck, and whispered, ¡°All day long, I couldn¡¯t concentrate, so I had the assistant book a flight and rushed over to see you before dawn, just to feel at ease.¡±


    What he actually wanted to say was: I miss you.

 Chapter 83: He Admitted Everything (1)

    Helena¡¯s heart seemed to copse.


    Willis came all the way, oveing hardships.


    All because he couldn¡¯t rest assured about her, he specifically rushed over to take a look.


    The lingering grievances from being suspected by him were instantly reduced by more than half.


    She leaned into his arms and whispered, ¡°When that man touched me and tore my clothes, I was almost disgusted to death. I only had one thought in my mind-if he dared to insult me, I would kill him and thenmit suicide.¡±


    Willis¡¯s heart suddenly felt empty.


    Immediately after, it fiercely ached.


    It felt like being bitten by a fierce beast with sharp teeth, and the pain left him breathless for a while.


    He tightly held her waist, pressed her into his embrace, and scolded, ¡°Fool, don¡¯t say such silly things.¡±


    Having relied on each other for three years, he couldn¡¯t stand hearing such words.


    Helena fell silent for a moment and said, ¡°Luckily, Ja¡­¡±


    Mid-sentence, she suddenly stopped.


    Originally, she wanted to say fortunately Jay arrived in time.


    But thinking that Willis didn¡¯t like her getting too close to Jay, she swallowed the rest of her words.


    She changed her words, ¡°Luckily, you came; otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t dare to sleep tonight.¡±


    Willis had actually guessed what she wanted to say in the second half of the sentence, and his eyes changed, bing gloomy.


    Hearing her change the words, the suppressed anger in his eyes dissipated.


    He gently caressed her back and said, ¡°I brought two more bodyguards with me this time; they¡¯ll stay. Don¡¯t worry about people saying you¡¯re being ostentatious. They are a group of rough guys; you¡¯ll be safe wherever you go. You¡¯re so good-looking, and it¡¯s easy for people to have bad intentions.¡±


    This time, Helena didn¡¯t argue anymore.


    If she had known, she should have listened to Willis.


    Bringing a few more bodyguards would prevent anything from happening.


    Because she had been scared at night and slept deeply afterward, she started having nightmares again.


    She dreamed of the fire thirteen years ago.


    The mes were raging, the wind was biting, and thick smoke filled the air.


    A fair and slender young man risked his life to push her out of the fire, but he perished in the inferno.


    Tears streamed down her face as she reached out with extended arms, crying and shouting ¡°Jay,¡± wanting to pull him out of the fire, but she couldn¡¯t move him no matter how hard she tried¡­


    Willis watched the woman in her nightmare, tears in her eyes, and muttering ¡°Jay¡± in her dreams.


    He frowned slightly, pulled her into his arms, and gentlyforted her.


    He thought, let her call.


    He endured it.


    As long as she didn¡¯t recognize that Jay Santana was Jay Smith, it was fine.


    As long as she didn¡¯t leave, he would ept whatever she called out in her dreams.


    The next morning, Helena woke up.


    She saw Willising out of the bathroom.


    He was well-dressed, looking like he was about to leave.


    Looking at the man¡¯s handsome and elegant face, Helena suddenly felt reluctant to let him go.


    She put on her clothes, got out of bed, approached him, and silently hugged his waist, burying her head in his chest.


    Although she didn¡¯t say anything, her actions betrayed her inner reluctance.


    Willis smiled and rubbed her head. ¡°I told you not toe, but you insisted. Now, do you understand how I felt?¡±


    Helena made a soft sound.


    ¡°Hurry up and finish your work and go back. Next time, if you can delegate the work, delegate it. Try not to leave Kyoto. It¡¯s inconvenient for me toe and see you so far away.¡±


    Even though she was clinging to him and reluctant to let him go, Helena intentionally yed hard to get andined, ¡°Mr. Santana, you¡¯re so clingy.¡±


    Willis raised his eyebrows with a faint smile.


    He slightly lifted his chin, his face showing an air of indifference, as if it were a matter of course. He said, ¡°I¡¯m clinging to my own wife; it¡¯s perfectly justified.¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Helena felt a sweet sensation in her heart.


    For the first time, she realized that the term ¡°wife¡± could sound so pleasant.


    Seemingly ordinary, but full of lingering affection.


    It meant sharing joys and sorrows, mutual support, and sharing honor and disgrace.


    Willis wanted to leave both bodyguards.


    Helena was afraid that something might happen to him on the way, so she insisted on him taking one.


    Willis couldn¡¯t resist her, so he took one with him. He nned to call and send the other two bodyguards over on the way.


    He believed that the more bodyguards, the safer Helena would be.


    When Helena sent Willis downstairs to catch the car, she encountered Shirley.

 Chapter 84: He Admitted Everything (2)

    She had insomniast night and took two sleeping pills, sleeping heavily.


    Shirley knew nothing about what happened to Helena.


    Seeing Willis, Shirley warmly greeted him, ¡°Hi, handsome, what brings you here?¡±


    Willis gave her a cold nce, his gaze sharp.


    His handsome face looked as cold as the snow in the deep winter.


    He walked past her without saying a word, his whole body emitting an extraordinary pressure.


    He felt that Helena came here because she was incited by Shirley. She called people over and didn¡¯t take good care of them.


    Shirley¡¯s warm face was met with a cold reception, leaving her puzzled.


    She grabbed Helena and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong ? Just now, he gave me such a scary look.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena, in a hurry to see Willis off, casually said, ¡°That¡¯s just his personality; you¡¯ll get used to it.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡± Shirley hesitated for a moment and let go of her.


    After seeing Willis off, Helena returned to her room.


    After some thought, she called Jay to express her gratitude.


    Willis suddenly camest night, and she didn¡¯t have a chance to thank him properly.


    After hearing her words of thanks, Jay casually said, ¡°No need to be polite. A rare talent like you should be protected by everyone who sees you.¡±


    Hearing him say this, Helena secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Fortunately, he didn¡¯t have any romantic feelings for her.


    Otherwise, she didn¡¯t know how to interact with him.


    After hanging up the phone, Helena continued to restore the ancient silk painting.


    Busy until the afternoon, she vaguely heard the outside getting lively, as if many people had arrived.


    Helena happened to be tired, so she stretched her waist, put down the work in her hands, pushed open the door, and walked out.


    She saw several elderly people with white hair, surrounded by a group of people, walking in.


    They were probably the experts participating in the excavation of the Warring States tomb.


    Arge-scale archaeological project requires the cooperation of geologists, historians, literary schrs, and experts in artifact restoration.


    One of the ancient book and painting restoration experts Helena knew, Oscar Granger, was also among them.


    As soon as Helena stepped out, Oscar saw her and instantly brightened up.


    From a distance, he greeted her with a cheerful smile, ¡°The Parvis family¡¯s granddaughter, you¡¯re here too. I heard that there¡¯s a genius girl in this archaeological project, and I guessed it must be you.¡±


    Hisughter was hearty, and his voice was loud.


    As soon as he spoke, everyone turned their heads to look at Helena.


    Feeling a bit embarrassed under everyone¡¯s gaze, Helena smiled and replied, ¡°Hello.¡±


    Oscarughed heartily and said repeatedly, ¡°Good, good, hello to you too.¡±


    After the two exchanged greetings, Helena was about to go back to her room.


    She felt a piercing and focused gaze from the crowd, staring at her.


    Following that gaze, Helena saw an elderly man with all-white hair and a robust figure.


    Judging by his age, he must be around eighty, dressed in a dark blue silk Tang suit. His face was deeply wrinkled, but his sharp eyes were as keen as an eagle¡¯s.


    His gaze was too direct and tooplicated, leaving Helena bewildered.


    Then, the old man walked towards her withrge strides.


    His footsteps were agile, which was quite inconsistent with his age.


    Twenty meters away from Helena, the old man slowly stopped.


    He stared at her, examining her carefully.


    Somehow, the corners of his eyes slowly turned red.


    After a while, he moved his dry and wrinkled lips, murmuring to himself, ¡± too simr.¡±

 Chapter 85: New Master

    Early the next morning, Helena woke up around midday, thinking that Willis had already left. She casually stretched, and her hand touched a firm and powerful body. Rubbing her still-sleepy eyes, she saw Willis still lying beside her. She raised an eyebrow in slight surprise, ¡°Why haven¡¯t you left yet?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis extended his arm, pulling her into an embrace. His forehead gently touched hers, and with a somewhatzy tone, he said, ¡°I rescheduled today¡¯s ns. I¡¯ll apany you back tonight.¡±


    Helena had no choice but to agree. She also had to discuss with Haden about bing his apprentice, a significant decision. She whispered, ¡°After returning, I have other things to attend to. I¡¯ve taken on a new master to learn about the restoration of ancient ceramics.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes shifted, and he raised an eyebrow, asking, ¡°Is it a man or a woman?¡±


    Helena truthfully replied, ¡°A man.¡±


    Willis¡¯s expression changed, and his tone turned cold, ¡°How old is he? Why does he want to take you as his apprentice? Does he have ulterior motives?¡±


    Helena hadn¡¯t answered yet when he continued, ¡°Decline it.¡±


    Helena helplessly smiled. ¡°You¡¯re right. Men are stumbling blocks on a woman¡¯s path to sess. Look at you, preventing me from doing this and that, affecting my future.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s words echoed in her mind, piercing her heart with each sentence, leaving her with a deep sense of shame and humiliation.


    Willis¡¯s eyes darkened. He lowered his head, lovingly kissed her eyes, and said softly, ¡°Don¡¯t mind him.¡±


    Helena stopped teasing him and directly said, ¡°The one who wants to take me as his apprentice is Haden Olteran.¡±


    ¡°Haden Olteran,¡± Willis pondered for a moment. ¡°He¡¯s fine. Go ahead and learn.¡±


    Helena raised an eyebrow, ¡°You said that. When I really be his apprentice, don¡¯t keep finding faults here and there.¡±


    Willis affectionately pinched her chin. ¡°I won¡¯t. I know Haden; he¡¯s decent.¡±


    Most importantly, he¡¯s in his eighties, making him no threat.


    After saying this, he held her chin and slid his hand down her arm, embracing her waist. With a teasing tone, he suggested, ¡°Since you¡¯re not busy today, and I have nothing to do, how about we do something interesting?¡±


    Helena was rendered powerless by his pinching and teasing. She yfully asked, ¡°Who was itst night that came all the way here, not for this?¡±


    Willis rolled over, biting her nose lightly, kissing her lips absentmindedly. He casually said, ¡°Last night was different; today is another story.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t say anything. There was no mood to reason with him at times like this. Her mind was nk from his touches, and she floated in a dreamy state.


    Willis continued kissing her, moving down her jawline. When he reached her snow-white shoulders, he gently bit them, causing her to feel tingly. His slender fingers caressed her waist softly, feeling seductive against her skin.


    His touch was like a heavenly cloud, leaving clusters of white clouds on her skin.


    Helena¡¯s bright eyes gradually became moist and misty. Her open and innocent face blushed.


    She slowly closed her eyes, hearing the entwined breaths of the two, approaching the core of pleasure.


    They yed until almost noon before getting up.


    Without having breakfast, they didn¡¯t feel hungry.


    The inn had sent food earlier in the morning, but the bodyguards kept it, not daring to disturb the two.


    After washing up, they began to eat.


    After finishing, Helena tidied up, and Willis¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    It was his assistant.


    He reported, ¡°Mr. Santana, the guy we caught the night before, Mike, has gone crazy.¡±


    Willis was displeased, ¡°Crazy?¡±


    The assistant exined, ¡°Yes. However, the police found five hundred thousand in cash in his basement. Since he was released from prison three years ago, he has beenzy, making a living by farming and organizing events in the vige to earn some pocket money. He also likes gambling. It¡¯s impossible for him to save up five hundred thousand.¡±


    The case had be quite apparent. Someone was manipting Mike.


    Willis frowned, ¡°Who has he been meeting recently?¡±


    ¡°There are no surveince cameras in the vige, and his neighbors are reluctant to talk, fearing Mike¡¯s retaliation. Checking his phone, there are no suspicious numbers. Now, Mike has gone crazy, wanting to get something out of him, but it¡¯s challenging.¡±


    Willis asked, ¡°Is he genuinely crazy or pretending?¡±


    ¡°He should be genuinely crazy. The police said he keeps banging his head against the wall, shouting ¡®ghosts, ghosts,¡¯ seemingly disturbed by something.¡±


    ¡°Why was he disturbed?¡±


    ¡°The police won¡¯t say the reason for the disturbance. It¡¯s not easy to investigate further. After all, Mr. Jay Smith once beat him up. If we dig deeper, it might implicate Mr. Smith.¡±


    ¡°Deal with it when I get back.¡± Willis hung up the phone.


    Around one or two in the afternoon, Shirley brought the materials for restoring ancient silk paintings.


    Professor Linister had also been informed.


    Helena and Willis left the inn and took a car to the city to catch a ne.


    At six in the evening, the two returned to Kyoto.


    Willis asked the driver to send Helena home.


    He got into another car and headed straight to the Varley Group.


    When Willis knocked on the office door, Owen was instructing his assistant.


    Seeing Willis suddenly appear, with an unfriendly gaze and a stern expression as if ready to question and punish, Owen was greatly surprised. He waved his hand, asking the assistant to leave first.


    Standing up, Owen smiled and greeted, ¡°Willis, if you wereing, why didn¡¯t you inform me earlier? I would have sent someone to pick you up. Want something to drink? I¡¯ll have someone prepare it for you.¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Willis¡¯s clear and elegant face showed no sign of a smile.


    Owen¡¯s smile froze, ¡°So, is there something on your mind?¡±


    His eyes cold and piercing, Willis uttered each word slowly, ¡°Dragon Mount, Inn, Mike.¡±


    Owen was taken aback, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Willis gazed down at him, ¡°Whether it was you who sent someone or your wife, this is a one-time warning. If there¡¯s a next time, don¡¯t me me for not being polite to Susan.¡±


    Leaving these words behind, he turned and walked away.


    Watching him leave with long strides, Owen was so angry that he almost lost his breath.

 Chapter 86: Susan’s True Identity

    The more Owen thought about it, the angrier he became. The Varley and Santana families had been business partners for decades, and this was the first time Willis had been so impolite to him. Even Ryan had to give him some face. Now, a younger generation like Willis dared toe to him and give orders.


    Owen was furious.


    He picked up his phone and called Grace, asking, ¡°Dragon Mount, Inn, Mike ¨C what happened? Do you know?¡±


    Grace panicked in an instant, taking several seconds to force herself to calm down. Owen directly said, ¡°Susan¡¯s left hand was smashed, her face was swollen, and now she¡¯s in detention. All the harm came from Helena. I know you¡¯re angry for Susan and want revenge, but can¡¯t you use your brain and be more discreet? Don¡¯t let people figure out it was you!¡±


    Grace nervously asked, ¡°Who figured it out?¡±


    ¡°Who else? Willis!¡±


    Grace finally began to tell the truth, ¡°I¡¯ve been discreet. I haven¡¯t personally done anything, I had someone else do it.¡±


    Owen sneered, ¡°Who did you find?¡±


    Grace avoided eye contact, ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about it. Anyway, that person is quite professional.¡±


    Owen scoffed, ¡°If they¡¯re so professional, why did Willis stille to warn me?¡±


    Grace thought for a moment, ¡°He probably didn¡¯t find any evidence, deliberately came to bluff you. If there were real evidence, he would have presented it directly. Don¡¯t panic, as long as we deny it, he can¡¯t do anything to us.¡±


    Owen agreed, instructing, ¡°You better clean up the aftermath and not affect the businesses of the Varley and Santana families.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I know what to do.¡±


    At the same time, Willis left the Varley Group, got into his car, and called his assistant. He asked, ¡°How many days will Susan be detained?¡±


    The assistant replied, ¡°I spoke to the police chief, and she can be detained for a maximum of two weeks. The Varley family has also hired someone; originally, it could have been bailed out with some money. Detaining her for two weeks is already giving us face.¡±


    Willis gave a low acknowledgment and instructed, ¡°Find a couple of thugs, take care of Grace.¡±


    His voice waszy and indifferent, but there was an imperceptible determination in his tone.


    The assistant was surprised, ¡°Did Grace arrange for Mike¡¯s case?¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes chilled slightly, ¡°Other than them, I can¡¯t think of anyone. Teach them a lesson first, and then we¡¯ll see.¡±


    The assistant paused, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll find someone to do it.¡±


    Willis rubbed his brow and casually said, ¡°Disguise it as a robbery, then take advantage of the situation. Be clever, don¡¯t leave any evidence, understand?¡±


    ¡°Understood, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Three dayster.


    8:00 PM.


    Grace, driving herself, stealthily arrived at a residential area in the western part of the city.


    After parking, she went to the back seat of her car, took out a rose-red windbreaker from her bag, put on ck oversized sunsses, let down her neatlybed hair, and changed into high heels.


    She took a mirror out of her bag and checked herself. Satisfied that no one would recognize her, she opened the car door.


    Before getting out, she covered the license te with something.


    After all the disguise, she walked confidently into the residential area.


    She arrived at building number three, on the thirty-third floor, apartment 3303.


    Taking out the key from her bag, she opened the door and went in.


    This apartment, bought in her mother¡¯s name, had been empty for a long time. She only came here asionally when needed.


    The vast living room had almost no furniture.


    Not long after, someone knocked on the door.


    Grace put on her high heels, swaying her slim waist, and sensually opened the door.


    Having given birth early, she was in her early forties this year.


    Standing outside was a man in his forties, wearing casual dark blue clothes and a face mask.


    He entered, removed the mask, revealing a somewhat handsome face with a rectangr shape and a dark beard on the jawline.


    He was Grace¡¯s lover, named Klein ¨C the so-called professional person.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Grace approached, embraced his waist, and said in a sticky voice, ¡°Willis suspected it was me or my husband. Today, he went to my husband¡¯spany to bluff him. My dear, have you taken care of everything?¡±


    Klein closed the door, took off his mask, and pecked her lips. ¡°You can trust me.¡±


    ¡°When can Susan be released? That child has been pampered since childhood and hasn¡¯t suffered. This time being detained, it hurts my heart.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Klein pushed her and massaged her, walking towards the balcony.


    Grace held back his restless hand and scolded, ¡°How can I not worry? That¡¯s my daughter.¡±


    ¡°I found some connections, but it¡¯s strict up there. At most, she can be detained for half a month and then released. Don¡¯t worry, with my help, she¡¯ll be fine during detention.¡±


    ¡°You must take good care of Susan for me, don¡¯t let her be bullied by others.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I treat Susan as my own daughter.¡± Klein lightly pinched her buttocks.


    Grace threw him a flirtatious look, ¡°That¡¯s more like it.¡±


    The two went to the floor-to-ceiling window.


    A thick wool carpet covered the floor in front of the window, with a few colorful throw pillows ced casually.


    Klein reached out and pulled down the thin white curtain on the window.


    He pushed Grace against the ss.


    He took off her rose-red windbreaker skillfully and lifted the hem of her skirt¡­


    Forty minutester.


    Gracey in Klein¡¯s arms, her face flushed, her fingers rubbing on his thigh, gasping for breath.


    Klein, lightly pinching her waist, asked, ¡°Am I good, or is your husband good?¡±


    Grace red at him, ¡°Of course, it¡¯s you. You¡¯re ten years younger than him.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true. You¡¯re so passionate and lustful; how can that old guy satisfy you? I¡¯lle and satisfy you more in the future.¡± He leaned towards her neck and yfully teased.


    !


    Grace¡¯s skin tingled with itchiness, and she used her hand to push him away, coquettishly saying, ¡°You¡¯re so bad. So, tell me, am I better, or is your wife better?¡±


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s you. My wife is like a piece of wood, no matter how you handle it, she doesn¡¯t make a sound.¡±


    Grace yfully raised her eyebrows, ¡°And what about me?¡±


    Klein chuckled with suggestive intent, ¡°You¡¯re a seductive fox, naughty andscivious, a bit cheap.¡±


    ¡°You cheeky Klein, I¡¯ll make you regret that!¡±


    Grace raised her eyebrow and reached out to pinch his flesh.


    Klein dodged left and right,ughing as he held her hand, ¡°I wasplimenting you. In other words, you¡¯re enchanting, charming, and full of allure.¡±


    Grace rolled her eyes at him, ¡°I love hearing that.¡±


    The twoy on the soft carpet,ughing and joking.


    After resting for a while, they indulged in another round.


    Until Klein was breathless, Grace finally satisfiedly let him go.


    After cleaning up and putting on clothes, she left.


    After she left, Klein rested for a full half-hour before finding the strength to leave.


    Instead of going straight home, Grace went to her usual beauty salon for skincare, massage, and oil treatment.


    Tonight, she used this excuse toe out.


    If she didn¡¯t, she would be exposed.


    Afterpleting the whole treatment, it was almost eleven o¡¯clock.


    Grace drove back home, in a good mood.


    Her body was nourished by a man and high-end imported cosmetics, exuding a fragrant aroma.


    Her face was glossy and flushed, eyes alluring and moist.


    This was the appearance after experiencing a physical affair, a beauty that emerged.


    Grace gripped the steering wheel, humming a tune, feeling content.


    Passing through the sparsely trafficked Riverside Avenue.


    A dpidated van suddenly ambushed from behind.


    About thirty to forty meters in front of her car, it abruptly hit the brakes!

 Chapter 87: This is retribution

    Grace was startled, hastily mming on the brakes.


    She narrowly avoided a collision.


    Grace, frightened, crouched over the steering wheel, her heart pounding wildly, covering her chest, gasping for breath.


    But the owner of the van showed no remorse, no sign of apology.


    Furious, Grace lowered the car window and shouted at the van in front, ¡°What kind of driver are you? In a rush to reincarnate? If you don¡¯t want to live, just say it!¡±


    The van remained eerily silent; no one responded.


    Enraged, Grace, without much thought, opened the car door and went to bang on the van¡¯s door.


    She pounded on the dpidated door, creating a thunderous noise.


    ¡°Get out! Apologize to me! You must give me an exnation tonight! Otherwise, don¡¯t me me for being impolite!¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the two doors of the van simultaneously swung open.


    Before Grace could react, she felt darkness enveloping her, her head covered.


    Shortly after, she was dragged to a dark corner by the roadside.


    ¡°Let go of me! Don¡¯t touch me! Help!¡± Grace screamed.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    A fist struck her face.


    Grace instantly felt the pain, stars dancing before her eyes.


    The more she screamed, the harsher the blows.


    Relentless punches and kicks rained down on her head and body.


    Towards the end, Grace dared not utter another sound.


    She sensed that the covering on her head was a man¡¯s coat, emanating the cheap scent of cigarettes and alcohol, mixed with a strong odor of sweat.


    There were probably two men, judging by their voices, with heavy ents and likely in their twenties or thirties.


    The stench of a nearby trash bin reached her nose, and she guessed her location.


    Her branded clothing was violently pulled off.


    Exposed to the cool night breeze, Grace felt both embarrassed and angry.


    When had she, a noble woman, been vited like this by someone on the roadside?


    Her ribs, her nose, her face where she regrly had water light injections, her hundreds of thousands worth of branded clothing, her jewelry worth over a million, her meticulously maintained body¡­


    She was such an noble woman.


    But at this moment, she felt utterly worthless.


    It seemed like a long time before the two men finally released her.


    They got back into the van and quickly drove away.


    Gracey exhausted on the cold cement ground, unable to get up for a long time.


    Her whole body ached, and she felt as if she had been torn apart.


    She wasn¡¯t sure where exactly she was injured.


    After a while, she removed the coat covering her head and started searching for her phone.


    She couldn¡¯t find it; those two men must have taken it.


    Her diamond ring, wristwatch, bracelet, ne, and earrings-all were gone.


    Her clothes were taken, and even her car keys.


    She looked up at the sky, on the verge of tears.


    When someone eventually found her, Grace was half-naked, lying next to a trash bin.


    Her body, pale and lifeless, her eyes nk and despairing.


    When she was taken to the hospital and examined, a rib was broken, her body was torn, numerous abrasions, and a mild concussion.


    The doctor suggested reporting to the police, but she vehemently refused, finding it shameful.


    Owen received a call and rushed to the hospital.


    Seeing her in such a pitiful state, Owen¡¯s face instantly darkened.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    His blood pressure skyrocketed.


    ¡°Report to the police! Catch those two bastards! I want to skin them alive! Tear their tendons!¡± He roared in fury.


    Grace, crying uncontrobly, shook her head repeatedly, ¡°Let it go, let it go. I can¡¯t afford to lose face like this. If we report to the police, it¡¯ll be a big deal. How can I go out in public again?¡±


    Before the incident, she had just been with Klein.


    She had difficulties during Susan¡¯s birth, damaged her uterus, causing infertility, and had not taken any contraceptive measures.


    If she reported to the police and they found Klein¡¯s DNA in her body, their affair would be exposed!


    Klein had a family and worked as a white-cor.


    Although he had a decent position, his financial power couldn¡¯tpare to Owen¡¯s.


    She was used to the life of a wealthy woman and didn¡¯t want to divorce or suffer with him.


    She couldn¡¯t report to the police, couldn¡¯t vent her anger, and felt stuck, unable to move up or down.


    Owen, infuriated, paced back and forth in the hospital room, finally stopping, asking, ¡°Who do you think did this?¡±


    Grace, with swollen eyes, kept shaking her head, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Owen asked, ¡°Is it Willis? He warned me at thepany earlier today, saying it¡¯s a one-time thing, won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Grace, tearfully, covered her face and cried, ¡°I really don¡¯t know. Those two took my jewelry and phone; it must be a robbery. I don¡¯t know anything. Waaah, I don¡¯t want to live.¡±


    Owen, anxiously furrowing his brows, considered for a while before saying, ¡°It probably isn¡¯t him.¡±


    Grace, stopping her cries, suspiciously looked at him, ¡°Why do you say that?¡±


    ¡°If it were him, he wouldn¡¯t have warned me in advance. That would be self-incrimination, right? He¡¯s too shrewd to make such a basic mistake.¡±


    Grace, who was initially in a chaotic state of mind, suddenly understood.


    It wasn¡¯t Willis who hired someone.


    It must be Klein¡¯s wife.


    Thinking of that wooden-like woman, Grace¡¯s eyes turned sinister.


    At the same time, Moon Vi.


    Willis¡¯ phone vibrated suddenly, a message notification.


    He picked up the phone, nced dispassionately, and saw the assistant¡¯s message saying: ¡°Mr. Santana, it¡¯s done, clean and neat.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, his expression cool, and he replied with a simple ¡°Okay.¡±


    He lightly touched the screen, deleting the message.


    Tossing the phone onto the bedside table, hey back down, gently pulling the sleeping Helena into his arms.


    His gaze, tender as water, stared at her pure little face.


    His eyes traced along her chin, lips, and eyes.


    Finally, he lowered his head, lightly kissing her forehead, then kissing her again.


    ¡°Helena, I¡¯ve avenged you.¡±


    He silently dered in his heart.

 Chapter 88: Another Skill Added

    Jay arrived at Haden¡¯s store and saw Helena.


    A hint of surprise shed in Jay¡¯s eyes, but he maintained aposed expression.


    He gave a faint smile and asked, ¡°Why are you at Haden¡¯s store? I remember you used to work at Antique Attic.¡±


    Helena curved her lips, ¡°I just became Haden Olteran¡¯s apprentice today.¡±


    Jay was even more astonished, ¡°Not long ago, I wanted him to be my master, but he refused. Yet, he epted you as an apprentice. It seems you have quite the influence.¡±


    Haden stroked his beard and leisurely said, ¡°Taking on an apprentice is all about chemistry. The moment I saw Helena, I felt she would be my disciple.¡±


    Jay raised an eyebrow, ¡°Well, it¡¯s your call, Master Haden. Helena,e and take a look at this dragon-patterned vase.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Helena put on the white gloves in the store and carefully took the dragon-patterned vase from him, cing it on the velvet cloth on the counter.


    She picked up a magnifying ss.


    Studying it carefully, shemented, ¡°This dragon-patterned vase has a beautiful shape and full ze color. The dragon on top is exquisitely drawn, with lifelike scales, indicating the skilled hands of the artist.¡±


    Examining the bottom of the vase, she continued, ¡°It¡¯s from the Kangxi period, official kiln, and the calligraphy is in regr script. The natural aging mark on the bottom also seems authentic. It should be a genuine piece from the Imperial kilns.¡±


    Though she was more skilled in restoring ancient paintings, she had started learning about antique porcin. Looking at the patterns, ze colors, she could make educated guesses.


    Haden¡¯s eyes lit up, and he gave her a thumbs up, praising, ¡°My apprentice, on her first day, is already ready to graduate.¡±


    Helena chuckled, ¡°Master, please don¡¯t tease me. I¡¯m just showing off.¡±


    The three of them sat down and had tea.


    Jay had to leave for some reason.


    He had brought the dragon-patterned vase today because it had a crack on the mouth.


    He brought it here for Haden to repair.


    Helena stood up, saying, ¡°Let me walk you out.¡±


    Jay¡¯s stern expression softened as he looked at her, saying, ¡°Sure.¡±


    As they left, Jay identally touched her fingertips.


    A slight tingling sensation shot through his fingertips.


    As if a strange current passed through his heart.


    He stood frozen for a moment, unable to move.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    The way he looked at Helena was filled with tenderness.


    Emotions could never be hidden.


    Although the person involved might not see through it, others could clearly see.


    Not far away, the driver who was smoking under the shade of the trees saw this scene.


    He quickly took a picture with his phone and sent it to Willis.


    This was something Willis had specifically instructed him to do.


    The driver dared not disobey.


    When Willis received the message, he was sitting at his desk, reviewing documents.


    Hearing the notification sound from WeChat, he picked up his phone and opened it.


    After a quick nce at the photo, his face remained unusually calm, without any ripples.


    There was only a faint hint of derision in his eyes.


    ¡­


    The ss door creaked open.


    A mboyant young woman walked in.


    Dressed in high-end designer clothing, wearing ten-centimeter high heels, and carrying an extremely expensive ostrich skin bag.


    Even before she got close, a sweet and luxurious fragrance filled the air.


    Helena turned her head to look back.


    It was Susan.


    She faintly curved her lips.


    Susan, swaying her slender waist, walked over to the tea table, coquettishly calling out, ¡°Grandpa, ¡­.¡±


    When her gaze fell on Helena, Susan suddenly froze, and the words left in her mouth got stuck.


    For a long while.


    She finally made a sound, ¡°Helena? Why are you here?¡±


    Haden stood up, patted Helena¡¯s shoulder, and with a smile, introduced her, ¡°Come, Susan, let me introduce you. This is my new closed-door disciple, the talented young girl, Helena.¡±


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    The bag in Susan¡¯s hand fell to the ground.


    Her face turned extremely ugly.

 Chapter 89: Making a choice between Susan and Helena

    Helena now understood that Haden was Susan¡¯s grandfather.


    Before this, Willis had prohibited her from revealing her married status and, more importantly, his name to Haden.


    It turned out there was a deeper reason for that.


    Her own grandfather had epted her arch-rival as a disciple and even praised her highly.


    How could she endure this?


    Susan bent down to pick up her fallen bag, dusted it off vigorously, releasing her pent-up frustration.


    After cleaning the bag, she looked up, ncing at Helena disdainfully.


    Helena raised her chin, straightening her shoulders elegantly, standing tall and graceful. Her eyes met Susan¡¯s with rity and confidence.


    Susan lost some of her momentum, snorted disdainfully, and said to Haden, ¡°Grandpa, I won¡¯t allow you to take her as your disciple!¡±


    Haden¡¯s smiling face immediately turned serious, ¡°Susan, what do you mean?¡±


    Susan said angrily, ¡°I don¡¯t like her!¡±


    Haden chuckled, ¡°When I take on an apprentice, it¡¯s about my preference, not yours.¡±


    Susan pouted, ¡°Do you know who she is?¡±


    Haden yed with his beard, leisurely saying, ¡°Yes, her name is Helena. She¡¯s Ken¡¯s granddaughter and now my apprentice.¡±


    Susan stomped her foot, ¡°She¡¯s still Willis¡¯s wife!¡±


    Haden¡¯s expression slightly paused. He nced at Helena and quickly said, ¡°Who she¡¯s married to has nothing to do with me taking her as my disciple. I choose my apprentices based on their talent, not their husbands.¡±


    Even her own grandfather seemed to be siding with Helena in every aspect.


    Susan couldn¡¯t stand it.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Her features twisted in anger, and she impatiently said, ¡°Willis and I grew up together since childhood. I¡¯m recognized as the daughter-inw of their family. Helena stole my brother Willis!¡±


    Haden looked at her with a slightly confused expression, ¡°Didn¡¯t you and Willis break up three years ago?¡±


    Susan stubbornly said, ¡°I went abroad to study. I couldn¡¯t be with Willis during that time. The Santana family found him a nanny, Helena, to take care of him temporarily.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but sneer.


    She had never seen someone so good at distorting facts and reversing right and wrong.


    The person involved was still standing right here.


    She dared to tell tant lies.


    Her shamelessness was almost as thick as a city wall.


    Helena cleared her throat and said to Haden, ¡°Master, when Willis and I registered three years ago, he was single, and everyone can testify to that.¡±


    She added, ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you earlier because you didn¡¯t ask. I also don¡¯t like to casually talk about my private affairs.¡±


    After listening, Haden didn¡¯t immediately respond.


    He raised his finger, slowly rubbing his beard, remaining silent and thoughtful.


    Seemingly contemting, making choices.


    Susan was overjoyed and eagerly asked, ¡°Grandpa, are you going to cancel the master-disciple rtionship with Helena?¡±


    Haden, without much expression, nced at her and then shifted his gaze to Helena.


    Helena¡¯s heart was suspended in her throat.


    To be honest, she was quite afraid that Haden would cancel their master-disciple rtionship.


    Learning skills from him was one reason.


    But also because they had been together day and night for over two months, forming a bond between master and disciple.


    Moreover, it was rted to her dignity.


    If Haden sided with Susan at this moment, she would be disgraceful.


    Helena didn¡¯t want to lose to Susan.


    She didn¡¯t want to lose to anyone.


    Haden lowered his eyes, staring at Helena for a moment, and then said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, Helena.¡±


    This ¡°disciple¡± sounded like heavenly music in Helena¡¯s ears.


    The heart that had been hanging in her throat thudded back into her chest.


    Haden walked towards the door.


    Helena, holding the jade pot and the spring bottle, followed his steps.


    Susan panicked.


    She caught up, grabbing Haden¡¯s arm, coquettishly saying, ¡°Grandpa, please, I know you love me the most. Please, please, expel Helena from the sect.¡±


    Helena got goosebumps all over her body.


    But she didn¡¯t say anything.


    She just watched Haden¡¯s back.


    Haden raised his eyelids, looked at Susan without expression, and then shifted his gaze back to Helena.


    Haden lifted his foot and walked out.


    Helena followed.


    Susan, infuriated, watched as the old and the young walked out side by side.


    Susan¡¯s face contorted in anger.

 Chapter 90: Afraid She’ll Leave

    At the same time.


    After getting Haden¡¯s permission, Helena took Jay¡¯s family genealogy and went home to restore it.


    Willis had set up a separate study for her at home, specifically for restoring ancient books and paintings.


    The set of family genealogy sent by Jay had some years on it. Judging by the age of the paper, it had been passed down since the Ming Dynasty.


    The book¡¯s cover and foot were seriously damaged, with even the pages covered in various sizes of wormholes, mold, acidification, aging, and wear caused by use.


    Restoring a family genealogy was asplicated a process as restoring ancient books.


    It involved numerous steps, such as analyzing the damage, disassembling the book, selecting paper, washing with water, patching holes, pressing the book, and binding, among dozens of other procedures.


    Helena¡¯s home was always stocked with various types of ancient paper purchased at a high price from antique shops.


    She found Ming Dynasty-era paper and prepared it. Following the secret form passed down by her grandfather, she bought materials outside.


    It took almost half a day to buy the materials.


    Once everything was ready, Helena started to disassemble the genealogy sheet by sheet for cleaning.


    During the disassembly, she discovered that the Santana family was indeed a superrge family.


    They had been prosperous since the Ming Dynasty, with many literati and schrs emerging within the family.


    The names of the Santana family members were all grand and elegant, full of profound meaning.


    When she was close to finishing, Helena suddenly saw a familiar name: Zachary Santana.


    This was Willis¡¯s grandfather¡¯s name.


    Then she made a significant discovery.


    Zachary Santana and Jay Santana¡¯s grandfather, Randy Santana, were actually cousins.


    This was too surprising.


    Helena stared at Zachary Santana¡¯s name, silent for quite a while.


    She felt she needed to tell Willis about this significant discovery.


    She put down the family genealogy and looked at the clock on the wall.


    It was almost nine o¡¯clock.


    Willis called and said he had social engagements tonight and would be back by nine.


    Helena stood up, opened the door, and went downstairs.


    She saw Willis had just returned.


    He had a strong smell of cigarettes and alcohol on him.


    His handsome and refined face showed a faint expression, with cold and hard brows, and deep, inscrutable ck eyes.


    Helena walked over and asked, ¡°Why did you drink so much?¡±


    Willis grunted, didn¡¯t look at her, and raised his hand to take off his suit jacket.


    Helena took the jacket from his hand and hung it on the coat rack.


    For some reason, she always felt that his mood was not good tonight.


    Helena asked, ¡°Did the social event not go well tonight?¡±


    ¡°Smoothly,¡± Willis said nonchntly, his tone indifferent.


    Still not looking at her.


    Helena stood there motionless.


    Willis lowered his eyshes, changing his shoes.


    Long fingers leisurely loosened his tie, throwing it on the shoe cab.


    He unbuttoned two buttons of his shirt, revealing sexy corbones.


    Helena¡¯s gaze briefly stopped at his neck.


    The cor of the shirt revealed a long and firm neck with clear and deep jawlines.


    As he spoke, his Adam¡¯s apple slightly moved, carrying a hint of sensuality.


    He hadn¡¯t done anything, just stood there.


    Yet, she felt her heart race, and her throat was heating up.


    Helena shook her head to regain herposure and said, ¡°I¡¯ll make some sobering soup for you.¡±


    She turned around and walked towards the kitchen.


    However, Willis pulled her with one hand.


    He pinched her chin, lowered his head, nibbled on her nose, then traced up to her upper lip and gave her a light kiss.


    After a pause, he let her go.


    Helena felt a bit disappointed.


    He had never done this before.


    In the past, once he kissed her, he would follow with a deep kiss. He wouldn¡¯t just give a light peck on the upper lip and call it a day.


    Helena asked in surprise, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you today?¡±


    Willis raised his hand and rubbed his forehead, his eyes showing a hint of irritability, ¡°You¡¯re preparing for pregnancy, I drank, didn¡¯t want to pass the alcohol smell to you.¡±


    This reason.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but find it forced.


    Willis took long strides and went to the bathroom to take a shower.


    Helena was afraid that the bathroom floor would be slippery if he had been drinking. She hurriedly followed, supporting his arm, and said, ¡°I received a job today to restore a family genealogy. I saw your grandfather¡¯s name, Zachary Santana, on it. Grandpa and Jay¡¯s grandpa are actually cousins. So, aren¡¯t you and Jay¡­¡±


    ¡°Have the same name,¡± Willis briskly interrupted her, ¡°Jay and I have no rtion whatsoever.¡±


    His voice sounded indifferent.


    Helena hesitated for a moment, ¡°Okay.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Willis entered the bathroom.


    Helena was about to follow in to help.


    Unexpectedly, Willis closed the door.


    Watching the cold door, Helena felt a bit blocked in her heart.


    Soon, rushing water sounds came from inside.


    Willis had started showering.


    Helena stood silently for a while, then turned and went downstairs to the kitchen to make sobering soup for him.


    Helena picked up the sobering soup and handed it to him, ¡°It¡¯s just the right temperature. Drink it.¡±


    Willis took the bowl and finished it in one go.


    After drinking, he lifted the quilt andy on the bed.


    Helena also got on the bed,y beside him, put her hand on his waist, and embraced him, asking, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± he said lightly.


    But the atmosphere was clearly heavy.


    He didn¡¯t look like everything was fine.


    Helena sat up, took a deep breath, and said, ¡°I¡¯ll feel ufortable if you act like this. We¡¯re husband and wife. It¡¯s best to talk openly about any issues. If you keep it inside, small conflicts can escte into big ones. I cherish our rtionship a lot, really, I¡¯m carefully maintaining our marriage.¡±


    Willis hesitated.


    Soon, he lowered his eyshes and, in a calm voice, concealed theplex emotions in his eyes, saying, ¡°I also cherish our rtionship.¡±


    Helena stared into his eyes, ¡°I feel you have something on your mind tonight.¡±


    Willis did have something on his mind.


    But he didn¡¯t want to say.


    Helena and Jay had been getting close recently, and it was all work-rted matters.


    Every time she exined it very clearly, rationally, he couldn¡¯t find any faults.


    But he just felt ufortable in his heart.


    Especially today, receiving Susan¡¯s call saying that Jay had given Helena a million dors for repairs.


    Did his woman need him to be so generous?


    Whocks that little money?


    But he couldn¡¯t say such things; saying them would make him seem petty or even unreasonable.


    It might make Helena feel that he was too controlling.


    He didn¡¯t want to pressure her too much.


    Afraid that if he pressured her too much, she would not be able to endure it and would leave.

 Chapter 91： Caught on the spot

    At the same time.


    Susan returned to the hotel.


    Instead of going to her own room, she went to Ryan¡¯s room.


    Covering her swollen face from Willis¡¯ blows, she tearfullyined to him.


    ¡°Ryan, Helena has been bullying me, and Willis blindly supports her. I¡¯ve never suffered such injustice in my life.¡±


    She downyed the situation, only highlighting what was in her favor.


    Her pitiful appearance made Ryan feel sorry for her.


    A subtle anger rose within Ryan.


    He scolded, ¡°This damn guy has lost his mind! Watch how I teach him a lesson!¡±


    He picked up his phone, ready to call Willis.


    But Susan grabbed his wrist.


    She took the phone from his hand, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t contact Willis. If you do, he¡¯ll hate me even more. I don¡¯t want you to punish him; I just feel wronged and need someone to talk to. Talking to my parents about this will affect our families¡¯ rtionship, so I can only talk to you. Saying it out loud makes me feel much better.¡±


    The more she said this, the more Ryan felt sorry for her.


    Ryan asked gently, ¡°Want something to drink?¡±


    Susan thought for a moment, ¡°Yogurt, please.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Ryan opened the fridge, took out yogurt, and poured it into a transparent ss.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Carrying the cup, he walked to the sofa and handed it to Susan.


    Susan¡¯s hands were sweaty and slippery as she reached for the cup.


    The cup slipped from her hand, and the yogurt spilled on her pants.


    Ryan quickly grabbed some tissues to help her wipe it off.


    Susan also took some tissues to wipe, repeatedly saying, ¡°I can do it myself, I can handle it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, just a small effort on my part.¡±


    At that moment, the door made a ¡°beep¡± sound.


    It was the sound of the key card opening the door.


    Typically, suites have two key cards-one with Ryan and the other with his assistant for convenience.


    Thinking it was the assistant entering, Ryan didn¡¯t even look up.


    After wiping the yogurt off Susan¡¯s pants, he turned around.


    Only to see Jenny standing behind him with a cold expression, her eyes staring at him like ice.


    Her expression wasplex.


    There was anger, disgust, disdain, and contempt.


    Even though Ryan hadn¡¯t done anything inappropriate, being stared at like this made him inexplicably guilty.


    He coughed, raised his hand to loosen his tie, concealing his true emotions.


    He rolled up his sleeves unconsciously and put on a guilty smile.


    After carefully observing her expression, he asked, ¡°Why are you here? Why didn¡¯t you call in advance so I could send someone to pick you up?¡±


    His tone carried a hint of caution.


    Jenny sneered, pulling one side of her lips up coldly, ¡°I came at an inconvenient time, disrupting your good time.¡±


    A hint of confusion shed in Ryan¡¯s eyes. Sternly, he said, ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense! Susan is the same age as Nancy!¡±


    Jenny sneered again, ¡°You old men, driven by lust, don¡¯t care about age. No wonder you protect that Varley family girl so much. No wonder, no wonder.¡±


    She said it meaningfully.


    Casting a disgusted nce at Susan, she turned and walked away.


    Ryan hurriedly caught up, grabbing her wrist, ¡°Jenny, don¡¯t speak so harshly!¡±


    Jenny shook off his hand coldly, saying, ¡°Ryan, let¡¯s get a divorce!¡±

 Chapter 92： You’re right, Mom

    Ryan was instantly stunned.


    He sternly said, ¡°Jenny, are you joking?¡±


    Jenny gave a cold smile, ¡°I¡¯m not joking. I¡¯m giving you a serious notice.¡±


    Ryan couldn¡¯t believe it, ¡°We¡¯ve been married for so long, our son has been married for three years, and you want a divorce? Just because of this little incident today? I identally spilled yogurt on Susan, helped her wipe it off-isn¡¯t that just a normal human reaction?¡±


    Susan, upon hearing her name mentioned, quickly stood up from the sofa.


    Habitually pouting, she said with a pitiful look, ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood.¡±


    Jenny couldn¡¯t stand Susan¡¯s pitiful expression.


    Clearly, she was at fault, yet she put on a look of great grievance.


    Jenny couldn¡¯t be bothered to look at her.


    Jenny directly addressed Ryan, ¡°I don¡¯t have feelings for you anymore. Once the divorce agreement is drafted, my assistant will deliver it to your office.¡±


    After saying this, she reached for the doorknob.


    Ryan hurriedly stepped forward, locking the door, ¡°We won¡¯t talk about it today. You¡¯re not allowed to leave without exining!¡±


    Jenny¡¯s smile turned chilly as she raised her chin and pointed at Susan, ¡°Are you going to say this in front of her?¡±


    Only then did Ryan feel something was amiss. He turned to Susan, ¡°Susan, you should leave first. Go find my driver and have him take you to the hospital for a hearing check.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Susan obediently responded.


    As she passed by Jenny, she looked guilty and said, ¡°Jenny, Ryan and I are really not what you think.¡±


    Jenny¡¯s gaze coldly shifted elsewhere, ignoring her.


    Susan left feeling dejected.


    Once the door was closed, Ryan spoke seriously, ¡°I disagree with the divorce!¡±


    A faint hint of mockery shed in Jenny¡¯s eyes, ¡°It¡¯s not up to you. If you don¡¯t agree, I¡¯ll file for divorce with the court.¡±


    Ryan frowned, ¡°Jenny, don¡¯t be impulsive!¡±


    Jenny¡¯s face turned cold, ¡°Ryan, you never had feelings for me, only interests.¡±


    Ryan felt annoyed, ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know. When you married me, it was because of our family¡¯s wealth and because I was the only daughter of my parents. After my parents passed away, the assets andpany of the my family were secretly transferred to your name. Now, I have no value to you, yet you still pretend to care?¡±


    Ryan rubbed his temples, ¡°Jenny, you¡¯re at an age where you shouldn¡¯t be acting so recklessly!¡±


    Jenny¡¯s expression remained calm, ¡°I¡¯m serious, not just speaking out of anger.¡±


    Seeing her seriousness, Ryan yed his trump card, ¡°My status cannot afford a divorce; it would have a severe impact on thepany.¡±


    Jenny casually replied, ¡°Then keep it low-key, get a divorce privately without making it public.¡±


    Ryan impatiently said, ¡°Let¡¯s talk about thister. I don¡¯t have the mood to deal with this right now.¡±


    Jenny nced at him lightly, then opened the door and left.


    After she left, Ryan immediately called his assistant.


    As soon as the assistant entered the room, Ryan raised his hand and pped him on the face, ¡°Who allowed you to give Jenny a room key?¡±


    The assistant covered his face, looking confused and stunned.


    After a while, he finally spoke, ¡°Madam said your room key was left at the venue, and she asked me to give her the spare key. She said it was your intention.¡±


    Ryan was furious, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me to confirm?¡±


    ¡°Madam said your phone was with her, so there was no need to call.¡±


    yed by Jenny like this, Ryan was filled with anger.


    He took a deep breath and scolded, ¡°Get out!¡±


    The assistant, scolded from head to toe, left with a bewildered expression.


    As soon as he opened the door, Ryan instructed, ¡°Send two people to secretly follow Jenny and see if there¡¯s anything unusual, especially in terms of her rtionships with others.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Meanwhile, after Jenny left Ryan¡¯s room, she went straight to Willis and Helena¡¯s room.


    Helena opened the door and warmly greeted, ¡°Mom.¡±


    Jenny raised her lips and patted Helena¡¯s shoulder, praising, ¡°My daughter-inw, you¡¯re getting more and more beautiful.¡±


    Helena blushed at thepliment and said, ¡°Mom is the beautiful one; your charm is getting better, and you look younger and younger.¡±


    Jenny chuckled, ¡°Look at thepliments we¡¯re giving each other.¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°I¡¯m speaking the truth. Mom, with your spirit, you could easily pass for thirty.¡±


    Jenny¡¯s smile deepened, ¡°Although that¡¯s a bit exaggerated, I love to hear it.¡±


    She walked over, sat on the sofa, ced her bag on the coffee table, and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s your husband?¡±


    Willis was in the bedroom, handling work on hisptop.


    Hearing themotion, he walked out and asked, ¡°How did things go?¡±


    Jenny shrugged, ¡°Just as you expected. When I went in, Susan was in tears. She probably alreadyined to your dad. Your dad was even bending down, wiping yogurt off her pants. Tsk, tsk.¡±


    Disgusting.


    Willis raised an eyebrow, ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Seeing me enter, he panicked. Want to guess what I did?¡±


    Willis smirked, ¡°What trick did you y?¡±


    Jennyzily rested her fingers on the sofa armrest and said, ¡°I said ¡®let¡¯s get a divorce,¡¯ dropped those three words, turned around, and walked away. It really scared him.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes slightly narrowed, ¡°Are you really nning to divorce him, or were you just trying to scare him?¡±


    Jenny raised her hand to massage her temples, indifferently saying, ¡°Really divorcing.¡±


    ¡°Have you thought it through?¡±


    Jenny nodded, ¡°I¡¯ve endured him for nearly thirty years. I don¡¯t want to endure it any longer. I stayed abroad before just to avoid seeing him.¡±


    Willis had long seen the signs and wasn¡¯t too surprised.


    In his memory, his parents¡¯ rtionship had never been harmonious, with little time spent together.


    He asked calmly, ¡°Is there someone you like now?¡±


    Jenny nced at him, ¡°You brat, what are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°If there is, I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Jenny teased him, ¡°Focus on yourself first. If you can¡¯t handle your own matters, you won¡¯t have the leisure to worry about me.¡±


    Willis choked, pursed his lips, and remained silent.


    Helena cut some fruits and brought them over, cing them in front of Jenny, ¡°Mom, have some fruits.¡±


    A brilliant smile lit up Jenny¡¯s face as she picked up a fork and skewered a piece of cantaloupe. After savoring it slowly, she said, ¡°Fruits cut by my daughter-inw are sweet.¡±


    After enjoying a few pieces of fruit, Jenny wiped her mouth with a tissue, stood up, and said, ¡°I came here on a business trip. I have a contract to sign in the afternoon, so I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡±


    Willis gave a casual ¡°Hmm¡± in response, ¡°Thanks for today.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No need to be polite.¡± Jenny gently nced at Helena, ¡°I came to let off steam for my daughter-inw.¡±


    Touched, Helena said, ¡°Thank you, Mom.¡±


    Jenny smiled, ¡°If this brat dares to bully you, just tell me. I¡¯ll deal with him for you.¡±


    Helenaughed, ¡°With Mom around, he wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Willis lowered his gaze, looking at her tenderly.


    His gaze conveyed the message: I wouldn¡¯t dare to bully you even without your mother around.


    Jenny¡¯s face showed a satisfied smile, ¡°In this world, the one who will apany you for a lifetime is your spouse. Treat her well, don¡¯t lose out.¡±


    Willis agreed, ¡°You¡¯re right, Mom.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye.¡± Jenny picked up her bag, stood up, and left.

 Chapter 93： Helena’s Pregnancy

    It was the weekend.


    Willis took Helena to the Capital Hotel, which had an indoor temperature-controlled swimming pool.


    He intended to teach her how to swim to prevent her from being caught off guard in a simr situation in the future.


    After changing into swimsuits, they arrived at the edge of the pool.


    Helena wore a rtively modest sky-blue one-piece swimsuit. The clear colorplemented her radiant and fair skin, giving her a refreshing and elegant aura. With excellent body proportions, a slender waist, and long legs, she stood by the clear pool water, appearing ethereal and otherworldly.


    Willis wore tight ck swim trunks, revealing well-defined abdominal muscles and strong, toned legs. His skin was pale, resembling porcin, exuding an air of sophistication and sensuality. When he stood there, the world seemed to pause.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but sneak a nce at him.


    Even after three years of marriage, seeing him dressed like this still made her heart race, cheeks flushing.


    The man she loved was breathtakingly sexy.


    Helena leaned slightly against him, lightly brushing his fingers with hers, and said, ¡°Coach , please begin.¡±


    Stepping back, Willis assumed a serious demeanor and looked at her, ¡°Little girl, want to learn to swim, huh?¡±


    Helena hesitated for a moment, the smile on her face freezing, ¡°I want to learn. But I don¡¯t like being called a little girl.¡±


    Willis raised his chin slightly, ¡°It¡¯s the coach¡¯s catchphrase. Every coach starts with something like this. Be serious.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but want to re at him.


    He really took this seriously from the beginning.


    He immediately assumed the role of a coach.


    He began teaching her some swimming knowledge and then guided her through warm-up exercises.


    After warming up, he asked without expression, ¡°There are slow, fast, and very fast methods for learning swimming. Which one do you want to learn?¡±


    Helena answered without much thought, ¡°Of course, the very fast one.¡±


    Willis raised an eyebrow, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°No regrets?¡±


    Confused, Helena wondered why there was so much talk about learning to swim. ¡°No regrets. Can you start now?¡±


    ¡°As long as you have no regrets, jump.¡±


    ¡°What? I don¡¯t know how to swim yet. How can I jump?¡±


    ¡°Jump.¡± He approached her with amanding tone.


    Standing above her, his imposing manner was too intimidating.


    Helena slipped underfoot, and with a ¡°plop,¡± she fell into the pool.


    Caught off guard, she swallowed several mouthfuls of water.


    iling her limbs, she instinctively struggled in the water.


    Only then did she realize why he had asked so many questions earlier.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    This very fast method turned out to be about triggering instinct.


    A near-death experience before learning to survive.


    It caught herpletely off guard.


    However, the instinct for survival quickly helped Helena find a way to bnce her body.


    After taking a few sips of pool water in quick session, she stabilized.


    It happened remarkably fast.


    But it was also exceptionally challenging.


    The pool water she drank really tasted bad.


    Willis also jumped into the water with her, standing by her side to guard against any idents.


    Once she found her bnce, he began to guide her through the proper swimming techniques.


    At times, he held her hand, teaching her how to hold her breath, inhale, and exhale. He demonstrated the correct arm movements and directed her feet cement. He even corrected the alignment of her shins.


    From behind, he enveloped her, holding her wrists, and demonstrated the correct swimming motions.


    He even set up a horse stance, making Helena sit on his legs to practice her strokes.


    Teaching by example, it surprisingly resembled a genuine swimming lesson.


    After a whole morning of practice, Helena was exhausted, but luckily, she finally learned how to swim.


    Emerging from the pool, the two went to the shower, then changed into dry clothes in the locker room.


    Willis pinched her earlobe and asked, ¡°What do you feel like eating? I¡¯ll take you.¡±


    Learning to swim consumed a lot of energy.


    Helena thought for a moment, ¡°Suddenly, I really want to eat teppanyaki squid, grilledmb skewers, and spicy hot pot.¡±


    The driver, Tim, started the car.


    They found the shop Helena used to frequent during her school days.


    Willis bought her two skewers of teppanyaki squid.


    Helena picked up one skewer and brought it to her mouth, about to take a bite.


    For some reason, the savory smell of the squid that used to make her mouth water suddenly felt fishy, and she almost gagged.


    She covered her mouth, nearly vomiting.


    ¡°Is it not fresh?¡± Willis took it from her, sniffed it, and said, ¡°It¡¯s still okay.¡±


    Helena pursed her lips, silent.


    What used to be the enticing aroma of street food now felt ufortable. A nauseating sensation surged from her stomach, making her feel uneasy.


    Holding her nose, she had another bout of nausea.


    Suddenly, Willis realized something and asked, ¡°Helena, have you had your period this month?¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°It seems not.¡±


    ¡°Dyed for a few days?¡±


    Helena, enduring difort, took out her phone, opened the calendar, and said, ¡°It seems to be dyed by more than a week.¡±


    Willis, usually calm andposed, showed a hint of surprise in his eyes, ¡°Helena, you¡¯re pregnant!¡±

 Chapter 94：Confirming Pregnancy（1）

    Helena was taken aback for a moment. They had been trying to conceive for a while, meticulously counting the days, and yet, she hadn¡¯t expected to get pregnant when she least anticipated it.


    Willis held her hand, walking briskly toward the car.


    His face remained calm, but the joy in his heart was indescribable.


    On the other hand, Helena felt a lot calmer internally.


    Midway through their walk, Helena noticed a pharmacy on the roadside and suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s go in and buy a pregnancy test. Just to be safe, my menstrual cycle asionally dys by two or three days.¡±


    ¡°Sure, you wait in the car; I¡¯ll go buy it,¡± Willis said.


    The driver opened the car door, and Willis lifted his hand to support the top of the door, preventing her from identally hitting her head.


    Helena bent over and got into the car.


    Not long after, Willis returned with a transparent stic bag from the pharmacy.


    ¡°Here.¡±


    Helena reached out and took it, realizing there were at least ten pregnancy test sticks inside.


    She chuckled, ¡°One stick is enough. Why did you buy so many? It¡¯s a waste.¡±


    Willis shrugged, ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t do anything about him.


    Back at home, following the instructions, she took a test.


    Sure enough, two lines appeared.


    She tried several more sticks, and they all showed two lines.


    She was indeed pregnant!


    Helena walked out holding the pregnancy test sticks, her face beaming, ¡°I¡¯m really pregnant! Look, two lines!¡±


    Willis sat on the sofa, ncing at the pregnancy test, his expression serious.


    The joy on Helena¡¯s face froze, ¡°Haven¡¯t you always wanted children? I¡¯m pregnant now, why aren¡¯t you happy?¡±


    Willis raised his hand to massage his brow bone, his expression stern, ¡°If I had known you were pregnant, I wouldn¡¯t have taken you to the swimming pool to learn how to swim today. It was too dangerous.¡±


    Thinking about it made him feel a sense of dread.


    If something had happened, he couldn¡¯t bear to think about it.


    He fell into deep self-me.


    To ease his concerns, Helena walked over and sat beside him, adopting a casual tone, ¡°So, it¡¯s because of that. It¡¯s okay; I¡¯m fine. Don¡¯t worry. You taught me very well today. I¡¯ll give you a score of a hundred.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re fearless.¡± Willis pulled her, seating her on hisp.


    His fingers covered her lower abdomen, gently stroking, wanting to feel the presence of their child.


    But Helena¡¯s lower abdomen was t, and he couldn¡¯t feel anything.


    Instead, he heated himself up.


    To distract himself, he picked up his phone to call Jenny.


    As the call went through, he suddenly remembered something, putting Helena down from hisp, saying, ¡°I¡¯m going to make a call; there¡¯s radiation. Stay away from me a bit.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but smile, ¡°You¡¯re really considerate.¡±


    Willis neither agree nor disagree, ¡°It¡¯s my child; of course, I care.¡±


    Helena obediently sat on the other side of the sofa, keeping a distance of three meters from him.


    After connecting the call, Willis restrained his emotions and said expressionlessly, ¡°Jenny, congrattions. You¡¯re going to be a grandmother.¡±


    Jenny¡¯sughter, like silver bells, echoed from the phone, ¡°Congrattions to you too, Mr. Santana. You¡¯re going to be a father.¡±


    Helena hadn¡¯t noticed it before, but this mother and son were quite amusing.


    From their appearance, they both seemed like aloof and cold flowers.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis asked, ¡°Do you want to tell your husband this good news?¡±


    Jenny¡¯s tone turned cold, ¡°No need; he doesn¡¯t deserve it.¡±


    Willis agreed, ¡°Indeed, he doesn¡¯t deserve to know the news.¡±


    Jenny instructed, ¡°Take good care of my daughter-inw. Don¡¯t make her angry. After bing pregnant, hormones can be imbnced, and her temperament may change. Whether she throws a tantrum or sulks, you have to endure it for my daughter-inw. Don¡¯t let her get angry.¡±


    Willis remainedposed, ¡°You don¡¯t need to instruct me; I know what to do.¡±


    Jenny emphasized, ¡°Stay away from Susan, stay away from any female creatures. Don¡¯t let Helena misunderstand.¡±


    Willis gave a nonchnt acknowledgment, and then he hung up the phone.


    The room fell silent, and Helena heard all of Jenny¡¯s words.


    She was deeply moved.


    How could there be such a reasonable and understanding mother-inw?

 Chapter 95：Confirming Pregnancy（2）

    Willis dialed Granny¡¯s number again to share the news.


    Seeing his eager attitude to announce the news to the world, Helena smiled and intervened, ¡°Let¡¯s confirm it at the hospital tomorrow morning before telling Granny. It could be embarrassing if it turns out to be a false rm.¡±


    Willis hesitated for a moment, ¡°Okay.¡±


    He instructed the housekeeper to prepare a delicious and light meal.


    Though Helena had little appetite, she managed to eat something.


    Willis called the driver to bring some sweet and sour fruits to stimte her appetite.


    That night, when they went to bed, he pulled the sofa over, cing it beside Helena¡¯s bed to prevent her from falling off.


    After lying down, he insisted on Helena sleeping in the middle of the bed.


    Hey on the very edge of the bed, almost falling off.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this; really. How we slept before, we can continue now. I¡¯m pregnant, not injured.¡±


    ¡°This is fine. You¡¯re pregnant now, an important person; you must be taken care of,¡± Willis replied.


    Helena felt helpless but also happy.


    The next morning, on an empty stomach, Willis apanied her to the hospital for the check-up.


    Blood tests were required to check for anemia, rule out infectious and hereditary diseases, and measure HCG levels.


    After the doctor provided the examination sheet, Willis apanied Helena to the first-floorboratory for blood drawing.


    During the blood draw, the female doctor tied a rubber band around Helena¡¯s arm and tapped her veins.


    As the veins swelled, the doctor, holding a needle, was about to pierce them.


    Willis suddenly spoke up, ¡°My wife has thin skin and fears pain. Please be gentle when inserting the needle.¡±


    Although he was polite, his high social status and somewhat arrogant tone were evident.


    The doctor, who faced the stress of drawing blood for many people daily, was about to re at Willis for his demanding attitude.


    But when she raised her head and saw an extraordinarily handsome face, her expression softened.


    His face was like a masterpiece,bining Western contours and Eastern elegance, exuding an unparalleled aura.


    He was charming, his features finely sculpted, and his refined demeanor unmatched.


    The doctor, who was a fan of handsome faces, couldn¡¯t help but smile, saying, ¡°Rest assured, I¡¯ll be very gentle when I insert the needle for your wife, very gentle.¡±


    Helena whispered her thanks.


    Indeed, the doctor drew blood so gently that it felt like a mosquito bite.


    Helena sighed inwardly; the handsome face trick worked wonders. This was the least painful blood draw she had ever experienced.


    She decided that in the future, whenever there was a simr situation, she would definitely bring Willis along.


    After the blood draw, the doctor handed a cotton swab to Willis, asking him to apply pressure on the needle site.


    Willis took the cotton swab, helping Helena to stand up, ¡°Feeling dizzy? Should I carry you?¡±


    Helena helplessly replied, ¡°I¡¯m not that delicate. It¡¯s just a little blood.¡±


    Willis nced at the blood the doctor had drawn, three tubes in total, and his eyes turned cold, ¡°That¡¯s quite a lot. You¡¯re already thin.¡±


    Once they were out of earshot, the female doctormented to her colleague, ¡°Who says good-looking men are all yboys? Look at that handsome guy just now, he treats his wife so well.¡±


    Her colleague, busy with work, replied, ¡°Indeed, times have changed. The more handsome, the more devoted.¡±


    ¡°That man is so handsome. Why didn¡¯t I meet someone like him?¡± the female doctormented.


    Her colleague gave her a look, ¡°You¡¯d need to look like his wife for that.¡±


    The female doctor sighed, ¡°How about the child they will have? Both of them are so good-looking; the baby must be beautiful.¡±


    Two hourster, Helena received the test results.


    It was one hundred percent confirmed that she was pregnant!


    Willis immediately took out his phone and called Granny. He straightforwardly said, ¡°Granny, you¡¯re getting a great-grandson. Congrattions on bing a great-grandmother soon.¡±Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    For a while, there was no sound from the phone.


    The olddy¡¯s hand holding the phone was shaking.


    She was so excited that she couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    Overwhelmed with joy, tears flowed freely.

 Chapter 96：Swift as the Wind（1）

    A weekter, at the Olteran residence.


    The golden morning sun streamed through the windows.


    Haden sat in the spacious and elegant dining room, having breakfast with Tanya.


    Heined, ¡°Is this breakfast from that same ce as before? Why is it so greasy?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s from the same ce,¡± Tanya pushed a cup of reddish tea toward him. ¡°I¡¯ve told you countless times, as you grow older, you shouldn¡¯t eat too greasy. You never listen. Here, have some fruit tea; it will help with the greasiness.¡±


    Haden picked up the cup and took a sip.


    It was pleasantly sour and sweet, with a fragrant aroma, quite enjoyable.


    Curious, he asked, ¡°What kind of tea is this? It¡¯s so delicious.¡±


    Tanya took a sip with a light smile and said, ¡°This is German-imported fruit tea, loved by women. Not only does it promote beauty and anti-aging, but it also helps alleviate stomach difort. I drink it often. When Grace was pregnant and had severe morning sickness, she also liked it as it helped relieve the symptoms.¡±


    Upon hearing the words ¡°relieve morning sickness,¡± Haden thought of his beloved disciple, Helena.


    Since bing pregnant, she often experienced bouts of nausea and asionally had to rush to the bathroom to vomit a few times.


    Perhaps drinking this sweet and sour fruit tea could offer relief.


    The old man treated Helena as his own granddaughter now, showering her with everything good.


    After finishing their meal, just before leaving, Haden took the box of fruit tea from the table.


    Once at the shop, when Helena arrived, Haden handed her the box, saying, ¡°This is German-imported fruit tea, sour and sweet. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll like it.¡±


    In the face of her master¡¯s kind gesture, Helena naturally epted the gift.


    Thanking him sweetly, she took the box upstairs to her workshop.


    These days, she had been learning the art of engraving seals under her master¡¯s guidance.


    She took out the carbon steel knife and cinnabar stone for engraving and began her work.


    Midway through the engraving, she felt a bit ufortable in her stomach.


    A murky feeling, as if something was rising upward.


    Since bing pregnant, she experienced such sensations for a short period every day.


    After a few attempts in the bathroom, without any relief, she gave up.


    Walking back, she picked up a cup to pour herself some water.


    Her eyes fell on the fruit tea her master had given her.


    Not wanting to disappoint him, she unpacked it. Inside were twenty small bags of fruit tea, sealed in a semi-transparent stic bag.


    The tea was cut into small pieces, with shades of red and purple visible through the semi-transparent bag. Dried petals of red flowers and dried strawberries were discernible.


    She picked up one of the small bags, checked the ingredient list ¨C it included blueberries, hibiscus flowers, strawberries, ck currants, among others.


    No ingredients that pregnant women should avoid.


    The package also included a wooden spoon and yellow rock sugar.


    Following the instructions, she scooped two spoonfuls of fruit tea into a cup, added the yellow rock sugar, and poured boiling water.


    As the hot water hit the mixture, a delightful aroma wafted through the air.


    It had the fragrance of both fruits and flowers.


    It smelled really good.


    After the water cooled down, Helena took a sip.


    Sweet and sour, it was genuinely delicious.


    After drinking it, the unsettling feeling in her stomach lessened.


    She smiled at the unexpected pleasant taste.


    She finished one cup and had another.


    By the time she returned home in the evening, she had consumed four cups throughout the day.


    During the night, as shey down to sleep, Helena felt a dragging sensation and difort in her stomach.


    Since bing pregnant, she often felt this expanding and dragging sensation in her belly, a feeling she had ignored after the doctor confirmed it was a normal pregnancy symptom.


    Sleeping next to Willis, she was awakened by pain in the middle of the night.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her stomach felt cold and heavy, and she was experiencing intense cramps.


    Waves of twisting pain radiate from her abdomen, as if someone was stirring the muscles inside, growing increasingly severe.


    Even her lower back and waist were being pulled into the pain.


    She endured the difort and got out of bed, heading to the bathroom.


    The sleepwear removed, she noticed dark red stains inside ¨C a winding pattern like strands of hair.


    Helena was instantly terrified, her scalp tingling, and her face turning pale.


    This was a sign of a miscarriage!

 Chapter 97：Swift as the Wind（2）

    In a hurry, Helena pulled up her pants, pushed open the bathroom door, and ran out.


    Three steps in two, she reached the bedside.


    Shaking Willis¡¯s arm, she stammered, ¡°Blood! I¡¯m bleeding!¡±


    Her voice trembled.


    An unknown fear amplified endlessly in her mind.


    She was afraid of losing.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Afraid that the child in her belly would leave her, just like Jay, Grandfather, and Grandmother.


    She was terrified!


    Terrified!


    When she was ten, Jay died, leaving a bowl-sized scar in her young heart.


    Even now, she was still immersed in that shadow, unable to escape.


    Frequent nightmares haunted her.


    A scar that didn¡¯t heal but grewrger with the deaths of her grandparents.


    If it happened again, she didn¡¯t know if she could bear it.


    Helena tightly grasped Willis¡¯s arm, shaking it vigorously. ¡°Wake up, wake up!¡±


    Her nails pressed into his flesh through the fabric.


    Willis abruptly opened his eyes, sat up, and grabbed her arm. ¡°What did you say? Say it again!¡±


    His handsome face was surprisingly gloomy.


    His grip on Helena¡¯s arm was tight.


    Helena¡¯s lips quivered, her face turning deathly pale. ¡°I¡¯m bleeding! It¡¯s a sign of a miscarriage! Quickly take me to the hospital!¡±


    Willis¡¯s heart sank, feeling the visceral spasms within.


    The muscles on his face twitched in pain.


    A suppressed emotion was about to burst forth.


    He threw off the nket, got out of bed, and picked up Helena, then rushed downstairs.


    No time for slippers.


    In pajamas, he hurriedly stepped into his shoes, freeing one hand to grab the car keys, opened the door, and ran out.


    On the way, holding her tightly, he kept saying, ¡°Hold on, we¡¯re going to the hospital. Everything will be fine, Helena. You must hold on; the child will be fine, absolutely fine.¡±


    Whether he was consoling her or himself, he couldn¡¯t tell.


    In reality, he valued this child even more than she did.


    It was the only link keeping her by his side.


    He feared losing this connection.


    Losing her.


    Helena was in pain, unable to speak, just gripping his clothes tightly.


    The wind whispered in their ears.


    He ran too fast.


    Even though she might be petite, weighing around ny pounds, he held her tightly, running as fast as the wind.


    Faster than an ordinary person.


    Arriving at the underground parking lot.


    He opened the car door, put her inside, fastened her seatbelt in haste.


    Hurriedly closing the car door, he circled to the driver¡¯s seat and started the car.


    Driving out of the underground parking lot.


    Heading to the hospital.


    Throughout the journey, he drove at breakneck speed.


    Helena was secretly pinching sweat, repeatedly saying, ¡°Drive slower, drive slower, safety is the most important.¡±


    But how could Willis listen?


    He raced against time, wanting to get Helena to the hospital as fast as possible.


    He only knew that he couldn¡¯t be without this child.


    Couldn¡¯t be without Helena.


    Fortunately, it waste at night, with very few vehicles on the road.


    A forty-minute drive waspleted in twenty minutes.


    He parked the car at the roadside, opened the car door, picked up Helena, and rushed towards the emergency building.


    Reaching the gynecological emergency area.


    ¡°Doctor! Doctor!¡± Holding Helena, he shouted loudly to the doctors.


    A departure from his usual elegant andposed demeanor.


    He was very anxious.


    An anxiety he had never experienced before.


    Doctors and nurses quickly rushed over.


    Helena was ced on a surgical gurney and wheeled into the operating room.


    Lying on the pristine sheets, her little face was pale, devoid of color, and tiny beads of cold sweat kept forming.


    The long hair on her forehead was soaked with sweat, hanging down strand by strand.


    Like a struggling crane in the midst of a snowstorm.


    Extremely fragile.


    Watching her weak and haggard appearance, Willis felt an indescribable heartache.


    The surgery door closed from the inside.


    His Helena was out of sight.


    Willis¡¯s anxious gaze suddenly turned cold.


    He picked up his phone, found Haden¡¯s number, and dialed it.

 Chapter 98：Investigating the Truth (1)

    When Willis called,


    Tanya, Susande¡¯s grandmother, and Haden¡¯s husband hadn¡¯t slept yet. Theyy in bed, tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep.


    Suddenly, she heard the buzzing vibration of her phone, and she jolted.


    Haden¡¯s phone was charging on the TV cab in the living room.


    She quickly put on some clothes and got out of bed.


    Walking to the TV cab, she picked up the phone and checked it.


    The screen disyed: Willis.


    She reacted as if she had grabbed a hot potato, with a bang, she threw the phone on the floor.


    The phonended on the wooden floor but didn¡¯t break.


    It kept buzzing.


    Tanya hurriedly bent down, picked up the phone from the floor, thinking of hanging up, feeling uneasy about it.


    Turning it off seemed like acting guilty.


    After hesitating for a few seconds, she reluctantly answered.


    Willis¡¯s indifferent voice came through the phone, ¡°Old man, what happened to Helena today?¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Tanya paused for a moment, quickly organizing her words.


    She spoke very gently, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Willis. The old man went to bed a long time ago. Why did you call sote? Do you need something?¡±


    In amanding tone, Willis said, ¡°Let Haden answer the phone.¡±


    Tanya hesitated for a moment. ¡°It¡¯ste at night, he¡¯s quite old, is it appropriate to wake him up?¡±


    ¡°Let him answer the phone,¡± Willis repeated, the tone firm, not allowing any refusal.


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Seeing that he wasn¡¯t easy to dismiss, Tanya reluctantly walked into the bedroom.


    She approached the bed.


    Haden was sleeping soundly.


    Snores echoed rhythmically.


    ¡°Old man, wake up,¡± Tanya shook his arm forcefully.


    Haden slowly opened his sleepy eyes, looking at her with a bit of irritation, ¡°What are you doing in the middle of the night? Can¡¯t you let people sleep?¡±


    Tanya handed him the phone, ¡°Willis called. Answer it.¡±


    Haden furrowed his brows, took the phone, held it to his ear, and grunted, ¡°Willis, what¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Helena is showing signs of a miscarriage, and she¡¯s in the hospital now,¡± Willis¡¯s voice was icy, like thin ice on a winterke.


    Cold and sharp, painfully cutting through the eardrums.


    Haden¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    His mind buzzed.


    He quickly sat up, ¡°What did you say? What happened to Helena?¡±


    He could hardly believe what he heard.


    ¡°Helena is showing signs of a miscarriage, and she¡¯s in the hospital for a threatened abortion. When I brought her to you this morning, she was fine. She had regr check-ups at the hospital, and everything was normal. Old Master Haden, I entrusted Helena to you with confidence, and you let her end up like this?¡±


    Willis stared at the door of the operating room, his expression stern, a hint of a reddish glow in his eyes.


    The hand holding the phone trembled slightly.


    It was a mix of anger and worry.


    Haden was dumbfounded.


    The veins on his forehead throbbed.


    He murmured, ¡°When I left in the afternoon, she was fine. How could she have¡­¡±


    Willis didn¡¯t have the patience to listen to his rambling. He cut in, ¡°I¡¯m sending someone to your store now. Find someone to open the door.¡±


    Haden hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯ll go, I¡¯ll go now.¡±


    Willis ended the call and dialed his assistant.


    Instructing him to go with others to check the surveince.


    The situation couldn¡¯t be that simple.


    Helena couldn¡¯t have shown signs of a miscarriage for no reason.


    Receiving the order, the assistant didn¡¯t dare to dy, immediately calling for others, and they went together.


    Heaven Longevity Pavilion was inside the antique market.


    It waste at night, and the market¡¯s main gate had long been closed.


    When Haden arrived with his men and approached the market, he found someone from the market had opened the gate.


    A group of people arrived.


    Haden instructed his men to go with Willis¡¯s subordinates to check the surveince.


    However, when they reached the second-floor control room, they discovered that all the surveince in the store was malfunctioning. The machines had problems, and the surveince couldn¡¯t be essed.


    It was perfectly fine during the day, and the issues started after everyone had left in the afternoon.


    This coincidence seemed a bit too much.


    As if it were calcted to destroy evidence.


    The assistant began to suspect that something was amiss.

 Chapter 99：Investigating the Truth (2)

    He asked the assistant in the shop, ¡°Is your surveince system often malfunctioning?¡±


    The assistant shook his head, ¡°It doesn¡¯t malfunction often. It happened once in the spring two years ago, and after it was fixed, it has been working fine until now.¡±


    The assistant called Willis and briefly exined the situation.


    Willis sneered.


    What was initially just suspicion of someone harming Helena now seemed more certain-someone wanted to harm her.


    Destroying the surveince system was probably to facilitate the elimination of evidence.


    Willis said coldly, ¡°Call the Chief , ask him to send someone over immediately, and make sure to uncover the truth as quickly as possible.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Mr. Santana, I¡¯ll make the call right away.¡±


    Willis grunted and hung up the phone.


    The assistant looked at Haden and said, ¡°Sir, Mr. Santana has requested the police to be notified. What do you think?¡±


    Haden, with an anxious expression, repeatedly said, ¡°Yes, yes, quickly call the police! No matter who is trying to harm Helena, we must expose them and punish them! It¡¯s terrible, Helena is such a good girl, and they want to harm her!¡±


    The assistant took out his phone and called the Chief.


    Not long after, the Chief arranged for the Captain toe over.


    Captain, apanied by his assistant and other team members, arrived at Helena¡¯s workshop on the second floor.


    They set up a cordon.


    The police personnel, wearing disposable shoe covers, entered the scene.


    With a footprint examination light, they investigated footprints at the scene.


    Fingerprints were extracted from the doorknob.


    Helena¡¯s used cup was sealed in a bag to be taken back to the station for analysis.


    Everyone was busy, each working on different aspects of the investigation.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Haden wasn¡¯t idle either.


    He instructed his assistant to call all the people from the shop toe over, matching fingerprints and footprints with the police to identify potential suspects.


    The longer such cases dragged on, the harder it became to solve them.


    He just wanted to crack the case as soon as possible.


    To quickly apprehend the culprits who had harmed Helena.


    How could someone be so malicious?


    His apprentice was so good, so obedient, and yet someone secretly wanted to harm her child!


    It was despicable!


    Meanwhile, in the hospital, inside the operating room.


    A bright shadowlessmp illuminated the entire operating room.


    Helenay weakly on the operating table.


    She inhaled the cold air, enduring the pain, and said to the nurse closest to her, ¡°I want to see my husband. There¡¯s something very important I need to tell him. Can you let him in for a moment?¡±


    The nurse wiped the cold sweat from her forehead with a towel. ¡°Whatever is so important can wait until after the surgery, okay?¡±


    Helena looked at her with pleading eyes. ¡°I just want to say a few words.¡±


    With apassionate heart, the nurse sought permission from the lead surgeon.


    After receiving approval, she went out to fetch Willis.


    Willis changed into protective clothing, underwent a full disinfection, and walked into the operating room.


    As soon as he entered, he saw Helena, frail and pale as paper, her fists involuntarily clenched.


    Helena turned her head to look at him, took a deep breath, and said, ¡°I had breakfast and dinner at home, and Tim, the servant, brought me lunch. Apart from that, I only drank the flower fruit tea Master gave me. I¡¯ve thought about it for a long time and believe the problem might be with that tea.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes suddenly turned cold. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll call Captain to investigate that flower fruit tea right away.¡±


    He turned to leave, striding away hastily.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Helena hurriedly called out.


    Willis turned back.


    With a pale face, Helena said, ¡°Don¡¯t me Master. He must have been manipted by someone. He would never harm me.¡±

 Chapter 100：Using Another’s Knife to Kill (1)

    ¡°Okay, I promise you,¡± Willis¡¯s pitch-ck, profound gaze locked onto Helena with a calm intensity.


    His tone, firm yet gentle, conveyed, ¡°You must stay strong, endure this with determination.¡±


    A few simple words,


    Helena, fingers gripping the operating table, lips tightly pressed, nodded at him, facing him with a pretense of strength despite her obvious fragility, making Willis feel even more distressed.


    He looked at her steadily.


    It was a very profound look.


    That look seemed to ce all hope on her.


    After that one look, he resolutely opened the door and walked out.


    As if afraid that staying longer, he would not want to leave.


    Once outside,


    He removed the istion suit.


    Willis called his assistant, asking, ¡°What time can we expect the police investigation results?¡±


    ncing at his watch and then at the busy police inside the room, the assistant replied, ¡°We need to wait for the shop assistants to arrive. They will inspect footprints, fingerprints one by one. The cup used by Mrs. Santana needs to be taken back for analysis. I estimate the earliest we can expect results is tomorrow morning.¡±


    ¡°Hand over your phone to the captain.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Mr. Santana.¡±


    ¡°Captain.¡± The assistant called to the captain, handing him the phone. ¡°Mr. Santana wants to speak with you, sir.¡±


    Taking the phone, the captain greeted politely, ¡°Mr. Santana, hello.¡±


    Willis went straight to the point, ¡°My wife just told me that she drank some problematic flower fruit tea. You can start the investigation from that tea. The suspects are Susan, Grace, and Ryan. Please dispatch someone immediately to find these individuals and request their cooperation in the investigation.¡±


    The assistant, standing nearby, couldn¡¯t help but break into a cold sweat upon hearing this.


    This was a case of sacrificing one¡¯s own for the greater good.


    Even his own father was being pushed away.


    The captain also thought he had misheard and repeated, ¡°The suspects are Susan, Grace, and Ryan, right?¡±


    Willis replied, ¡°Yes.¡±


    The captain hesitated, ¡°But Mr. Ryan has a special rtionship with you, Mr. Santana.¡±


    With a cold expression, Willis said, ¡°Thew is fair and just. If he hasn¡¯t done anything, you will naturally clear him of any charges, won¡¯t you?¡±


    The captain was left speechless.


    After a few seconds, he responded, ¡°You have a point.¡±


    After hanging up the phone,This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    The captain pointed to the box of flower fruit tea on the table and instructed his assistant, ¡°Pack up this tea; send it back to the station immediately for analysis. Get the results as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Captain.¡± The assistant said, sealing the unpacked flower fruit tea in a bag.


    A person was dispatched to send it back to the station overnight.


    Haden stood not far away.


    When he heard the words ¡°flower fruit tea,¡± he trembled and quickly walked over, asking, ¡°Officer, I heard you talking about flower fruit tea just now?¡±


    The captain nodded slightly, ¡°Mr. Santana just called and mentioned that Helena suspects the flower fruit tea.¡±


    As soon as Haden heard this, he said, ¡°I gave her that flower fruit tea. If you want to know anything, just ask me.¡±


    The captain made a pause gesture, ¡°Wait a moment; I have more important matters to attend to right now.¡±


    He went to the trash can to look for the remnants of the flower fruit tea.


    Discovering that the trash bag was newly changed, he went to the pantry, where the trash had also been disposed of.


    The captain rushed out and asked Haden, ¡°Who is responsible for taking out the garbage in your shop? At what time do they usually do it?¡±


    Haden answered truthfully, ¡°The cleaning staff is responsible, there are two of them. They usually take out the garbage around six or seven in the morning.¡±


    The captain looked at his watch, ¡°Where do they usually dispose of the garbage? Take me there quickly.¡±


    Haden dared not dy, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take you there now.¡±


    Leaving two teammates to watch the scene.


    The captain, apanied by other team members, followed Haden, who led the way, to the public trash bin outside the mall.


    By now, it was already three or four in the morning.


    The garbage truck woulde to collect the trash around six or seven in the morning.


    They had to find the flower fruit tea residue Helena had thrown away before that.


    The surveince was destroyed.


    The garbage had been disposed of.

 Chapter 101：Using Another’s Knife to Kill (2)

    So, the residue of that flower fruit tea became the most crucial clue in solving the case.


    The captain put on a mask and gloves, rummaging through the trash can.


    Enduring the foul smell of garbage, they searched desperately.


    Finally, before the garbage truck arrived, they found the trash bag containing the flower fruit tea residue.


    Fortunately, there wasn¡¯t much inside.


    Apart from waste paper, there was a pile of red and purple tea dregs.


    The captain picked out the waste paper, handing the tea dregs to his assistant. ¡°Take this for analysis; get the results as soon as possible, hopefully by noon.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Captain.¡±


    On the way back to the store,


    Haden exined the entire situation regarding the flower fruit tea in detail to the captain.


    The captain noted everything down.


    Once the analysis results were avable, they would proceed with the next phase of the investigation.


    After the policepleted their on-site investigation, they left.


    Haden drove home.


    After a night of tossing and turning, his face looked extremely unpleasant.


    As soon as he entered the house,


    Tanya greeted him, bending down to change his slippers, saying, ¡°Old Master, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    Her eyes, however, were surreptitiously observing his expression.


    Haden remained silent, leaning against the shoe cab and changing into slippers.


    Tanya pretended to be calm and asked, ¡°Old Master, what were you busy with? You¡¯ve only just returned after such a long time. I told you earlier, just let the staff handle it. You never listen. I¡¯ve told you, at your age, why do you keep meddling in these matters? If you get tired, I¡¯ll feel sorry for you.¡±


    Haden still didn¡¯t utter a word, heading straight to the water dispenser.


    The more he acted this way,


    The more guilty Tanya felt.


    She followed him, picked up a cup for him, and asked, ¡°Old Master, do you want some water?¡±


    Haden nodded.


    Tanya turned on the water dispenser. ¡°The water is cold; I¡¯ll heat it up for a while.¡±


    Haden, in a gloomy tone, said, ¡°Just drink it cold.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tanya bent over, filling a cup with cold purified water and handing it to Haden.


    As he reached out to take it, he suddenly lifted his hand.


    Spilling the water on Tanya¡¯s face.


    Tanya was stunned, raising her hand to wipe the water off her face, both angry and wronged. ¡°Old Master, why did you ssh water on me?¡±


    Haden grabbed her cor and pushed her back forcefully.


    Tanya, unprepared, bumped into the wine cab with her back.


    It hurt, causing her to grit her teeth.


    Even more aggrieved, she said, ¡°You¡¯re unnecessarily pushing me around. Why did you do that for no reason?¡±


    Haden looked at her with a frowning expression. ¡°Did you order someone to destroy the store¡¯s surveince?¡±


    Tanya was taken aback.


    Soon, she burst intoughter.


    Casually, she leaned against the wine cab, ying with a strand of hair hanging down.


    In azy tone, she said, ¡°Old Master, what nonsense are you talking about? What surveince? I have no idea.¡±


    Ignoring her, Haden continued, ¡°You intentionally mentioned drinking flower fruit tea can alleviate morning sickness. You purposely ced that box of tea prominently on the dining table. All to use me to get rid of the child in Helena¡¯s belly, right? Tanya, your trick of using another¡¯s knife to kill is truly well-calcted! I¡¯ve really misunderstood you before!¡±


    Tanya¡¯s well-maintained face changed color slightly.


    However,


    She quickly returned to normal, smilingzily. ¡°Old Master, everything requires evidence. Without evidence, you can¡¯t casually use me.¡±


    Haden spoke each word deliberately, ¡°Rest assured, the police have intervened in the investigation. It won¡¯t be long before the evidencees out.¡±


    Tanya lowered her eyelids, not saying a word for a long time.


    However, her fingernails left deep imprints on her palms.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 102：Warming up each other（1）

    In the hospital,


    After daybreak,Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Helena finally escaped danger and was transferred from the operating room to the ward.


    She continued to receive medication through intravenous injection to suppress contractions.


    Due to the effects of the medication, Helena¡¯s heart rate was rapid, and her breathing was more urgent than usual, making it difficult for her to catch her breath.


    Afraid that Willis would worry, she endured it, lying down with a calm expression as much as possible.


    She would have to stay in the hospital continuously receiving anti-contraction medication to sustain the pregnancy.


    She couldn¡¯t be discharged until all the check-up results were satisfactory.


    However, the major danger had finally passed.


    Both of them secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Especially Willis.


    The child was saved.


    His Helena was saved.


    Helena felt hungry and wanted to drink eight-treasure congee.


    Willis immediately sent someone to buy it.


    When the congee arrived,


    He tasted it first to ensure that no one had tampered with it before picking up a spoon to feed Helena.


    ¡°I can do it myself,¡± Helena said, propping herself up and reaching out to take the bowl.


    She had never been a pampered person; she was ustomed to hard work since childhood.


    Unustomed to being fed all the time by Willis.


    Willis pushed away her hand, scooped some congee, and fed it to her, saying gently, ¡°For those two years, you apanied me, taking care of me while I went around the world for leg treatments. It was all about taking care of me. Now it¡¯s my turn to take care of you. It¡¯s a matter of reciprocity.¡±


    Helena smiled.


    Images of those two years shed through her mind.


    He was quite the young master back then.


    He had a big and stubborn temper, was arrogant, and excessively dramatic.


    If he felt unwell and didn¡¯t want to eat, only she could feed him. No one else could. The same went for bathing; only she could wash him. Other male nurses or servants were not allowed.


    He was quite difficult to deal with.


    Now that his leg was better, his temper had improved a lot. He didn¡¯t seem as fussy as before.


    Compared to that time, he seemed like apletely different person.


    After feeding Helena a bowl of congee,


    Willis brought water for her to rinse her mouth.


    Catching a glimpse of the faint bluish-ck under his eyes, Helena said, ¡°You should eat something too. After eating, lie down and rest for a while, don¡¯t go to thepany. You¡¯ve stayed up all night; if you continue, you¡¯ll wear yourself out.¡±


    Willis held her hand and said gently, ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m not sleepy. You go ahead and sleep; I¡¯ll watch over you while you sleep.¡±


    Helena looked at him with teary eyes. ¡°When I fall asleep, you should sleep too.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Helena hadn¡¯t slept much the previous night, and her body was weak. She couldn¡¯t hold on any longer and fell asleep.


    After finishing the IV drip,


    Willis called a nurse to gently remove the needle for her.


    He didn¡¯t go to sleep either; he quietly sat by her side.


    Looking at her pale and haggard face, the lingering pain in his heart remained.


    It felt like his heart was still suspended in midair, unable to find peace.


    Casually pinching a strand of her hair, he slowly rubbed it between his fingers, asionally bringing it to his nostrils for a sniff.


    Smelling the fragrance of her hair, his heart eased a lot.


    Helena hadn¡¯t slept for long before she began to dream again.


    With closed eyes, she frowned and called out in pain, ¡°Child, my child¡­¡±


    Her head shook slightly.

 Chapter 103：Warming up each other（2）

    Her slender body curled into a ball.


    Crystal-clear tears welled up from the depths of her eyes.


    She cried out in pain as if trapped in a dream, unable to break free.


    Willis¡¯ heart, which had just stabilized, clenched in an instant.


    Bending down, he gathered her into his arms, gently took her hand, and ced it on her stomach, saying, ¡°The child is still there; don¡¯t worry.¡±


    His firm arms enveloped her entirely.


    He held her small and soft, like a newborn baby.


    It was a protective posture.


    Perhaps Helena heard his words in her dream.


    Or perhaps his embrace gave her a sense of security.


    Her stiff and tense body gradually rxed.


    The furrowed brow also eased.


    After shepletely calmed down,


    Willis affectionately kissed her forehead and kissed her again.


    He was very pleased.


    In her dreams, the words ¡°Jay ¡± gradually changed into him and the child.


    As long as he continued to warm her, she would surely forget that man named Jay Smith.


    He thought.


    He hugged her even tighter, almost wanting to press her into his body.


    To be one with her body and soul.


    Around noon,


    Willis received a call from the captain.


    Afraid of disturbing Helena,


    He walked to the corridor to answer.


    The captain said, ¡°Mr. Santana, the test results are out.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the situation?¡±


    The captain exined: The residue in the flower and fruit tea contained arge amount of crushed saffron.


    Arge amount of saffron could enhance the tension and excitability of the uterus, intensify uterine contractions, and even cause spasms, leading to a miscarriage.


    However, there was no saffron found in the flower and fruit tea brought back, indicating that it had been deliberately swapped.


    Based on this, it was spected that the unexpected destruction of the store¡¯s surveince was to facilitate the exchange of evidence and destroy the traces.


    The captain said, ¡°Through the footprint and fingerprint investigation, it was found that the person who reced the flower and fruit tea was the cleaner in the store.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes turned cold, and he asked in a cold voice, ¡°The cleaner has no grudges with Helena. Someone must have instructed her. Who is it? Did she confess?¡±


    ¡°She confessed. The cleaner said that before the incident, Tanya¡¯s driver sent someone to find her, gave her money, and asked her to destroy the surveince while cleaning, swap the flower and fruit tea, and dispose of the garbage. She mentioned that she was just a part-time worker and didn¡¯t dare not toply, after all, Tanya is theirndy.¡±


    Willis frowned deeply, ¡°Alright, I got it.¡±


    ¡°What do you n to do next, Mr. Santana?¡±


    Willis pondered for a moment, ¡°Wait a while. I¡¯ll call youter, and we¡¯ll discuss it in detail.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll wait for your call.¡±


    Willis nodded lightly and hung up the phone.


    Back in the ward,


    Helena was still asleep.


    By now, she had regained her calmness.


    Her sleeping face was peaceful and serene.


    Due to blood loss and fatigue, herplexion was still as pale as cold moonlight.


    Long eyshes drooped down like the wings of an injured butterfly.


    His heart skipped a beat, and a subtle ache spread like fine threads.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Bending down, he affectionately kissed her cheek and whispered gently, ¡°I¡¯ll go and avenge you. Wait for me toe back.¡±

 Chapter 104：Retribution（1）

    After speaking, Willis stood up, his long legs striding out.


    He closed the door behind him.


    He instructed the two bodyguards at the door, ¡°Watch over Helena. If she loses a single hair, I will hold you ountable.¡±


    Ever since the Dragon Mount incident,


    The bodyguards dared not be negligent anymore. They nodded and said in unison, ¡°Rest assured, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Willis left the hospital.


    With his assistant, he headed to the Olteran family.


    On the way to the Olteran family, he discussed the strategy with the captain.


    Passing by Varley Group,


    He called Susan.


    Susan knew that the situation was not good, but she was afraid of Willis and dared not resist.


    A group of people drove to the Olteran family.


    As soon as they entered the gate,


    They saw Tanya kneeling on the ground, hugging Haden¡¯s legs, crying loudly.


    She cried and shouted, ¡°Old man, I followed you for more than forty years, gave birth to your children, and worked hard. Even if I have no merit, I still have hard work. Just because of this little thing, you¡¯re kicking me out? You¡¯re too heartless.¡±


    Haden tilted his head high, ignoring her.


    The captain had already called and informed him of the test results, including the cleaner¡¯s confession.


    The situation was just as he expected.


    He was instantly disappointed with Tanya.


    A woman who had been with him for more than forty years actually had such a face.


    He was both angry and disappointed, saying nothing.


    In this state, Tanya thought there was still room for reconciliation, crying even louder.


    Tanya cried sadly, saying, ¡°Old man, don¡¯t drive me away, okay? I can¡¯t bear to be separated from you. We have such deep feelings.¡±


    Haden, losing his patience, red at her angrily. ¡°Helena, that little girl, paid a high tuition fee to learn skills from me. Others took three years to learn the basics, and she graduated in three months. She¡¯s now helping me in the store without taking a penny. And you, you actually added saffron to harm her child! The girl, married to Willis for more than three years, finally got pregnant, and it¡¯s her first child. If she loses this child, it will be difficult for her to conceive again in the future. You are already a grandmother; how can you be so heartless?¡±


    Tanyained, ¡°You took that flower and fruit tea yourself. It¡¯s not my fault.¡±


    As soon as this was mentioned, Haden became furious.


    Almost choking.


    He, who had been shrewd his whole life,


    Did not expect to be calcted by the person beside him at the age of over eighty.


    The flower and fruit tea was handed to Helena by him personally.


    How could he face her in the future?


    Thinking about it, he almost caused her child¡¯s death with his own hands.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    He felt guilty and couldn¡¯t lift his head.


    Ashamed.


    In his entire life, he had never done such a dirty thing.


    The more Haden thought about it, the angrier he became. Suddenly, he lifted his foot and kicked Tanya to the ground.


    ¡°Old man, did you hit me? How can you hit me?¡± Tanya couldn¡¯t believe it.


    She covered her chest, lying on the ground. Tears were welling up in her eyes, spinning around in her eye sockets. Her eyes were red, and even the tip of her nose was red.


    The onlookers softened at her pitiful appearance.


    Unfortunately, Haden was furious, and no matter how she cried, he remained unmoved.


    ¡°In my entire life, I¡¯ve never hit a woman, but you¡¯re just too despicable!¡± Haden threw down these words.


    With a flick of his sleeves, he left angrily.


    ¡°Old man, wait for me, wait for me!¡± Tanya struggled to climb up from the ground and was about to chase after him.


    Seeing this,


    Willis, who had been silent, turned to Susan beside him. ¡°On the way here, I told you how to handle it. Do you remember?¡±


    Susan was in a difficult situation. ¡°But she¡¯s my real grandmother, I can¡¯t bring myself to do it.¡±


    ¡°The police have investigated thoroughly. The physical evidence has been found, your grandfather has confessed to the police, and the cleaner from Heavenly Blessing Pavilion has also admitted. With both physical and testimonial evidence, your grandmother¡¯s attempt to harm Helena with saffron is considered murder. She should be sent to prison.¡±


    Susan choked, ¡°I don¡¯t want my grandmother to go to prison. Willis, please, don¡¯t prosecute her, okay?¡±


    Willis raised an eyebrow, ¡°Then do as I told you just now, or else your grandmother will go to prison. Choose between a little skin injury or prison. It¡¯s your choice.¡±


    Susan struggled in her heart.


    She didn¡¯t want to choose either option.


    After all, her grandmother was just trying to help her vent her anger.


    She was almost torn apart by the dilemma.


    However, she didn¡¯t have the right not to choose.


    After a long time,


    Susan took a deep breath and reluctantly said, ¡°Okay then.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes were indifferent, ¡°Then follow what we discussed earlier.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Willis.¡±


    Susan took a few quick steps, caught up with Tanya, and suddenly raised her hand, pping her across the face.


    Tanya was dumbfounded by the p.


    Covering her burning face, she incredulously asked, ¡°Susan, why did you hit me?¡±


    Susan, teary-eyed, said, ¡°Grandma, I¡¯m sorry. Willis said if I do this, they won¡¯t prosecute you. If they don¡¯t prosecute you, you won¡¯t have to go to prison. Grandma, I¡¯m doing this for your own good.¡±

 Chapter 105：Retribution（2）

    Tanya was about to speak.


    Susan pped her again.


    On the way there, Willis instructed her to hit hard, otherwise, it wouldn¡¯t count.


    He stood there, and she didn¡¯t dare to fake it.


    Tanya was hit, and half of her face swelled up, making her teeth ache.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    She tried to run.


    The bodyguards Willis brought with him stepped forward, blocking her way.


    Tanya shouted loudly for the servants toe, ¡°Someone,e over and help me!¡±


    However, the servants in the house had all seen her being beaten by Haden.


    No one dared to offend Haden.


    No one came forward to help.


    ¡°Grandma, just cooperate with me.¡± Susan stepped forward and pped her again.


    The bodyguards stepped in from both sides, lifting Tanya up for Susan.


    Susan kept pping her.


    While hitting Tanya¡¯s face, Susan kept crying and saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, grandma, I¡¯m sorry. Listen to me, endure a bit of physical pain now, and you won¡¯t have to go to jail.¡±


    Susan pped Tanya¡¯s face left and right, making it spin like a top.


    However, Willis was still not satisfied.


    Standing not far away, he watched coldly and indifferently reminded, ¡°You¡¯re hitting too lightly. Are you scratching your grandma¡¯s itch? This won¡¯t do. You must follow what we discussed earlier for it to count.¡±


    Susan gritted her teeth, bent her fingers, and fiercely scratched Tanya¡¯s left cheek.


    Her nails were manicured, making her fingertips extremely sharp.


    This scratch.


    Tanya¡¯s face immediately showed signs of bleeding.


    Five bright red fingerprints, bloody.


    Tanya was in pain, and it took her a while to recover.


    She grabbed Susan¡¯s hand and said sharply, ¡°Are you crazy? Why are you scratching my face?¡±


    ¡°Grandma, forgive me. I¡¯m doing this for your sake. I truly mean well for you. You have to understand me.¡± While speaking, Susan¡¯s other hand went up again.


    Even more fierce than before.


    Tanya was in even more pain.


    She had loved beauty since she was a child.


    After marrying Haden, she rarely did anything.


    She spent her days in the beauty salon, maintaining her fair and smooth skin.


    In her sixties, she looked ten years younger than her actual age.


    Her face was fair and tender, with few wrinkles.


    But today, this expensive face was ruined by Susan.


    Both sides of her cheeks burned, and when she touched them with her hand, it was covered in blood.


    Furious and unable to endure it any longer, she violently broke free from the bodyguards¡¯ restraint and pushed Susan away.


    Bumping and retreating.


    Susan was wearing high heels, and with such a push, she fell to the ground.


    Coincidentally,


    There was a huge barrel of prickly pears behind her.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    A sharp scream pierced the sky!


    Susan was almost knocked out by the pain!


    In summer, she was wearing thin clothes. Her entire back was pierced by the sharp thorns.


    The thorns were so sharp and hard, as if they had pierced through her body and soul.


    An excruciating pain like thousands of arrows piercing her heart!


    Dense and overwhelming!


    At this moment, sharp police car sirens rang outside the door.


    One after another.


    In a short few minutes,


    The police cars came to a sudden stop at the entrance of the Hua Mansion.


    The captain, dressed in police uniform, led a group of armed police officers and rushed in.


    Seeing them, Tanya panicked!


    Contrary to her usual calm andposed self, she scurried around like a headless fly.


    Susan was also in a panic!


    Enduring the severe pain, she crawled up and ran to Willis, grabbing his arm, ¡°Willis, you promised me. You promised not to arrest my grandma. How can you go back on your word?¡±


    Willis disdainfully shook off her hand.


    Brushed off the nonexistent dust on his sleeve.


    He casually said, ¡°Trust is something you discuss with people, right?¡±


    His tone was contemptuous, ¡°You are not.¡±


    Leaving behind these words, he turned and walked away.


    Susan was stunned.


    After a moment.


    A piercing scream came from behind her, ¡°Willis, you yed me!¡±


    Willis raised his lips.


    The smile was charming but extremely cold.


    Like snow at the top of a high mountain, yet like freezing ice.


    Passing by the captain, Willis said indifferently, ¡°Arrest her, Captain.¡±

 Chapter 106：Passionate Confession

    The Santana Group celebrated its centennial anniversary.


    On that evening,


    The entire top floor of the Capital Hotel was reserved by the group for the celebration.


    The grand banquet hall was adorned with magnificent decorations, exuding a dazzling brilliance.


    All the top executives and local employees of thepany attended the celebration.


    Just as the celebration ceremony was about to begin,


    the entrance to the banquet hall was pushed open from the outside.


    Susan, elegantly dressed in a dress adorned with artificial diamonds, entered the hall, shining brilliantly in twelve-centimeter high heels.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her timing was perfect, precisely during the quietest moment in the entire banquet hall.


    All eyes turned towards her.


    She sessfully became the center of attention.


    Appearing to relish the attention, Susan stood tall, chest out, slender waist twisting, gracefully making her way towards the seating area.


    Nancy spotted her in the crowd.


    She sneered and asked Willis, sitting next to her, ¡°Today is the centennial celebration of our Santana Group. Who invited this person? Was it you?¡±


    Willis raised his chin, pointing towards Ryan who was currently on the stage speaking, ¡°Other than your dad, I can¡¯t think of anyone else.¡±


    Nancy snorted, ¡°I think it¡¯s him too.¡±


    Afterwards, she added, ¡°He¡¯s the only blind one in our whole family.¡±


    Willis chuckled.


    Next to them, Bruce covered his mouth, cleared his throat, and said, ¡°Susan was invited by me. At the beginning of the year, I heard her mention that she wanted to attend ourpany¡¯s anniversary celebration. Considering the good rtions between the Santana family and the Varley family, I invited her.¡±


    Bruce Santana was the son of Ryan and his ex-girlfriend Alva Swift before marriage.


    He grew up in the Swift family.


    Nancy wasn¡¯t familiar with him and didn¡¯t continue the conversation.


    In the vast banquet hall filled with people, Susan still managed to spot Willis sitting in the crowd.


    Despite her attempts to divert her gaze, her eyes involuntarily swept towards him.


    However, Willis didn¡¯t even spare her a nce.


    After the speeches from the top executives, including Ryan, Bruce, and Willis,


    a professional team that had been hired took the stage to perform.


    Due to therge number of attendees, the banquet was set up in a buffet style.


    Like a fluttering butterfly, Susan moved through the crowd, smiling charmingly, appearing familiar with everyone and warmly greeting them.


    As Helena and Willis had a secret marriage and hadn¡¯t held a wedding ceremony,


    Helena had never visited thepany before.


    Susan had oftene to thepany as Willis¡¯s supposed girlfriend.


    Everyone still thought she was Willis¡¯s girlfriend, so they warmly asked her, ¡°when will we get to enjoy the wedding candy from you and Mr. Santana?¡±


    Normally, someone else would correct them,


    but for the sake of her vanity, Susan didn¡¯t correct them, just smiled without saying a word.


    Everyone thought she had tacitly agreed and continued to praise her,


    saying that she and Mr. Santana were a perfect match, an ideal couple.


    Willis stood not far away, taking in everything.


    His eyes turned cold, and he picked up his phone to call his driver Tim, ¡°Bring Helena to the top floor of the Capital Hotel.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Half an hourter, Helena arrived.


    Even though she was only wearing a simple white shirt tucked into a dark high-waisted long skirt, her innate grace and charm made her stand out.


    As soon as she entered, all eyes were drawn to her.


    Even without makeup, she remained pure and beautiful,


    making Susan, adorned in her extravagant outfit, look ordinary.


    Willis walked briskly to greet her, taking Helena¡¯s hand and gazing at her tenderly, ¡°It¡¯ste at night, I hope you don¡¯t me me for asking you toe?¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°If it wasn¡¯t important, you wouldn¡¯t have called me over.¡±


    Hand in hand, the couple, with an appearance of deep love, walked towards the center of the stage.


    Willis took the microphone and addressed the audience, ¡°Let me introduce, this is my wife. We got married three years ago.¡±


    There was a stunned silence among the crowd.


    A moment of silence.


    Soon, thunderous apuse echoed in the banquet hall.


    People began apuding enthusiastically.


    Unexpectedly,


    Helena was stunned.


    She didn¡¯t expect him to call her over to introduce her to the entirepany.


    A pleasant surprise struck her heart.


    She curved her lips, slightly tilted her face, and gazed at him with delicate, watery eyes, full of affection.


    Willis looked down at her, overflowing with love in his eyes.


    He tightly held her hand and said to everyone, ¡°I love my wife very much.¡±


    Very much.


    He repeated it in his heart once again.


    Susan, who had always presented herself as Willis¡¯s girlfriend, with her exquisitely made-up face, felt like she had been exposed and couldn¡¯t wait to find a ce to hide.

 Chapter 107：Hit upon an idea

    Susan¡¯s face was burning, and she couldn¡¯t sit still any longer. She grabbed her bag and was about to leave.


    Bruce, sitting next to her, raised his hand to stop her.


    ¡°Giving up so soon?¡± he said in a low voice, so only the two of them could hear.


    Susan was stunned and looked at him, ¡°What do you mean, Bruce?¡±


    ¡°I always thought you were a resilient person, not one to give up easily. I didn¡¯t expect you to yield so quickly to such a small matter,¡± he continued, his voice barely audible.


    Susan, hearing an underlying meaning in his words, sat back down and scooted closer to him.


    Leaning towards his ear, she whispered, ¡°Bruce, can you be more straightforward? I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    Bruce smiled and nced at Willis on the stage.


    He asked Susan, ¡°Do you love him very much?¡±


    That sentence struck Susan¡¯s heart.


    She looked at the man on the stage, gazing affectionately at Helena, and said softly, ¡°We grew up together, childhood sweethearts. How could I not love him? If it weren¡¯t for the car ident three years ago, we might have been married by now.¡±


    Bruce sighed lightly, ¡°Fate ys tricks on us.¡±


    ¡°Who can argue with that?¡± Susan lowered her eyshes, staring at the floor.


    She looked resentful.


    Despiteing from such a prestigious family, being both beautiful and talented, excelling in the workce, and charming in social situations, she still lost to a countryside girl who crawled out of a mountain ditch.


    She couldn¡¯t ept it!


    With her delicate appearance, long and curled eyshes, and a pointed chin, she appeared pitiful to Bruce.


    ¡°Willis likes Helena so much because you left three years ago, and she took advantage of the opportunity. Young and impulsive men, who wouldn¡¯t enjoy physical pleasure? The so-called deep affection is nothing more than not having enough fun. They are both after their own interests ¨C one for wealth, the other for physical pleasure. Their so-called transactional marriage doesn¡¯t have the strong foundation you think it does.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Bruce¡¯s words brightened Susan¡¯s eyes.


    Her heart, which had turned into ashes, was reignited by Bruce¡¯s words.


    But when she thought about Willis¡¯s recent heartless actions towards her,


    she sighed and said dejectedly, ¡°Willis is already starting to hate me. I have no confidence left.¡±


    Looking up at him, she asked, ¡°Bruce, what do you want to tell me? Please be direct.¡±


    Bruce smirked, a meaningful smile ying on his lips, ¡°After sleeping together, he will naturally fall in love with you. It¡¯s such a simple truth; you are really a naive little girl.¡±


    Susan stared at him in disbelief, ¡°You want me, you want me to sleep with Willis?¡±


    Bruce quickly extended his index finger to her lips, whispering, ¡°Keep it down.¡±


    He nced around, making sure no one noticed them amidst the crowd watching Willis and Helena on the stage.


    Then he breathed a sigh of relief.


    Leaning towards Susan¡¯s ear, he spoke in an extremely low voice, ¡°Listen to my n, and I guarantee you¡¯ll be satisfied.¡±


    Susan was still in disbelief, ¡°Can this work? I¡¯m afraid Willis will hate me even more.¡±


    Bruce smiled mysteriously, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he definitely won¡¯t. Men understand men the best.¡±


    Susan remained skeptical, but seeing Bruce¡¯s confident demeanor, she began to feel a growing eagerness.


    After all, Willis already disliked her.


    Perhaps she could salvage something from this situation.

 Chapter 108：Burning with Desire (1)

    Willis had a decent tolerance for alcohol, but with everyone toasting continuously, he started feeling a bit dizzy after a few rounds. At one point, he excused himself to the restroom, sshing cold water on his face to freshen up. Upon returning, he continued to sit and had a couple more drinks.


    The dizziness intensified, and everything seemed blurry and doubled. In the middle of the celebration, he decided to take a break. Willis motioned to his assistant, ¡°Go downstairs, book a room for me. I need to rest for a while, sober up, and then go home.¡±


    He didn¡¯t want to go home in a drunken state, potentially disturbing Helena. Moreover, being intoxicated might make him overly clingy and, with Helena being pregnant, he needed to be careful.


    The assistant nodded, ¡°Sure, Mr. Santana.¡±


    He helped Willis stand up and, after a brief farewell to the guests, they took the elevator downstairs.


    Upon arriving, a room was promptly arranged. Willis took off his shoes,y down on the bed, and his assistant poured a ss of warm water, cing it on the bedside table. ¡°Mr. Santana, I¡¯ll head upstairs. Call me if you need anything. Once you¡¯re feeling a bit more sober, I¡¯ll arrange for the driver to take you home.¡±


    Willis responded with a faint ¡°Mm-hmm¡± and pulled the nket over himself. He closed his eyes, intending to get some rest. However, instead of feeling the usual effects of alcohol, he sensed his body temperature rising, and an inexplicable masculine urge surged from the depths of his being, making him unexpectedly excited.


    Typically, being drunk brought about familiar reactions. Willis attributed it to the amount of alcohol he had consumed and the three cups of hot tea he had ingested.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Trying to clear his mind, he clenched his hands beneath the table, hoping to shake off the drowsiness. Little did he know that this unusual sensation was a sign that something was amiss.


    Willis suddenly picked up his phone and called his assistant.


    However, his vision was blurry, and he could hardly see the screen. He relied more on his instincts than his sight.


    When the assistant answered, Willis spoke with a low, deep voice, ¡°Take me to the hospital.¡±


    The assistant was taken aback, ¡°What happened, Mr. Santana?¡±


    ¡°I suspect my drinks or tea were tampered with. I feel abnormal. Take me to the hospital for gastricvage, now!¡± Willis urgently instructed.


    ¡°Alright, Mr. Santana. I¡¯ll get someone right away,¡± the assistant replied, rushing to bring assistance.


    Willis hung up the phone, holding his forehead. The headache was severe, and he felt parched. His heart was pounding, and his body temperature was soaring.


    At this moment, he longed for Helena.


    He yearned for her soft and fragrant presence, for the melodious sounds of her voice. He envisioned pressing her down on the bed and passionately making love to her.


    While struggling with this overwhelming heat and difort, the doorbell rang.


    Thinking it was his assistant, Willis staggered to the door, opened it slightly, and a slim figure slipped inside.


    Before he could react, the figure wrapped arms around him, burying her head in his chest, and cooed, ¡°Darling, are you feeling ufortable? Let me help you.¡±


    Although his consciousness was unclear, and he couldn¡¯t see her face clearly, Willis caught a whiff of a sweet and overpowering perfume ¨C not Helena¡¯s usual natural scent. Helena never used perfume; her fragrance was a blend of shampoo, shower gel, and skincare products.


    Willis grabbed the woman¡¯s shoulders, forcefully pushing her away, and barked, ¡°Get out!¡±


    However, Susan didn¡¯t leave.


    She saw this as an opportunity not to be missed.


    Bruce had said that as long as she became intimate with Willis, he would not be able to leave her.


    Helena might be superior to her in many aspects, but shecked this particr connection.


    With her chin raised, Susan stared at Willis¡¯s handsome face, her mind intoxicated by the effects of alcohol.

 Chapter 109：Burning with Desire (2)

    Beautiful eyes were slightly narrowed, long eyshes hanging down, carrying three parts of allure and seven parts of charm. Even the strands of hair exuded a hint of sensuality, radiating a strong masculine charm.


    ¡°Willis, I¡¯m not asking for anything. I just want to share a beautiful night with you, and that¡¯s enough for me. Since I was little, I¡¯ve dreamed of growing up and marrying you. If it weren¡¯t for that car ident three years ago, we would have been together long ago.¡±


    Susan grabbed his hand and pressed it against her body, saying, ¡°Feel it for yourself, I¡¯m no less than Helena.¡±


    Willis, feeling an electric shock, quickly pulled his hand away.


    Even in his intoxicated state, under the influence of some unknown substance, his aversion towards her remained unchanged. He opened the door, coldly pushing her out.


    A loud bang!


    The door mmed shut!Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    The world fell silent.


    Willis gripped the doorknob tightly, his body burning hot.


    The blood vessels under his skin felt like they were about to explode, as if millions of ants were crawling within his body, causing an unbearable itch.


    He staggered to the bathroom, turned on the faucet, and sshed cold water on his face in an attempt to lower his body¡¯s temperature.


    It felt like a long time had passed, yet also like a short time.


    The doorbell rang again.


    Willis walked out, thinking it was Susan, and opened the door without clearly seeing who it was. He sternly said, ¡°Get out!¡±


    The assistant hesitated for a moment, then said, ¡°It¡¯s me, Mr. Santana. I¡¯m here to take you to the hospital.¡±


    Hearing a man¡¯s voice, Willis finally rxed his grip and let him assist in guiding him to the elevator.


    Susan hid in a corner of the hallway, gazing at Willis¡¯s gradually disappearing figure with a resentful look.


    Her self-esteemy shattered on the ground. Even under these circumstances, he refused to touch her. Was she really that unbearable?


    She couldn¡¯t understand ¨C what was it that made her inferior to Helena?


    She was convinced that she was more appealing to men, knew how to be charming, flirtatious, and had a thousand enchanting manners.


    Susan picked up her phone and called Bruce, expressing her frustration, ¡°Bruce, it didn¡¯t work out.¡±


    Bruce, with a soothing tone, consoled her, ¡°Don¡¯t be disheartened. If it didn¡¯t work this time, there will be a next time, and I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Touched, Susan almost felt like crying. ¡°Bruce, why are you so good to me?¡±


    Bruce, now in an empty hotel room, holding his phone, looked out the window with an indifferent expression. His voice, however, was extremely gentle, ¡°Because I¡¯m also someone who loves and cannot have, and I understand that feeling too well. Several years ago, due to an ident, I had to part with the one I loved. Later, I regretted it and wanted to win her back, but she had already gone to another world.¡±


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, ¡°You¡¯re luckier than me; the person you love is still alive. Fight for what you can now; don¡¯t wait for regretster.¡±


    Susan, for a moment, felt like she had found a kindred spirit.


    He understood her too well.


    Too well.


    Her throat felt dry as she said, ¡°Thank you, Bruce. You¡¯re truly a good person.¡±


    Bruce smiled, ¡°I¡¯m not a good person; I just sympathize because we share simr struggles. Remember to keep today¡¯s events a secret. Don¡¯t tell anyone, not even your parents, understand?¡±


    Susan hesitated for a moment. ¡°You can trust me; my lips are sealed.¡±


    After hanging up, Bruce switched to another phone and dialed a number, asking, ¡°Did you take the photos?¡±


    The other person replied, ¡°Yes, we got photos of both of them, and we recorded a video. Susan entering Willis¡¯s room is captured clearly. I assure you, Mr. Santana, I¡¯m thorough in my work.¡±


    ¡°Excellent. Use an overseas IP to upload everything online, find a way to hype it up, make it big news. Write the news article with headlines like ¡®The Santana Group¡¯s Second Young Master Shows Affection to Wife and Cheats with Ex-girlfriend in a Hotel Room.¡¯ Get a professional to spice it up, making it both eye-catching and seemingly authentic.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Bruce tossed the phone onto the windowsill.


    With his hands in his pockets, he gazed at the colorful lights outside the window, a mysterious smile ying on his lips.

 Chapter 110：Not Allowed to Leave

    The person Bruce found was highly efficient.


    In less than an hour, the news of the Santana Group¡¯s Second Young Master¡¯s affair was making waves, flooding the inte.


    It didn¡¯t take long for the heat to skyrocket.


    Inte users were particrly interested in these scandalous tales of the wealthy.


    Although the faces of the individuals involved were pixted, it couldn¡¯t fool the discerning eyes ofizens.


    Before long, someone dug up photos of the Santana Group¡¯s Second Young Master with both his ex-girlfriend and his wife.


    The Varley Group also faced a wave of criticism.


    The corporate images of bothpanies were severely tarnished.


    Of course, the Santana Group didn¡¯t escape unscathed.


    Thebel of ¡°unfaithful man¡± was firmly affixed to Willis.


    Susan remained oblivious to all of this.


    Before the Santana Group¡¯s anniversary celebration even concluded, she had left the Capital Hotel and returned home.


    The driver helped her into the house.


    Upon entering, Owen pointed his finger at her andunched into a tirade, ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done! Whatever you do privately is your business, but don¡¯t drag thepany down with you! I¡¯ve worked hard to build thispany, not for you to ruin!¡±


    Susan, looking bewildered, asked, ¡°Dad, why are you so angry for no reason?¡±


    Owen, infuriated, pulled up the news on his phone and tossed it into herp, saying, ¡°See for yourself!¡±


    Susan, confused, opened the news.


    She was instantly wide awake!


    The news was everywhere, portraying her and Willis having an affair!


    Her mind was in turmoil!


    Her fingers rapidly swiped the phone screen, desperately checking Weibo posts one after another, murmuring, ¡°It¡¯s not like this. It¡¯s not like this. Willis and I never entered the room in the first ce. I was kicked out by him in less than three minutes. How could these people write such nonsense? I¡¯ll sue them!¡±


    ¡°By the time you win thewsuit, thepany will have gone bankrupt! You fool! All you do is cause trouble for me all the time!¡±


    Owen snatched the phone from her hand and called the PR manager.


    He instructed them to contact relevant personnel overnight to delete all the news online.


    At the same time, Helena sat on the bed at home, waiting for Willis to return.


    Waiting left and right, but he never came back.


    Calling his phone, the assistant informed her that he was currently unavable.


    Unable to sleep, Helena picked up her phone to search for information on antiques.


    Opening the browser, the first news article caught her attention.


    Out of curiosity, she clicked on it.


    As she read, her smile froze on her face.


    The article included photos of her and Susan, along with Willis.


    So, the Second Young Master of the Santana Group was her husband, Willis.


    Both her wife and mistress were Helena and Susan.


    Willis was unavable to answer the phone because he was with Susan in a hotel room!


    Helena¡¯s hands holding the phone trembled slightly.


    Her heart felt constricted, as if tied with ropes, making it hard to breathe.


    She never expected that one day she would be the leadingdy in such a sensational news story!


    Needle after needle, her thoughts stabbed deeply, causing intense pain.


    Just two hours ago, she believed she was the happiest woman in the world.


    It took an indeterminate amount of time before Helena could muster a semnce ofposure.


    She took a deep breath, picked up her phone, and dialed Willis¡¯s number.


    Refusing to ept it, she wanted rification.


    After connecting, the assistant apologized, ¡°Mrs. Santana, Mr. Santana is really unable to take calls right now. I¡¯ll have him call you back shortly, okay?¡±


    Willis was currently having his stomach pumped in the hospital.


    He couldn¡¯t take the call.


    Thinking that Susan and Willis were still in the hotel room, Helena believed the assistant was helping to cover up the affair.


    With a cold smile, she said, ¡°I¡¯ve seen the news. Tell him to get a divorce. I¡¯ll step aside for them. No need for ndestine affairs.¡±


    The assistant was taken aback, ¡°What news?¡±


    ¡°The news that he and Susan are in a hotel room; it¡¯s all over the inte now!¡± Helena could no longer maintain herposure.


    The assistant quickly opened the inte.


    Sure enough.


    It was all over the ce ¨C news of Willis and Susan having an affair!


    He hurriedly exined, ¡°Mrs. Santana, it¡¯s not like that. Mr. Santana had something added to his drink, and I brought him to the hospital to have his stomach pumped. He didn¡¯t want me to say anything to worry you.¡±


    Thinking Willis was still with Susan, she assumed he was helping to cover up the affair.


    Upon hearing the exnation, Helena said, ¡°Tell me the name of the hospital and the room number. I¡¯m going to see him now.¡±


    Seeing is believing.


    She didn¡¯t trust anyone¡¯s words.


    She had to see it with her own eyes.


    The assistant, realizing the situation had escted, dared not deceive her any longer, ¡°We¡¯re at the City People¡¯s Hospital, Emergency Department. When you¡¯re about to arrive, give me a call, and I¡¯lle to pick you up.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    After hanging up, Helena called the driver, Tim.


    Soon, Tim arrived to drive her to the hospital.


    Helena¡¯s face remained pale.


    Although she didn¡¯t speak, her eyes were filled with painful agony.


    After a long time, she finally spoke, ¡°Do men cheat when their wives are pregnant?¡±


    Tim thought for a moment, ¡°It depends on the person. During a woman¡¯s pregnancy, it¡¯s indeed the time when men are most likely to cheat, but some men can control themselves, feeling loyal to their wives and not straying.¡±


    ¡°And you?¡±


    Tim grinned, ¡°I¡¯ve known my wife since elementary school, and our rtionship is very good. I couldn¡¯t do something like that.¡±


    ¡°What if the person you cheat with is your ex-girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°My wife is my first love.¡±


    Helena fell silent.


    Both Susan and Willis were each other¡¯s first love, childhood sweethearts who grew up together.


    First love and ex-girlfriend were like timed bombs in a woman¡¯s heart.


    They could explode anytime, anywhere.


    After what felt like a very long time, the car finally arrived at City People¡¯s Hospital.


    Getting out of the car,


    Willis¡¯s assistant came to pick up Helena.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Arriving at the emergency department,


    Willis had already finished his stomach pumping and was lying on a hospital bed, pale with an abnormal redness.


    The paleness was from the stomach pumping, but the abnormal redness was due to the residual effects of the drugs.


    Seeing Helena¡¯s pained expression, Willis¡¯s heart tightened, and he weakly smiled at her, ¡°In the middle of the night, why didn¡¯t you rest at home ande to the hospital to see me? With my condition, who else could I look at besides you? Fool.¡±


    Helena¡¯s eyes reddened, and she walked over to him.


    Bending down, she embraced him.


    Whispering in his ear, she said, ¡°If you dare to cheat, I will take our child and go to a ce you can never find. You¡¯ll regret it for a lifetime.¡±


    Willis felt a pang in his heart.


    His long, slender fingers tightly grasped her arm, holding on as if afraid that if he let go, she would run away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me.¡±


    His voice was hoarse, ¡°If you dare to run, even if I have to search the ends of the earth, I¡¯ll find you back.¡±

 Chapter 111：Tit for Tat（1）

    Early the next morning, Helena woke up to find herself lying in Willis¡¯s arms, her neck resting on his arm. In the VIP ward, there were two beds, and although they each had their own bed the night before, now they found themselves sharing one.


    Helena rubbed her sleepy eyes, tilted her delicate chin, and looked at him, ¡°How did you end up in my bed?¡±


    ¡°I was afraid you wouldn¡¯t sleep properly and fall off, risking harm to our child. So, I kept an eye on you.¡±


    Helena smiled and yfully touched his sharp jaw, ¡°Feeling better today?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, not as ufortable as yesterday.¡±


    Supporting each other, they sat up from the bed.


    One worried about the other¡¯s pregnancy.


    The other concerned about the one who had just undergone stomach pumping.


    Helena chuckled, ¡°We¡¯re both in our twenties, but we look like an elderly couple in their seventies.¡±


    Willis grinned, ¡°A hundred years from now, I¡¯ll go first, and you can follow.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°If you go first, I can¡¯t bear the pain of missing you.¡±


    Helenaughed, raising her hand to caress his sensuous lips, ¡°Your mouth has be more eloquenttely, like it¡¯s been enlightened.¡±


    Willis smirked.


    In fact, he was speaking from the heart.


    In the past, he would never say such cheesy words.


    But Helena was too straightforward, and if he remained too macho, they would be like steel.


    After freshening up, the maid brought in soft-cooked rice porridge.


    Helena scooped some with a spoon and fed Willis.


    Simrly, Willis used a spoon to feed Helena.


    The maid stood on the side, almost unable to bear witnessing it.


    They say three years of pain, seven years of itch.


    But this couple, married for over three years, was still as affectionate as newlyweds.


    Tsk tsk, truly mushy.


    The maid turned and left.


    After the meal, the assistant arrived and whispered a few words in Willis¡¯s ear.


    Willis¡¯s eyes turned cold as he asked, ¡°All the surveince has been checked?¡±


    The assistant replied, ¡°Everything¡¯s checked. The tampering didn¡¯t happen in the banquet hall, and based on the surveince alone, we can¡¯t figure out who did it. When I tried to send someone to investigate, the teacups and wine sses had already been taken away by the waiters and cleaned. It happened within a short ten-minute window. The speed indicates premeditation, and it seems someone from the banquet hall is involved. However, it¡¯s challenging to identify the specific person with so many people present that night.¡±


    A faint hint of mockery crossed Willis¡¯s eyes as he casually said, ¡°I know who it is.¡±


    The assistant hastily asked, ¡°Is it Susan? I also suspected her.¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes showed a trace of subtle disdain, and he said indifferently, ¡°She doesn¡¯t have the guts. She¡¯s being used as a pawn.¡±


    ¡°What should I do next?¡±


    Willis pondered for a moment before calmly saying, ¡°Assign a few people to keep an eye on Bruce. Find an opportunity to retaliate in kind.¡±


    The assistant¡¯s eyes flickered slightly, ¡°Understood.¡±


    ¡°Be swift and decisive, leaving no room for loopholes.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Santana.¡±


    One weekter, Bruce was hosting clients at the Tang Pce.


    After a satisfying meal, his subordinates took the clients upstairs for additional entertainment.


    Upstairs featured foot massages, massages, singing and dancing performances, and special services.


    All the staff at the Tang Pce, except for the cleaning auntie, wore Tang Dynasty-style women¡¯s clothing.


    The Tang Dynasty was the most open era in our country¡¯s history. The clothing was thin and transparent, with bold designs.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    The staff uniforms at the Tang Pce were modified Tang Dynasty costumes, designed to be even more daring.


    Red gauze, low-cut, thin and translucent, veiling and revealing.


    From a distance, it looked like a sea of white, full of spring charm and extreme enchantment.


    This was one of the reasons why the Tang Pce outperformed other entertainment venues.


    They took ¡°seduction¡± to the extreme.


    Bruce had drunk a bit too much.


    He had to wait until the clients had enjoyed themselves and were ready to leave with him.


    Unwilling to go upstairs to y, he justy down on the sofa in the private room to rest.


    This private room was his exclusive suite, and no one would disturb him under normal circumstances.

 Chapter 112：Tit for Tat（2）

    As Bruce dozed off, he began to feel his body heating up, heart racing, and his face turning hot and ears red. Gradually, his body became unusually excited. During his time studying abroad, he, who used to be a nightclub regr, was very familiar with this feeling.


    He sneered, picked up the phone, and called his subordinates, saying, ¡°The food or drinks I consumed might have been tampered with. Find out who has the audacity to mess with me.¡±


    His subordinates responded, ¡°Understood.¡±


    He looked at the dishes and wine sses on the table, which had all been taken away by the waiters.


    Since this private room respected the privacy of customers, it didn¡¯t have any surveince. To investigate, they would need to check the corridor¡¯s surveince or go to the kitchen.


    As he turned towards the door, his hand barely touching the doorknob, Bruce¡¯s hoarse voice came from behind, ¡°Don¡¯t forget to bring in two pretty girls, and make sure they are clean.¡±


    His subordinates hesitated for a moment before responding, ¡°Alright.¡±


    After he left, Bruce, propped up on the sofa, sat up. He held his phone, stared at Willis¡¯s photo, and muttered to himself, ¡°You are smart, figuring out it was me so quickly. Unfortunately, unlike me, you¡¯re married. I can y as wildly as I want without facing moral condemnation.¡±


    With a disdainful snort, he tossed his phone onto the sofa.


    Not long after, someone knocked on the door.


    Bruce thought it was the two attractive girls he had asked for, so hezily said, ¡°Come in.¡±


    The door opened, and to his surprise, Susan walked in. She was dressed in thetest high-end summer fashion, a white hip-hugging skirt with a delicate green camisole, revealing her exquisite corbone. She carried a Dior Princess bag.


    The camisole was extremely short, showing hints of her navel and a snowy white waistline.


    She wore ten-centimeter high-heeled sandals, simple white straps binding her fair and delicate feet.


    Twisting her slender waist, she gracefully walked in.


    As soon as she entered the room, a fragrance wafted in.


    The perfume she used had added musk, which also had an aphrodisiac effect.


    Bruce, smelling the fragrance, suddenly felt like adding fuel to the fire, his eyes bing bloodshot.


    He squinted, staring at her swaying fair thighs, and said, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Susan walked over to him, pulled out a chair, and sat down across from him, sweetly saying, ¡°Bruce, you really forgetful. Didn¡¯t you have your men call me toe over?¡±


    Bruce, feeling the effects of the drug, felt dizzy and disoriented.


    He raised his hand and patted his forehead, ¡°Feeling dizzy, can¡¯t quite remember.¡±


    Seeing his eyes bloodshot, his neck red, and the sweat beads on his forehead, Susan asked anxiously, ¡°Bruce, did you drink too much?¡±


    Bruce perfunctorily replied, ¡°Not bad, just feeling a bit unwell.¡±


    Noticing his feverish forehead, Susan, thinking about her future favors from him, said, ¡°Your eyes are so red, your neck is red, are you running a fever?¡±


    Being close, Bruce saw the spring scenery on her chest.


    With her clothes so thin and revealing, the white skin glimpsed through, dazzling him.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    His hands uncontrobly grabbed her leg.


    Susan was startled, as if touched by electricity, she stepped back, ¡°Bruce, what are you doing? I treat you as my brother!¡±


    Bruce snapped back to reality, using the remnants of his sanity, gestured towards the door, ¡°Just leave.¡±


    Only now did Susan notice that his forehead was sweating, and the skin on his neck had turned red.


    Recalling that day at the Capital Hotel, where Willis seemed to have a simr condition, she anxiously said, ¡°Bruce, did someone mess with you? Do you want me to find you some women? What¡¯s your preference?¡±


    Her words sounded provocative to Bruce.


    She hesitated to leave; in his eyes, it was also a kind of hint.


    Unable to suppress the desire burning within him, he stood up and walked towards her.


    Hisrge hand pinched her slender waist, pushing her onto the sofa, ¡°I like your taste.¡±


    With a tearing sound, his iron-like hand tore apart the tight-fitting skirt that wrapped around her rounded buttocks¡­

 Chapter 113：Disheveled Beauty（1）

    Susan suddenly panicked, screaming in her mouth. One hand covered the torn hip-hugging skirt, and the other desperately pushed and pped Bruce, ¡°No! Bruce, what are you doing? Stop!¡±


    Bruce had encountered many women who resisted at first but eventually yielded. They might say ¡°no¡± with their mouths, but their bodies leaned into him.


    At this moment, his desire surged, and there wasn¡¯t much rationality left to analyze whether Susan¡¯s ¡°no¡± was a genuine rejection or just a woman¡¯s innate coyness. Or perhaps, it was a deliberate move to increase her bargaining chips.


    However, when it came to dealing with women, he had considerable skills.


    With one hand supporting Susan, his palm cradling the back of her head, his voice gentle and scorching, he whispered in her ear, ¡°I¡¯ll take responsibility for you. Give in to me.¡±


    Susan frantically shook her head, ¡°No, I like Willis!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not worse than him. You just never paid attention to me. In fact, from a long time ago, I noticed you. You are beautiful and delicate, like a proud little kingfisher, too adorable. Let me cherish you today, my little princess.¡±


    There was hardly any woman who could resist such tender and scorching words.


    Susan was no exception, especially after facing repeated rejections, disdain, and setbacks from Willis.


    Bruce, on the other hand, elevated her to the status of a little princess.


    She enjoyed being held in the palm of someone¡¯s hand and feeling like a princess.


    In a blink of an eye, Bruce raised his head and kissed Susan¡¯s ear, experienced and familiar. His tongue was scorching, kissing down her neck.


    Susan, feeling like she¡¯d been electrocuted, trembled all over, and her heart shivered with her. Suddenly, she had a feeling of not wanting to resist, wanting to experience the thrilling sensation of indulgence. However, her sense of shame made her forcefully push Bruce away, murmuring, ¡°Bruce, this is not right, not right.¡±


    But Bruce was skilled at caressing and kissing. Under his experienced techniques, Susan¡¯s protests gradually diminished, her struggling arms weakened. Eventually, she gave up her restraint, and her hands actively embraced his waist¡­


    Bruce¡¯s eyes went straight, so he nakedly embraced her in one hand.


    Susan let out a soft cry, stretched out her hands around Bruce¡¯s head and neck, and held him tightly.


    Bruce stretched out his tongue to lick Susan¡¯s lips and sucked her mouth deeply, making a slurping sound.


    After Susan¡¯s lips were opened by Bruce¡¯s tongue, she couldn¡¯t help but stretch out her fragrant tongue and entwine with Bruce¡¯s tongue, stirring it with each other.


    Susan was intoxicated. She tightly wrapped her arms around Bruce¡¯s neck, those big beautiful eyes gazing at him, her upper body fell weakly on Bruce¡¯s chest, her mouth softly spitting out a series of murmurs.


    A pair of rich breasts pressed on Bruce¡¯s arms and chest squirming, making Bruce¡¯s heart itch.


    Susan¡¯s side face pillowed on Bruce¡¯s shoulder, wet, fragrant hair brushed in Bruce¡¯s ear, Bruce could not help but lower his head and bury his nose in the fragrant hair.


    And then put a hand gently on her snow-white thighs ¨C


    It feels so good, sheepish, smooth, like a piece of white jade, without a w.


    Bruce¡¯s hand just wandered casually on her thigh, feeling that ce a wet, as if into a swamp, he really could not resist, then thrust his body forward, smoothly into her piece of mud.


    When his subordinates brought the two top-notch beauties from Tang Pce and pushed open the door, they saw a scene of chaotic intimacy inside the room.


    Susany disheveled on the sofa, her eyes watery.


    They didn¡¯t know the details but assumed they were a couple who had been in love for many years.


    Bruce suddenly lifted his head, his gaze fiercely staring at the three people at the door.


    The nce was enough to shock them.


    That look was enough to kill!


    His subordinates quickly pushed the two beautiful girls out, closed the door, and hung a ¡°Do Not Disturb¡± sign on it.


    An hourter, Bruce released Susan.


    After the turmoil, most of the restless desire within him had dissipated. His mind was clearer now.


    Bending down, he kissed Susan¡¯s rosy cheek gently, saying, ¡°Indeed, you¡¯re as spicy as I imagined.¡±


    Susan didn¡¯t say anything, just quietlyy on the sofa without moving.


    The tide gradually receded.


    She floated in the air like dust for a while.


    After the indulgence, a huge sense of emptiness descended.


    Her naked skin began to feel embarrassed.


    Her mind was in a mess.


    She had actually slept with a man she didn¡¯t love.


    What was more embarrassing was that she found this feeling quite exciting.


    Bruce put on his clothes, called someone to buy women¡¯s clothing suitable for Susan, helped her change clothes, and even tidied up her hair for her.


    When he felt it was enough, he arranged for someone to take her home.


    At the doorstep, he gently kissed her forehead, showing great consideration. He handed her a box of contraceptive pills, saying, ¡°Today¡¯s events happened too suddenly. I apologize.¡±


    Those unaware of the situation would think they were a couple who had been in love for many years.


    Susan didn¡¯t say a word.


    She took the box of contraceptive pills and got into the car.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Back home.


    It was almost ten o¡¯clock.


    Her father was abroad.


    Her mother went to attend a banquet and hadn¡¯t returned yet.


    Seeing her unhappy expression, the maid hurriedly brought her slippers and said, ¡°Miss Susan, please change your shoes.¡±


    Susan changed into slippers without saying a word, went straight to her room, andy down.


    She was still in a daze.


    She clearly loved Willis, but due to a twist of fate, she ended up having an intimate rtionship with Bruce.


    It was too absurd!


    Iprehensible!


    After lying in the dark for most of the day, she remembered to take contraceptive pills.


    She got up from the bed, holding the pills, wearing slippers, and came downstairs, looking for a cup to take the medicine.


    Coincidentally, her mother returned from the banquet.


    Grace changed into slippers.


    When she looked up, she saw Susan looking absent-minded.


    Worried, she asked, ¡°Susan, what¡¯s wrong? You seem lost.¡±


    Susan suddenly felt wronged, slowly walked to her side, and threw herself into her mother¡¯s arms, crying.


    Grace was anxious, touched her head, and said, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Why are you crying like you¡¯ve lost your soul?¡±


    ¡°Mom, I just slept with Bruce.¡±

 Chapter 114：Disheveled Beauty（2）

    But slowly, she calmed down. ¡°Willis is the son of the Santana family, and Bruce too. Since Willis isn¡¯t interested in you, marrying Bruce is also an option. He did say he would take responsibility for you, right? Let him be responsible.¡±


    Susan frowned, ¡°But I love Willis.¡±


    ¡°Silly girl, Willis doesn¡¯t love you anymore. There¡¯s no need to insist on him.¡±


    ¡°But Bruce said he has someone in his heart.¡±


    Grace¡¯s expression changed slightly, ¡°Who is the person in his heart?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t say a name, just that she died.¡±


    ¡°Even better, it¡¯s neat if she¡¯s dead. As long as he¡¯s willing to marry you, why bother about so much? After you marry Bruce, both Willis and Helena will have to respectfully call you ¡®sister-inw,¡¯ just think about that satisfaction.¡±


    Susan covered her head, ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°No ¡®buts.¡¯ When you¡¯re young, you may think love is greater than the heavens. However, when you reach my age, you¡¯ll realize love is just so-so, and men are all the same.¡±


    Susan fell silent.


    She picked up a birth control pill and tried to swallow it.


    Grace snatched it away.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re going to marry Bruce, why take birth control pills? If you get pregnant, just have the child. It¡¯s better to get married because of a child. I did the same; I got pregnant with you, and your father agreed to marry me.¡±


    Susan hesitated, ¡°What if someone drugged him, and I end up with a deformed child?¡±


    Grace thought for a moment, ¡°It should be fine. I did the same when I got pregnant with you. I secretly drugged your father. Look at how smart and beautiful you are now. At that time, I was worried about the effect on the baby, so I asked several doctors. They all said as long as the man isn¡¯t continuously taking drugs, there won¡¯t be a significant impact, just regr check-upster on.¡±


    Susan sighed, ¡°But I don¡¯t want to have a child; this is too sudden, I¡¯m only twenty-two.¡±


    ¡°Eventually, you¡¯ll have to have one sooner orter. It¡¯s better to have it early.¡±


    ¡°But I love Willis.¡±


    Grace tapped her forehead with her index finger, ¡°You have a stubborn mind. How can you be so clueless? You¡¯ve slept with Bruce; do you think you still have a chance with Willis? Listen to your mother; I¡¯m speaking from experience. Bruce is not inferior to Willis.¡±


    ¡°Well, alright,¡± Susan reluctantly agreed.


    ¡°In a few days, when your fatheres back, we¡¯ll talk to Owen about this. By then, you and Bruce can get engaged and married.¡±


    But Susan couldn¡¯t find any happiness in this.


    She was truly troubled.


    What kind of situation was this?


    She had always liked Willis from childhood, and now she was talking about marriage with Bruce.


    They weren¡¯t even that close.


    Ten dayster.


    Owen returned from abroad.


    Grace exined the situation to him in detail.


    Owen, initially furious, had no other choice but to ept the situation.


    They had to go with the flow.


    Arrange the wedding for the two as soon as possible.


    After a discussion among them, Susan called Bruce, ¡°Bruce, my mom said we should meet tomorrow night to discuss our wedding with our families.¡±


    Bruce¡¯s expression turned cold, ¡°What wedding?¡±


    Susan was surprised, ¡°You said you would take responsibility for me.¡±


    ¡°I said that, but I didn¡¯t say I would marry you.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t marry me, how will you take responsibility for me?¡±


    Brucezily said, ¡°I¡¯ll provide the money to help you fix your reputation.¡±


    Susan was infuriated, ¡°Bruce, son of a bitch!  Shameless bastard!¡±


    Bruce¡¯s mother, Alva, died in childbirth.


    He had never seen his biological mother.


    It was a deep scar in his heart.


    Insulting his mother was something he couldn¡¯t tolerate.


    Susan called him a ¡°son of a bitch!¡±


    When Bruce was in primary school, a kid insulted him, saying he had no mother. On the way home, Bruce confronted him, and the kid ended up with a swollen face, a broken rib, and couldn¡¯t get out of bed for half a month due to pain.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Bruce¡¯s eyes turned cold instantly as he heard Susan¡¯s insults.


    He hung up the phone and blocked Susan¡¯s number.


    She couldn¡¯t reach him anymore.


    Frustrated, she poured out the story to Ryan.


    Of course, she exaggerated and added her secret weapon ¨C tears.


    As expected, Ryan, after hearing the story, was furious. He immediately called Bruce.


    Bruce calmly exined, ¡°I took clients to Tang Pce that day, and someone tampered with the food. I asked my men to find two women toe and provide the antidote. But Susan showed up, deliberately dressed provocatively, touched me, seduced me, and asked me about my preferences in women. I chased her away, but she didn¡¯t leave. During that time, she was quite enthusiastic as well. If you don¡¯t believe me, ask her.¡±


    Ryan couldn¡¯t bring himself to ask such a question.


    However, after hearing Bruce¡¯s exnation, Ryan¡¯s anger subsided.


    He didn¡¯t seem as furious anymore.


    After some contemtion, he said, ¡°Since the die is cast, you two just be together. Pick a date and get engaged.¡±


    Bruceughed, ¡°Dad, you care a lot about your face. Susan is Willis¡¯s ex-girlfriend, and everyone knows it. Are you not afraid of beingughed at for asking me to marry his ex?¡±


    After hearing Bruce¡¯s words, Ryan fell silent.


    It indeed didn¡¯t sound good if this matter spread.


    He didn¡¯t want to be the subject of gossip.


    Bruce, sensing his father¡¯s silence, yed the recorded phone call.


    The phone yed Susan¡¯s angry voice clearly, ¡°Bruce, you scum! Shameless bastard! Son of a bitch!¡±


    Alva was Ryan¡¯s first love.


    She was a figure he held dearly in his heart.


    Susan insulted her by calling Bruce a son of a bitch!


    Ryan¡¯s impression of Susan deteriorated.


    He nonchntly told Bruce, ¡°Handle it yourself; just don¡¯t let it affect the business cooperation between the Santana and Varley families.¡±


    ¡°You can rest assured, I¡¯ll handle it.¡±


    That day, Susan received a check from Bruce, delivered by his men.


    The amount was two million.


    There was also a note attached.


    The note read: ¡°The top beauty at Tang Pce costs only a few thousand for a night. Giving Susan two million is quite generous. Please take the money and undergo cosmetic surgery to repair your reputation. From now on, we owe each other nothing. You seemed to enjoy that night, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Susan was infuriated!


    Her anger surged!


    The hand holding the note trembled incessantly!

 Chapter 115：Let’s get a divorce（1）

    Susan was infuriated, her face contorted with anger as she shredded the note into pieces.


    About to tear the check, Grace stopped her. ¡°Why quarrel over money? Two million is still money.¡±


    Gritting her teeth, Susan said, ¡°I can¡¯t swallow this humiliation!¡±


    ¡°Mom will find a way to teach him a lesson. I¡¯m really fed up; he dares to y with Grace¡¯s daughter!¡±


    Ten more days passed.


    Susan found out she was pregnant!


    Susan was inplete panic.


    She changed her phone and called Bruce.


    A woman answered the phone with a coquettish voice, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Susan was stunned, ¡°Isn¡¯t this Bruce¡¯s phone?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s in the shower. Do you have something urgent?¡±


    Susan was enraged, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    The woman giggled, ¡°In the middle of the night, being together with him, who do you think I am?¡±


    Gritting her teeth, Susan said, ¡°I¡¯m his girlfriend. Let him answer the phone!¡±


    ¡°Well, well, I¡¯m also his girlfriend. We¡¯ve been together for years. Are you a neer? darling, being a mistress is not moral.¡±


    Susan was so angry that her teeth were about to shatter.


    She threw her phone on the spot.


    The woman smiled, handed the phone to Bruce, and said, ¡°Is it too cruel to the little girl?¡±


    Bruce took the phone, threw it on the nearby table, and said disdainfully, ¡°It¡¯s just a staged act. She actually took it seriously and even wanted to marry me. I don¡¯t know if she¡¯s genuinely stupid or just pretending to be innocent.¡±


    The woman giggled, ¡°You men are all so cruel.¡±


    Bruce sneered, ¡°If I knew she would be this troublesome, I should have waited a few more minutes. Life is hard, and there are so many things to deal with. I was drugged that night; under normal circumstances, I wouldn¡¯t even bother.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that. After all, she¡¯s a wealthy youngdy.¡±


    ¡°A wealthy youngdy is useless. She¡¯s not as good as a prostitute.¡± Bruce held the woman¡¯s waist and shifted her position skillfully, lifting the hem of her ck suspender skirt¡­


    Midway through, Bruce¡¯s phone rang again.


    It was Ryan calling.


    Bruce picked up the phone, nced casually, and answered it.


    Ryan said angrily, ¡°How did you handle it? Susan is pregnant!¡±


    Bruce frowned, ¡°How did she get pregnant? I made her take medicine.¡±


    Ryan said impatiently, ¡°Deal with it properly, don¡¯t disappoint me!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The next day, early in the morning, Bruce brought a three-million-dor check and arranged to meet Susan in a cafe.


    He pushed the check in front of her.


    With a mocking smile, he said, ¡°My little princess, why make things soplicated? Two birth control pills could have solved the problem. There was no need to go to the hospital for surgery. I truly feel sorry to see you suffer.¡±


    Susan nced at the check, her face turning pale.


    Gritting her teeth, she cursed, ¡°Bruce, you¡¯re a scumbag! ¡±


    Bruce raised an eyebrow, ¡°you the same, little scumbag.¡±


    Susan picked up the coffee and was about to ssh it on his face.


    Bruce sneered and calmly said, ¡°Susan, I advise you to calm down. That night at Tang Pce, we have a recording of our intimate moment. Try to handle things peacefully; don¡¯t escte it.¡±


    Susan was infuriated!


    From childhood to adulthood, she had never suffered such a big loss!


    She mmed down the coffee cup and walked away without looking back.


    Bruce¡¯s gaze turned cold, staring at her disappearing figure.


    Leaving the cafe, Susan and Grace went to the hospital for an abortion.


    Although it was painless, it was still ufortable, simr to menstrual cramps.


    The main issue was psychological.


    Defeat, loss, the feeling of being deceived, overwhelmed her!


    She hated it!


    Growing up, she had always been the pampered little princess, sailing smoothly through life. When had she ever suffered such a big setback?


    She was full of suppressed anger, like an inted balloon.


    But there was nowhere to vent!


    After the IV drip, Susan, supported by Grace, walked out, her steps weak, hands and feet cold.


    Turning a corner, she caught sight of two familiar figures.


    Willis was carefully helping Helena, heading towards the elevator.


    The two of them were talking andughing, looking so happy.


    The scene was so blissful.


    Susan stopped in her tracks, her eyes turning red.


    She stared hatefully at the backs of the two.


    She gritted her teeth and angrily said, ¡°It¡¯s all that hillbilly¡¯s fault! If she had divorced Willis earlier, Bruce wouldn¡¯t havee to me, and I wouldn¡¯t have been deceived into sleeping with him. If I hadn¡¯t slept with him, I wouldn¡¯t be pregnant, and I wouldn¡¯t have to have an abortion. My hand is ruined, my life is over. Grandma is still in prison. She is living happily, even nning to have a baby. I really want to kill her!¡±


    Grace¡¯s eyes turned sinister, ¡°I want to kill her even more!¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s kill her.¡±


    Grace¡¯s eyebrows raised, ¡°Have you forgotten how your hand was injured?¡±


    ¡°That mysterious person hasn¡¯t shown up for a long time. Who knows where he died. Work with Klein more discreetly and kill her. We must kill her. If we can¡¯t kill her, we must kill the child in her belly. Why should her child be treated like a treasure while mine doesn¡¯t even have a chance to be born?¡±


    A weekter.


    It was Grandma¡¯s hundredth-day memorial.


    Willis apanied Helena and Zena, along with a group of bodyguards, as they returned to Parvis Vige.


    They, along with rtives and a professional funeral team, held a grand memorial ceremony.


    Willis had urgent business to attend to and had to leave that evening.


    Helena and Zena stayed behind, nning to spend two more days before returning.


    However, after just one night, Willis called Helena urging her toe back.


    A day without seeing each other felt like an eternity.


    He couldn¡¯t bear to be apart from her even for a single day.


    Zena stayed back to handle remaining matters.


    Helena got in the car, heading back home.


    Tim drove, and Paul sat in the front seat providing close protection.


    There was a car both in front and behind them, ensuring strict security.


    Helena sat in the back seat, feeling a bit ufortable after sitting for a while.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Pregnancy made her a bit more delicate than usual.


    She peeled an orange and held it in her palm, eating it to soothe the difort in her stomach.


    Suddenly, at a three-way intersection.


    Unexpectedly!


    A medium-sized truck rushed out from the intersection, directly crashing into the car Helena was in!


    A loud bang!


    Helena¡¯s body mmed into the right car door, her arm burning with pain, and her head buzzing from the impact.


    Paul shouted, ¡°Madam, fasten your seatbelt!¡±


    Helena frantically pulled the seatbelt and struggled to secure it around herself.


    Due to nervousness, she fumbled with the seat belt buckle, clicking it in only after several attempts.

 Chapter 116：Let’s get a divorce（2）

    The situation unfolded too suddenly, catching everyone off guard!


    Before anyone could react,


    The truck quickly shifted into reverse, backing up, and then surged forward!Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    The wheels scraped against the ground, making a grating sound!


    Directly aiming at the seat where Helena was!


    There was a car in front! Another behind! And on the right, a roadside barrier!


    Tim couldn¡¯t move forward or retreat!


    Watching the truck about to collide with Helena¡¯s seat,


    In a split second, Tim desperately turned the steering wheel, using the front of the car to crash into the truck!


    Using his own life to protect Helena!


    Tears streamed down Helena¡¯s face!


    After a violent collision that shook the earth,


    The truck¡¯s front end was crushed, the bumper ttered to the ground, and the windshield shattered into pieces.


    The truck came to a stop, and the driver inside was covered in blood, eyes rolled back.


    Tim, covered in blood,y motionless on the steering wheel!


    Helena, holding her stomach in pain, couldn¡¯t speak, feeling a sharp ache in her abdomen, which seemed to be intensifying.


    The bodyguards in the front and rear vehicles quickly got out, investigating the truck.


    The door opened, and the truck driver had already breathed hisst, reeking of alcohol.


    However, everyone could see that this wasn¡¯t a case of drunk driving at all!


    It was clearly an intentional attempt on Helena¡¯s life!


    Premeditated murder!


    Helena, in addition to the sharp pain in her stomach, felt pain all over her body.


    Not knowing exactly where she was injured.


    She endured the pain, unfastened her seatbelt, and struggled to sit up, tapping Tim¡¯s shoulder, trembling lips calling out, ¡°Tim, Tim, wake up!¡±


    The response was a deathly silence!


    A sense of foreboding, like a tsunami, descended.


    Helena bit her lip, unable to contain her tears.


    The pain in her abdomen surged, and a damp liquid seemed to be flowing down below.


    Blood was visible on the car seat.


    It felt like the sky was falling.


    With teary eyes, Helena touched her stomach, constantly repeating in her mind, ¡°Baby, you have to be strong, you have to be strong, you must be strong.¡±


    Paul was also seriously injured.


    Enduring the pain, he dialed 911 on his phone, ¡°Hello, I need to report an ident. We¡¯re near Parvis Vige at a three-way intersection¡­¡±


    Soon, the bodyguards opened the car doors.


    Some helped Helena out of the car and onto another one.


    Others unfolded a makeshift stretcher, lifting Tim onto the vehicle.


    Someone carried Paul.


    Leaving two bodyguards to deal with the ident.


    The group rushed Helena, Tim, and Paul to the city hospital.


    The bodyguards drove the car at full speed.


    When Helena and the others arrived at the People¡¯s Hospital, Willis had received a call and was waiting at the hospital entrance.


    His expression was grave and mournful, his deep eyes unable to conceal the anxiety.


    Helena¡¯s car door opened.


    Willis approached, seeing Helena clutching her stomach in pain.


    His heart tightened, and he shouted, ¡°Helena! Helena!¡±


    Helena was too upset to speak, just staring at him.


    Her grieving expression was evident.


    Medical staff, who had been waiting after receiving the call, quickly approached with a stretcher to lift Helena from the car.


    Shey on the stretcher, pale, and in pain.


    Willis followed closely, holding her hand.


    Holding it tightly.


    As if afraid that if he let go, she would slip away!


    Tim and Paul were also taken to the emergency room.


    The abdominal pain came in waves, as if an overwhelming force, and when they were pushed into the operating room, Helena passed out from the pain.


    As if a very long time had passed.


    The door of the operating room slowly opened.


    Willis strode forward, his expression unprecedentedly anxious. ¡°Doctor, how is my wife?¡±


    As he awaited an answer, his heart was strung tight.


    The doctor removed the mask, saying, ¡°Mr. Santana, your wife is out of immediate danger.¡±


    Willis secretly breathed a sigh of relief and asked, ¡°What about the child?¡±


    ¡°We did our best for the child, but couldn¡¯t save it. I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Santana.¡±


    A sharp pain suddenly burned through his heart.


    Deep within him surged an indescribable sorrow and helplessness.


    Willis closed his eyes, suppressing the almost inexpressible pain.


    He ced his hand over his chest, frowning deeply.


    Looking very pained.


    The doctor hurriedly asked, ¡°Mr. Santana, are you okay?¡±


    Willis shook his head extremely slowly. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Although he said he was fine, the world had already copsed.


    After the observation period, Helena was wheeled out of the observation room.


    Her condition was very poor, lips sealed, eyes gray.


    Willis apanied her, undressing and staying by her side day and night.


    Three dayster.


    Helena finally spoke.


    With her deste eyes fixed on Willis, she spoke quietly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I did my best.¡±


    Willis¡¯s heart tightened, holding her hand,forting, ¡°Don¡¯t be too sad; we can have another child in the future.¡±


    Helena shook her head ever so lightly, lips moving very slowly, ¡°No, I mean, I did my best for this marriage.¡±


    Her voice sounded tired and hoarse, as if she had experienced a lot.


    Willis¡¯s heart suddenly ached, initially a dull pain, but after a while, it became a sharp, twisting pain.


    He held her hand, pressing it to his lips.


    Her hand was cold, colder than ever before.


    Her heart must be even colder.


    He heard her say again, ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone else to suffer for me, and I don¡¯t want revenge. I used to be someone who pursued tranquility, but now I¡¯m not myself anymore. I¡¯m tired, really tired.¡±


    She whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s get a divorce.¡±


    That voice was incredibly soft, like a mosquito¡¯s hum.


    But in Willis¡¯s ears, it sounded like a deafening thunderp!


    He froze!


    His whole person felt like he had fallen into an icy cave!

 Chapter 117：It’s Jay Smith (1)

    For a while.


    Willis raised his hand, gently caressing Helena¡¯s pale face, and softlyforted, ¡°Stay calm; divorce is a big decision, don¡¯t act on impulse.¡±


    Helena lowered her eyes, ¡°I am calm. I¡¯ve been contemting this for the past three days.¡±


    Seeing her determination,


    It couldn¡¯t be resolved with just a few words.


    A needle-like pain pricked Willis¡¯s heart.


    He closed his eyes slightly, suppressing the emotions deep within.


    After a moment, he slowly opened his eyes.


    He calmly said, ¡°I¡¯m going out for a smoke.¡±


    Helena softly acknowledged.


    Willis stood up, straightened her cor, pulled the nket to cover her, tucked in the corners carefully, and then walked out.


    Opening the door of the ward, he ran into Zena.


    Zena was carrying a thermos, greeting him, ¡°Willis, where are you going?¡±


    Willis¡¯s handsome face was gloomy, and he didn¡¯t respond, walking straight out.


    Zena was puzzled.


    Entering the ward, she ced the thermos on the bedside table.


    Bending down, she sat and asked in confusion, ¡°Girl, what¡¯s wrong with Willis? Why does he look so bad? Did you two have a fight?¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°I told him about the divorce.¡±


    Zena was shocked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you two doing well recently? Why do you want a divorce?¡±


    Helena looked down, staring at her left hand.


    Those fair and slender fingers, even after using the best scar removal ointment, still retained scars.


    Even if the bones had healed, the flexibility was not as good as before.


    She said slowly, ¡°The first time, they severed my left hand, which I considered as my life. The second time, they almost took away my most precious innocence. The third time, using my master¡¯s hand, they poisoned me with saffron, intending to get rid of my most important child. The fourth time, a sudden car ident took away my flesh and blood, also costing Tim his life.¡±


    Zena¡¯s face turned pale with anger.


    But at this time, pouring oil on the fire wouldn¡¯t help.


    She advised, ¡°Willis avenged you for the previous incidents. This time, he will definitely seek revenge for you.¡±


    Helena forced a bitter smile, ¡°What¡¯s the use of revenge?¡±


    She raised her left hand to touch her slightly painful abdomen, ¡°My hand will never fully recover, the innocent child in my womb has turned into a pool of blood, and Tim will nevere back to life.¡±


    What fault did the innocent child in her womb have?


    That dark-skinned, honest young man who smiled, revealing a set of white teeth.


    What fault did he have?


    Because of jealousy andpetition between women, he lost his life.


    His child was about to be born, but now he had no father.


    Thinking of the bloody scene where he tried to save her,


    Helena¡¯s heart felt like it was being pierced by needles.


    Tears flowed endlessly.


    If Willis had suggested divorce at the beginning.


    If she had left without turning back, perhaps none of these tragedies would have happened.


    Zena quickly wiped her tears, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry. You¡¯re in the postpartum period now; crying will harm your eyes.¡±


    Helena looked at her with a worried expression, ¡°This marriage, if continued, will lead to a fifth time. The fifth time will be my mother¡¯s turn; they always target my most vulnerable spots. I really didn¡¯t expect that jealousy andpetition between women could be so terrifying. I used to only see it on TV, but now it¡¯s happening to me for real.¡±


    Zena was stunned.


    For quite a while.


    She smiled nonchntly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m an old woman; I¡¯ll die one day. I just feel that Willis is really good to you. It¡¯s a pity to divorce like this.¡±


    Helena felt tooplicated to express in words.


    She was sad about the divorce.


    Even now, she still loves him deeply.


    She also knew that the fault wasn¡¯t his.


    But with so many bodyguards, it was still not enough to prevent two lives from being lost.


    She used to think that love was more important than anything else.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Just a few months ago, when Willis suggested divorce, she felt like the sky was falling.


    But now, in the face of human lives, love seems trivial.


    Helena firmly said, ¡°I¡¯ve decided, let¡¯s get a divorce.¡±


    Zena¡¯s eyes turned red.


    She hesitated for a moment and said, ¡°Actually, your grandmother could have lived a few more months. She secretly turned off the equipment on her body. Your marriage cost her life.¡±


    A sharp pain stabbed Helena¡¯s heart.


    She bit her lip, suppressing the pain inside.


    After a long time.


    She said, ¡°I had guessed it earlier, so I worked hard to maintain the marriage with Willis. I always thought it was irrational to get pregnant now, but in order to maintain this marriage, I still got pregnant. Now that the child is gone, there is no need to continue this marriage. The child is not the main reason for the divorce, but it¡¯s thest straw that broke the camel¡¯s back.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Mom, please don¡¯t persuade me.¡±


    ¡°I just feel that divorcing like this is a pity. Although Willis has a lot of ws, I can see that he genuinely cares about you.¡±


    Helena said softly, ¡°He is good, but I¡¯m tired of this kind of life now. I¡¯ve been learning to restore ancient books and paintings with my grandfather since I was a child, for almost twenty years. I acquired these skills not to engage in jealousy and intrigue among women. I want to use my time for something meaningful.¡±


    Seeing that she couldn¡¯t persuade her, Zena sighed heavily.


    Her daughter, although gentle in personality, had quite a strong backbone.


    Once she made up her mind, no one could pull her back.


    For some reason, Zena suddenly felt a little sorry for Willis.


    She stood up, walked to the window, opened the curtain, and looked down.


    In the night, Willis was standing downstairs, smoking.


    The cigarette hung in his mouth, and he even forgot to light it.


    After a long time, he remembered and reached into his pocket, took out the lighter, opened it, tried to light it, and the wind blew it out.


    One after another, he lit it three times before it stayed lit.


    He took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, and looked into the distance.


    The night was so dark tonight, as if ink, and the lights of thousands of households couldn¡¯t illuminate it.


    Clearly in early summer, it was as cold as winter.

 Chapter 118：It’s Jay Smith (2)

    The wind was strong, howling as if trying to tear something apart.


    Not far away, heavy footsteps suddenly approached.


    A man with long legs hurriedly walked towards him.


    Willis turned his head to look.


    Their eyes met.


    The man was Jay.


    His eyes were bloodshot, lips dry and peeling, stubble growing on his chin, dusty and disheveled,ing in the night.


    This appearance clearly indicated that he had just rushed back from somewhere.


    Approaching.


    Jay grabbed Willis¡¯s cor, urgently asking, ¡°How is she?¡±


    Willis lowered his eyshes, looking indifferently at Jay¡¯s hand, without responding.


    Jay¡¯s voice suddenly increased, ¡°How is she?¡±


    A hint of annoyance shed in Willis¡¯s eyes, ¡°She¡¯s my wife, no need for your concern!¡±


    Jay gritted his teeth, ¡°She¡¯s the one I risked my life to save!¡±


    Willis¡¯s lips curled up in a faint, cold smile, ¡°You finally admit you¡¯re Jay Smith?¡±


    Jay¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot, his frustrated expression ready to burst, ¡°How is she? You promised me that you would take good care of her! Is this how you take care of her?¡±


    His voice almost roared.


    A departure from his usual calm and rational demeanor.


    Willis felt even more irritated.


    He raised his hand, swatting away Jay¡¯s hand, ¡°She¡¯s my wife, we lost our child. I¡¯m more upset than you!¡±


    A frown appeared on Jay¡¯s forehead.


    After a few minutes.


    He took a deep breath, suppressing his emotions, and asked in a hoarse voice, ¡°Is she okay?¡±


    ¡°Not okay.¡± The cigarette in Willis¡¯s hand was extinguished, the burning end reaching his fingertips, but he didn¡¯t notice.


    Stubbornly, Jay asked, ¡°Where is she injured?¡±


    ¡°Her heart.¡±


    ¡°And her body?¡±


    ¡°The child is gone.¡± Willis raised his hand, forcefully pinching his sore nose bone, answering Jay¡¯s question indirectly, ¡°Our child is gone.¡±


    A drowning sensation surged up, his heart aching as if torn by something.


    Why did it turn out like this?


    That was their first child together.


    It was the only anchor that kept her by his side.


    And now, he lost the child, about to lose his wife, the wife he relied on for everything.


    He felt an unbearable pain, as if his heart, liver, and lungs were all entangled.


    The assistant received a call and walked over.


    Taking the cigarette from Willis¡¯s hand, he examined his finger¡¯s injury.


    The assistant said, ¡°Mr. Santana, the captain of the criminal investigation team just called. The driver of the delivery truck, as it turns out, was a cancer patient diagnosed withte-stage pancreatic cancer half a month ago. His blood alcohol level exceeded the limit, confirming drunk driving. There were norge transfers of money in his and his family¡¯s ounts, no recent interactions with suspicious individuals, and no suspicious calls in the records. The driver died on the spot with no witnesses.¡±


    Willis frowned.


    Clearly a cancer patient, didn¡¯t want to live, pretended to be drunk driving for money, deliberately attempted murder.


    But he died with no evidence.


    Because the method used was too elusive, even the captain, who was like a god in solving cases, was helpless.


    Without evidence, the police couldn¡¯t find the mastermind behind the scenes, let alone make an arrest.


    The assistant reminded, ¡°This time, the modus operandi is more sophisticated than the Dragon Mount casest time, obviously the work of a professional. The person¡¯s anti-investigation ability is beyond the captain¡¯s reach.¡±


    Willis¡¯s face darkened as if he could wring out water.


    He didn¡¯t say anything, just reached out to the assistant, ¡°Give me the car keys.¡±


    The assistant hesitated, ¡°What do you need the car keys for?¡±


    ¡°Just give them to me!¡±


    The assistant didn¡¯t dare to disobey the order, took out the car keys from his pocket, and handed them over.


    Willis snatched them, walked out in big strides.


    Arriving at the underground parking lot, he found his car.


    Opening the car door and getting in, he started the engine.


    Taking out his phone, he dialed a number and made the call.


    After connecting, he said coldly, ¡°Come out.¡±


    Susan, huddled at home, was suddenly scared by this call, trembling.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    She hesitated and politely declined, ¡°Willis, it¡¯s sote, I¡¯ve already gone to bed.¡±


    Willis sternly said, ¡°Come out!¡±


    He hung up the phone.


    The car sped away.


    Arriving at the Varley family vi.


    Susan, imitating Helena, wore a simple white shirt tucked into a dark long skirt, in-faced, with long hair down her shoulders, timidly standing on the side of the road.


    She saw Willis¡¯s car approaching from a distance.


    Thinking of saying hello, her hand reached halfway, then dropped back down.


    She intertwined her ten fingers, feigned calmness on her face, but inside, she was terribly afraid.


    There was a vague sense of foreboding, crawling up from the soles of her feet.


    Willis gripped the steering wheel, squinting slightly through the windshield, looking at Susan from a distance.


    She already bore some resemnce to Helena.


    Tonight, she deliberately imitated Helena¡¯s dressing style, making the resemnce even stronger.


    Unfortunately, although she copied the appearance, she couldn¡¯t imitate the spirit.


    Willis¡¯s gaze darkened, staring at her face.


    Suddenly, he gritted his teeth, mmed on the gas, and headed straight for her!

 Chapter 119：Let’s collaborate

    Watching Willis¡¯ car speeding towards her, Susan was instantly dumbfounded.


    Instinctively, she opened her mouth wide and let out a sharp scream, ¡°Ah!¡±


    Her mind screamed to move away, to escape, but her legs went weak, soft like cooked noodles. She couldn¡¯t take a single step.


    Thud!


    She copsed on the ground, sitting in shock.


    Frozen in ce, her body trembling like autumn leaves.


    As Willis¡¯ car approached closer and closer, she tried to escape but couldn¡¯t, closing her eyes in fear.


    The sound of the car wheels rubbing against the ground became clearer.


    Susan anticipated blood and pain, but it didn¡¯te. Instead, a screeching sound of brakes, sharp and piercing, echoed!


    One after another, a series of high-pitched noises!


    Upon opening her eyes, Susan saw another car abruptly appearing, blocking Willis¡¯ car.


    She was temporarily safe.


    Relieved, Susan realized her heart was pounding violently, sounding like drums beating.


    Her clothes were soaked through with sweat.


    She tried to stand up, but her legs were shaking so much she couldn¡¯t. Crawling was the only option.


    Rolling and crawling, she reached the pedestrian crossing on the side of the road.


    With hands and feet working together, she crawled towards her vi, shouting, ¡°Help, help!¡±


    Her disheveled appearance resembled a beggar with a broken leg begging on the street.


    The path she crawled left a winding trail of wet marks.


    Her own urine.


    She had wet herself in fear!


    Willis pushed open the car door and stepped out, walking towards the car blocking his way. He knocked on the car window forcefully with his fingers.


    The window slowly rolled down.


    Revealing a face with a slightly darkerplexion, cold and firm features.


    It was Jay.


    Willis frowned, ¡°What are you doing? Why are you blocking my car?¡±


    Jay opened the door and got out, saying, ¡°You¡¯re too impulsive. Let me handle Susan for you.¡±


    Willis sneered, ¡°I¡¯m seeking revenge for my wife and child. I don¡¯t need your intervention.¡±


    Jay looked at him sincerely, ¡°Before returning to the country, I spent five years in the Special Abilities Unit, dealing with tricky cases. I have a certain anti-investigation ability. Dealing with Susan is more suitable for me. We have no conflicts, and even if something happens to her, the police won¡¯t suspect me. It¡¯s different for you. If something happens to her, you¡¯ll be the prime suspect.¡±


    Willis remained stubborn, ¡°I¡¯ll handle my own revenge.¡±


    Jay gently smiled, ¡°A few months ago, Susan¡¯s hand was injured in her home underground parking lot. Your figure was captured by the police from the surveince footage.¡±


    ¡°I deliberately left that as a warning for Susan, but she healed quickly and forgot the pain.¡±


    Willis persisted, ¡°No need. I¡¯ll take care of my own grudges.¡±


    Jay tugged at the corner of his lips, ¡°At times like this, it¡¯s not about who is capable. I found out that Grace meets with a man named Klein every one or two months. Klein used to be in criminal investigation and is now the deputy director of the Coastal Sub-Bureau. This ident is well-executed, and it¡¯s definitely rted to Klein. You have connections in the police department; use them to investigate him. I just returned to the country and have no connections here. Let¡¯s coborate without distinguishing importance.¡±


    Willis softened his expression slightly.


    After a moment of contemtion, he asked Jay, ¡°Can you guarantee that you¡¯ll handle things cleanly without leaving any evidence?¡±


    Seeing his concern, Jay smiled faintly, ¡°I hold a foreign nationality, and even if I¡¯m suspected, the embassy will protect me. As ast resort, if they trace it back to me, I can escape the country. You¡¯re different; your family is here.¡±


    Willis, with dark eyes, looked at him, ¡°Why are you helping me?¡±


    Jay remained silent, lowering his eyshes to conceal the true emotions in his eyes.


    Willis, in a low voice, asked, ¡°Even if you help me, I won¡¯t give Helena to you.¡±


    Jay wryly smiled.


    Next, he did something that surprised Willis.


    He walked up to him, patted his shoulder, and whispered in his ear, ¡°Go back. She needs you now.¡±


    After saying that, Jay opened the car door, got in, started the car, and turned around.


    Willis watched his car gradually moving away.


    He suddenly realized that he might never have truly understood Jay.


    He could have just revealed his identity, and Helena would have recognized him.


    But he didn¡¯t.


    He silently guarded Helena from the shadows, asking for nothing.


    No expectations, no fame, no gain, and not even Helena¡¯s gratitude.


    A truly strange person, unlike anyone Willis had ever encountered.


    Willis opened the car door.


    Bending down, he sat in the car.


    He called his assistant, instructing, ¡°Hire a few professional private investigators to track Klein. Keep it discreet, don¡¯t let them be detected. That guy used to be in criminal investigation, and he¡¯s cunning. Once you find useful information, report directly to the higher-ups.¡±


    ¡°Understood, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Willis hung up the phone and started the car.


    He returned to the hospital.


    Carrying bags of groceries, he entered the ward.


    Opening therge bag of sanitary napkins, he said to Helena, ¡°I don¡¯t know which one you use, so I randomly picked a few. Use whichever you like, and throw away the ones you don¡¯t.¡±


    Helena¡¯s nose felt a sting as she looked at him, ¡°Don¡¯t be so good to me in the future.¡±


    Every time he was good to her, she couldn¡¯t help but soften.


    Being soft, she couldn¡¯t bear to divorce him.


    Not divorcing him meant she would never escape the current situation.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Willis lowered his eyshes slightly, saying calmly, ¡°It¡¯s okay. Divorce if you want. After the divorce, we¡¯ll still be rtives. Former spouses are direct rtives in legal terms, and I have the right to treat you well.¡±


    Helena covered her nose with her hand.


    Feeling even more emotional, she looked at him, ¡°Don¡¯t be so good to me.¡±


    Willis gently bent down to hug her.


    He held this gentle and slender woman very small and soft, like his own child.

 Chapter 120：Deeply cherishing（1）

    The two of them embraced for a very long time.


    Knowing that divorce was imminent, they became indulgent towards each other.


    Although Helena had made up her mind to divorce, she couldn¡¯t help but feel reluctant, deeply cherishing the warmth of his embrace.


    Deeply cherishing.


    Both harboring their own thoughts, they continued to hold each other.


    Neither of them showed any intention of letting go.


    As if they wanted to hold onto each other for eternity, until the end of time.


    Suddenly, a piercing ring tone interrupted this tranquil scene.


    Willis took his phone from the pocket of his trousers and nced at the screen.


    It was a call from Ryan.


    He slightly furrowed his brows, patting Helena¡¯s back, and said, ¡°I¡¯ll step outside to take a call.¡±


    Helena nodded.


    Willis picked up his phone and walked outside.


    Finding a secluded spot.


    Answering the call.


    He had an indifferent expression, ¡°Do you have something?¡±


    Ryan¡¯s deep and authoritative voice carried a hint of urgency, ¡°Susan had a car ident. We¡¯ve all rushed over; you shoulde too.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Willis lightly chuckled.


    In a casual tone, he said, ¡°Ryan, you¡¯re not even sixty yet. How did you be so forgetful? She slept with your eldest son and is pregnant with his child. Now that she¡¯s in trouble, shouldn¡¯t you be calling him instead?¡±


    Ryan was taken aback, ¡°How do you know about this?¡±


    ¡°There are no walls that don¡¯t leak.¡±


    After a moment of silence, Ryan said, ¡°She was your ex-girlfriend after all, and that girl is so fond of you. I thought you should be informed. Your daughter-inw also had a car ident, and I was waiting for these few days to find time to visit her.¡±


    Willis sneered with a hint of annoyance, ¡°Apologies, I¡¯m busy.¡±


    Just as he was about to hang up, Ryan¡¯s voice, pretending to be remorseful, came through the phone, ¡°I¡¯m also saddened by Helena¡¯s car ident. I was waiting for these days to find time to visit her.¡±


    Willis¡¯ eyes shed with a sharp pain.


    It felt as if someone had taken a sharp knife and ruthlessly stabbed his heart.


    After a brief pause.


    He suppressed his true emotions and spoke in a sarcastic tone, ¡°Are you happy now?¡±


    Ryan paused,ining, ¡°You, this child, why are you talking to me with such a hostile tone now?¡±


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for your indulgence, Helena wouldn¡¯t have had a car ident, and my child wouldn¡¯t have been lost.¡± Willis said coldly, then hung up the phone.


    Listening to the busy tone on the phone, Ryan was filled with anger.


    ming Helena in secret.


    It was all her fault, making their father-son rtionship more and more strained.


    After thinking for a while, Ryan called Bruce, saying, ¡°Bruce, Susan had a car ident, it¡¯s quite serious. Come over, and let¡¯s show up together at the Varley family.¡±


    Bruce, with a good temper, smiled, ¡°Dad, isn¡¯t that a bit inappropriate?¡±


    Ryan frowned, ¡°Are you also defying my intentions?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get angry. Listen to me slowly analyze it for you. Susan is Willis¡¯ ex-girlfriend, and she deeply loves him. That day with me was just an ident. For young people nowadays, this kind of thing isn¡¯t a big deal. Love and rtionships, sleep together and then part ways, it won¡¯t take long for everyone to forget. Originally, everyone had almost forgotten about this. If you make me show up in front of the Varley family now, everyone will remember it again, won¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°But Susan has such a big ident, and not one of you is showing up. Owen will think that we, the Santana family, are heartless.¡±

 Chapter 121：Deeply cherishing（2）

    Bruce hesitated for a moment and asked, ¡°Is Susan seriously injured?¡±


    ¡°Quite serious. She lost a lot of blood, and the situation is not optimistic.¡±


    Bruce took a sharp breath, ¡°What caused it?¡±


    Ryan truthfully replied, ¡°Car ident. Heard there was a problem with the brakes, and the driver couldn¡¯t stop the car, crashing into the roadside railing.¡±


    Bruce gave a meaningful smile, ¡°Was the police informed?¡±


    ¡°Informed.¡±


    ¡°Was it idental or intentional?¡±


    ¡°Looks like an ident.¡±


    ¡°Not necessarily. It could be murder. My friend said that one night, he saw Willis driving towards Susan, trying to hit her. If someone hadn¡¯t stopped him, he would have seeded. If it¡¯s really Willis, you should take care of your rtionships in advance, don¡¯t let him get away with it. You¡¯ve invested so much effort in him; don¡¯t let it go to waste.¡±


    Ryan felt like he had been struck by lightning.


    If it weren¡¯t for the psychological resilience he had developed over the years in the business world, he would have copsed long ago.


    After a while, he finally said, ¡°Willis is not that impulsive.¡±


    Bruce hinted, ¡°Because I haven¡¯t met a woman as good as Helena.¡±


    As soon as he mentioned Helena¡¯s name, Ryan felt a headache.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention that woman to me. If she had cleanly divorced Willis from the beginning, there wouldn¡¯t have been all these messy things afterward!¡± He angrily hung up the phone.


    He took a cigarette to calm his anger.


    Ryan returned to the operating room door.


    Apologizing to Owen, he said, ¡°Helena had a car ident a few days ago, and she lost the baby. Willis has to take care of her and can¡¯t leave. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Grace¡¯s eyes dodged for a moment.


    Lowering her eyelids, she remained silent.


    Owen was very dissatisfied, ¡°What about Bruce? Susan had his child, and now she¡¯s in such a big trouble. He doesn¡¯t even show his face?¡±


    Ryan, with a forced smile, said, ¡°Their affair was just an ident, and Bruce haspensated for it. Susan also didn¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Owen¡¯s eyes instantly turned red.


    He abandoned his usual elegance, grabbed Ryan¡¯s cor, and said, ¡°Nonsense! Who said Susan didn¡¯t take it to heart? She¡¯s devastated! I¡¯ve been taking care of her like she¡¯s fragile, sheltering her from the sun in my palm and keeping her in my mouth to prevent her from melting. I¡¯ve raised her so carefully, not for your two sons to mistreat her! Ryan, let me be clear upfront today. If anything happens to Susan, I won¡¯t spare your two sons!¡±


    Normally arrogant Ryan.


    At this moment, three points of his sharpness were diminished.


    He held Owen¡¯s wrist,ughed awkwardly, and said, ¡°Owen, don¡¯t be like this. We¡¯ve had a friendship for decades; we can discuss things.¡±


    Owen, full of anger, said, ¡°What¡¯s there to discuss? When Susan wakes up, you must give me an exnation!¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, I¡¯ll let Bruce marry her, is that fine?¡±


    Owen let go of his cor, lowered his eyelids, rubbed his fingers, and said, ¡°Susan doesn¡¯t like Bruce. He likes someone else, and you know it in your heart.¡±


    Owen was in a dilemma, ¡°But Susan is already like that with Bruce. Going back to Willis again seems unrealistic.¡±


    Owen angrily said, ¡°You yourself said it was just an ident!¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyebrows twisted into a knot, and his face turned cold, ¡± you¡¯re being a bit unreasonable, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Owen¡¯s anger surged again, ¡°Susan only loves Willis! Your Bruce, you know what kind of person he is; he¡¯s not worthy of our Susan!¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Having lived for so long, Ryan had never been so irritated.


    After holding back for a long time, he couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    His face turned iron-blue, and he walked to the side to smoke a cigarette.

 Chapter 122：Nancy Seeks Revenge（1）

    Josh also walked aside, found a quiet ce, and called Nancy.


    As soon as the call connected, he said, ¡°Nancy, I just heard from Ryan that your sister-inw had a car ident and is in the hospital. Come and see her.¡±


    Because Helena bears a resemnce to his mother when she was young, especially in temperament-both gentle and elegant. Therefore, he has a special sentiment towards her.


    This sentiment is different from the ordinary feelings between men and women. It¡¯s just that when he heard about her ident, he couldn¡¯t help but want to care for her.


    However, considering the gender difference, it was not convenient for him to go, so he entrusted the task to Nancy.


    Upon hearing about Helena¡¯s ident, Nancy exploded, ¡°What happened to my sister-inw? When did this happen? Why didn¡¯t anyone inform me?¡±


    ¡°I just found out as well. Give her a call and ask.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll call her right now.¡±


    After the call, in less than half an hour, Nancy rushed to the hospital.


    Usually, every time she came to the hospital, she would buy a bouquet of flowers. This time, she was so anxious that she forgot to buy any.


    Finding Helena¡¯s ward, she threw her bag aside and rushed to Helena¡¯s bedside.


    Before she could say anything, seeing the despair in Helena¡¯s eyes, tinged with gray disappointment, her heart panicked, feeling disoriented.


    She held Helena¡¯s hand, asked in a tentative tone, ¡°Sister-inw, is the baby okay?¡±


    That sentence hit Helena¡¯s heart.


    Her heart suddenly ached, contracting into a small ball.


    She sniffed, suppressed the sourness in her heart, and said, ¡°I lost the baby.¡±


    Tears gushed out of Nancy¡¯s eyes.


    Choking, she had difficulty speaking, ¡°What did you say? My nephew is gone?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t believe what she heard.


    Wanting to ask again, she deluded herself into thinking that, by asking again, she would hear the opposite answer.


    Helena nodded with red eyes, ¡°I couldn¡¯t save the baby, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Like a thunderbolt on a sunny day!


    Nancy froze in ce!


    For a long time, without moving, her face turned pale, like a snowman.


    Helena pulled her hand and asked anxiously, ¡°Nancy, Nancy, are you okay?¡±


    Only then did Nancy, as if awakened from a dream, shiver a little and return to normal.


    With a delicate voice, she shouted, ¡°Where¡¯s my brother? ¡±


    Helena softly said, ¡°It¡¯s not your brother¡¯s fault. I had several bodyguards with me, but the other side was well-prepared.¡±


    Nancy reached out to touch Helena¡¯s abdomen, tears flowing like a faucet turned on.


    ¡°My little nephew, not even born yet, is gone. I was still looking forward to him calling me aunt. I had already bought a gift for him, and now he¡¯s gone.¡±


    She hugged Helena¡¯s waist, buried her face in her abdomen, shoulders trembling as she cried.


    Helena suppressed her tears, gently stroking her back,forting, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, Nancy, don¡¯t cry too much to harm your body.¡±


    Suddenly, Nancy let go of her, stood up, wiped away her tears, and said, ¡°It must be Susan! It must be them!¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°I think so too. It¡¯s too coincidental, but they did it seamlessly. Even the police can¡¯t find evidence.¡±


    Gritting her teeth, Nancy picked up her phone and called Josh.


    ¡°Josh, where is Susan now?¡±


    Josh truthfully replied, ¡°Susan had a car ident and is undergoing emergency treatment.¡±


    Nancy hesitated for a moment, then burst intoughter, crying as sheughed, ¡°What is this? This is retribution for evil!¡±


    After hanging up, she told Helena, ¡°Susan also had a car ident and is undergoing surgery. I¡¯ll go see her. Sister-inw, take care of yourself. I¡¯lle to see youter.¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°Go ahead.¡±Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nancy bent down and hugged her.


    The hugsted a bit longer than a normal one.


    She decisively let go, turned around, and walked away.


    Helena grabbed her arm and admonished, ¡°Don¡¯t do anything foolish.¡±


    With tears in her eyes, Nancy smiled, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t. I¡¯m tough.¡±


    Only then did Helena let her go.


    As soon as she left the room, Nancy headed straight to the emergency room and the operating room.


    Owen and Grace were standing in front of the operating room, making it easy to find.


    Nancy spotted them at a nce.


    She trotted over.


    Before the two could react, she lifted her foot and kicked the door of the operating room.


    Owen hurriedly stepped forward to stop her, ¡°Nancy, what are you doing? Susan is undergoing surgery! Doing this will affect the doctors, and Susan might lose her life!¡±


    With her arm pulled by Owen, Nancy still extended her foot to kick the door.


    Kicking and shouting, ¡°My nephew is dead, why does she still get to live? If she dies, we all die together!¡±


    Owen scolded, ¡°You girl, why are you so unreasonable! If the child is lost, it can be born again. If something happens to Susan, she won¡¯t survive!¡±


    Grace also hurried over to help pull Nancy.


    Seeing Grace, Nancy¡¯s eyes instantly turned red.


    Staring at her aggressively, she said, ¡°It¡¯s you, right?¡±

 Chapter 123：Nancy Seeks Revenge（2）

    Grace¡¯s eyes dodged for a moment, and she pretended to remain calm, saying, ¡°What are you talking about? I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb. You¡¯re definitely involved! Earlier, your mother tried to harm my sister-inw with saffron, attempting to get rid of my nephew. When that failed, you and Susan orchestrated a car ident to harm my sister-inw! You wicked woman, today I¡¯ll beat you to death to avenge my nephew!¡±


    She raised her foot and kicked towards Grace.


    Owen intercepted her, lifting her by the waist and dragging her away.


    A nurse, hearing themotion, approached and sternly said, ¡°This is a hospital. Please keep quiet!¡±


    However, everyone was too enraged to pay attention.


    Unable to do much, the nurse went to call security.


    Ryan rushed over upon hearing themotion and scolded, ¡°What are you yelling about? Your sister-inw is undergoing surgery; we need quiet!¡±


    Nancy, with bloodshot eyes, retorted, ¡°Shut up! My nephew is gone, and you¡¯re also responsible! If you hadn¡¯t been constantly pushing Susan and my brother together, they wouldn¡¯t have had such ambitions and dared to go after my sister-inw!¡±


    Ryan rebuked, ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense! Your sister-inw had a car ident because a truck driver was drunk!¡±


    Nancy sneered, ¡°It was clearly a premeditated murder!¡±


    She pointed at Grace¡¯s nose, saying, ¡°It must be this venomous woman conspiring with Susan! They wanted to kill my sister-inw!¡±


    Grace¡¯s expression showed slight difort. ¡°Nancy, without evidence, don¡¯t make baseless usations.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s you! You wicked women! When my brother had a car ident and couldn¡¯t walk, you avoid him! When my brother¡¯s leg healed, you came back to snatch him! When my brother had a good rtionship with my sister-inw, you tried to tear them apart! My sister-inw finally got pregnant, and you schemed to cause a car ident to make her lose the baby! You bunch of heartless people, you¡¯re all rotten to the core! A group of evildoers colluding together!¡±


    As Nancy continued her tirade, she suddenly bent down and bit Owen¡¯s arm, which was wrapped around her waist.


    Owen winced in pain and quickly let go.


    Nancy then kicked towards Grace.


    Her hand swung.


    ¡°p!¡±


    A resounding pnded on Grace¡¯s face.


    Grace, in pain, eximed, ¡°You girl, what are you doing for no reason?¡±


    ¡°p!¡±


    Nancy remained silent, delivering another p to Grace¡¯s face.


    Driven by anger, her strength was extraordinary.


    Grace¡¯s left cheek immediately swelled, turning red.


    She covered her face, wincing in pain.


    Ryan hurriedly approached, grabbing Nancy¡¯s arm and sternly said, ¡°Nancy, have you gone mad?¡±


    Nancy forcefully shook off his hand.


    Seeing a nurse pushing a surgical carting towards them, she took a big step forward, grabbed a syringe, quickly removed the protective cover, and jabbed it towards Grace.


    Grace hastily dodged, but the needle still pierced her bare arm.


    A sharp sound, leaving a long scratch!


    Blood oozed out immediately.


    Grace winced in pain, tears welling up in her eyes.


    She raised her arm, showing the scratch to Ryan, saying with teary eyes, ¡°Ryan, look at this injury. Oh, it hurts so much! You really need to manage your daughter; she¡¯s toowless!¡±


    Ryan, infuriated, turned red with anger.


    He raised his hand to p Nancy across the face.


    But just in time, an arm reached from behind, pulling Nancy behind!


    It was Josh, who had gone to the payment window and returned.


    He shielded Nancy and told Ryan, ¡°Ryan, let¡¯s discuss matters calmly and not resort to violence.¡±


    Ryan, seething with anger, said, ¡°Look at this troublesome girl; she scratched Grace¡¯s arm.¡±


    Nancy, gritting her teeth, angrily said, ¡°She deserves it! Her arm is just scratched! Helena had a car ident, almost lost her life, and my nephew is gone.¡±


    As she cursed and cried, she suddenly bent down, took a big step forward, and opened the lid of a nearbyrge trash bin.


    Before anyone could react, she grabbed Grace¡¯s arm and pulled her towards the trash bin.


    Somehow, she found the strength to twist Grace¡¯s waist, forcefully mming her into the trash bin.


    The trash bin contained medical waste, including urine bags, vomit from patients, blood, surgical waste, used medical gauze, scalpels, and more.


    Grace¡¯s well-maintained face was immediately covered in all sorts of filth!


    Her eyes were stinging and couldn¡¯t open.


    Her face felt a sharp, tingling pain, and she didn¡¯t know what had punctured her skin.


    She was humiliated and furious, cursing and pulling herself out of the trash bin.


    Just then, a cleaningdy screamed, ¡°What are you people doing? This trash bin contains infectious waste from patients; I¡¯m going to dispose of it!¡±


    Nancy hurriedly asked, ¡°Is it from an AIDS patient?¡±


    ¡°The AIDS patient¡± was like a bomb exploding in Grace¡¯s ears!This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    She instantly turned ashen!


    Terrified!

 Chapter 124：She Made Up Her Mind（1）

    Now everyone noticed that the cleaning staff was wearing protective clothing, masks, and rubber gloves.


    Grace, feeling even more frightened, could hardly stand.


    Her legs trembled uncontrobly.


    Shivering, she asked the cleaner, ¡°Is it, is it AIDS?¡±


    The cleaner nced at her, picked up the trash bin lid, walked to the bin, peered inside, and said, ¡°The medical waste from the AIDS patient¡¯s operating room is sealed in airtight bags. Visually, the bags are intact. However, since you¡¯re injured, it¡¯s better to have a blood test for reassurance.¡±


    After saying that, the cleaner pushed the trash bin away.


    In the surgery area, there weren¡¯t many people.


    The few onlookers had long retreated upon hearing the words ¡°AIDS,¡± as if the air itself could be contagious.


    The corridor returned to silence.


    Grace red fiercely at Nancy, her chest heaving violently, consumed with a deep-seated hatred, itching at the roots of her teeth.


    Suddenly.


    She gritted her teeth and rushed towards Nancy, grabbing her wrist and biting down fiercely.


    Nancy screamed in pain, trying to free her hand. ¡°Let go of me! Let go quickly! You wicked woman!¡±


    But Grace, driven by shock, seemed to have gone mad.


    She held on tightly, refusing to release her grip.


    Josh, almost instinctively, took a step forward and tried to push Grace away, sternly saying, ¡°Let go of her! Quickly let go!¡±


    Grace paid no heed.


    Her mind was fixated on one thought.


    If she couldn¡¯t have peace, neither would Nancy!


    If she got AIDS, they would all suffer together!


    Ryan also rushed over, grabbing Grace around the waist and pulling her back, attempting to separate the two.


    However, Grace clung to Nancy like a possessed snapping turtle, refusing to let go.


    With Ryan¡¯s pull, both Nancy and Grace were dragged far back.


    The bite on her arm became even more painful.


    Tears streamed down her face.


    In desperation, Josh used his hand to pinch Grace¡¯s nose.


    Grace, unable to breathe, finally opened her mouth.


    Clutching her chest, she gasped for air.


    Josh suddenly lifted his foot and kicked her, sending her flying several meters away.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    A loud noise echoed through the corridor as Grace crashed to the floor.


    The pain made her grimace, cursing loudly.


    Unfortunately, no one paid any attention to her.


    Grace cursed for a while, palm on the ground, attempting to crawl but unable to get up.


    Every move sent waves of pain through her body.


    Her eyes teared up, reaching out to Owen, ¡°Owen, help me up, oh, it hurts so much.¡±


    But Owen dared not approach, only watching from a distance, saying, ¡°You lie down for a while. When the pain eases, you can get up.¡±


    Grace froze for a moment.


    It dawned on her that he didn¡¯t dare to help her because there was a possibility of being infected with AIDS.


    He was afraid she might transmit it to him.


    That¡¯s why he had been standing far away earlier and didn¡¯te to help.


    Grace¡¯s nose tingled, her eyes welling up, and she said sadly, ¡°Owen, I¡¯m your wife. I¡¯ve been with you since I was under twenty. Is it so difficult for you to lend me a hand?¡±


    Owen still hesitated, fearing that she might be mentally disturbed and bite him again, and more importantly, the fear of infection.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    He made a call and called the driver.


    The driver, unaware of the situation, assisted Grace to the Infectious Disease Department for registration and blood testing.


    Josh also supported Nancy to the Infectious Disease Department for registration.


    Nancy shook off his support, refusing to let him help, saying, ¡°Josh, stay away from me. In case I¡¯m infected, I might pass it on to you.¡±


    Josh supported her and wouldn¡¯t let go. ¡°It¡¯s okay; I don¡¯t have any injuries.¡±


    ¡°I heard that saliva can also transmit it.¡±


    Josh stubbornly said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Nancy¡¯s eyes turned red, and tears rolled down her cheeks.


    She choked and said, ¡°Josh, you¡¯re really kind. I used to take advantage of you in the conflicts with Susan.¡±


    Josh smiled generously, raising his hand to pat her head. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve never taken it to heart. Does the wound hurt a lot? My stepmother is too impulsive; let me apologize to you on her behalf.¡±


    Nancy looked down at the deep bite marks on her wrist.


    Bleeding profusely.


    Blood was oozing out.

 Chapter 125：She Made Up Her Mind（2）

    She was the youngest in the family, the only girl, and everyone pampered her .


    She was truly spoiled.


    Growing up like this, when had she ever suffered such torment?


    If she really contracted AIDS, it would be over for her.


    She hadn¡¯t even had a boyfriend yet, dying like this would be too unjust.


    Nancy¡¯s heart felt gray.


    She felt desperate.


    Enduring the pain, she said, ¡°Josh, don¡¯t tell my sister about today¡¯s incident. I promised her that I wouldn¡¯t do impulsive things. If she finds out, she¡¯ll me herself again. She¡¯s injured and just lost her child; we can¡¯t let her worry about me.¡±


    Josh nodded, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t say anything.¡±


    ¡°Also, don¡¯t tell my brother, and my mom. Don¡¯t tell Grandpa and Grandma either; they¡¯re old and can¡¯t handle the shock.¡±


    ¡°No, but Ryan was also present today, and I¡¯m afraid he might say something.¡±


    Nancy pursed her lips, ¡°He won¡¯t dare. He also bears responsibility for today¡¯s events. If my grandmother finds out, she¡¯ll scold him without fail.¡±


    The two of them chatted as they arrived at the Infectious Disease Department to register.


    At the same time.


    In the Obstetrics and Gynecology ward.


    Helena always felt her right eyelid twitching.


    She was worried about Nancy, so she called her. ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but I always feel uneasy. Are you okay?¡±


    Nancy was waiting to register, enduring the pain, and smiled, ¡°I¡¯m fine, Helena, you take good care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Really okay?¡±


    Nancy wanted to cry, but she pretended to be indifferent, saying, ¡°Really fine. I¡¯ve grown up, when have I suffered? I¡¯ve only bullied others; who dares to bully me?¡±


    ¡°Okay, just don¡¯t be impulsive.¡±


    Nancy said nonchntly, ¡°No, I¡¯m very stable.¡±


    Helena finally hung up the phone feeling relieved.


    She rubbed her eyes.


    Her eyelid kept twitching, probably due tock of good sleep recently.


    The hospital felt gloomy.


    At night, shey in bed, hearing children crying in the middle of the night.


    The crying was faint, weak, and prolonged, tearing at her heart in waves of pain.


    Since she got pregnant, she had developed a habit of touching her belly.


    Whenever she did, her heart felt sour, not a pleasant feeling.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    She was slow to warm up, introverted by nature.


    When she was pregnant, she wasn¡¯t as happy as Willis.


    When the child was lost, she didn¡¯t feel as miserable as Willis.


    However, the difort lingered and spread gradually,sting for a long time.


    This shadow might never be able to escape from her life.


    Helena slowly closed her eyes.


    Her hand rested on her lower abdomen.


    Her lower abdomen felt cold.


    It was empty.


    Her heart felt empty too.


    Already a reserved and silent person, after losing the child, she spoke even less.


    When Willis walked in with chicken soup, he saw Helena lying on the bed, eyes closed.


    A crystal-clear teardrop hung on her eyshes.


    Although her expression was calm, the sadness was thick and unshakable.


    Shey there stiffly, like being frozen by ice and snow, motionless.


    Willis felt a pang in his heart, ced the chicken soup on the table, walked to the bedside, bent down, embraced her, and kissed her forehead.


    His lips were cold.


    Just like his heart.


    After a long time, he whispered, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Helena slowly opened her eyes, shaking her head ever so slightly, ¡°It¡¯s not your fault.¡±


    In fact, Willis would rather she hit him, scold him, me him.


    That way, her emotions could be released.


    If her emotions were released, there might still be room for reconciliation.


    He feared her being so quiet, so rational, not even ming him.


    That would mean she had made up her mind about the divorce, unswayed and unconsble.


    Indeed.


    Helena looked at him quietly and said, ¡°The doctor said I can be discharged tomorrow. My mother has prepared my household registration booklet. Please prepare the documents on your side as well. Tomorrow, let¡¯s go to the Civil Affairs Bureau to submit the divorce application.¡±


    Willis felt a twist in his heart, gradually tightening his grip on her hand.

 Chapter 126：Priceless Treasure （1）

    Helena raised her hand and covered Willis¡¯s hand.


    His hand was bone-chillingly cold.


    Helena greedily held it for a moment, then quickly withdrew.


    Afraid that if she held on, her heart would soften.


    Hearing Willis whisper, ¡°Susan also had a car ident and is unconscious in the operating room. I¡¯ve sent people to investigate Klein and gather evidence. It won¡¯t be long before we can bring him to justice.¡±


    Helena smiled bitterly, ¡°An eye for an eye, when will it end?¡±


    She raised her hand to touch her icy lower abdomen, ¡°No matter how much revenge we seek, my child won¡¯te back.¡±


    Tim wouldn¡¯te back either.


    This marriage, if it continued, who knows how many more lives would be lost.


    With Susan¡¯s car ident, Owen wouldn¡¯t just stand by.


    Retaliations back and forth, there would never be an end, and someone would always be hurt or killed.


    Willis gazed down at her, his eyes deep and dark, ¡°Are you willing to let me go?¡±


    Helena turned her head, unable to meet his eyes.


    Of course, she was unwilling.


    But being willing, being willing meant sacrifice.


    If you want something, you must give up something.


    She didn¡¯t want to delve deeper into this topic, so she changed the subject and asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you busytely? Coming to the hospital every day to apany me?¡±


    Willis had actually pushed all his work away, fearing that she might not be able to ept things for a few days, so he stayed with her all the time.


    Afraid that she might drive him away, he said, ¡°Not busy.¡±


    But to Helena¡¯s ears, it sounded like he was being neglected by Ryan.


    Thinking back to thest time at the old house, when Ryan wanted to pass on the heir position to Bruce.


    The conflict was temporarily resolved when Jenny threatened to divorce.


    This made her more determined to divorce.


    All the conflicts stemmed from her, as long as she left.


    All the conflicts would be resolved.


    Helena said firmly, ¡°I don¡¯t make decisions lightly, but once I decide, no one can persuade me. Don¡¯t bother trying to keep me.¡±


    Willis remained silent, just holding her, kissing her cheek, and ear.


    A picture of deep affection and attachment.


    After holding her for a while, he took out chicken soup to feed her.


    Helena took it and drank it herself.


    They were about to divorce, and being fed back and forth by him always felt strange.


    After she finished, Willis put away the thermos.


    Helena asked, ¡°When is Tim¡¯s funeral? I want to send him off.¡±


    Willis paused in putting away the thermos and said, ¡°Three dayster. I¡¯ll go, and it¡¯s enough if you stay here. You¡¯re still in confinement; you shouldn¡¯t expose yourself to the wind, or there might be after-effects.¡±


    ¡°Has his wife given birth?¡±


    ¡°She has, she was shocked and gave birth a week earlier.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart tightened with guilt.


    She reached for her bag, ¡°I have a card here, could you please give it to his wife?¡±


    Willis held her hand, ¡°In terms ofpensation, I¡¯ve personally taken care of it, and their family has no objections.¡±


    Helena fell silent.


    In terms of money, he was always generous.


    But no matter how much money you give, Tim wouldn¡¯te back.


    His parents lost their son, his wife lost her husband, and his child lost its father.


    Such a good person, gone just like that.


    Willis put away the thermos, took it to the hospital¡¯s small kitchen, and had the maid wash it. Just as he was about toe out, his phone suddenly rang.


    It was his assistant calling, saying there was an urgent matter at thepany that needed handling.


    Willis walked out of the kitchen, telling Helena, ¡°I have urgent matters to attend to; I¡¯lle back to apany youter tonight.¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°Go ahead, and remember to prepare the divorce agreement.¡±


    Willis lowered his eyshes, didn¡¯t speak, turned around, and walked out.


    Not long after he left, Ryan arrived at the entrance of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Inpatient Department.


    Willis had called him, used his assistant to find an excuse to send him away.


    Ryan had been staying in the hospital all the time, waiting for Nancy¡¯s test results. Only when it turned out negative did he finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    He felt that it was time to have a good talk with Helena.


    This woman, with her own efforts, had turned his family upside down.


    It seriously affected his rtionship with his wife, his rtionship with his son, his rtionship with his daughter, and even his long-time friendship with Owen.


    Just as Bruce had said, Helena was undoubtedly a cmity.


    She couldn¡¯t stay.


    If she stayed, it would be a disaster.


    Ryan took the elevator and arrived at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Inpatient Department.


    The bodyguards standing at the door didn¡¯t dare to stop him.


    Ryan didn¡¯t bother knocking; he pushed the door open and walked in.


    Helena was just about to get out of bed to go to the bathroom.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Seeing him suddenly burst in, she quickly pulled up the nket.


    Ryan had a stern face, walked to the bedside, casually pulled up a chair, and said, ¡°Heard you had a car ident, so I came to see you.¡±

 Chapter 127：Priceless Treasure （2）

    Helena¡¯s expression remained indifferent, ¡°Thank you for taking the time to visit me amidst your busy schedule. I¡¯m not feeling well, so I won¡¯t get out of bed.¡±


    Ryan smirked, ¡°No need, just stay seated.¡±


    ¡°Do you have something to discuss?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡±


    Ryan opened his briefcase and took out a checkbook.


    He pulled out a gold pen and briskly signed a check.


    cing it on the nket in front of Helena.


    He lifted his chin slightly, adopting a condescending tone, ¡°This is fifty million. Take it and leave Willis. Fifty million,bined with what Willis gave you before, totals over two billion. Many people can¡¯t earn this much money in several lifetimes. I hope you can appreciate it and not be ungrateful.¡±


    Helena lowered her gaze, nced at the check, and smiled.


    If it weren¡¯t for him meddling, continuously giving Susan hope.


    They wouldn¡¯t have dared to escte the situation, or even take such a risky path that could have led to Helena harming her.


    Helena touched her slightly aching lower abdomen.


    Ryan was indirectly responsible for killing her child, and indirectly responsible for Tim¡¯s death.


    Now, he had the audacity to bring a check to humiliate her.


    In a fit of pique, Helena said, ¡°Ryan, aren¡¯t you being a bit stingy? I thought with your generosity, the amount would be at least a billion. Unexpectedly, it¡¯s just a mere fifty million.¡±


    Ryan chuckled, ¡°You¡¯ve been spoiled by Willis. A vige girl like you, growing up in a small mountain vige, even getting fifty million is already giving you too much credit.¡±


    Helenaughed, a hint of mockery in her eyes.


    The tone of his speech was exactly the same as Susan¡¯s.


    No wonder he liked her so much.


    They were of the same kind.


    Helena raised her index finger and said coldly, ¡°If you want me to divorce, at least give me this amount.¡±


    Ryan narrowed his eyes, displeased, ¡°A billion?¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°No, ten billion.¡±


    Ryan sneered, ¡°Little girl, you have big appetites. Asking for so much money at once, aren¡¯t you afraid of taking it with your life and spending it without your life?¡±


    This tant threat made Helenaugh in disdain.


    She said lightly, ¡°You don¡¯t dare to kill me. Someone who has been to the gates of hell doesn¡¯t fear death as much as you think.¡±


    She didn¡¯t even bother with politenguage.


    Because he didn¡¯t deserve it.


    Ryan¡¯s gaze was aggressive, staring at her.


    Helena remained calm, meeting his gaze.


    The two of them locked eyes for a full five minutes.


    In the end, Ryanpromised.


    Ten billion was quite painful.


    But as long as he could drive her out of his house, no matter how much money he had to spend, he was willing.


    Ryan took out a checkbook, issued a new check, and threw it in front of Helena, ¡°This is ten billion. Take the money and leave Willis immediately.¡±


    Helena nced casually at the amount on the check, confirmed it, and said, ¡°Tomorrow I will go to the Civil Affairs Bureau with Willis to submit the divorce application. After a month of the cooling-off period, we can get divorced.¡±


    ¡°No need for the cooling-off period. Tomorrow, you two go to the Civil Affairs Bureau, and I¡¯ll have someone use connections to process your divorce directly.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your trouble.¡±


    Ryan stood up, arrogantly saying, ¡°If you dare to change your mind, this ten billion, I¡¯ll make sure you take it with your life and spend it without your life.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Helena held the check, smiling as brightly as a mountain flower, ¡°Rest assured, I¡¯vee to terms with it now. Life and money are more important than men.¡±


    ¡°Consider yourself sensible!¡± Ryan shed a trace of contempt in his eyes, turned around, and left.


    Downstairs, Ryan immediately called Willis.


    After the call connected.


    He spoke in amanding tone, ¡°Tomorrow, you and Helena go to the Civil Affairs Bureau for the divorce. She just asked me for ten billion.¡±


    Willis remained silent.


    Ryan disdainfully said, ¡°This is the woman you¡¯ve been raising so high. Nothing more than this, a gold digger and vain. Insatiable!¡±


    Ten billion was too much for him!


    Regret surged as soon as he left, even giving fifty million was too much!


    Willis sneered, enunciating each word, ¡°No, ten billion is too little. Helena is worth more. She is a priceless treasure.¡±

 Chapter 128：Reluctant to part（1）

    Ryan sneered, ¡°That girl has been spoiled by you. If you hadn¡¯t pampered her so much, she wouldn¡¯t have dared to ask me for ten billion.¡±


    The more he thought about it, the more he regretted it.


    Why did he agree so easily?


    Ten billion was not a small amount, he should have negotiated.


    Willis calmly responded, ¡°Grandpa, Grandma, my mother, Nancy, and even Susan¡¯s grandfather all really like Helena, except for you. I think you should reflect on yourself before questioning others.¡±


    Ryan, who was always stubborn and self-willed, couldn¡¯t ept such words.


    Where could he listen to this kind of advice?


    Frustrated, he hung up the phone.


    For the sake of face, he had given away ten billion, which was already heart-wrenching enough.


    Now he would have to endure his son¡¯s scolding.


    Ryan picked up his phone and called his assistant, ¡°Call the director of the Civil Affairs Bureau. Tell him that Willis and Helena will go to get their divorce tomorrow. Ask him to make some amodations and process it on the same day.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    In the evening, Willis carried a package of postpartum tonic soup from a hotel and came to the hospital.


    Entering the room, he ced the soup on the bedside table, unwrapped the packaging, and said, ¡°I brought postpartum tonic soup for you. This restaurant is quite famous. Drink it while it¡¯s hot.¡±


    Helena smiled.


    But there was a hint of bitterness in her heart.


    She spoke softly, ¡°We¡¯re getting divorced tomorrow, so you don¡¯t have to be so good to me.¡±


    Willis poured the soup into a bowl, used a spoon to scoop a spoonful, and fed it to her, ¡°The child we lost is my responsibility, and your injury is caused by me. Doing this little thing is only natural.¡±


    Helena took a sip.


    The soup was quite vorful.


    After being fed a few mouthfuls by him, Helena reached out to take the bowl, ¡°I can do it myself.¡±


    Willis didn¡¯t give it to her, ¡°I¡¯ll feed you for thest time. Let me finish.¡±


    Helena¡¯s eyes became teary, and she asked, ¡°Is the divorce agreement ready?¡±


    ¡°Ready.¡±


    ¡°Let me see it.¡±


    Willis opened the package, took it out, and handed it to Helena.


    Helena scanned it line by line.


    As she read, her brows gradually furrowed.


    She held the divorce agreement, looked up at him, and said, ¡°Did your assistant make a mistake? Why does all your property under your name go to me?¡±


    Willis lowered his eyes, stared at the bowl of soup, and casually said, ¡°No mistake. I told him to draft it like that. All my property under my name, except for the shares in thepany, goes to you.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly, ¡°Mr. Santana, I¡¯m seriously divorcing you, not ying games with you.¡±


    Willis raised his eyes and looked at her, his gaze bing deeper.


    After a long time, he said, ¡°I¡¯m serious too.¡±


    ¡°No, this divorce agreement needs to be changed. There¡¯s no need for you to give me everything.¡±


    Willis calmly said, ¡°You¡¯ve been married to me for three years, suffered so many injuries for me, and even bore a child for me. It¡¯s only right for me to give you everything, except for thepany shares.¡±


    Helena felt helpless dealing with him, ¡°Your father has already given me ten billion. If you give me all your property under your name, he will go crazy. He will make me take it with me and spend it without me.¡±


    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t dare.¡± Willis scooped a spoonful of soup and fed it to her. ¡°Open your mouth.¡±


    Helena pushed away his hand, ¡°If you insist on this, I won¡¯t divorce you.¡±


    Willis hooked his lips, smiled, and a trace of charm filled his brows and eyes, ¡°Not divorcing is also good.¡±


    Helena was stunned.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Only then did she realize she had fallen into his trap.


    She took a deep breath and said, ¡°We¡¯re both adults. Let¡¯s part on good terms. Entanglement is not your style.¡±


    Willis looked indifferent, ¡°I¡¯m not entangling you. I just want topensate you as much as I can.¡±


    But Helena felt it was more like a burden.


    When Ryan gave her ten billion just now, he already showed signs of hostility.


    Willis¡¯s real estate, savings, stocks, and more, represented a huge fortune.

 Chapter 129：Reluctant to part（2）

    If she insisted on owning them, it would only bring disaster upon her.


    Really, it was a matter of life and death.


    Helena reached out, gently touched his chiseled jaw, and coaxed, ¡°Be obedient, don¡¯t be like this. I won¡¯t take your property. Your father has already given me, which is enough.¡±


    Willis held her hand and brought it to his lips, giving it a kiss.


    And another.


    That night, Willis didn¡¯t leave. He stayed by Helena¡¯s side.


    At first, they each slept in separate beds.


    But in thetter half of the night, Willis moved to Helena¡¯s bed.


    Because she had another nightmare.


    Whenever she had nightmares before, she would painfully cry out for ¡°Jay.¡±


    Later, on one asion, she asionally shouted ¡°Willis,¡± and that night he was so happy that he didn¡¯t sleep well the entire night.


    Since she got pregnant, she started having sweet dreams, oftenughing out loud in her dreams.


    That was also the happiest time for him.


    But now, in her dreams, she was calling out for the ¡°child.¡±


    Her delicate eyebrows were deeply furrowed, and her expression looked very painful. She pressed her hands against her lower abdomen, curled up into a ball.


    Lost in thought during the day, haunted by dreams at night.


    Even though she seemed calm on the surface and didn¡¯t say anything, it was certain that she was very sad.


    Willis gently pulled her into his arms, his lips pressed deeply against her forehead, patting andforting her.


    He had done this for three years, and he had be quite skilled at it.


    Before long, he managed to calm her down.


    Her breathing gradually became steady as she fell into a deep sleep in his arms.


    However, Willis couldn¡¯t sleep all night.


    He wanted to selfishly keep her by his side, but she had already made up her mind to leave.


    moring and pestering would only make her feel annoyed.


    It might even push her further away.


    But letting go like this, he couldn¡¯t ept it. He was unwilling, very unwilling.


    He lowered his gaze, staring at the woman in his arms, silently watching her throughout the night.


    As if wanting to imprint her deeply in his heart.


    Engrave her into his mind.


    As dawn approached, Willis got up from the bed. After washing up, he personally went out to buy breakfast.


    After breakfast, the assistant went to handle the discharge procedures.


    The bodyguard came in to help pack up their things.


    Willis found a wheelchair and asked Helena to sit in it.


    Helena smiled wryly, ¡°I can walk.¡±


    At that time, Tim collided with a truck driver.


    She sat in the safest back seat, wearing a seatbelt.


    Her stomach ached, and her arm and head were hit.


    Apart from the miscarriage, her injuries were not too severe.


    After so many days of rest, she had already recovered.


    She didn¡¯t need a wheelchair at all.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Willis said indifferently, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to use the wheelchair, then I¡¯ll carry you. You¡¯re still in the postpartum period, try to walk less.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t resist him and sat in the wheelchair.


    Willis took a beautiful woolen hat and put it on her head. He also found a scarf to wrap her up tightly, blocking any wind.


    Helena was a bit speechless.


    Clearly, it was the peak of summer.


    Yet he wrapped her up like a sticky rice dumpling.


    Was he afraid she would get heat rash?


    Willis¡¯s voice came from above, ¡°When I was a kid, I saw my mom bringing my sister back from the hospital, and she was wrapped up like this.¡±


    Helena helplesslyughed, ¡°Your memory is really good.¡±


    ¡°It depends on who it¡¯s for.¡± Willis reached down to the wheelchair, pushing her out.


    Zena followed behind, silently watching the two figures.


    As she watched, her eyes became moist.


    But thinking about the child Helena lost.


    She wiped away her tears again.

 Chapter 130：Divorce

    Arriving at the Civil Affairs Bureau, Helena received three copies of the divorce agreement. She picked up a pen, swiftly signed her name where required, and handed the pen to him, softly saying, ¡°Hurry up and sign.¡±


    Willis stared at her intently, suddenly grabbing her hand and heading towards the exit. Helena forcefully pulled her hand away, gazing at him with calm eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s part amicably, leaving each other a bit of dignity. Entanglement serves no purpose.¡±


    Her voice was calm but irresistible.


    For the first time, Willis realized that gentleness was also a form of strength. It was more difficult to refuse than shouting and yelling.


    He looked at her, his eyes gradually turning red, and in a low, hoarse voice, he asked, ¡°Are you really willing to leave me?¡±


    Suppressed emotions were on the verge of erupting.


    Helena¡¯s heart felt swollen, an ufortable sensation. She turned her head away, saying in a dull tone, ¡°Sign it, please sign it quickly.¡±


    She was almost begging him.


    Willis stared at her fair earlobe for a long time before speaking with a hint of gnashing teeth, ¡°Don¡¯t regret it.¡±


    Listening closely, his voice had a somewhat resentful tone.


    Helena, with a firm heart, replied, ¡°I won¡¯t regret it.¡±


    Willis went back, picked up the pen, and signed rapidly, somewhat fueled by stubbornness.


    After signing, the divorce certificate was printed within a minute.


    Holding the scalding divorce certificate, Willis asked a surprising question that stunned everyone, ¡°How do we go about the remarriage procedures?¡±


    The staff was taken aback, about to exin to him.


    Helena hurriedly grabbed his arm and pulled him outside.


    As soon as they stepped outside, Helena breathed a long sigh of relief.


    Willis watched her rxed expression, feeling a mix of emotions.


    Looking up at the cafe across the street, named ¡°Love at First Sight.¡±


    Willis checked his watch and said, ¡°It¡¯s still early; let¡¯s go in for coffee.¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The two entered the caf¨¦.


    Willis ordered a cappino for Helena and a ck coffee for himself.


    The coffee was served.


    Holding the cup, Helena said, ¡°In the future, drink less alcohol and smoke less. Take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°You too. Moon Vi, the suite, I¡¯ll leave it for you,¡± Willis suggested.


    Helena shook her head, ¡°No, I want to draw a clear line from the past and start anew.¡±


    Willis tightened his grip on the cup, ¡°Does that past include me?¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Willis felt his heart suffocating.


    A feeling of almost breathlessness.


    He took a deep breath and said, ¡°Do you remember three years ago when we first met here?¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°I remember.¡±


    Willis stared at her fair fingers, ¡°It was cold back then. You came to see me, and your hands were so red from the cold. I felt particrly distressed watching.¡±


    Helena lowered her eyshes.


    In her heart, she thought: At that time, you were in a wheelchair, looking so handsome, yet your eyes were so mncholic. I also felt distressed.


    But she didn¡¯t say it out loud, just quietly drank her coffee.


    Putting down the cup, she grabbed her bag, stood up, and calmly said, ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Willis hadn¡¯t touched his coffee at all.


    He also stood up, ¡°I¡¯ll walk you out.¡±


    The two walked out, one after the other, from the caf¨¦.


    Helena said, ¡°My mom drove over. I¡¯ll go back with her.¡±


    Willis hesitated, ¡°I¡¯ll apany you to your mom¡¯s car.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Helena led the way, stopping in front of a ck Land Rover.


    She said softly, ¡°I¡¯m here. You can go back now.¡±


    Willis looked at therge and masculine Land Rover, feeling puzzled. ¡°Do you like this kind of car?¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°My mom bought it. She likes it, saying she wants to be a woman as fierce as a tiger.¡±


    It was initially a humorous point, but Willis couldn¡¯tugh.


    He asked, ¡°What car do you like? I¡¯ll have someone arrange it for you.¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Helena replied.


    Willis took out his phone, and his fingers moved across the screen.


    Soon, Helena received a transfer notification. Looking at the amount, it was quite substantial.


    Willis said, ¡°Buy one you like.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t want to go back and forth with him, just thanked him.


    As she reached for the car door handle, Willis suddenly hugged her.


    Lowering his head, he pressed his lips against her forehead, holding her head and maintaining contact for a long time.


    Their breaths were close, and their hearts were beating rapidly.


    Helena¡¯s eyes glistened with tears, feeling a pang of pain and guilt.


    The hug was tight, through their clothes, she could hear that his heart was beating heavily, painfully.


    It felt like a long time had passed, yet it also seemed like a short while.


    Willis let her go, brushing her hair to the side, and asked softly, ¡°Did you ever love me?¡±


    Helena was momentarily stunned.


    After a while, her eyes turned red.


    She smiled with regret, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Her nose was a bit runny, and tears welled up in her eyes.


    Before the tears could fall, she quickly turned around, opened the car door, and got in.


    Zena started the car, turned the steering wheel, adjusting the vehicle.


    The car reluctantly moved forward.


    Helena leaned on the car window, looking at Willis through the ss, longing and reluctant.


    Watching his handsome face gradually blur, a dull pain lingered in her heart.


    Sometimes, pain wasn¡¯t sharp; it was regretful.


    Only when his figure disappearedpletely, bing invisible, did Helena leave the window.


    Her eyes were already blurred with tears.

 Chapter 131：She is My Girlfriend (1)

    A few dayster.


    The TV program ¡°Everyday Appraisal,¡± jointly organized by the television station and Sam Auction House,menced filming.


    Helena was the youngest among the appraisal experts, but with her nationally certified restoration expert credentials and proficient restoration skills and experience, her participation in the show was well-deserved.


    First came the preliminary selection.


    Enthusiasts from all over brought their family treasures to Sam Auction House for the experts to appraise.


    Helena¡¯s eyes were opened wide through this process.


    It¡¯s worth mentioning that there were indeed talented individuals among themon folk. Many of the seemingly ancient antiques were actually modern crafts, cleverly crafted to look aged and presented as genuine antiques.


    Although these items were easily identified as fake, they added a touch of amusement to the TV show.


    After the preliminary rounds, the actual appraisal activities began.


    As per the program¡¯s requirements, Helena had to undergo makeup and change into the clothes provided by the production team before going on stage.


    Sitting in the dressing room, after the makeup artist finished applying foundation on Helena, she began working on Helena¡¯s eye makeup.


    The makeup artist, holding a makeup brush, said, ¡°Helena, you are too young and beautiful. Compared to the male experts, your appearance may not have much persuasive power. Let me make your makeup look a bit more mature, okay?¡±


    It was almost like pointing at Helena¡¯s nose and calling her a flower vase.


    Helena guessed the intention behind the words and smiled gently. ¡°No need, just a bit of light makeup is fine. In our field, it¡¯s about intelligence, not appearance.¡±


    So, the makeup artist applied ayer of mascara and a light coat of lipstick.


    Helena then went on stage.


    She usually wore very simple clothes.


    Today, to match the program, she wore a gem-red, sleeveless chiffon dress, revealing delicate corbones and two arms as tender as lotus roots.


    Her skin was naturally fair, and under the gem-red dress, it radiated a bright glow.


    Her features were exquisite and radiant, a perfect blend of purity and elegance.


    With a petite face and excellent bone structure, she stood out like a red flower among the group of experts in their sixties.


    The male videographer couldn¡¯t help but capture more shots of her.


    The lighting technician couldn¡¯t resist directing the light towards her.


    Initially, everyone thought Helena was just a vase brought in to boost ratings.


    However, after several rounds of appraisal, Helena wasposed and performed exceptionally well, delivering professional exnationsparable to the experienced experts present.


    Both the live audience and the production staff couldn¡¯t help but change their opinion of her.


    Thest item presented was an ancient painting.


    All the experts, armed with magnifying sses, carefully examined the painting-observing the brushwork, scrutinizing details, inspecting seals, and assessing the silk canvas.


    After the inspection, everyone unanimously agreed that the painting was authentic.


    However, the painting was currently housed in a museum in China. How did it end up in the hands of this foreign collector?


    Could it be stolen?


    If so, it would be a serious matter, a criminal offense.


    Just as the experts were about to ask the production team to call the museum for confirmation, Helena spoke up, ¡°This painting is not authentic.¡±


    Oscar, an old acquaintance of Helena, was also present.


    Unable to contain his curiosity, he asked, ¡°Helena, why do you say that? This painting seems authentic based on the brushwork and details.¡±


    Helena¡¯s cheeks blushed slightly. ¡°I copied this painting when I was fifteen, and it waster purchased by a client of my grandfather. At that time, I didn¡¯t stamp it, and I didn¡¯t make it look old. As for how it ended up with this foreign friend, I have no idea.¡±


    The audience erupted in a chorus of gasps!


    Surprised that this seemingly young girl had managed to replicate a painting at the age of fifteen, reaching the level of being indistinguishable from the original!


    All the old experts present werepletely astonished!


    Astonished means surprised.


    The foreign collector, named Hanson, exined that he obtained the painting from an underground auction abroad. Coincidentally, he was on a business trip to Kyoto and brought it for authentication.


    Unexpectedly, he encountered the original artist.


    Originally considered a valuable collectible, Helena¡¯s revtion turned it into an interesting story.


    After the program was edited, it went on air.


    Due to this small incident, the viewership of this antique appraisal show reached its highest peak.


    The entire antiquemunity remembered this young girl!


    At the age of fifteen, she wlessly copied the ¡°Ruihe Tu¡± by Emperor Huizong of Song Dynasty, making it nearly impossible to distinguish between the original and the replica!Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    While others were amazed, Helena took it in stride.


    Trained by her grandfather, she had been imitating various ancient masterpieces since childhood. Painting a replica at the age of fifteen that could deceive even the experts was nothing extraordinary to her.


    There was no need for undue astonishment.


    After the program ended, Helena headed back to the dressing room to change.


    On her way, she was stopped by Jay.

 Chapter 132：She is My Girlfriend (2)

    He handed her a bottle of water, lowered his gaze, and with eyes as tender as water, Jay praised, ¡°You did very well today. It¡¯s your first time on camera, and you didn¡¯t show any signs of stage fright.¡±


    Helena took the water, smiled, and replied, ¡°I¡¯ve been taken to museums by my grandfather since I was very young. I¡¯ve seen all kinds of important figures, so there¡¯s nothing to be nervous about.¡±


    Jay lightly curved his lips. ¡°Impressive.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too kind,¡± Helena responded with a smile.


    ¡°Why did you get a divorce?¡± Jay asked in a low voice.


    This was what he wanted to know.


    A frozen smile appeared on Helena¡¯s face.


    The originally bright eyes dimmed as if they lost their luster in an instant.


    Seeing her like this, Jay felt extreme heartache and wanted to reach out to wipe away the sadness in her eyes.


    He apologized, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry; I shouldn¡¯t have asked.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t like to confide her private matters to others. She wasn¡¯t even willing to share with her mother unless she was pressed to do so.


    However, she inexplicably felt like opening up to Jay.


    She smiled faintly and whispered, ¡°Many reasons. His father despised my family background, thinking I wasn¡¯t worthy of Willis. After losing the child, Tim¡¯s death, constant scheming, revenge back and forth-I got tired, fed up, and annoyed.¡±


    She clearly hadn¡¯t shed a tear, not a single drop.


    On the contrary, there was a shallow smile at the corner of her lips.


    But Jay seemed to see her heart bleeding.


    He reached out, wanting to hug her.


    He wanted to tell her: Come with me; I¡¯ll take you to a ce without scheming, without revenge. I¡¯ll protect you well and prevent anyone from hurting you.


    His hand was halfway out when he reluctantly pulled it back.


    Taking advantage of a crisis wasn¡¯t his style.


    Truly loving someone wasn¡¯t about selfishly possessing them.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    During the silent moment between them, a low and pleasant male voice came from behind, ¡°Helena.¡±


    Helena turned her head.


    She saw a tall and handsome man in a ck shirt tucked into trousers, outlining a strong and vigorous waist.


    Exquisite and noble facial features exudes charm, making him extraordinarily eye-catching.


    It was Willis.


    He held a paper-wrapped package in one hand and a bouquet of red roses in the other. Dressed in a dark suit jacket, he stood at a distance, watching them with an indeterminate expression.


    Helena was stunned. ¡°How did youe here?¡±


    Willis took long strides, elegantly approaching her.


    He took the water from her hand, handed her a cup of mango sago drink, and ced the roses into her hands, saying emotionlessly, ¡°I came to visit.¡±


    Helena sighed, ¡°I¡¯m just recording a TV show, and I haven¡¯t even left the city. Why bother visiting?¡±


    Willis nced at Jay and said to Helena, ¡°Who said visiting is only allowed when you leave the city?¡±


    He reached out to drape an arm over Helena¡¯s bare shoulder. ¡°Why are you dressed so scantily?¡±


    The warmth in his palm was scorching.


    The familiar male hormones overwhelmed everything.


    Helena¡¯s heart thumped rapidly, and her expression seemed a bit trance-like.


    She realized she still loved him, perhaps even more than before.


    She loved him to the point of heartache.


    After a moment, she finally spoke, ¡°It¡¯s a requirement from the program. Besides, it¡¯s summer, and it¡¯s normal to wear sleeveless dresses.¡±


    Willis, however, found it abnormal. She was revealing too much-exposing her corbone and dazzling arms to so many people.


    He took off his suit jacket and draped it over her. Addressing Jay, he said, ¡°Thank you,  for taking care of my wife.¡±


    Helena corrected him in a low voice, ¡°We are divorced.¡±


    Willis¡¯ expression froze for a moment before he changed his words, ¡°Thank you, for taking care of my girlfriend. It won¡¯t be long before we get remarried.¡±


    Jay¡¯s fists clenched slowly.


    He didn¡¯t say anything, just gave Helena a deep look and turned away.


    His posture was upright, but his expression was deste.


    Willis squinted slightly, watching his retreating figure, holding Helena tightly in his arms, gripping her arm to the point of pain.

 Chapter 133：We will remarry（1）

    Helena moved away from Willis¡¯s embrace and said, ¡°I need to go to the dressing room to change.¡±


    Willis lowered his gaze, looking at her with gentle eyes. ¡°Go ahead, I¡¯ll wait for you.¡±


    ¡°No need to wait for me. You go ahead and do your own thing. I drove here myself,¡± Helena replied.


    Willis pursed his lips slightly but didn¡¯t say anything.


    Helena handed him the flowers and the bubble tea, also taking off the suit jacket and draping it over his arm.


    Wearing a suit in the heat of summer was really ufortable.


    Sleeveless dresses weremon, just revealing a bit of the arms and corbone. She didn¡¯t understand why he was being so particr about it.


    Entering the dressing room, Helena pushed the door open and walked in.


    The makeup artist greeted her and started fixing her hairstyle.


    Helena took off one earring and ced it on the dressing table.


    The makeup artist, looking at her reflection in the mirror, praised, ¡°Helena, you are so beautiful. With a petite face and delicate features, it¡¯s a pity you¡¯re not an actress.¡±


    Taking off the other earring, Helena smiled lightly, ¡°Actresses need acting skills and versatility. I¡¯m not good at those things. I¡¯d rather stick to my antiques.¡±


    The makeup artist took the earrings from her hand. ¡°True, actresses have a short career span. Your line of work gets more prestigious with age, but the entry barrier is high, and it¡¯s quite demanding.¡±


    ¡°Yes, one minute on stage, ten years off stage.¡±


    After entering the fitting room and changing back into her own clothes, Helena left the dressing room.


    Willis was still standing in the same spot, standing by the window.


    Dressed sharply, he looked like an elite, very prestigious. At this moment, he held flowers in one hand and bubble tea in the other.


    This down-to-earth appearance,pared to his usual high and mighty demeanor, felt a bit out of ce.


    Helena was slightly surprised. ¡°You haven¡¯t left yet?¡±


    Willis curved his lips, looking at her with a hint of affection. ¡°I came to pick up my girlfriend. Why leave so soon?¡±


    The term ¡°girlfriend¡± sounded fresh to her.


    She had hastily married him at the age of twenty and directly became his wife, never experiencing being a girlfriend.


    Women were emotional creatures.


    Suddenly, she felt a sense of being in a rtionship.


    She sighed faintly. ¡°You are quite a character. I can¡¯t figure you out.¡±


    Willisughed. ¡°Yale told me that a good woman fears a persistent man. This is my first time pursuing someone, and I¡¯m doing it seriously. Don¡¯t discourage me.¡±


    Helena sighed inwardly.


    Their divorce was probably unique in the world.


    In the brief moment of hesitation, Willis took her hand and pressed her into the car.


    Her car was being driven by the bodyguard.


    The car interior was sealed.


    The fragrance emanating from Helena¡¯s body wafted into Willis¡¯s nose in waves.


    Just smelling her faint fragrance, he was already deeply moved.


    Unable to resist, he held her right hand, held it in his palm, and looked down at it with lingering affection.


    It was a wonderful hand.


    Fair, slender, with delicately manicured nails, and agile and dexterous fingers.


    He couldn¡¯t help but recall that night when he was drugged, and she used this hand to do something wonderful.


    Thinking about the scorching and intoxicating feeling, Willis¡¯s throat heated up, and he moved slightly up and down.


    His heart was warm, and his body temperature rose.


    It seemed that a person couldn¡¯t abstain for too long.


    Abstaining for a long time made even one hand feel extremely charming.


    He held her hand and brought it to his lips, gently kissing it. He lightly bit the flesh on the back of her hand, wanting to experience that night again.


    But he was worried about scaring her away.


    They had just started dating, and he needed to take it step by step. Being too hasty might drive her away.


    Helena nced at Willis.


    Seeing his dark and deep eyes, slightly moist and filled with desire, it was an expression that longed for intimacy.


    His handsome appearance made this look especially seductive.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    She felt a slight warmth in her heart.


    Raising her hand, she touched his jaw, gently withdrew her hand, and said softly, ¡°We are divorced.¡±


    Five words were like a bucket of cold water poured over him.


    The desire that Willis had just ignited was extinguished.


    He smiled, touched her hair, and said, ¡°It¡¯s okay; we will remarry.¡±

 Chapter 134：We will remarry（2）

    It seems like saying these words repeatedly will make the wishe true.


    Helena felt a faint, thread-like pain in her heart, as if bitten by ants. She wanted to hug him but restrained herself.


    Both were adults, and divorce was not a child¡¯s y. The lingering connections were too ufortable.


    Forty minutester, the car arrived at the Capital Hotel.


    They took the elevator and arrived at the Autumn Moon Pavilion.


    When they reached the door, Willis¡¯s phone suddenly rang.


    ncing at the screen, he said to Helena, ¡°You go in first; I¡¯ll take this call. It¡¯s work-rted.¡±


    Helena nodded and pushed open the door.


    To her surprise, the room was filled with people.


    Sitting around arge round table were Ryan, Kelly Chow, Jane Chow, Leon Chow, and a few assistants.


    Kelly owned a private museum, and Jane and Leon were his children. Jane was Leon¡¯s twin sister, born just a few minutes earlier.


    Helena thought it would be just a dinner with Willis, but there were unexpectedly so many people.


    The people in the room exchanged nces, and no one expected her toe.


    Leon, being lively, stood up when he saw her, greeted her warmly, ¡°Helena, why are you here?¡±


    Leon seemed excited and introduced her to Kelly, ¡°Dad, this is the granddaughter of Ken I mentioned to you before, Helena.¡±


    Ryan tightened his grip on the ss bottle in his left hand.


    Hearing this, Kelly¡¯s pale eyes shed a hint of light as he looked at Helena. ¡°Youngdy, I heard you specialize in restoring ancient paintings. Are you also skilled at imitating them?¡±Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena smiled gently, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Kelly patted the seat beside him, ¡°Come, youngdy, sit here. Uncle has something to discuss with you.¡±


    Helena walked over and sat down beside him.


    Kelly picked up the teapot and poured tea for her, saying, ¡°Do you know M. H¡¯s ¡®the Mount. s¡¯?¡±


    Helena reached for the teapot, ¡°Let me pour it myself, Uncle. I know that painting.¡±


    During the polite exchange, the tea was poured.


    Putting down the teapot, Kelly asked with a smiling face, ¡°Can you imitate it exactly?¡±


    Helena thought for a moment and replied, ¡°Yes. But that painting is a treasure stored in the Land Museum. To imitate it, I need to see it in person. The details can¡¯t be observed from online images.¡±


    ¡°Alright, as long as you can imitate it exactly, I¡¯ll offer you this amount.¡± Kelly raised one finger, ¡°Ten million.¡±


    To be honest, the price was quite high.


    When Helena was in her teens, she had imitated a few ancient paintings, signed her grandfather¡¯s name, and auctioned them. The highest bid was only five hundred thousand.


    But M. H¡¯s artistic technique was unique, and the painting needed to have that majestic atmosphere.


    This ten million was not an easy sum to earn.


    Thinking that Helena might find the price low, Kelly added, ¡°As long as you can paint it exactly, I¡¯ll add another five million. The condition is that it must be indistinguishable, making it impossible for anyone to tell the difference. If the painting is not convincing, I can only pay you a modest fee for your trouble.¡±


    In public, Kelly owned a private museum, but in reality, he secretly sold cultural relics. In this line of work, selling cultural relics was the key to getting rich.


    By offering Helena fifteen million, Kelly would still earn five million.


    Thinking about this, Kelly thought she might find the price low and added, ¡°Only if you can paint it exactly. Helena, are you interested?¡±


    Helena agreed, ¡°I can do it, Kelly.¡±

 Chapter 135: What a Chaos (1)

    At this moment, there was a knocking sound from outside.


    Approaching from a distance.


    Simr to the sound of wood knocking on the floor.


    Helena didn¡¯t pay much attention, turning around to leave.


    It was Susan.


    They hadn¡¯t seen each other for some time.


    She had lost quite a bit of weight, and her cheeks were sunken.


    Helena couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with her, lifting her foot to leave.


    Susan sneered, taunting, ¡°Since you¡¯re divorced, don¡¯te to these high-end ces for meals. At this rate, the over 100 million separation fee that Willis gave you will be spent in no time.¡±


    Helena stopped, turned to look at Susan, gave her a cold nce, and retorted, ¡°Except for having a good father, you are a useless person. What qualifications do you have to mock me? I can earn over ten million by just painting a picture. As for divorcing and getting over ten billion, when will someone like you, a parasite, look down on me?¡±


    Without hesitation, she grabbed Susan¡¯s neck and pushed her towards the sink.


    cing her head into the basin, Helena turned on the cold water and started washing her head, saying, ¡°Wake up! You waste!¡±


    Susan struggled, shouting, ¡°Let me go! Let me go!¡±


    Helena kept her head under the cold water for a full ten minutes before letting go.


    Susan was left dizzy and disoriented from the cold water.


    Her hair was wet, her face was wet, and her clothes were wet.


    She looked like a drowned rat.


    Wanting to retaliate, Susan couldn¡¯t match Helena¡¯s strength.


    She was frightened after being beaten and dared not confront Helena directly, cowering and covering her face, crying.


    Helena nced at her lightly, walked to the sink, squeezed some hand soap, and began washing her hands, saying, ¡°I forgot to tell you, your beloved Ryan is now trying to push Jane onto Willis. If you don¡¯t believe it, go and see for yourself.¡±


    Hearing this, Susan¡¯s anger surged to the top of her head.


    Feeling betrayed by Ryan!


    He had previously imed her to be his daughter-inw!


    Now, in the blink of an eye, he changed his tune!


    Susan couldn¡¯t ept this massive blow!


    She tossed her wet hair onto her forehead, and walked quickly toward Autumn Moon Pavilion.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Faster than an average person.


    Without knocking, she pushed the door open.


    Taking a quick nce, she saw Jane sitting right next to Ryan.


    Ryan was still affectionately helping her with the dishes!


    Jane looked surprised and grateful, constantly saying, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Susan¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot in an instant!


    She limped over, picked up the ss in front of Jane, and poured it on her face, angrily saying, ¡°Where did this trashe from? How dare you try to snatch Willis away from me!¡±


    Jane, who had always been assertive, had never been sshed with alcohol before.


    She stood up, wiped her face, picked up the soup bowl from the table, and poured it over Susan¡¯s head!

 Chapter 136: What a Chaos (2)

    That was quite a bowl of chicken soup.


    Even if only 60% of it was hot, it still scalded Susan¡¯s delicate face, making it spicy and red.


    ck chicken ws hung on the neckline of her expensive silk blouse.


    Her meticulously done hair was now covered in green onions,tro, ginseng, wolfberries, and ck chicken wings.


    Her mascara and eyeshadow were melted by the chicken soup, turning into a ckened panda-eyed look.


    The lipstick was also melted, transforming her once cherry-like lips into a bloodstained mouth.


    Her once beautiful appearance was ruined by a bowl of chicken soup.


    She looked extremely embarrassed!


    Leon couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter.


    Thisughter made Susan even more furious.


    A surge of anger rushed to her head.


    She was so angry that her eyes turned red.


    When a person is angry, their IQ bes negative, but their energy and motivation skyrocket.


    She grabbed the chicken ws on her neckline.


    With a fierce shake of her head, she threw off a head full of mixed ingredients.


    She even forgot to cry. She grabbed the cane beside her and started hitting Jane, saying, ¡°You dare to pour chicken soup on me! I¡¯ll make you pay! If I don¡¯t take revenge today, my name is not Susan!¡±


    Jane was much calmer.


    She dodged backward twice in a row.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Thump!¡±


    Susan fell to the ground, holding her legs in pain.


    Tears welled up in her eyes.


    She looked at Ryan with teary eyes and choked, ¡± Look how cruel this woman is. You push such a cruel woman onto Willis?!¡±


    If this were any other time, her crying would be pitiful.


    But crying like this, instead of feeling sympathetic, people would find it amusing.


    Ryan had to hold back hisughter.


    He walked over, helped her up from the ground, and pretended tofort her seriously, ¡°Susan, I still think highly of you. It¡¯s just that uncle now thinks you and Bruce are more suitable, after all, both of you are like that.¡±


    Mentioning Bruce made Susan hate him to the core.


    She retorted, ¡°I don¡¯t like him. He¡¯s too scumbag!¡±


    Ryan picked up the cane from the ground and handed it to her. ¡°Susan, be sensible. There are many people here today. Let¡¯s discuss thister when we go back, okay?¡±


    Susan was disheartened.


    Ryan helped her remove thetro leaf that stuck to her hair, soothingly saying, ¡°Be obedient, go back for now.¡±


    Susan wasn¡¯t so easily dismissed.


    She slowly took out her phone from her pocket, called Owen, and cried, ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve been bullied. I¡¯m at Autumn Moon Pavilion. Come over with Mom right away.¡±


    Owen was a fanatic about his daughter.


    Hearing that his beloved daughter was bullied, he was instantly furious.


    He urgently asked, ¡°Who bullied you?¡±


    Susan surveyed the people in the room and started naming names, ¡°Helena, Jane, and Uncle Gu.¡±


    As soon as Ryan was implicated, Owen became even more furious. ¡°I¡¯ll be right there. You wait!¡±


    ¡°Okay, Dad.¡± Susan hung up the phone.


    Ryan was a bit annoyed. ¡°Susan, you¡¯ve always been sensible. What happened today? How did I bully you? I¡¯ve exined the reasons clearly. Why can¡¯t you understand?¡±

 Chapter 137: What a Chaos (3)

    Susan pouted and remained silent.


    Helena nced at Willis, as if saying, ¡°You¡¯re quite something.¡±


    Willis replied with a look, indicating, ¡°Even if I am, it¡¯s all yours.¡±


    He held her hand in his, gently massaging it. His face, however, maintained a dignified appearance, revealing nothing about the movements under the table.


    Not long after, Owen and Grace stormed into the room with great momentum.


    Upon entering and seeing Susan¡¯s disheveled state, the couple¡¯s anger red up.


    Owen, already half-drunk, lost control of his temper when angered. Stumbling a few steps, he rushed to Ryan and, without a second thought, pped him!


    ¡°Smack!¡±


    Ryan was struck, and stars appeared before his eyes. Never in his long life had he been pped, let alone in front of everyone. The pain was secondary; the main issue was his pride!


    With a darkened face, Ryan protested, ¡°why do you hit someone without asking for the facts?¡±


    Owen, in a fit of anger, retorted, ¡°Your two sons bullied my precious daughter, and now even you¡¯re bullying her. None of you is any good!¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Grace, using tissues, wiped away the chicken soup and tears from Susan¡¯s face, asking with concern, ¡°Susan, tell Mom, how did they bully you?¡±


    Susan turned her head to look at Helena, about to speak.


    Willis gave her a cold nce.


    Susan shivered.


    Her gaze shifted to Jane.


    Extending her hand, Susan pointed at Jane, who was wearing a sleek ck professional suit, with short red hair and beautiful features. ¡°It¡¯s her, she poured chicken soup on me and used a cane to hit my leg. Oh, my leg hurts so much.¡±


    Grace squinted, ring at Jane. ¡°Why would you bully our Susan?¡±


    Jane was never one to avoid trouble.


    Crossing her arms, she sneered, ¡± please don¡¯t falsely use others. Everyone¡¯s eyes are clear. You were the one who poured wine on me and then used a cane to attack me. Everything I did was in self-defense. Even if the policee, I¡¯m in the right.¡±


    Seeing her articte defense, Grace asked Susan, ¡°Is that true?¡±


    Susan, feeling wronged, replied, ¡°Mom, Ryan is introducing her to Willis. How can I swallow this humiliation?¡±


    Grace immediately became furious.


    She red at Ryan. ¡°You¡¯ve acted unscrupulously in this matter. How could you treat Susan like this?¡±


    Even though Ryan had exined the reasons a hundred times, the Varley family just wouldn¡¯t listen.


    He was toozy to repeat himself.


    ¡°Cough, cough!¡±


    Unable to sit still any longer, Kelly coughed a few times and stood up.


    With a forcedugh, he said, ¡°Today¡¯s incident is just a misunderstanding. Let¡¯s not argue or make a scene. We¡¯re all in the same circle, and we shouldn¡¯t damage our rtionships over such a trivial matter.¡±


    He waved at Jane. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Jane picked up her bag, smiled at Ryan, and said, ¡°Thank you, for your hospitality. Goodbye.¡±


    Ryan smirked. ¡°Goodbye.¡±


    Jane then turned to Willis, smiling dignifiedly but with a hint of charm. ¡°Mr. Santana, until we meet again.¡±


    Willis remained expressionless, giving a faint acknowledgment.


    Jane smiled again at Helena. ¡°Helena, let¡¯s have tea together when you¡¯re free.¡±


    Helena replied with a smile, ¡°I don¡¯t drink tea, thank you.¡±


    Jane¡¯s eyes had a hint of mischief as she lifted the corner of her left lip, tucked her bag under her arm, and walked toward the door.


    Just as she took a couple of steps, there was a loud ¡°ng¡±!


    Jane¡¯s body suddenly lurched forward!


    She raised her hand to support her shoulder, her expression contorted in pain.

 Chapter 138: Unwilling to Part (1)

    Jane¡¯s back was hit by a teacup.


    It hurts to the core.


    The teacup crashed to the floor, making a crisp shattering sound.


    She turned around and saw Susan with a malicious smile on her face.


    Jane was furious.


    Unexpectedly, this woman was relentless; if she couldn¡¯t win in a fair fight, she resorted to sneak attacks from behind.


    She nced around and saw several electric kettles ced near the cab next to the door.


    She took a few steps forward, bent down, grabbed one of them, and strode toward Susan.


    The water in the electric kettle was boiling hot!


    It looked like a bloody incident was about to happen!


    The nearby waiter, quick-eyed and quick-handed, grabbed her wrist and took the electric kettle from her hand.


    The waiter advised, ¡°Madam, please calm down. This contains hot water, and it could lead to a serious incident.¡±


    Jane, Willis, and Susan were of simr age, but Jane was a bit older than Susan and more mature.


    With the waiter¡¯s intervention, reason returned to her.


    She gave Susan a cold look, snorted, opened the door, and walked out.


    Kelly wiped a cold sweat and followed her with her bag.


    He was also somewhat afraid of this daughter of his.


    Leon waved to Willis, ¡°Goodbye, Willis!¡±


    Then, with a swagger, he followed his father.


    As soon as they left the restaurant, Leon snapped his fingers excitedly, saying, ¡°This meal wasn¡¯t in vain today. I witnessed a good show; it¡¯s much more interesting than watching a movie.¡±


    Jane red at him, ¡°You brat, I was being bullied, and you didn¡¯t help me.¡±


    Leon grinned, ¡°You, a main character who can take on three opponents by yourself, if I help you, what if someone gets killed?¡±


    Jane, wearing high heels, cked as she walked,ining as she went, ¡°Willis¡¯s ex-wife is quite ssy. This Susan, why does she seem like a wild dog?¡±


    Leon didn¡¯t respond and changed the topic, ¡°Ryan wants to match you with Willis. Just consider it casually; don¡¯t take it seriously.¡±


    Jane raised her hand and touched her nose, ¡°If I take it seriously, what should I do?¡±


    Leon teased her, ¡°Just a cannon fodder role, why would you treat yourself as the heroine? Tsk tsk.¡±


    Jane lightly punched his chest, proudly saying, ¡°I¡¯ve been the heroine since I was a child!¡±


    Leon smirked, ¡°Such narcissism.¡±


    While talking, the three of them arrived at the elevator.


    Leon pressed the elevator button.


    Kelly turned to Jane and said, ¡°Jane, just forget about this. Willis is not only an ex-husband but also an ex-girlfriend¡¯s. It¡¯s messy; don¡¯t get involved.¡±


    Jane crossed her arms, raised one corner of her lips, andughed, ¡°I¡¯ve always loved challenges since I was a child. The moreplicated, the more interesting. What¡¯s easily obtained is not fun.¡±


    Leon nced at her, ¡°Really twisted.¡±


    Jane reached to pinch his mouth, ¡°Shut up, brat!¡±


    Inside the private room.


    Owen was half-drunk, arguing endlessly with Ryan.


    Willis squeezed Helena¡¯s hand, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Themotion had passed, and Helena had no interest in watching anymore. She stood up and left with Willis.


    Susan, watching the two leave together, became anxious.


    She wanted to chase after them but found her legs uncooperative.


    She grumbled to Grace with an aggrieved look, ¡°Why are they so good even after divorce?¡±


    Grace snorted, ¡°Who knows? If you want, you can consider Bruce.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want that scumbag! I heard he often goes to Tang Pce to find women, and every time he finds two, it¡¯s disgusting!¡±


    Leaving the Hotel.


    Willis and Helena got into a car.


    Willis held her hand, fingers entwined, intimately connected.


    Helena couldn¡¯t pull her hand away.


    ¡°Come back to Moon Vi with me,¡± he whispered, his hand moving slowly up her leg.


    Reaching her slender waist, he sensually pinched it.


    His touch felt like an electric current.


    Wherever his hand went, sparks flew.


    Helena¡¯s skin trembled slightly, and her heart fluttered.


    She held down his restless hand and reminded him, ¡°We¡¯re divorced.¡±Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I know. We¡¯re now boyfriend and girlfriend, and boyfriends and girlfriends can also have intimate moments,¡± Willis said, lifting her into his arms.


    His fingers gently caressed her delicate face.


    He lowered his head to kiss her smooth forehead.


    There were soft hairs at her temple, like a young girl, adding a bit of charm to her fair and delicate face.


    That touch of charm made him especially fond of her.

 Chapter 139: Unwilling to Part (2)

    He kissed along her forehead to the temple, then moved down to her nose, and shifted to her ear, biting her earlobe and delicately kissing.


    It was somewhat dominant yet gentle.


    Helena¡¯s mind went nk, she tilted her head to avoid, but he held her in ce.


    Being kissed and touched by him, she btedly realized that men were creatures that could blossom with just a little sunshine.


    Just over an hour ago, he had said he wanted to pursue her.


    She hadn¡¯t agreed yet.


    And now he was touching her, kissing her, and even suggesting spending the night together.


    She raised her hand to his lips, gently pushed him away, and asked, ¡°Were you this impatient when pursuing Susan before?¡±


    Willis¡¯s eyes noticeably flickered, ¡°Why bother with her? It¡¯s a mood killer.¡±


    Helena spoke seriously, ¡°Tell me the truth.¡±


    ¡°I never pursued her; it was the constant matchmaking by our families. You are the first one I actively pursued. I¡¯m not very good at pursuing; please bear with me.¡±


    Helena thought, ¡°You¡¯re already good at it. Why pretend to be modest?¡±


    At this moment, the driver opened the car door, got in, and drove the car out of the hotel, onto the main road.


    He asked, ¡°Mr. Santana, where would you like to go?¡±


    Willis said, ¡°Moon Vi.¡±


    Helena said, ¡°Take me to my mom¡¯s house.¡±


    Willis swept her stray hair behind her ear, his voice deep and pleasant, with a hint of softness, ¡°How abouting home with me?¡±


    It sounded a bit coquettish.


    As they say, a good woman fears a persistent man.


    Indeed.


    Helena would have to make a great effort to resist his coaxing.


    She cleared her throat. Although her heart was soft, she maintained a cold and aloof demeanor, saying, ¡°I¡¯m not easy to pursue. When I was in college, many guys pursued me, but I ignored them all.¡±


    Willis was amused by her proud little appearance.


    Recalling the first time he saw her, beneath her beautiful exterior was a stubbornness. She was clearly smiling but seemed to keep everyone at a distance.


    Indeed, she was not an easy target.


    ¡°I can see that,¡± he chuckled lightly, ¡°I¡¯m lucky to have married you directly.¡±


    Half an hourter.


    The car arrived outside the gate of Zena¡¯s residentialmunity.


    Helena said, ¡°I¡¯ll prepare the paperwork tomorrow. I¡¯m going to the Treasure Ind Museum to paint that painting. It may take half a month or even longer toe back.¡±


    Naturally, Willis was reluctant to part with her.


    But he was also worried about restraining her and making her unhappy.


    So, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll send more bodyguards to protect you.¡±


    After experiencing several dangerous incidents before, Helena didn¡¯t refuse and said thanks, requesting, ¡°Please also send more bodyguards to protect my mom?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve always had people secretly protecting her. Your mother is my own mother.¡±


    Helena felt moved.


    ¡°Goodbye,¡± she got out of the car.


    Willis picked up the roses in the car, took a long stride, and caught up.


    Helena turned to look at him, ¡°No need to apany me.¡±


    ¡°Today is the first day of pursuing a girlfriend. It¡¯s proper to send her home.¡± He raised the flowers in his hand, ¡°Rituals are important.¡±


    Helena thought, ¡°You even know it¡¯s the first day of pursuing. At that time, you wanted to take me home directly.¡±


    The two walked side by side.


    Therge moon hung in the sky like a silver te.


    The bright and clean moonlight elongated their shadows.


    Willis hoped this road would be longer, even longer.


    That way, he could keep walking with Helena.


    They arrived at the downstairs.


    Helena took the flowers from his hand and said, ¡°You can go back now.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Helena lifted her foot to leave.


    Suddenly, Willis grabbed her waist.


    He pulled her into the shadow of the trees, pinched her delicate chin, and his tongue opened her lips and teeth, first gently teasing and then bing intense and passionate.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena¡¯s heart surged.


    She still loved him, loved his kisses, loved his breath.


    Loved his persistence.


    How could one easily part with someone they deeply loved?


    Just as the two were passionately kissing and reluctant to let go, a female voice suddenly came, ¡°What are you two doing?¡±

 Chapter 140: Mysterious Force (1)

    It was Zena¡¯s voice.


    Helena hurriedly pushed Willis away, her eyes showing surprise.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    However, Willis remainedposed, his arm still around her slender waist, not letting go. He turned to look at Zena, lips gently smiling with elegance, ¡°Good evening, Zena.¡±


    Zena had just finished dancing in the square, covered in sweat.


    She nced at Willis, coldly saying, ¡°Since you¡¯re divorced, stop taking advantage of my daughter.¡±


    Although her words were stern, in her heart, she thought: Why does Willis look so handsome?


    Willis released Helena, but his hand still held hers.


    Smiling gracefully, he said, ¡°Zena, you¡¯ve misunderstood. I am currently dating Helena.¡±


    ¡°Pfft!¡± Zena burst intoughter.


    She wanted to say something but opened her mouth and didn¡¯t speak.


    Helena felt a bit embarrassed and told Willis, ¡°You can go back.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Although he said okay, Willis¡¯s steps didn¡¯t move. Since it was a rare meeting, he naturally didn¡¯t want to leave.


    Seeing the two reluctant to part ways, Zena stepped forward and grabbed Helena¡¯s arm, ¡°Let¡¯s go home; there are too many mosquitoes outside.¡±


    Helena¡¯s hand was pulled out of Willis¡¯s palm.


    Midway through, her fingertips were caught by him, lightly pinching and leaving behind an infinite reluctance.


    That pinch made Helena¡¯s heart melt.


    Back at home, Zena changed her shoes and copsed onto the sofa.


    Looking at Helena, she tutted a few times, ¡°I knew it; it¡¯s a pity you two got divorced. Seeing how sticky Willis is with you, why don¡¯t you just remarry?¡±


    Helena casually said, ¡°Ryan introduced a woman named Jane to Willis, a beautiful woman, ruthless and cunning.¡±


    Zena¡¯s anger surged.


    She almost exploded, ¡°This damn guy, is he never going to stop?!¡±


    Helena nodded, ¡°He¡¯s very stubborn, and his ss consciousness is deeply ingrained.¡±


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Zena couldn¡¯t help but curse, ¡°Three years ago, when Willis couldn¡¯t stand on his own, where was his ss consciousness?¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t want to repeat this old topic.


    She put her phone on the coffee table and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to take a shower.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    While Helena went into the bathroom, Zena picked up her phone, entered her birthday, and unlocked it.


    In the contact list, she found Ryan¡¯s number, walked to the balcony, and made the call.


    It rang three times.


    Ryan answered, quite arrogantly asking, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Zena took a deep breath and, using her diaphragm, loudly scolded, ¡°You old thing! Why does my daughter fall short of your son? You just have to separate them! If you¡¯re so good at separating, why don¡¯t you ascend to the heavens? If you don¡¯t like my daughter, I don¡¯t like your stinky son either! Just wait, tomorrow I¡¯ll have my daughter go on a blind date, find a man a hundred times better than your son! Make you regret! Make you cry! Shameless old thing!¡±


    After shouting, Zena hung up.


    Taking a long breath, she felt much better.


    Listening to the busy tone on the phone, Ryan angrily said, ¡°Nuts!¡±


    He threw the phone and looked at the ss bottle in his left hand.


    He tried to force it open, but it remained motionless.


    Maintaining this posture for too long was too painful.


    But asking Helena for mercy was impossible.


    Absolutely impossible in this lifetime!


    After obtaining the passport, Helena, with prepared painting materials, along with her maid and bodyguards, boarded the ne to Treasure Ind.


    Three hourster.

 Chapter 141: Mysterious Force (2)

    The group sessfully arrived at the Treasure Ind Airport.


    After getting off the ne, they took a taxi to the Treasure Ind Museum.


    Just as they got into the taxi, a tall figure followed them and got into the same taxi.


    The man had a handsome and rugged face, slightly dark skin, a crew cut, and bright ck eyes with long eyshes.


    It was Jay.


    Shortly after the car started, Jay¡¯s phone rang.


    After answering, a voice with a gentle yet firm tone came through the phone, ¡°I heard you flew to Treasure Ind?¡±


    Jay tugged at his lips, ¡°You really have a lot of informants around me.¡±


    ¡°Do you like her that much?¡±Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Jay made a low hum.


    ¡°She¡¯s a married woman, and she¡¯s from that family. If you persist like this,e back.¡±


    Jay fell silent for a moment, ¡°She got divorced.¡±


    The woman remained silent.


    After a moment, she said, ¡°Even so, it¡¯s not allowed. After all, she has been with someone from that family. Mom still hopes you stay away from people from that family, as far away as possible. It¡¯s best toe back.¡±


    Jay¡¯s eyebrows and eyes were firm, ¡°You promised me that you wouldn¡¯t interfere with my private affairs before I turn thirty. After thirty, everything will be up to you.¡±


    The woman sighed heavily, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen someone so infatuated as you.¡±


    She hung up the phone.


    Jay put down his phone, opened his wallet, and stared at a photo inside.


    The photo was a bit yellowed, showing signs of age.


    It featured a young boy and a young girl, both around ten years old.


    The boy had handsome features without losing a sense of strength, fair and slender.


    The girl had an oval-shaped face, fair skin, and a pair of fluffy, big eyes full of vitality. Her nose was straight, and she looked like an adorable elf.


    The two sat side by side under a pear tree, each ying a flute.


    White pear blossoms floated down gracefully around them.


    The boy turned his head to look at the girl, his bright eyes filled with affection.


    Jay¡¯s fingertips gently stroked the girl¡¯s small cheek in the photo, gazing at her with lingering love. As he looked and looked, a painful regret surged in his heart.


    Some people, once missed, never have a chance again.


    He closed his eyes deeply.


    Twenty minutester.


    Helena arrived at the Treasure Ind Museum.


    After buying tickets and presenting valid identification, she entered the museum.


    She headed straight for the museum¡¯s gship treasure, the painting ¡°Journey through Mountains and Rivers.¡±


    Standing in front of therge canvas, more than two meters long, Helena gazed for a long time.


    This painting was the museum¡¯s most valuable treasure.


    A majestic mountain stood proudly before her, with deep and heavy mountain ranges exuding a powerful momentum.


    As she looked at the painting, Helena inexplicably felt like crying, deeply moved by the power of art.


    She wasn¡¯t alone in feeling this way; almost everyone who saw this painting found it unforgettable, sparking curiosity, emotion, and even tears.


    This was a mysterious painting that seemed to possess a mysterious force.


    The depiction of the mountains in this painting surpassed the works of all sessors for thousands of years.


    Helena stared at the ancient painting in a trance, contemting deeply.


    Unbeknownst to her, not far away, a tall and sturdy figure was gazing at her thoughtfully.


    The man had a handsome and stern appearance, with a sharp nose, mouth, and jawbone. Yet, his eyes were full of tenderness.

 Chapter 142: You Need Me (1)

    Helena immersed herself in the observation for a whole morning.


    Standing there without moving,pletely absorbed.


    Because photography was not allowed in the museum, and high-quality images couldn¡¯t be found online, she had to rely on her memory.


    The details were numerous, requiring a lot of brainpower.


    The servant apanied her, feeling puzzled. Wasn¡¯t it just a painting? She couldn¡¯t understand why Helena spent so much time, seemingly tirelessly. Helena, on the other hand, felt restless and couldn¡¯t appreciate the painting¡¯s charm. All she could see was a big, sturdy mountain, much more imposing than the mountains in her hometown. Besides that, there wasn¡¯t much else.


    But for Helena, it was fascinating, almost intoxicating.


    She stood in front of  ¡°Journey through Mountains and Rivers¡± for a long time.


    Jay silently watched her from a distance for a long time.


    There was an indescribable tenderness in his eyes and eyebrows.


    Just looking at her from afar made him content.


    The museum on Wednesday was quiet, spacious, lonely, and filled with a thick sense of historical solitude. However, Jay didn¡¯t feel lonely at all because Helena was there.


    His heart was serene; no matter what she was doing or thinking, being quietly with her felt wonderful.


    Even if there was a considerable distance between them.


    Even if she didn¡¯t know he was watching her.


    Even if she couldn¡¯t recognize who he was.


    Helena memorized and thoroughly understood every detail of the painting before turning to leave.


    At the moment she turned around, Jay took a step ahead, swiftly moving behind the wall to avoid her gaze.


    The servant caught up with Helena¡¯s pace.


    The four bodyguards also followed behind her, keeping a distance of three meters.


    It ensured her safety without making her feel ufortable.


    Jay followed suit, using his long legs to keep a distant but vignt watch.


    As they exited the museum gate, the group walked towards the roadside.


    They were about to hail a cab to go back to the hotel.


    After waiting for just a few minutes, a motorcycle suddenly emerged from an oblique direction!


    A person sitting in the back reached out to snatch Helena¡¯s bag!


    In a split second!


    Jay rushed over at arrow-like speed!


    With a crisp sound, the robber¡¯s arm was broken!This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    The assant clutched his broken arm, howling in pain!


    By the time the bodyguards reacted, the motorcycle had already hastily fled!


    The entire incident happened so suddenly that Helena¡¯s heart pounded fiercely.


    Jay quickly grabbed her arm, asking, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Helena shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    The bodyguards quickly surrounded her, asking, ¡°Helena, are you alright?¡±


    Helena said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Call the police if you need to.¡±


    Jay said, ¡°A pair of motorcycle thieves, thinking you might have valuable items in your bag due to your special temperament, wanted to make quick money. We¡¯re from out of town; it would be a bit troublesome to report to the police.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t expect there to be motorcycle thieves here. She had bodyguards with her, and yet they dared to openly attempt a robbery.


    They were really audacious.


    But since her bag wasn¡¯t taken, and she wanted to avoid trouble, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s forget about it.¡±


    After saying that, she realized that her arm was still held by Jay.


    Jay also noticed hispse and hurriedly released her, saying, ¡°Sorry.¡±


    Helena calmed her emotions, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Jay was afraid she would insist on repaying the favor and quickly said, ¡°No need to thank me. It¡¯s only right to lend a hand in the face of injustice. Anyone would have helped.¡±


    Helena guessed his thoughts and smiled, ¡°Why are you here on Treasure Ind too?¡±


    Jay smiled faintly, ¡°I came to see a client here. Happened to pass by the museum and took a look. The collection at the Treasure Ind Museum is rich; it¡¯s regrettable not to visit while passing by.¡±


    Helena believed him.


    She thought Jay was a very reliable and trustworthy person.


    He said anything, and she believed it.


    Jay asked, ¡°What about you? What are you doing here?¡±


    Helena answered truthfully, ¡°I came to see the work ¡®Journey through Mountains and Rivers.''¡±


    Jay, being in the antique auction industry, naturally was familiar with it and praised, ¡°The ¡®Journey through Mountains and Rivers¡¯ is considered the top painting of the Song Dynasty.¡±


    Helena signed sincerely, ¡°Indeed, seeing it once is better than hearing about it a hundred times. Theposition of the painting is very rigorous, the picture is full and vast, the momentum ispelling, and the towering mountains are truly awe-inspiring.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, you came all the way here just to see it?¡±


    ¡°Someone asked me to replicate it.¡±


    Jay raised an eyebrow, ¡°Is it difficult?¡±


    ¡°It is. After all, it is a masterpiece, unparalleled for thousands of years. But I want to give it a try.¡±


    Jay smiled and encouraged her, ¡°You¡¯ll definitely seed.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    After thinking for a moment, she raised the water cup in her hand and handed it to Helena, saying, ¡°Madam, please have some water.¡±


    Helena was slightly surprised.


    After the divorce with Willis, she had been calling herself Helena. Why did the servant suddenly change her address today?


    Helena didn¡¯t think too much about it, took the cup, had a sip, and then handed it back to the servant.

 Chapter 143: You Need Me (2)

    Jay asked, ¡°Are you heading back to the hotel? Did you pre-book the hotel?¡±


    Helena was about to respond when the servant picked up a fan and interrupted, ¡°Madam, are you feeling hot? Let me fan you.¡±


    Without waiting for consent, she snapped open her folding fan and started fanning Helena vigorously, making her long hair flutter in the breeze.


    Helena raised her hand to secure her hair, smiling helplessly, ¡°I¡¯m not hot, maid.¡±


    The servant insisted, ¡°No, you are hot.¡±


    Helena couldn¡¯t argue with her, so she allowed her to continue fanning.


    With the interruption, Helena and Jay fell silent.


    After a while, a vacant taxi approached from a distance.


    The bodyguards quickly raised their hands to stop it.


    Helena and Jay exchanged polite gestures, then bent down and got into the car.


    Back at the hotel, after having lunch with the servant and the others, and taking a short rest, Helena began her attempt to replicate ¡°Journey through Mountains and Rivers.¡±


    No, it couldn¡¯t be called replication anymore.


    Replication involved looking at the painting and then creating a new one. Helena was engaging in a silent painting.


    Since ancient Xuan paper was expensive, she practiced first on ordinary Xuan paper.


    The painting was extremely rare, especially ¡°Journey through Mountains and Rivers,¡± which had been preserved in the Treasure Ind Museum. Helena was attempting it for the first time.


    To capture the spirit and essence of the mountain, she had to immerse herselfpletely in thendscape,prehend the divine, and harmonize nature with herself, achieving unity between heaven and man.


    Only then could the true spirit of the mountain naturally manifest in her strokes.


    After grinding the ink, the servant left.


    Helena sat in front of the easel, closed her eyes, and mentally reyed theposition and contours of the entire painting.


    After a long time, she picked up the brush and began to ssh ink on the Xuan paper.


    First, with vigorous and stern brushstrokes, she outlined the sharp edges of the towering rocks.


    Then, repeatedly using robust and heavy sesame texture strokes, she shaped the wrinkles and textures of the rock formations.


    When applying strokes to the outlines and inner parts, she left a bit of nk space along the edges to convey the sense of the mountain¡¯s ups and downs.


    To depict Northern-style mountains that were as unyielding as iron, she needed to draw them with bones deep into the paper.


    Late into the night, Helena, feeling exhausted, put down her brush.


    On the Xuan paper, the main mountain range appeared majestic, grand, and imposing.


    It was hard to imagine that such a mountain range was created by a delicate and graceful young woman.


    Despite reaching this level in mountain painting, which would amaze anyone, Helena was dissatisfied.


    When looking at the mountain under her brush, she didn¡¯t feel the overwhelming urge to cry, which meant she had only captured the bones of the mountain but not its soul.


    As the saying goes, ¡°Paint the bones of the mountain, and more importantly, paint its soul.¡±


    It seemed that she would have to continue her studies at the museum tomorrow to gain further insights.


    Helena went to the bathroom to wash her hands and ordered ate-night snack.


    After dinner, she took a shower andy down on the bed.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Because painting consumed a lot of physical and mental energy, she quickly fell into a deep sleep.


    In her deep sleep, she had a dream.


    She dreamed of an infant wearing a red bellyband, adorable with rosy cheeks, big watery eyes, long eyshes, and a round face that made one want to cry.


    The baby crawled on the ink-ck mountains.


    Suddenly, the baby reached out to her, grinned, and in a childish voice, called, ¡°Mommy.¡±


    Helena¡¯s heart melted.


    She smiled and reached out to pick him up.


    But just as her hand was about to touch the baby¡¯s arm, the elf-like adorable baby vanished into thin air.


    Helena¡¯s heart shattered.


    The destion was heartbreaking.


    She abruptly opened her eyes, staring at the empty ceiling, tears chilling the corners of her eyes.


    It turned out to be a nightmare.


    Since the miscarriage after the car ident, she often had this nightmare.


    Once awake, it became difficult to fall asleep again.


    Helena lifted the quilt and got out of bed, walking to the window. She opened the curtains and looked outside.


    Outside, the lights were still on, lively and bustling. However, her heart felt empty, floating in mid-air.


    She thought she was strong enough, but the midnight dreams betrayed her true emotions.


    Unexpectedly, the loss of that little over two-month-old fetus left such a deep scar on her.


    Helena hugged herself tightly, closing her eyes slowly.


    At this moment, she felt exceptionally fragile and lonely, like a small boat in the wind and rain, seeking a warm harbor to lean against.


    After an unknown period, the door suddenly rang urgently.


    In the quiet midnight, the doorbell sounded a bit eerie.


    Helena walked cautiously to the door, holding her breath, and asked, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡±


    A maic and charming baritone voice came from outside.


    Very familiar, it was Willis.


    After a brief surprise, a surge of joy rushed to her heart. Helena quickly opened the door.


    The tall and handsome man pressed her into his arms.


    His clothes carried the dusty aura of a journey.


    Pressing her slender back, he whispered, ¡°I knew you needed me, so I came.¡±

 Chapter 144: I’ve captured its soul!

    Simply because he missed her.


    He lowered his head, kissed her lips, pressed his forehead against hers, and lingered for a while. Soon enough, he closed his eyes and fell asleep.


    Helena slept soundly that night.


    The next day, when she woke up, the first thing she saw was a handsome face.


    The man had a refined and three-dimensional bone structure, sculpted delicate features, and a wless jawline.


    Her groggy mind, just awakened, took a moment to clear up.


    After a while, she remembered that Willis had flown overst night, saying he wanted to help her sleep.


    Careful not to disturb him, she carefully moved away from him.


    Inadvertently, she touched something she shouldn¡¯t have.


    Helena was taken aback, and her face instantly turned red.


    Holding her breath, shey still, afraid of waking Willis.


    Her feelings wereplicated.


    After all, she was divorced, and being so intimate felt a bit awkward.


    She maintained this position, lying still until Willis naturally woke up.


    Men¡¯s testosterone levels peak in the early morning.


    Willis was no exception.


    He held her, his tonezy, with a hint of sexiness, ¡°I missed you.¡±


    Helena knew what he meant ¨C he missed being with her.


    Her mind went through a brief internal struggle. Helena reluctantly said, ¡°You can handle it yourself in the bathroom.¡±


    Willis buried his head in her neck, his voice low and exuding a seductive charm, ¡°You don¡¯t care about me.¡±


    ¡°You said we wouldn¡¯t be intimate until we remarry,¡± Helena retorted.


    ¡°In that case, let¡¯s remarry. We can do it today when we return,¡± Willis said with a sudden return to rity and reason.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    After all the circling around, it turned out he was waiting for her here.


    To be honest, she really didn¡¯t want to remarry now.


    Thinking about people like Ryan, Susan, Grace, and now Jane, it made her scalp tingle with annoyance. It seemed like there was always some trouble.


    Love is one thing, but marriage is another.


    Marriage is much moreplicated than love.


    In the end, Helena, with a heavy heart, convinced Willis to go to the bathroom and take care of himself.


    After getting ready, the two had breakfast.


    Helena and Willis left together.


    As they walked out, they unexpectedly bumped into Jaying out of the opposite room.


    He was dressed in a ck short-sleeved T-shirt and ck trousers, with short, neat hair, looking handsome and energetic.


    Helena¡¯s expression slightly froze. ¡°You¡¯re staying at this hotel too?¡±


    Jay responded without much emotion. His gaze swept over Willis, and he lowered his eyshes, concealing his true feelings.


    Originally, Willis and Helena were walking side by side.


    Upon seeing Jay, Willis raised his arm, pulled Helena into his embrace, and smiled gracefully. ¡°My girlfriend is on a business trip, so I came to see her.¡±


    Jay¡¯s tone remained indifferent. ¡°Helena is lucky to have a boyfriend like you.¡±


    After saying that, he turned and walked away quickly, his steps brisk.


    Helena stared at his retreating figure in silence for a moment, feeling like he might not be too pleased.


    After seeing Willis off, Helena, with her servants, went to the museum.


    She spent another two days studying there.


    When she picked up the brush again, she felt something different.


    When she captured that soul, Helena, apanied by her servants and bodyguards, returned.


    Over the next month, Helena immersed herself in her studio, focusing solely on painting and rarely leaving the room.


    She almost reached the point of neglecting sleep and food, verging on being ¡°obsessed.¡±


    She had ruined countless sheets of Xuan paper and poured much effort into it, but she finally painted a satisfactory ¡°Journey through Mountains and Rivers.¡±


    Hanging the painting on the wall, Helena looked up at the majestic and towering mountains in the painting, tears of joy streaming down her face.


    At the mountain¡¯s peak, various trees thrived, a line of waterfalls flowed directly down the mountainside, and giant rocksy scattered at the foot of the mountain.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena could almost hear the sound of water, people talking, and the sounds of horses and mules.


    She knew she had brought this painting to life!


    ¡°Paint the bones of the mountain, and more importantly, paint its soul.¡± She had finally captured that soul!


    Excitedly, she picked up her phone and called Kelly, ¡°Kelly, I¡¯ve finished ¡®Journey through Mountains and Rivers¡¯! I¡¯ve brought it to life! I¡¯ve captured its soul!¡±


    Her usually calm demeanor couldn¡¯t hide her excitement!

 Chapter 145: Daughter or Helena

    Upon hearing this, Kelly wore an expression of disbelief. ¡°Really? Did you truly bring the painting to life?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I looked at the painting and felt so moved, almost brought to tears. I¡¯ve been painting for almost twenty years, and this is the first time I¡¯ve had such a feeling,¡± Helena, who was always modest and humble, spoke truthfully rather than boasting.


    It wasn¡¯t self-praise; she was just honestly expressing her feelings.


    Kelly, ovee with excitement, eximed, ¡°Quick, quick, bring me the painting, let me see!¡±


    Kelly hurriedly stood up from his seat, extended his arm with his palm facing up, making a ¡°please¡± gesture. ¡°Helena, let¡¯s go to study.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Uncle Kelly.¡± Helena took the painting and followed him to the study.


    Kelly closed the door behind them.


    Helena walked up to the desk, carefully unfolding the painting, which measured over two meters in length and just over a meter in width, and ced it on the desk made of yellow rosewood.


    Kelly lowered his gaze, carefully examining the painting.


    He was instantly stunned!


    The entire painting, whether it was the mountain or the dense forest, exuded a heavy and profound inkiness.


    A strong, majestic, andpelling atmosphere emanated from every part of the painting.


    In the presence of this atmosphere, even the bright daylight seemed to dim.


    It gave off a feeling of ¡°as if traversing a night mountain, dark and profoundyer afteryer.¡±


    He was so astonished that he couldn¡¯t speak for a while.


    It was really hard to believe that such a majestic and powerful painting came from the delicate and gentle hands of the young girl in front of him.


    For many years, he had been searching for such a painting.


    Numerous talented painters had attempted to reproduce it, but none were satisfactory.


    This painting, however, possessed both strength and spirit, making it truly unforgettable.


    Watching it, Kelly almost couldn¡¯t hold back tears.


    A good piece of art could truly move the heart and bring tears to the eyes.


    He raised his hand to touch his chin, repeatedly saying, ¡°Excellent, excellent, it¡¯s beautifully done!¡±


    He said ¡°excellent¡± three times in a row!


    He steadied his emotions, took out his phone, and recorded several long videos of the painting, capturing various details.


    After recording, he sent them to the prospective client.


    Upon receiving the client¡¯s satisfactory response, Kelly said to Helena, ¡°You wait here for a moment; I¡¯ll go get you a check.¡±


    He called the butler and had tea served for her.


    He turned and walked towards the door.


    As he reached the living room, he went to fetch his bag and the checkbook.


    Coming back from outside, he encountered his daughter Jane who had just returned.


    Jane tossed her bag onto the sofa, nced at her father, and couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Dad, what happened to you today? You seem quite excited.¡±


    Kelly rubbed his eyes with his hand, suppressing his emotions. ¡°Helena¡¯s painting, it¡¯s exceptionally good. It took me by surprise. I¡¯m going to get her the remaining payment with a check.¡±


    Listening to her father passionately praising someone else, Jane felt ufortable.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    She frowned and said somewhat sharply, ¡°It¡¯s just a painting. Is it really that good?¡±


    ¡°Good, exceptionally good. Surprisingly so. You outsiders don¡¯t understand.¡± Kelly responded casually, opened his bag, took out the checkbook, and was about to sign it.


    Jane snatched the pen from his hand.


    ncing towards the study in the distance, she lowered her voice, ¡°Dad, are you stupid? She¡¯s Willis¡¯s ex-wife!¡±


    The more outstanding Helena was, the more Jane felt overshadowed.


    She frowned, her tone defiant, ¡°I don¡¯t care. Anyway, if you still consider me your daughter, you can¡¯t buy this painting.¡±


    Kelly was taken aback.


    He finally found himself a little dizzy after weighing the situation.


    On one side was his own biological daughter.


    On the other side was Helena.


    He couldn¡¯t afford to offend his daughter, but he really wanted to acquire Helena¡¯s painting.


    After much consideration, he ultimately chose his daughter.

 Chapter 146: Kelly lied（1）

    Kelly carefully considered his words, returned to the study, and with a forced smile, said to Helena, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Helena. My client just called and expressed some dissatisfaction. How about you check if there¡¯s anyone else interested in the painting?¡±


    She struggled to move the muscles on her face and forced out a smile uglier than crying, ¡°Oh, I see. Well, forget about it then.¡±


    Twisting his hands ufortably, Kelly apologized, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, Helena.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Helena slowly walked to the desk and started to roll up the painting.


    Her arms were so stiff that she could hardly lift them, and she had a feeling of being wronged, almost wanting to cry. She had dedicated so much time to the painting, neglecting sleep and meals, even dreaming about it at night.


    She felt that this painting was one of the best she had copied in almost twenty years. Theposition was perfect, the momentum was majestic, the details were realistic, and it had sound, color, and emotion.


    Yet, it waspletely denied by Kelly and his client.


    For a moment, she even doubted her own abilities.


    After struggling to roll up the painting, Helena took it and left.


    *****This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    The maid came up and knocked on the door, calling her for dinner.


    Helena, feeling upset, said, ¡°I¡¯m not hungry. You go ahead and have your dinner. You can leave after you finish.¡±


    The maid sensed her unhappiness and hurried downstairs to call Willis.


    As soon as the call was answered, she anxiously said, ¡°Mr. Santana, Mrs. Santana doesn¡¯t seem to be in a good mood. In the afternoon, she left with the painting, and when she came back in the evening, she looked very sad. She even skipped dinner.¡±


    Willis frowned and checked his watch, ¡°I¡¯ll finish the meeting in ten minutes. Wait for me, and I¡¯lle over.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Mr. Santana.¡±


    Willis went to her side, sat beside her, and pulled her into his arms, gently asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t tell me; who else are you going to tell?¡±


    Indeed, apart from him, she had no one else to talk to.


    Helena weakly smiled, ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t tell me, who will you tell?¡±


    In fact, there was no one else.


    Helena palely smiled, ¡°The other party didn¡¯t want the painting.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s because of this.¡± Willis took out his wallet from his pants pocket, pulled out a card, ¡°I¡¯ll take it.  I¡¯ll pay double.¡±


    Helena pushed the card back into his wallet, ¡°It¡¯s not about the money.¡±


    It was about her efforts not being acknowledged, her confidence being crushed, and even her judgment being questioned.


    Willis silently held her for a while, then let go, stood up, and went out to call his assistant.


    After the call was connected, he instructed, ¡°Check if Kelly has made any international calls recently. Also, investigate if there¡¯s any foreign wealthy person who has an interest in ancient paintings.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Mr. Santana. I¡¯ll arrange for the investigation immediately.¡±


    Willis gave a faint acknowledgment and ended the call.


    Kelly made a fortune by selling cultural relics, and Willis was aware of that. Since Kelly didn¡¯t want the painting, he must be selling it to foreign clients.


    Since Kelly refused, Willis decided to skip him and go directly to the original client.


    Half an hourter, the assistant called, ¡°Mr. Santana, after the investigation, we¡¯ve identified a person named Frank, who has close dealings with Kelly.¡±


    Willis raised the corner of his lips, ¡°Help me arrange a meeting with him right away!¡±

 Chapter 147: Kelly lied（2）

    The assistant hesitated for a moment. ¡°I heard that Frank has a peculiar personality, and it might not be easy to make an appointment with him if you¡¯re not familiar.¡±


    Willis gave a faint acknowledgment and ended the call.


    After some contemtion, he called his grandfather.


    Once the call was answered, Willis asked, ¡°Grandpa, do you know a foreign businessman named Frank?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The old man thought for a while before replying, ¡°Yes, I know him. We had some dealings back in the early years. Why are you looking for him?¡±


    ¡°Do you have a good rtionship with him?¡±


    ¡°We have a bit of a connection. We helped each other out over thirty years ago.¡±


    ¡°A big favor or a small one?¡±


    ¡°Not a small one.¡±


    His words indicated that it was indeed a significant favor.


    Willis had a good idea and responded, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll hang up.¡±


    His grandfather choked for a moment andined, ¡°You brat, calling me sote just to ask about this?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I need to talk to Frank about something.¡±


    ¡°When are you bringing Helena home? Your grandmother keeps mentioning hertely.¡±


    Willis thought, ¡°Your son has messed things up.¡±


    He casually replied, ¡°Helena is busy with worktely. I¡¯ll bring her back to meet you in a while.¡±


    Upon hearing about a child, Willis felt a pang in his heart.


    It was an ufortable sensation, like being pricked with a needle.


    The matter of Helena¡¯s miscarriage was kept secret from both his grandfather and grandmother to spare them from the shock.


    Having finished a few perfunctory sentences with his grandfather, Willis hung up.


    He asked his assistant for Frank¡¯s contact information and called him personally.


    Initially, Frank¡¯s secretary answered the call, but after Willis mentioned his grandfather¡¯s name, Frank took the call himself.


    After exchanging a few polite greetings, Willis exined the purpose of his call, ¡°Frank, I heard that you have been searching for a copy of ¡®Journey through Mountains and Rivers¡¯ in China, is that correct?¡±


    To his surprise, Frank¡¯s personality was quite the opposite of what was rumored. He was extremely easy-going.


    With a heartyugh, Frank said, ¡°Yes, but I haven¡¯t found a satisfactory one yet.¡±


    After a pause, he continued, ¡°However, this afternoon, someone sent me a few videos of a painting. It was extremely spiritual. Unfortunately, for some reason, the person suddenly changed their mind and refused to sell it.¡±


    Even through the phone, one could sense the regret in his voice.


    Willis, being a very clever individual, quickly connected the dots.


    There must be someone meddling in the situation.


    He smiled and said, ¡°The painting you mentioned is now in my possession. If you¡¯re interested, how about we arrange to meet?¡±


    Frank was visibly surprised. ¡°That would be fantastic.¡±


    Back on Helena¡¯s side.


    She turned her head to Willis and asked, ¡°Is what you said true? Does he really like my painting?¡±


    Willis chuckled, ¡°He likes it. I heard that you changed your mind about selling it, and he was quite disappointed.¡±


    Helena understood now.


    Kelly had lied.

 Chapter 148: Helena’s Reversal (1)

    The next day, at 8 p. m., Helena, apanied by Willis, arrived punctually at the hotel where Frank was staying.


    Frank¡¯s assistant opened the door-a spirited young man dressed in a white shirt and ck trousers, with ck-framed sses.


    Willis and Helena stood up, greeting, ¡°Hello, Frank.¡±


    ¡°Please, have a seat,¡± Frank greeted with a pleasant expression.


    Frank looked at Willis, ¡°Let¡¯s see the painting first.¡±


    Helena picked up the painting from the nearby table and carefully unfolded it.


    As the painting gradually unfolded, Frank¡¯s eyes brightened, and his expression became more animated. He stood up, bent down, and gently traced his fingers over the distant mountains in the painting, muttering to himself, ¡°This feeling, exactly this feeling. These towering mountains, the cascading waterfall, the jungle, the caravan, the mules and horses-well-painted, truly wonderful.¡±


    As he continued to gaze, his eyes gradually became moist.


    Frank rubbed his eyes and reached out to his assistant.


    The assistant, understanding the situation, handed him an antique-looking magnifying ss.


    Holding the magnifying ss, Frank carefully examined the details of the painting.


    From top to bottom, from the mountains to the people.


    While nodding, hemented, ¡°The brushwork is robust, using the rain-dot texture and ink umtion technique that excelled in. With thousands of strokes andyers, there¡¯s that tenacious spirit that refuses to yield until every stone nods in agreement.¡±


    Putting down the magnifying ss, Frank¡¯s eyes gleamed as he looked at Helena. ¡°Youngdy, did you really paint this?¡±


    Helena smiled, ¡°Yes, I painted it.¡±


    Frank regarded her with a suspicious look, ¡°You don¡¯t seem very old. Are you sure you¡¯re not fooling me?¡±


    Helena answered calmly, ¡°I¡¯ve been learning to restore ancient paintings with my grandfather, Ken, since I was a child. Copying ancient paintings is a basic skill. Although I¡¯m not that old, I¡¯ve been painting for almost twenty years. Considering the skills I¡¯ve developed over these years, reaching this level is reasonable.¡±


    Upon hearing Ken¡¯s name, Frank¡¯s skepticism disappeared. In the antique circle, Ken¡¯s name was well-known.


    Frank handed the painting to his assistant, saying, ¡°Go and check the details, see if there are any differences.¡±


    ¡°Sure, Frank.¡± The assistant took the painting and went to study.


    Helena smiled, ¡°Everything else should be identical.¡±


    Frank sat down, picked up his tea cup, took a sip, and asked, ¡°How did you copy it if the Bao Dao Museum doesn¡¯t allow photography?¡±


    ¡°I memorized it during my visit and painted it when I returned.¡±


    Frank looked surprised, ¡°Youngdy, you are indeed a rare talent. This painting isrge, more than two meters long and more than one meter wide, with aplex and variedposition. You memorized such arge painting just in your mind?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my grandfather deliberately trained me to memorize paintings since I was a child. Actually, memorizing this painting wasn¡¯t difficult. The real challenge lies in the fact that this painting has a soul. I spent half a day memorizing it, and then two full days understanding its essence while painting.¡±


    Frank praised, ¡°A genius from an early age. Truly impressive.¡±


    Willis poured more tea for Frank.


    Frank asked, ¡°Is the old man in good health?¡±


    Willis smiled, ¡°He¡¯s doing well.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen him in years. I¡¯ll visit him at your house when I have the time.¡±


    ¡°Sure, he misses you. Let me pass on his regards.¡±


    After chatting for a while, the assistant came out.


    He leaned over to whisper to Frank, ¡°Frank, after closely examining with magnifying sses, every detail is exactly the same except for the absence of a signature and seal.¡±


    Frank, after hearing this, seemed stunned for several seconds. Then, he gave Helena a thumbs up, ¡°Youngdy, you¡¯re amazing. I¡¯ve been in the antique circle for so many years, and you¡¯re the first person I¡¯ve encountered with such talent. Truly a rare gem.¡±


    Helena modestly replied, ¡°You¡¯re too kind. We young people should learn from experienced individuals like you.¡±


    Frank¡¯s smile deepened, ¡°Talented and not arrogant. Good, very good.¡±


    He reached out to his assistant, who handed him a checkbook.


    Frank took a pen, filled in an amount on the check, signed his name, tore it off, and handed it to Helena, ¡°This is a little extra reward. Please ept it.¡±


    Helena hurriedly stood up and received it with both hands, ¡°Thank you, Frank.¡±


    Frank smiled warmly, ¡°You¡¯re wee. This is what you deserve.¡±


    As Helena sat down with the check, she nced at the amount and was greatly surprised.


    Ten million dors.


    Equivalent to more than 66 million Chinese yuan.


    This was a price tag fit for a master in the art world.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Helena, being straightforward, reminded him, ¡°Frank, did you make a mistake with the amount? Kelly offered me 15 million RMB before, and I already thought that was a sky-high price.¡±


    She never expected Frank to offer even more.


    Frank chuckled, ¡°No mistake. It¡¯s exactly 10 million USD. Your painting is worth this much. Achieving such a level at your young age, you will have a great future ahead.¡±


    ¡°But this is too high.¡± Helena still felt unworthy.


    Frank touched his chin with his finger and said with a smile, ¡°Not high at all. It¡¯s rare to have a painting catch my eye like this.¡±


    Helena didn¡¯t say anything more.


    Standing on the carpeted corridor, soft under her feet, Helena felt like she was in a dream.


    It felt very unreal.


    She never imagined that the ancient painting she copied could be sold for such a sky-high price.


    Yes, a sky-high price.


    She looked up at Willis and said, ¡°Pinch me and see if I¡¯m dreaming.¡±


    How could Willis bear to pinch her?


    Looking around and seeing no one in the corridor, he suddenly held her arm, pushed her against the wall, lowered his head, and lightly bit her lips.


    His tongue slid into her lips, sucking on her lip bead, lightly teasing and hooking.


    Helena¡¯s earlobes turned involuntarily red.


    Her heart skipped a beat.


    The tip of her nose was filled with the attractive scent from his body, the irresistible charm of a masculine man.

 Chapter 149: Helena’s Reversal (2)

    She had to exert a lot of effort to push him away.


    This man, really, after holding it in for so long, could flirt anytime, anywhere.


    Being pinned against the wall was one thing, but teasing her was another.


    And it was in a hotel corridor where someone could appear at any moment-too bold and too exciting.


    Willis grinned at her, ¡°Are you dreaming?¡±


    Helena shook her head.


    Her heart was pounding; you couldn¡¯t wake up from a dream like this.


    Willis ruffled her hair, ¡°Our Helena is amazing, earning foreign exchange now.¡±


    ¡°I still feel that the price he offered is outrageously high.¡±


    Willis knew very well.


    Frank set such a high price not only because Helena painted exceptionally well but also as a repayment of an old favor to the grandfather.


    Although he didn¡¯t explicitly mention it, everyone had an idea.


    But Willis didn¡¯t reveal it; let Helena enjoy her happiness secretly.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Earning over sixty million with one stroke, she might feel the price was high on the surface, but inside, she must be ecstatic.


    Seeing her happy made him even happier.


    After the car ident and miscarriage, she hadn¡¯t been happy for a long time.


    Side by side, they walked to the elevator.


    Soon, the elevator doors opened.


    A handsome figure walked out from inside.


    It was Jay, holding a ck briefcase.


    Helena was slightly surprised and greeted him, ¡°Hello, Mr.¡±


    After a brief surprise, Jay smiled reservedly at her, ¡°Hello.¡±


    He nodded at Willis, a form of greeting.


    They passed each other.


    Jay headed straight to Frank¡¯s suite.


    He rang the doorbell.


    The assistant opened the door.


    Jay entered.


    He entered the password, opened the briefcase, and handed it to Frank, ¡°Frank, I found what you wanted. Please have a look.¡±


    Frank nced at it; it was the porcin vase with phoenix and heart-shaped patterns he wanted.


    He thanked Jay and asked, ¡°You mentioned on the phone that you had something to discuss with me?¡±


    Jay smiled lightly, ¡°I heard you were looking for ¡®Journey through Mountains and Rivers.¡¯ I have a friend who copied a painting of it. But I just saw her leaving from here, so I suppose there¡¯s no need for my introduction.¡±


    Frank, in his seventies, had be quite astute.


    He immediately guessed who Jay was talking about.


    He praised, ¡°That girl is truly remarkable, even more talented than her grandfather back in the day. At such a young age and a woman, she painted work with incredible detail and depth. Most female painters usually have a gentle and delicate style, but I don¡¯t know how she managed it-she handled the grandeur with ease, even more powerful than male artists.¡±


    Hearing Helena being praised, Jay was in a great mood, ¡°She is also exceptional in restoring ancient paintings and porcin.¡±


    ¡°I know, Ken¡¯s granddaughter. I have many ancient paintings that need maintenance. I don¡¯t trust others; I¡¯ll find her in the future.¡±


    ¡°The M. H¡¯s Hidden Residence painting she restored is currently exhibited in the Museum. The experts are amazed by her skills.¡±


    Frank raised an eyebrow, implying a deeper meaning, ¡°Young man, you speak highly of her.¡±


    ¡°I am just stating the facts.¡± Jay picked up the tea cup and drank, hiding his true emotions.


    Frank didn¡¯t expose it, just chuckled, ¡°True, you speak the truth.¡±


    The two chatted for a while.


    Suddenly, Frank remembered something and said, ¡°I¡¯ll make a phone call. Have a seat and enjoy the tea for a while.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Frank took out his phone and called Kelly, ¡°Kelly, for ¡®Journey through Mountains and Rivers,¡¯ you don¡¯t need to find it for me. I just received a painting tonight.¡±


    Kelly was surprised, ¡°So fast?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s painted by a girl named Helena, and it¡¯s particrly vivid. It should be the one you showed me in the video yesterday. I was so happy I gave her ten million USD.¡±


    Kelly¡¯s face instantly turned unpleasant.


    Ten million USD, which was over sixty million in Chinese yuan.


    He was aching because he had missed such a big opportunity; this money should have been his.


    Kelly reluctantly said, ¡°I see. Then, I¡¯ll continue searching for the phoenix and heart-shaped pattern vase you¡¯re looking for.¡±


    ¡°No need. Someone has already found it for me, just delivered today. Your efficiency seems a bit low.¡±


    Kelly¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Well, if you have any future needs, feel free to find me.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    This was a polite way of refusal.


    Kelly¡¯s heart sank halfway; he knew that Frank held a grudge against him because of the incident with Helena¡¯s painting.


    He lied and deceived Frank about that painting, and now Frank remembered.


    Frank hung up the phone.


    Kelly¡¯s face turned dark as he red at Jane, ¡°Helena went directly to Frank and sold that painting for over sixty million.¡±


    Jane¡¯s face froze for a moment, then she sneered lightly, ¡°A blind cat stumbled upon a dead mouse, just luck.¡±


    Kelly was furious, ¡°Asshole! Frank is my important client. Because of you, Helena got him! Due to your shortsightedness, I missed out on a great deal of money!¡±


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