《Enchanted Nightfall: Falling for Destiny》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1When the cops knocked on the door, Quintessa had just rolled out of bed where Tyrone


    lay.The air was still thick with the scent ofst night¡¯s steamy escapades, clothes strewn haphazardly


    on the floor ¨C a testament to the passion that had unfoldedst night.The persistent fierce knock at the


    hotel room door didn¡¯t faze her as she leisurely showered, slipped into her clothes, and applied her


    makeup with the meticulousness of someone in her own apartment.Who was she? Quintessa the


    notorious, the ultimate femme fatale, always had to look dazzling, outshining everyone with her


    radiance.Tyrone, bare-chested, still bore the tell-tale crimson marks of Quintessa¡¯s nails on his skin, a


    mottled pattern of desire. He lit a cigarette, ¡°You know, if you ask nicely, I might just be able to shave a


    couple years off your sentence.


    ¡°Quintessa sauntered over, plucked the cigarette from his lips, took a drag, and then ced it back


    between his lips.Her slender hand yfully pped his cheek, taunting him in a manner reminiscent of


    a flirtatious tease, ¡°Mr. York, next time you go hunting for ady, keep your eyes open. Don¡¯t think just


    because you¡¯re loaded, I can¡¯t outsmart you.¡±Indeed, the man she had bedded was her aunt¡¯s man, the


    dream of every woman in Emberbrook, the sole heir to York Financial Group ¨C Tyrone York.His looks?


    Only those who¡¯d seen him knew. His wealth? Perhaps even he couldn¡¯t fathom.Otherwise, Quintessa


    wouldn¡¯t have been able to resist bonking him.Ranked as the city¡¯s most coveted one-night stand,


    Tyrone had spent the previous night tangled in the sheets with her. Quintessa couldn¡¯t help but feel a


    sense of achievement; after all, not everyone could boast such a conquest.After that night, her verdict


    on the man? Rich and undeniably forceful. In every aspect, Tyrone had his pride.The police snarled


    outside, ¡°Open up, or we¡¯re breaking down the door!¡±Quintessa, confident she looked presentable,


    turned to answer it, but Tyrone suddenly grasped her wrist, ¡°This is yourst chance, Quintessa. Are


    you sure you don¡¯t want it?¡±His eyes, slightly upturned at the corners, his lips thin, nose sharp ¨C he was


    the epitome of detached beauty, always wearing a smirk of nonchnt arrogance. Those eyes, no


    matter who they were fixed on, were cold and indifferent; seemed devoid of warmth or


    emotion.Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°What, got feelings for me now? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re nning to


    dump your fianc¨¦e to fool around with me. Since when did the illustrious Mr. York be so


    sentimental?¡±His grip tightened in an instant, nearly crushing her wrist, ¡°You sleeping with me, all just to


    get back at the Young family?¡±She blinked at him coquettishly, and then leaned in, her breath a whisper


    against his skin, ¡°I slept with you because you¡¯re Rachel¡¯s man. Isn¡¯t that something you¡¯ve known all


    along? Why the act of innocence?¡±From the moment she first saw Tyrone, she knew his heart was as


    cold as his blood; he was prideful, looked down on everyone, including her aunt, Rachel Young. No one


    could probably catch his eye.Darkness clouded his gaze as he spat out, ¡°You¡¯re despicable.¡±Her rosy


    lips curved, ¡°Indeed, and that¡¯s why you¡¯re hooked by me, aren¡¯t you?¡±With a thunderous crash, the


    door burst open and a motley crowd surged in ¨C cops, reporters, and the Young family members from


    the oldest to the youngest.Quintessa¡¯s aunt Rachel stormed at her, hand raised, and delivered a


    stinging p across her face, ¡°Quintessa, you tramp! Do you realize this is my fianc¨¦? Do you get it?


    He¡¯s supposed to be your future uncle-inw, and here you are seducing him! Have you no


    shame?¡±Tears streamed down Rachel¡¯s face, her visage a portrait of sorrow that could soften people¡¯s


    heart.Quintessa licked her split lip, tasting the metallic tang of blood. She nced at the frenzied


    reporters, their cameras clicking like crazed crickets, and sneered. And then, in a swift move, she


    wrapped her arms around Tyrone¡¯s neck and kissed him passionately. The crowd gasped and


    murmured as the cameras captured the scandalous moment.Tyrone hesitated, fully aware of what


    Quintessa was doing. He should have pushed her away, should have pped her for this brazen act,


    but, damn it all, he didn¡¯t. Instead he responded, wrapping his arms around her waist.Her waist was so


    slender; it was as if she had no bones at all. His brain, his body ¨C they both remembered all too well


    how she moved, like a siren¡¯s call.After a heated kiss, Quintessa released Tyrone and looked up at


    Rachel, saying, ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m shameless. I deliberately slept with your man. What are you going to


    do about it?¡±The crowd was aghast.A mistress caught in the act should be running for cover,


    humiliated, shouldn¡¯t she? But this woman, she was brazenly defiant, kissing her future uncle-inw


    right in front of her aunt. Truly, there was no limit to her audacity!Rachel was so shocked she forgot to


    cry, her trembling finger pointed at Quintessa.Finally, a sympathetic police officer stepped forward and


    uttered, ¡°Quintessa, you¡¯re under arrest for embezzlement and assault. Please,e with us.


    ¡°Quintessa cooperated, extending her hands for the cold handcuffs that strangelyplemented her


    wrists with a twisted beauty.As the police escorted Quintessa out, she paused by Rachel, whispering in


    her ear, ¡°You had the gall to y me, so I slept with your man. Let¡¯s see who gets thest


    laugh.¡±Rachel¡¯s face instantly went pale.The night before, she had plotted against Quintessa, drugged


    her, hoping she¡¯d get addicted to drugs and then be defiled by some street thugs, all to be exposed by


    the media. Her whole life would be ruined totally.But somehow, Quintessa had turned the tables and


    ended up bonking Rachel¡¯s own fianc¨¦. Rachel gritted her teeth with utter venom.At the guest room


    door, Quintessa saw her father Sean, her stepmother, and her half-brother. They watched silently as


    she was taken away, their faces barely concealing their schadenfreude. Within the same family,


    Quintessa was the thorn they all wished to pluck.Embezzlement, assault ¨C these usations were the


    filth her family had sshed upon her.A malicious glint shing in her eye, Quintessa addressed her


    father, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t forget to visit. I¡¯ve got something you want, and if you don¡¯t show, I might just toss it.


    Who knows who¡¯ll pick it up then.¡±Sean¡¯s face twisted into a mask of disgust, ¡°I¡¯m so disappointed in


    you; I never imagined it woulde to this. I thought I¡¯d give you a chance to intern at thepany


    after graduation, but your greed knows no bounds. You had the audacity to embezzle funds. Who gave


    you such courage? Even now, with your back against the wall, you show no remorse. How did our


    family ever produce a ck sheep like you?¡±Quintessa sneered, ¡°Disappointed?


    You haven¡¯t seen true despair yet.¡±A police officer nudged Quintessa from behind, ¡°Quit dragging your


    feet; let¡¯s move.¡±In the end, Quintessa left her father with meaningful words, ¡°Dad, remember what I


    said. Time is running out.¡±Tyrone impassively watched Quintessa being led away, her demeanor


    unshaken in the face of doom, a wild recklessness that cared for nothing. A monster must dwell in that


    woman¡¯s heart.¡°Quintessa¡¯s been caught! She¡¯s been caught in an affair! She¡¯s headed to


    jail!¡±¡°Quintessa of Emberbrook, the notorious rich girl, has finally yed herst hand!¡±The reporters


    Rachel had called were ecstatic to the point of madness.¡°Quintessa, the second daughter of the Young


    family of Emberbrook, was caught in bed with her own uncle-inw, and that adulterer was none other


    than Tyrone.¡±¡°Who¡¯s Tyrone? There isn¡¯t a man in all of Emberbrook handsomer or wealthier thanN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Tyrone.¡±¡°If this news breaks, it will dominate the headlines in a heartbeat, a juicy tale of feuds and


    entanglements within the halls of the wealthy.¡±But the reporters¡¯ excitement was short-lived, cut off by


    the York family¡¯s bodyguards.The explosive story was suppressed thoroughly; by the time they


    emerged again, the faces of those with the scoop were ashen, their cameras, phones, video recorders,


    and voice recorders, all smashed to bits.Trying to scandalize Mr. Tyrone York in Emberbrook? That was


    a death wish.Tyrone slipped into the clothes his assistant had brought him, as Rachel wailed before


    him, ¡°Tyrone, I know, it must have been Quintessa who seduced you. Like father, like son. Her mother


    was a mistress, and so is she. Just like that vile woman, that tramp, born to lure in men. My brother


    should¡¯ve never brought her back, should have let her die out there. I was so good to her, and she


    repaid me like this. I must have been blind to not see how low and venomous she was.¡±Rachel was five


    years older than Quintessa and bore a slight resemnce to her. As Tyrone looked at Rachel spewing


    venom at Quintessa, he felt a deep revulsion.


    There was nothing about her he could stand anymore.He used to think she was at least observant and


    obedient, and when she lied to others, iming to be his fianc¨¦e, he couldn¡¯t be bothered to correct


    her. It saved him the trouble, after all.But now, he saw her for what she was: as foolish was she, she


    still pretended to be clever. Another nce would just sully his eyes.Tyrone¡¯s hand shot out, gripping


    Rachel¡¯s chin, ¡°I don¡¯t make a habit of hitting women, but don¡¯t y smart with me. You¡¯re nothing


    compared to your niece.¡±Rachel gasped, ¡°Tyrone.¡±¡°Get lost.¡±Despite her unwillingness, Rachel dared


    not anger Tyrone. She had schemed hard to be Tyrone¡¯s fianc¨¦e, a status she had reached with


    great difficulty. She could not let Quintessa ruin everything she had worked for.

 Chapter 2

    When the cops knocked on the door, Quintessa had just rolled out of bed where Tyroney.The air was


    still thick with the scent ofst night¡¯s steamy escapades, clothes strewn haphazardly on the floor ¨C a


    testament to the passion that had unfoldedst night.The persistent fierce knock at the hotel room door


    didn¡¯t faze her as she leisurely showered, slipped into her clothes, and applied her makeup with the


    meticulousness of someone in her own apartment.Who was she? Quintessa the notorious, the ultimate


    femme fatale, always had to look dazzling, outshining everyone with her radiance.


    Tyrone, bare-chested, still bore the tell-tale crimson marks of Quintessa¡¯s nails on his skin, a mottled


    pattern of desire. He lit a cigarette, ¡°You know, if you ask nicely, I might just be able to shave a couple


    years off your sentence.¡±Quintessa sauntered over, plucked the cigarette from his lips, took a drag, and


    then ced it back between his lips.Her slender hand yfully pped his cheek, taunting him in a


    manner reminiscent of a flirtatious tease, ¡°Mr. York, next time you go hunting for ady, keep your eyes


    open. Don¡¯t think just because you¡¯re loaded, I can¡¯t outsmart you.¡±Indeed, the man she had bedded


    was her aunt¡¯s man, the dream of every woman in Emberbrook, the sole heir to York Financial Group ¨C


    Tyrone York.His looks? Only those who¡¯d seen him knew. His wealth? Perhaps even he couldn¡¯t


    fathom.Otherwise, Quintessa wouldn¡¯t have been able to resist bonking him.Ranked as the city¡¯s most


    coveted one-night stand, Tyrone had spent the previous night tangled in the sheets with her. Quintessa


    couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of achievement; after all, not everyone could boast such a conquest.After


    that night, her verdict on the man? Rich and undeniably forceful. In every aspect, Tyrone had his


    pride.The police snarled outside, ¡±


    Open up, or we¡¯re breaking down the door!¡±Quintessa, confident she looked presentable, turned to


    answer it, but Tyrone suddenly grasped her wrist, ¡°This is yourst chance, Quintessa. Are you sure


    you don¡¯t want it?¡±His eyes, slightly upturned at the corners, his lips thin, nose sharp ¨C he was the


    epitome of detached beauty, always wearing a smirk of nonchnt arrogance. Those eyes, no matter


    who they were fixed on, were cold and indifferent; seemed devoid of warmth or emotion.Quintessa


    raised an eyebrow, ¡°What, got feelings for me now? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re nning to dump your fianc¨¦e


    to fool around with me. Since when did the illustrious Mr. York be so sentimental?¡±His grip


    tightened in an instant, nearly crushing her wrist, ¡°You sleeping with me, all just to get back at the


    Young family?¡±She blinked at him coquettishly, and then leaned in, her breath a whisper against his


    skin, ¡°I slept with you because you¡¯re Rachel¡¯s man. Isn¡¯t that something you¡¯ve known all along? Why


    the act of innocence?¡±From the moment she first saw Tyrone, she knew his heart was as cold as his


    blood; he was prideful, looked down on everyone, including her aunt, Rachel Young. No one could


    probably catch his eye.Darkness clouded his gaze as he spat out, ¡°You¡¯re despicable.¡±Her rosy lips


    curved, ¡°Indeed, and that¡¯s why you¡¯re hooked by me, aren¡¯t you?¡±With a thunderous crash, the door


    burst open and a motley crowd surged in ¨C cops, reporters, and the Young family members from the


    oldest to the youngest.Quintessa¡¯s aunt Rachel stormed at her, hand raised, and delivered a stinging


    p across her face, ¡°Quintessa, you tramp! Do you realize this is my fianc¨¦? Do you get it? He¡¯s


    supposed to be your future uncle-inw, and here you are seducing him! Have you no shame?¡±Tears


    streamed down Rachel¡¯s face, her visage a portrait of sorrow that could soften people¡¯s


    heart.Quintessa licked her split lip, tasting the metallic tang of blood. She nced at the frenzied


    reporters, their cameras clicking like crazed crickets, and sneered. And then, in a swift move, she


    wrapped her arms around Tyrone¡¯s neck and kissed him passionately. The crowd gasped and


    murmured as the cameras captured the scandalous moment.Tyrone hesitated, fully aware of what


    Quintessa was doing. He should have pushed her away, should have pped her for this brazen act,


    but, damn it all, he didn¡¯t. Instead he responded, wrapping his arms around her waist.Her waist was so


    slender; it was as if she had no bones at all. His brain, his body ¨C they both remembered all too well


    how she moved, like a siren¡¯s call.After a heated kiss, Quintessa released Tyrone and looked up at


    Rachel, saying, ¡°That¡¯s right.


    I¡¯m shameless. I deliberately slept with your man. What are you going to do about it?¡±The crowd was


    aghast.A mistress caught in the act should be running for cover, humiliated, shouldn¡¯t she? But this


    woman, she was brazenly defiant, kissing her future uncle-inw right in front of her aunt. Truly, there


    was no limit to her audacity!Rachel was so shocked she forgot to cry, her trembling finger pointed at


    Quintessa.Finally, a sympathetic police officer stepped forward and uttered, ¡°Quintessa, you¡¯re under


    arrest for embezzlement and assault. Please,e with us.¡±Quintessa cooperated, extending her


    hands for the cold handcuffs that strangelyplemented her wrists with a twisted beauty.As the


    police escorted Quintessa out, she paused by Rachel, whispering in her ear, ¡°You had the gall to y


    me, so I slept with your man. Let¡¯s see who gets thestugh.¡±Rachel¡¯s face instantly went pale.The


    night before, she had plotted against Quintessa, drugged her, hoping she¡¯d get addicted to drugs and


    then be defiled by some street thugs, all to be exposed by the media. Her whole life would be ruined


    totally.But somehow, Quintessa had turned the tables and ended up bonking Rachel¡¯s own fianc¨¦.


    Rachel gritted her teeth with utter venom.At the guest room door, Quintessa saw her father Sean, her


    stepmother, and her half-brother. They watched silently as she was taken away, their faces barely


    concealing their schadenfreude. Within the same family, Quintessa was the thorn they all wished to


    pluck.Embezzlement, assault ¨C these usations were the filth her family had sshed upon her.A


    malicious glint shing in her eye, Quintessa addressed her father, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t forget to visit. I¡¯ve got


    something you want, and if you don¡¯t show, I might just toss it.


    Who knows who¡¯ll pick it up then.¡±Sean¡¯s face twisted into a mask of disgust, ¡°I¡¯m so disappointed in


    you; I never imagined it woulde to this. I thought I¡¯d give you a chance to intern at thepany


    after graduation, but your greed knows no bounds. You had the audacity to embezzle funds. Who gave


    you such courage? Even now, with your back against the wall, you show no remorse. How did our


    family ever produce a ck sheep like you?¡±Quintessa sneered, ¡°Disappointed? You haven¡¯t seen true


    despair yet.¡±A police officer nudged Quintessa from behind, ¡°Quit dragging your feet; let¡¯s move.¡±In the


    end, Quintessa left her father with meaningful words, ¡°Dad, remember what I said. Time is running


    out.¡±Tyrone impassively watched Quintessa being led away, her demeanor unshaken in the face of


    doom, a wild recklessness that cared for nothing. A monster must dwell in that woman¡¯s


    heart.¡°Quintessa¡¯s been caught! She¡¯s been caught in an affair! She¡¯s headed to jail!¡±¡°Quintessa of


    Emberbrook, the notorious rich girl, has finally yed herst hand!¡±The reporters Rachel had called


    were ecstatic to the point of madness.¡°Quintessa, the second daughter of the Young family ofN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Emberbrook, was caught in bed with her own uncle-inw, and that adulterer was none other than


    Tyrone.¡±¡°Who¡¯s Tyrone? There isn¡¯t a man in all of Emberbrook handsomer or wealthier than Tyrone.¡±¡°If


    this news breaks, it will dominate the headlines in a heartbeat, a juicy tale of feuds and entanglements


    within the halls of the wealthy.¡±But the reporters¡¯ excitement was short-lived, cut off by the York family¡¯s


    bodyguards.The explosive story was suppressed thoroughly; by the time they emerged again, the


    faces of those with the scoop were ashen, their cameras, phones, video recorders, and voice


    recorders, all smashed to bits.Trying to scandalize Mr. Tyrone York in Emberbrook?


    That was a death wish.Tyrone slipped into the clothes his assistant had brought him, as Rachel wailed


    before him, ¡°Tyrone, I know, it must have been Quintessa who seduced you. Like father, like son. Her


    mother was a mistress, and so is she. Just like that vile woman, that tramp, born to lure in men. My


    brother should¡¯ve never brought her back, should have let her die out there. I was so good to her, and


    she repaid me like this. I must have been blind to not see how low and venomous she was.¡±Rachel was


    five years older than Quintessa and bore a slight resemnce to her. As Tyrone looked at Rachel


    spewing venom at Quintessa, he felt a deep revulsion. There was nothing about her he could stand


    anymore.He used to think she was at least observant and obedient, and when she lied to others,


    iming to be his fianc¨¦e, he couldn¡¯t be bothered to correct her. It saved him the trouble, after all.But


    now, he saw her for what she was: as foolish was she, she still pretended to be clever. Another nce


    would just sully his eyes.Tyrone¡¯s hand shot out, gripping Rachel¡¯s chin, ¡°I don¡¯t make a habit of hitting


    women, but don¡¯t y smart with me. You¡¯re nothingpared to your niece.¡±Rachel gasped,


    ¡°Tyrone.¡±¡°Get lost.¡±Despite her unwillingness, Rachel dared not anger Tyrone. She had schemed hard


    to be Tyrone¡¯s fianc¨¦e, a status she had reached with great difficulty. She could not let Quintessa


    ruin everything she had worked for.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    Sean¡¯s face twisted into a mask of disgust, ¡°I¡¯m so disappointed in you; I never imagined it woulde


    to this. I thought I¡¯d give you a chance to intern at thepany after graduation, but your greed knows


    no bounds. You had the audacity to embezzle funds. Who gave you such courage? Even now, with


    your back against the wall, you show no remorse. How did our family ever produce a ck sheep like


    you?¡±


    Quintessa sneered, ¡°Disappointed? You haven¡¯t seen true despair yet.¡°¨C


    A police officer nudged Quintessa from behind, ¡°Quit dragging your feet; let¡¯s move.¡±


    In the end, Quintessa left her father with meaningful words, ¡°Dad, remember what I said. Time is


    running out.¡±


    Tyrone impassively watched Quintessa being led away, her demeanor unshaken in the face of doom, a


    wild recklessness that cared for nothing. A monster must dwell in that


    woman¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Quintessa¡¯s been caught! She¡¯s been caught in an affair! She¡¯s headed to jail!¡±


    ¡°Quintessa of Emberbrook, the notorious rich girl, has finally yed herst hand!¡±


    The reporters Rachel had called were ecstatic to the point of madness.


    ¡°Quintessa, the second daughter of the Young family of Emberbrook, was caught in bed with her own


    uncle¨Cinw, and that adulterer was none other than Tyrone.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s Tyrone? There isn¡¯t a man in all of Emberbrook handsomer or wealthier than Tyrone.¡±


    ¡°If this news breaks, it will dominate the headlines in a heartbeat, a juicy tale of feuds and


    entanglements within the halls of the wealthy.¡±


    But the reporters¡® excitement was short¨Clived, cut off by the York family¡¯s bodyguards.


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The explosive story was suppressed thoroughly; by the time they emerged again, the faces of those


    with the scoop were ashen, their cameras, phones, video recorders, and voice recorders, all smashed


    to bits.


    Trying to scandalize Mr. Tyrone York in Emberbrook? That was a death wish.


    Tyrone slipped into the clothes his assistant had brought him, as Rachel wailed before him, ¡°Tyrone, I


    know, it must have been Quintessa who seduced you. Like father, like son. Her mother was a mistress,


    and so is she. Just like that vile woman, that tramp, born to lure in men. My brother should¡¯ve never


    brought her back, should have let her die out there. I was so good to her, and she repaid me like this. I


    must have been blind to not see how low and venomous she was.¡±


    Rachel was five years older than Quintessa and bore a slight resemnce to her. As


    Tyrone looked at Rachel spewing venom at Quintessa, he felt a deep revulsion. There was nothing


    about her he could stand anymore.


    He used to think she was at least observant and obedient, and when she lied to others, iming to be


    his fianc¨¦e, he couldn¡¯t be bothered to correct her. It saved him the trouble, after all.


    But now, he saw her for what she was: as foolish was she, she still pretended to be clever. Another


    nce would just sully his eyes.


    Tyrone¡¯s hand shot out gripping Rachel¡¯s chin, ¡°I don¡¯t make a habit of hitting women, but don¡¯t y


    smart with me. You¡¯re nothingpared to your niece.¡±


    Rachel gasped, ¡°Tyrone.¡±


    ¡°Get lost


    Despite her unwillingness, Rachel dared not anger Tyrone. She had schemed hard to be Tyrone¡¯s


    fianc¨¦e, a status she had reached with great difficulty. She could not let Quintessa ruin everything she


    had worked for

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    Rachel nodded, ¡°Well, then rest up. I¡¯ll swing by tomorrow to check on you.¡±


    Once she stepped out the door, her eyes instantly filled with venomous hate, her hands clenched so


    tightly her nails dug into her flesh.-


    N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°Quintessa, I won¡¯t let you prance around freely anymore.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s assistant, James, approached, and Rachel quickly masked her spite with a smile, ¡°James.¡±


    But James brushed past her, knocking on a door and disappearing inside. Rachel¡¯s face. darkened.


    James asked in a hushed tone, ¡°Mr. York, about that Ms. Quintessa Young situation, do we continue to


    intervene?¡±


    Tyrone scoffed, ¡°Intervene? Did she beg you for it?¡±


    ¡°No, she did not.¡±


    ¡°If she¡¯s so damn proud, why should I lift a finger? Otherwise, she might think I¡¯m desperate.¡±


    James bowed his head lower; looked like Mr. York wanted Ms. Young toe to plead. He wondered if


    someone like Ms. Young would ever stoop to ask for help.


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze swept over the disheveled bed, the stark white sheets marred by a stain of red, which


    stung his eyes.


    When Quintessa got nabbed, everyone who knew her ¨C rtives, friends, ssmates, neighbors ¨C


    breathed a sigh of relief..


    Because everyone thought Quintessa was rotten to the core; she deserved to be punished. With her


    fox¨Clike beauty and her penchant for shy outfits, she just didn¡¯t seem


    trustworthy.


    Her mother was a home¨Cwrecker, and so was she, outdoing even her mother in cunning. She snatched


    her sister¡¯s boyfriend, seduced her aunt¡¯s fianc¨¦, and stole her best friend¡¯s man. She was a


    homewrecker through and through. So now that she was locked up. everyone spat in disgust and then


    said with satisfaction, ¡°She had iting!¡±


    People always suspected that a day like this woulde for Quintessa, the sly temptress. Atst, it


    seemed like justice had been served, and there was much rejoicing.


    On the fourth day of her detention, Quintessa¡¯s father ¨C Sean finally showed up.


    Although they were blood¨Crted, at that moment, they seemed like mortal enemies. Sean hissed,


    ¡°Quintessa, what the hell do you want?¡±


    She spread her hands, ¡°What do I want? Look at me now. What more could I possibly want?¡±


    Dressed in the detention center¡¯s jumpsuit, her hair tied back with a simple rubber band, her face bare


    of makeup, her lips chapped.


    Yet even so, she looked still strikingly alluring. Some women just had that indescribable charm, no


    matter what they wore, shy attire or something in tatters.


    Their appearance might not be gorgeous, but they exuded an intoxicating allure. Touched. them once,


    and you were ensnared for life.


    Sean stared into Quintessa¡¯s eyes. She was smiling, but her gaze was icy cold. Sean. quickly felt


    uneasy and looked away, admitting, ¡°The case against you is strong, the evidence solid. There¡¯s no


    way you¡¯re getting out.¡±


    Quintessa sneered, ¡°Solid evidence? Dad, have you hurt your brain? I won¡¯t waste words with you. You


    have two days. If I¡¯m not out by then, well, I guess you¡¯ll have toe in here and join me.¡±


    Solid evidence? All the charges against her were the result of the Young family¡¯s meticulous plotting


    and scheming


    Embezzling funds? That was her dear father¡¯s doing. Assault with intent? That was her step¨Csister¡¯s


    tactic.


    But no matter, she had dirt on Sean, and she had ways to get out.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    Sean¡¯s forehead veins were throbbing with rage as he spat out, ¡°Quintessa, you little bastard.¡±


    Quintessa mocked him with a sneer, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m the bastard. The one you brought into this world. If you


    had just been shooting nks, we wouldn¡¯t be having these troubles now, would we?¡±


    Sean was so exasperated pain gripped his lungs, ¡°I should have strangled you when I had the chance.¡±


    Leaning against the table, Quintessaughed, ¡°Yeah, you should have, just like you drove my mom to


    her grave.¡±


    Everyone in town gossiped about how Quintessa¡¯s mother was the homewrecker, but little did they


    know, it was actually Mrs. Young, the current wife, who was the real mistress.


    Outsiders always referred to her as the second eldest daughter, but who would guess that Quintessa


    was actually a year older than her sister?


    When Sean married her mother, and she was barely pregnant, Sean had already set his sights on a


    more affluent match, driving Quintessa¡¯s mother to despair.


    To cover up the scandal, he conspired with the now Mrs. Young ¨C Lilian Young ¨C to falsify Quintessa¡¯s


    age by a year, iming that Quintessa¡¯s mother seduced Sean while Lilian was pregnant with their first


    child.


    They spun a tale that Quintessa¡¯s mother, the supposed mistress, had died in an ident, and out of


    pity for the child, Mrs. Lilian Young graciously allowed her into the Young family.


    Thus, Emberbrook¡¯s elite circles praised Mrs. Lilian Young for her kindness and her magnanimity


    towards her husband¡¯s illegitimate daughter.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    And Quintessa¡¯s mother? They said she got what she deserved, punished by God for wrecking a


    home.


    But who knew that the Young family never saw Quintessa as one of their own? That she survived to


    this age was due not only to luck but to the Youngs¡® belief that she was beneath their concern. When


    they were upset or in need of amusement, tormenting her seemed to lighten their spirits. For years,


    Quintessa¡¯s existence in the Young family had been nothing but a source of humiliation and


    entertainment for them.


    The image of her mother¡¯s jumping off the building was etched into Quintessa¡¯s memory, fueling a


    hatred that never subsided, burning inside her and threatening to consume her whole.


    At the age of eight, Quintessa was brought into the Young family, and that was the day all


    12


    warmth and happiness were severed from her life.


    The hatred that zed in Quintessa¡¯s eyes sent a chill down Sean¡¯s spine, and he abruptly realized


    that the daughter he had neglected for years had, unbeknownst to him, morphed Into a demon.


    She was ensnared in darkness, her jaws wide open, waiting for the moment to devour the entire Young


    family, even if it meant her own destruction.


    Sean quivered, ¡°You want revenge for your mom?¡±


    Only then did Sean understand what Quintessa truly sought.


    Quintessa red at him with eyes red as if she¡¯d crawled out from hell itself, ¡°The day you brought me


    into the Young family was the day you should¡¯ve known that I woulde back to ensure none of you


    would ever know peace again.¡±


    Sean, feeling guilty and vulnerable, could only muster a facade of bravado. He mmed his hand on


    the table and bellowed, ¡°I¡¯m your father! Without me, you would¡¯ve been dead a long time ago. And


    your mother¡¯s death has nothing to do with me. She brought it on herself.¡±


    Sean was a man of selfishness, who would kick anyone off his path to wealth without


    hesitation and without remorse.


    Quintessa¡¯sugh was manic, her gaze icy as she stared at Sean, sending shivers all over his body.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    Quintessa drawled, ¡°All these years, and have I ever told you, Sean, how utterly revolting you are when


    you shed your decency? What makes you think you can get away with destroying my mom¡¯s life,


    trampling over my happiness, and still sleep soundly at night? I¡¯ll tell you this if I can¡¯t be happy, then no


    one in your precious little family will.¡±


    Sean¡¯s heart skipped a beat, but he was a seasoned yer in life¡¯s cruel games and quickly regained


    composure. With an air of condescension, he said, ¡°Now, don¡¯t do anything rash. Miranda¡¯s already in


    the hospital because of you. Don¡¯t think you can ckmail me with whatever you think you¡¯ve got.


    You¡¯re still green if you want to go up against me. But out of the love I once had for you as my


    daughter, I might be able to pull some strings and get you a lighter sentence ¨C shave off a couple of


    years.¡±


    Quintessa let out a bitterugh, ¡°A couple of years? What do you take me for, a beggar grateful for


    scraps? You married my mom, discarded her like she was nothing, and she died because of it. You


    should¡¯ve known that by leaving me behind, you left your debt unpaid. As long as I¡¯m here, I¡¯ll be the


    noose around your whole family¡¯s neck.¡±


    Her voice rose, she eximed, ¡°I¡¯m not interested in making deals with you anymore. Officer, I have a


    report to make.¡±


    Sean¡¯s heart hammered against his ribcage, ¡°Shut up! Don¡¯t think I¡¯m actually afraid of


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    you.¡±


    Suddenly, Quintessa grabbed his shirt, her eyes zing with fury. ¡°After all these years of putting up


    with your family, do you really think I¡¯ve got nothing on you? Don¡¯t believe me? Then test me. Like your


    secretary who vanished five years ago, or the gift basket you sent. to Mayorst Thanksgiving ¨C I know


    plenty. And let me tell you, I¡¯m not afraid to go down if it means taking you with me. No one¡¯s gonna


    treat me as any sucker.¡±


    Sean couldn¡¯t afford to take the risk; Quintessa was clearly out for blood, regardless of the cost.


    Weighing his options, he said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get you out, but you have to agree to one condition -once


    you¡¯re out, leave the country immediately and nevere back.¡±


    Quintessa nced at him with disdain, ¡°Officer, why aren¡¯t you here yet?¡±


    ¡°At least ten years, Quintessa. That¡¯s the best I can offer. Don¡¯t push it.¡±


    ¡°Officer, I have important information here.¡±


    The approaching officer asked impatiently, ¡°What is it?¡±


    Sean abruptly stopped Quintessa, ¡°How long do you want?¡±


    ¡°No more than three years.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s too short.¡±


    Quintessa shrugged, ¡°Your call. It makes no difference to me ¨C I¡¯m not scared.¡±


    14:15


    Chapte


    Gritting his teeth, Sean relented, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll agree to your terms. Give me five days.¡±


    Quintessa rose to her feet, ¡°You have two days, Sean. I won¡¯t wait a second longer.¡±


    Turning to the officer, she said, ¡°You can take me back now.¡±


    That evening, the atmosphere in the Young family¡¯s living room was heavy with tension. The five of


    them, each seething with rage, wished they could y Quintessa alive.


    But Quintessa was like a stubborn mule, unfazed by their threats and posturing. They had reputations


    to uphold, positions of power ¨C they couldn¡¯t afford to go all in like she could.


    Quintessa was like a tough piece of meat; no matter how you sliced her, she wouldn¡¯t be frightened and


    even leave you wounded.


    Lilian clenched her teeth, ¡°Three years it is. We have plenty of time to handle her. She won¡¯t be stirring


    up any more trouble.¡±


    Miranda, fuming, smashed a ss on the table, ¡°Mom, why don¡¯t we just take care of her in jail? Let


    her die in there, so she won¡¯te out and haunt us anymore.¡±

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    Lilian tapped her forehead, ¡°You don¡¯t get it, kiddo. If we throw punches in the detention. center, It¡¯s not


    her that¡¯s going down it¡¯s us. Once she¡¯s out of the country, there are a million ways to make her


    disappear without a trace.¡±


    Sean nodded in agreement, ¡°Your mom¡¯s right. We need to get her out and ship her off abroad. Once


    she¡¯s out there, who¡¯s gonna care what happens to her? There are a hundred ways to make her


    demise look like an ident.¡±


    Miranda rolled her eyes and turned to Rachel, ¡°Rachel, how are things with you and Mr. York these


    days?¡±


    Rachel snapped back to reality and replied nonchntly, ¡°Things are good.¡±


    Miranda curled her lips, ¡°Well, our family is lucky to have someone as even¨Ctempered as you. If it were


    Jay getting seduced by that snake Quintessa, I¡¯d be bawling my eyes out, swearing to take her down.¡±


    Sean scolded, ¡°Miranda, zip it.¡±


    Miranda huffed but fell silent. The youngest of the Young family, Matthew, who had been quiet, drawled,


    ¡°Are we done here? If so, I¡¯m heading back to my room.


    Lilian stroked her son¡¯s hair with affection, ¡°Go on, dear. Don¡¯t miss your sses


    tomorrow.¡±


    Matthew subtly dodged his mother¡¯s hand and made his way upstairs.


    Back in her room, Rachel was restless. That bitch Quintessa still had dirt on her brother.


    Thinking of Quintessa was like having a bone stuck in her throat. The thought of her walking free


    churned Rachel¡¯s insides with hatred. She couldn¡¯t do anything to Quintessa now, but she couldn¡¯t


    stand doing nothing either.


    She nced at the clock; it wasn¡¯t even 11 PM yet. Rachel stepped out. If she couldn¡¯t stop Quintessa


    from getting out, she had to do something ¨C at least make Quintessa repulsive in Tyrone¡¯s eyes..


    She headed straight for Tyrone¡¯s usual haunt ¨C Luxe Haven Club.


    The club was Tyrone¡¯s own creation, not for profit, but for his personal enjoyment andfort.


    Arriving there, she found all the notable young men of Emberbrook gathered, but among this elite


    crowd, Tyrone stood out effortlessly. In any gathering, his presence shone the brightest ¨C next to him,


    others were mere stars beside the sun and moon.


    While the others were busy flirting with their dates, Tyrone was the picture of calm. Two gorgeous girls


    were massaging his legs, and no one dared to make a peep.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    14:151


    Rachel watched Tyrone, utterly captivated. Such an extraordinary man, she had to have him, no matter


    what. She couldn¡¯t let Quintessa touch him again.


    She approached and sat down, but Tyrone acted as if she were invisible. As Rachel tried to think of


    what to say, she blurted out some trivialities before ying the victim.


    ¡°Tyrone, you might not believe it, but Quintessa¡¯s threatening my brother. She¡¯s dragging our family


    down with her even though she¡¯s the one whomitted a crime. She even turned on her own father.


    I¡¯ve never seen anyone more vile, more malicious. She¡¯s a dent. Today, she might cling to you because


    she needs you, but tomorrow, she could turn on you in a heartbeat. You have to be careful with her.¡±


    Suddenly, Tyrone sshed the drink in his hand onto one of the girls massaging his legs and barked,


    ¡°Get lost.¡±


    The girls scrambled away as Tyrone stood up and left.


    Throughout the entire ordeal, Rachel felt like a clown, and Tyrone hadn¡¯t even spared her a nce.


    Her face burning with humiliation, Rachel was acutely aware of everyone¡¯s eyes on her, making her


    wish she could just disappear.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    Rachel clenched her teeth, mustering the poise of ady of the manor; she bit the bullet and said,


    ¡°Tyrone¡¯s in a foul mood. Don¡¯t mind him; I¡¯ll go check on him.¡±


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The moment she stepped out, a voice sneered from behind, ¡°Pfft, Mr. York doesn¡¯t give two hoots about


    her, and there she goes acting all high and mighty.¡±


    Rachel¡¯s teeth were gritted hard, but she had to pretend she hadn¡¯t heard a thing. Her n was to


    badmouth Quintessa in front of Tyrone to turn him against her. Now, it seemed to have backfired


    spectacrly.


    The next morning at the office, James noticed that Tyrone was in a particrly sour mood and didn¡¯t


    dare to speak out of turn. Tentatively, he asked, ¡°Mr. York, Ms. Quintessa Young has been detained for


    almost a week now. Are we really not going to inquire?¡±


    Tyrone sneered, ¡°Inquire about what? She¡¯s more than capable of dealing with her own messes. She


    doesn¡¯t need your pathetic concern.¡±


    James bowed his head. For days, Mr. York had been distracted, obviously waiting for Ms. Young to


    come begging to him. It seemed that wait would be in vain.


    A weekter, at Emberbrook International Airport.


    The Young family had all gathered, for today was the day they were sending Quintessa abroad. They


    were eager to ¡°see her off¡± ¨C and make sure she didn¡¯t cause any more trouble. With a crowd present,


    it was easier to keep an eye on her.


    Tyrone was there too, and even Miranda, along with her boyfriend, Jerome.


    The Youngs couldn¡¯t wait to let the world know that Quintessa, the troublemaker, was finally getting her


    comeuppance.


    Sean said sternly, ¡°It¡¯s almost time. Go through security, and once you¡¯re abroad, hit the books and turn


    over a new leaf.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t wait for Quintessa to board the ne. The longer he looked at her, the more he felt the


    urge to strangle her.


    To get Quintessa out of prison, he had spent a small fortune, which pained him to even think about. He


    deeply regretted not having cut ties with her sooner.


    Miranda also urged, ¡°Sis, it¡¯s time for your flight.¡±


    Quintessa was dressed to kill that day, her allure undeniable. Her fox¨Clike eyes sparkled, ready to


    ensnare any man¡¯s soul.


    As Miranda looked at her, her jealousy was hard to contain. No matter how she tormented Quintessa


    over the years, she was like a cactus in the desert ¨C impossible to kill.


    As they grew up, anytime they were together, Quintessa¡¯s radiance overshadowed


    14:15


    everyone else. To the world, Quintessa always stood out. The name Miranda, inparison, seemed


    like a cruel joke.


    Quintessa had Just a small suitcase at her feet. She cast azy nce at Miranda, ¡°What¡¯s the rush?


    Worried. I¡¯ll steal your Jay?¡±


    Miranda gritted her teeth, forcing a smile, ¡°Quinn, I don¡¯t mean to lecture you, but ady should be


    modest. Nobody respects a girl who acts like you do. You should have some self¨Crespect.¡±


    Ever since Quintessa joined the Young family at eight, Miranda had despised her. After years of


    hostility, she wanted to crush Quintessapletely.


    Quintessa arched an eyebrow, ¡°Oh, really?¡±


    Suddenly, she reached out towards Jerome¡¯s chest. Everyone was startled as her hand slipped inside


    Jerome¡¯s coat.


    Miranda exploded on spot, ¡°Quintessa, what are you doing? Was seducing Mr. York not enough? Now


    you¡¯re after your brother¨Cinw?¡±


    Quintessa, unbothered by the usation, swiftly pulled a wallet from Jerome¡¯s pocket.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    Quintessa flung open her purse and deftly extracted the cash inside before tossing the wallet to


    Jerome, ¡°Jerome. Consider the cashpensation for your girlfriend¡¯s offense against me.


    Jerome¡¯s handsome face momentarily registered surprise but quickly regained his usual refined


    composure. His eyes, hidden behind those wire¨Crimmed sses, twinkled with interest. With a slight


    curl of his lips, he responded smoothly, ¡°Safe travels.¡±


    Miranda¡¯s face twisted with anger, ¡°Quintessa, even if you have no shame, we do. What¡¯s the


    difference between you and a streetwalker?¡±


    Quintessa ignored Miranda¡¯s words, carelessly stuffing the money into her handbag, ¡°My dear sister,


    after all these years, you still haven¡¯t learned. How many times have I told your not to provoke me?


    Otherwise, I can¡¯t predict what I might do.¡±


    Spencer clenched his teeth, ¡°Quinn, what are you trying to pull? It¡¯s not like we haven¡¯t given you


    money.¡±


    Quintessa sneered, ¡°Oh, have you? Since when? I must¡¯ve missed the memo.¡±


    The Youngs were stingy when it came to her. Aside from a small suitcase and a ne ticket, Quintessa


    had nothing.


    N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    They weren¡¯t sending her abroad; they were exiling her. They¡¯d probably rejoice if she never made it


    back.


    The expressions on the faces of the Youngs turned sour as if they had swallowed something foul. Sean


    was nearly grinding his teeth to dust, ¡°If you don¡¯t leave now, you¡¯ll miss your flight.¡±


    Quintessa stood her ground, ¡°If I miss it, I won¡¯t go. I¡¯m in no rush.¡±


    Sean looked like he wanted to throttle her, but he managed to keep his fury in check. He pulled out his


    wallet and handed her some cash, ¡°You¡¯ve always been reckless with money. Try to be more frugal


    abroad. We¡¯ll send you living expenses regrly.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed at the notion of being called reckless with money. She yanked the cash from his


    hand, a paltry three to four hundred bucks by her estimate.


    She nced at the cards and thought that if they weren¡¯t useless abroad, she might as well have taken


    them all.


    Quintessa stuffed the cash into her bag, ¡°If you had been this generous earlier, things would be so


    much simpler. Keep pinching pennies like this, and you¡¯ll be bankrupt before you know it.¡±


    Tyrone had been silent throughout the exchange. His eyes narrowed as he watched Quintessa¡¯s


    graceful figure. A nameless rage burned within him.


    This woman hadn¡¯t even nced at him once the whole time.


    When Rachel noticed Tyrone¡¯s gaze on Quintessa, she spoke softly with her eyes red, ¡°Quinn, I won¡¯t


    hold that night against you. Since you¡¯ve called me ¡®auntie¡®, I¡¯ll give you some advice. You can¡¯t act like


    this outside. Not every woman will be as forgiving as I


    am.¡±


    Rachel posed as if she were magnanimous and kind, seemingly letting Quintessa off the hook but with


    every word aimed to wound, short of saying, ¡°Don¡¯t be so promiscuous; stop hopping into every man¡¯s


    bed.¡±


    Quintessa knew Rachel¡¯s game. She was trying to show Tyrone her good¨Cnatured and obedient side,


    unlike Quintessa, the shameless one; they were not in the same league.


    Quintessa chuckled, ¡°Auntie Rachel, you¡¯re just brimming with kindness. Since you¡¯ve been so


    gracious, why should I hold back?¡±


    Rachel paused as she sensed trouble brewing. Quintessa turned on her heel to face. Tyrone, her hand


    hooking around his neck, ¡°Tyrone, do you like my lipstick today?¡±


    Tyrone replied dryly, ¡°Passable.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s fingers traced Tyrone¡¯s lips, ¡°Want a taste?¡±

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, ¡°Do you dare?¡±


    Rachel had purposely told Tyrone that Quintessa was leaving town today. She wanted to stand before


    Quintessa with Tyrone by her side, dering that no matter what games Quintessa yed, this man


    belonged to her.


    But she had underestimated Quintessa; the woman never yed by the rules.


    Quintessa nced sideways at Rachel, ¡°Did my dear auntie ever mention that I¡¯m bold as brass?¡±


    With that, Quintessa stood on her tiptoes and captured Tyrone¡¯s lips in a daring kiss. Their familiarity


    with each other¡¯s mouths turned the kiss into a steamy embrace, causing onlookers to blush and hearts


    to race.


    Miranda spat out in disgust, grabbing Jerome¡¯s hand and said, ¡°Jay, sorry for the spectacle. Quintessa


    has no shame whatsoever.¡±


    Jerome¡¯s lips curled as the light glinted off his sses, and his warm eyes darkened with intrigue.


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa let go of Tyrone, ¡°Tyrone, when you¡¯re in Serenitia, don¡¯t forget to look me up.¡±


    Tyrone squinted at her slightly swollen lips, ¡°Depends on my mood.¡±


    ¡°With me around, could your mood possibly be bad?¡±


    ¡°You never know. It might just get worse.¡±


    Cursing Tyrone silently a hundred times, Quintessa tiptoed again for another quick kiss,


    ¡°And now?¡±


    ¡°Barely passable.¡±


    Quintessa turned to shoot a defiant nce at a pale¨Cfaced Rachel, lifting her chin as if to say, ¡°What


    are you going to do about it?¡±


    Today, Quintessa was on cloud nine, her actions screaming to Rachel, ¡°He might be your man, but I¡¯m


    the one enjoying him.¡±


    Gathering her luggage, Quintessa swept her gaze across the entire Young family with a smirk, ¡°I¡¯ll be


    back.¡±


    She had to return; how could she rest easy abroad when the Young family members were still living


    well? She was young and alone, capable of epting defeat.


    But one day, she vowed to return and reim every debt the Young family owed her and her mother.


    10


    Quintessa strode away decisively, her slender silhouette quickly vanishing at the security checkpoint.


    With the troublemaker gone, the Youngs collectively exhaled in relief. A sh of resentment flickered in


    Lilian¡¯s eyes. She would never allow Quintessa to set foot in Emberbrook again.


    Exiting the airport, Rachel jogged to catch up with Tyrone.


    Her fianc¨¦ had been kissing her niece right in front of her, a direct p to her face. Yet, in Tyrone¡¯s


    presence, she was too intimidated to speak up.


    ¡°Tyrone, wait for me.¡±


    He had barely gotten into the car when Rachel arrived, panting, and slid into the passenger


    seat.


    Tyrone looked at her with disgust, ¡°Get out!¡±


    ¡°But Tyrone.¡± Rachel started, her voiceced with hurt.


    Impatiently, Tyrone snapped, ¡°Don¡¯t make me kick you out.¡±


    Rachel shivered. Tyrone wasn¡¯t the kind of man who refrained from hitting women; if one angered him,


    he wouldn¡¯t care about gender- he¡¯d strike just the same.


    Biting her lip, Rachel said, ¡°Just drive carefully.¡±


    She opened the door and stepped out.


    Miranda pulled up beside Rachel in Jerome¡¯s car, ¡°Oh, Aunt Rachel, you¡¯re looking pretty pathetic.


    Need a lift?¡±


    Rachel turned to face Miranda¡¯s gloating expression and offered a cold smile, ¡°Rather than wasting


    time mocking me, you might want to spend it keeping an eye on your man. Wouldn¡¯t want to find out he


    slept with her too, with nowhere left for you to cry.¡±

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    Miranda was livid with anger. She nced at Jerome unwittingly; seeing him unfazed, she rxed


    slightly and snapped her head towards Rachel, barking, ¡°Cut the crap. Jay wouldn¡¯t give the time of day


    to that kind of girl.¡±


    Rachel let out a scornfulugh. That kind of girl? That kind of girl who, despite everything, seemed to


    charm every man in sight, even if it was just for a shot at warming her bed.


    At the boarding gate, James handed Quintessa a thick envelope, ¡°Ms. Young, this is from Mr. York, for


    your services that evening.¡±


    Quintessa peeked inside to find it stuffed with crisp greenbacks. She chuckled bitterly, ¡°So the man¡¯s


    conscience hasn¡¯t been entirely devoured by wolves.¡±


    ¡°I should get going. Safe travels, Ms. Young.¡±


    ¡°Hold up.


    Quintessa pulled out her lipstick andpact, freshening up her makeup before plucking a brand¨Cnew


    bill from the envelope. She left a bright red kiss mark on it, ¡°Give this to your boss as his tip, and let him


    know I was less than impressed with his performance that


    night.¡±


    James felt as if the lipstick¨Cstained bill was a ticking time bomb ¨C whether to take it or leave it was a


    dilemma. In the end, Quintessa stuffed the bill into his pocket.


    As the ne took off, Quintessa cast onest look at the cityscape below. She needed to remember


    this ce, the two¨Cfaced people she¡¯d leave behind, a constant reminder that her revenge was still a


    debt unpaid.


    The aircraft pierced the clouds, and Quintessa turned away. Catching sight of the envelope peeking out


    of her bag, she smirked coldly. Everyonebeled Quintessa the homewrecker, as if she had stolen their


    men. Yet, the truth was, she had slept with only. one man, Tyrone, and even that had been part of his


    own calcted pursuit.


    A chillingly beautiful smile curled on her lips. No matter. She had ignited his fury, and in time, on her


    terms, she¡¯d do as they feared and lure away all their men.


    Two hourster, James presented the hundred¨Cdor bill to Tyrone, ¡°Mr. York, this is from Ms.


    Quintessa Young.¡±


    After hesitating, James ryed Quintessa¡¯s message word for word.


    The bill, emzoned with that red kiss in the center, brought back memories. Those lips, recently his to


    kiss soft, fragrant, sweet ¨C could stir the deepest desires in a man.


    But now, Tyrone swore if she were in front of him, he¡¯d bite those lips until they bled.


    Three yearster.


    14:161


    Chapter 11


    At Emberbrook Airport, T2 was bustling with activity as passengers from the Serenitia to Emberbrook


    flight made their way through.


    A woman with long, seaweed¨Clike hair cascaded down her back, swayed with each step she took.


    Oversized sunsses concealed half of her face, but the bold red lips beneath stood out, alluring and


    vivid. The click¨Cck of her stiletto heels echoed like a drumbeat against the heart, and she donned a


    trench coat straight from thetest fashion week ¨C a piece that somehow looked even better on her


    than on the runway models. She exuded a sultry air mixed with chic confidence, as mesmerizing as a


    gem amongst pebbles, dazzling and full of grace.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Passersby couldn¡¯t help but sneak photos with their phones. Whispers fluttered among


    them.


    ¡°Is she a celebrity? She¡¯s got that superstar aura.¡±


    ¡°She looks familiar. Maybe she¡¯s returning from abroad?¡±

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    ¡°I have no idea, but dang, she¡¯s a knockout ¨C charisma for days.¡±


    As the woman disappeared into the distance, the buzz of the crowd settled into a hush.


    Miranda tugged at Jerome¡¯s arm, her voice yfully whining, ¡°Jay, what were you staring at? You must


    be beat from that business trip. Look at those bags under your eyes. Let¡¯s J¨²st head home and get


    some rest, okay?¡±


    Jerome¡¯s lips curled, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Miranda prodded further, ¡°Why are you suddenly in such a good mood?¡±


    Jerome nced toward the exit, ¡°Suddenly, the weather seems nice.¡±


    A roguish grin spread across Jerome¡¯s handsome, schrly face. Suddenly, he felt this stagnant life of


    his might just start to get interesting. He was looking forward to it.


    Settled in the back of the nanny van, Violet asked Quintessa, ¡°How does it feel to be back?¡±


    Quintessa rolled down the window, stretching her arm out, feigning a look of ecstasy, ¡°The familiar


    homnd, the familiar air ¨C my blood¡¯s boiling.¡±


    The wind slipped through her fingers as if she could grasp it in her hands. Three years


    ago, on the day she left, she had said she would return one day.


    Chubby Violet, with twinkling eyes full of excitement, chimed in, ¡°Don¡¯t you just want to make a big


    ssh?¡±


    Quintessa opened her eyes, her captivating fox¨Clike gaze was stunning beyond measure, ¡°Exactly ¨C a


    big ssh.¡±


    Exiled for three years, she had evaded the Young family¡¯s countless assassination attempts. Now back


    in town, how could she not turn Emberbrook upside down? How else could she honor those she had


    longed for over a thousand nights?


    Violet swallowed.nervously, thinking if there ever was a siren in human form, it had to be her. Violet


    patted Quintessa¡¯s hand, ¡°No rush. You¡¯re my ace in the hole now. Rest up, and I¡¯ll take you


    conquering.¡±


    Quintessa smiled, ¡°Sure, you make the ns.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Violet was her agent, in her forties, and despite her plump and amiable appearance, she had the


    cunning of a tiger She had been in the business for ages, had a vastwork, and was quite savvy.


    The only pity was that she had left her old agency to strike out on her own.


    Violet informed Quintessa, ¡°Before you came back, I picked out a couple of scripts for your


    1/2


    one TV series and one movie. We¡¯ll start with auditions for Fitch Frost¡¯s new project. It¡¯s


    hot, pce¨Cintrigue series. I¡¯ve read the script, and the supporting role is perfect for you. If we nall this


    role and get the PR right, I guarantee you¡¯ll blow up domestically. I showed your photo to Director


    Frost. He said if your face is the real deal, it¡¯s a great fit.


    I


    And there¡¯s a film script. The role isn¡¯t that major, but the director is Zachary Gardner, the wunderkind


    of the film world. Anyone who works with him is A¨Clist, with killer box office draw. Even Just a cameo in


    this flick could be huge for us.¡±


    Quintessa nodded. She knew her path wouldn¡¯t be smooth when she decided to return. Her


    battleground was set. What remained was how she would fight.


    Whether it was her career or the undying mes of vengeance in her heart. No matter how tough the


    road ahead, she wouldn¡¯t turn back, even if it meant a battered and bloody path. Quintessa gazed out


    at the towering skyscrapers, her lips arching upwards. She was


    back.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    Violet had set up Quintessa in a downtown apartment ¨C not exactly in the city¡¯s swanklest


    neighborhood but still a safe haven for the well¨Cto¨Cdo professionals. The ce was


    modest, a one¨Cbedroom with understated and minimalist decor.


    Violet said to Quintessa, ¡°Once you hit the big time, I¡¯ll get you a better ce.¡±


    ¡°Sounds good to me,¡± Quintessa replied.


    She wasn¡¯t fussy about her living conditions. Back in Serenitia, when times were tough, she¡¯d gone


    days subsisting on nothing, not even any bread.


    Besides, Quintessa knew that Violet was not having an easy time herself. She had split from her former


    business partner to start her own studio and was still in the early, toughest stages, with her old boss


    applying pressure from the shadows.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Considering all that, spending nearly a grand a month to rent this ce for her was pretty decent.


    After a couple of days of settling in, Violet burst in, full of energy, with a young man sporting ck¨C


    rimmed sses and a youthful, unpolished look, ¡°This is your new assistant and makeup artist.¡±


    The young man hurried forward, ¡°Hi Quinn, I¡¯m Manny.¡±


    Quintessa was somewhat surprised; she hadn¡¯t expected Violet to hire a boy as her makeup artist, and


    a multitasking one at that ¨C a real exploitation ofbor.


    ¡°Fresh out of school?¡± She inquired.


    Manny nodded, ¡°Yeah. I get my diploma next month.¡±


    Violet nced at her watch, ¡°Let¡¯s get moving, Manny. Get Quinn ready. We¡¯ve got an audition in two


    hours.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Quintessa nodded, understanding better than anyone the gravity of the situation. She had. tond this


    role, no matter what, by any means necessary.


    The first audition went smoothly. The assistant director handed Quintessa a script and asked for an


    impromptu performance. After her performance, they told her toe back the next day for a full


    makeup trial.


    Everyone knew Director Fitch was a stickler for detail; if he wasn¡¯t impressed, there


    wouldn¡¯t be a second chance.


    This meant Quintessa¡¯s image was qualified. Barring any major setbacks, the role was practically hers.


    The next day, after resting up and with Manny in tow, Quintessa was ready.


    Two hours of makeup and a costumeter, she stepped out and silence fell upon the room. In


    everyone¡¯s mind, there were few words to describe her ¨C radiant in red, a beauty beyondpare.


    The ancients spoke of women so stunning they could topple empires; she was the embodiment of that


    saying.


    Fitch stood up, his excitement palpable, ¡°Yes, this is it, exactly! Perfect. This is the Queen Seraphina of


    my imagination. Absolutely right, it¡¯s gotta be you.¡±


    Standing there, Quintessa seemed to have stepped right out of what he had pictured Queen Seraphina


    in his mind ¨C the epitome of allure, captivating without vulgarity, her eyes. bewitching, her nces


    enough to ensnare any man¡¯s heart. She didn¡¯t even need to speak; her mere presence was enough to


    command everyone¡¯s attention.


    The assistant director asked, ¡°Director Frost, don¡¯t you want her to perform a piece?¡±


    Fitch couldn¡¯t take his eyes off Quintessa, his gaze burning with barely contained fervor, ¡°I¡¯ve seen her


    performance yesterday. It was good. We can dismiss the others.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile, ¡°Thank you, Director Frost. I won¡¯t let you down.¡± Her smile


    nearly bewitched Fitch, ¡°She¡¯s just¡­so¡­¡±


    He was at a loss for words, as if after years of s

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    After things settled, Quintessa emerged in her costume.


    Manny, thrilled, scurried behind her, carefully lifting the long train of her dress off the ground, ¡°Quinn,


    you¡¯re amazing, seriously¡­drop¨Cdead gorgeous. This role, it¡¯s like it was tailor¨Cmade for you.¡±


    Quintessa chuckled, ¡°Tailor¨Cmade indeed, ying the role of a seductress.¡±


    Their dressing room was just around the corner, and as they made the turn, Quintessa nearly bumped


    into someone walking towards them.


    The man took a polite step back, ¡°Sorry about that.¡±


    His voice was pleasant, warm, and courteous. Even without seeing his face, Quintessa would have


    given him a score of 80 out of 100.


    But when she looked up and caught sight of his face, her inner monologue turned icy. At the sight of his


    face, the score she gave him plummeted to zero.


    The man was equally surprised to see her, ¡°It¡¯s you? Been a while.¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°A while indeed, Jerome.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t expected to run into Jerome here of all ces.


    Jerome¡¯s smile was like a soothing balm to the eye ¨C polished. Dressed in a bespoke suit with a striped


    tie and gold¨Crimmed sses perched on his nose, he had a lean, somewhat gaunt appearance that


    exuded a schrly charm.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Jerome was the epitome of a gentleman, graceful and regarded as a man of fine taste, like a cup of


    warm water, never too hot, never too cold, always just right.


    His smile was gentle, and his eyes looked at Quintessa with a soft tenderness, ¡°When did you get


    back? Haven¡¯t you visited home?¡±


    Quintessa eyed Jerome, ¡°Home? Looks like you two are still together. Your devotion to my dear sister


    is quite touching.¡±


    Jerome¡¯s smile remained, ¡°Oh? Do you want us to split, Quinn?¡±


    The way Jerome said ¡°Quinn¡°, it felt like a lock of hair being twirled around a finger, turning the simple


    nickname into ament of unrequited affection.


    Quintessa merely felt nauseated, ¡°Rather than seeing you two split, I¡¯d prefer to watch Miranda break


    down after finding out her husband never really had her in his heart.¡±


    Who was Jerome, really? Sporting a harmless facade, always gentle to everyone, but actually¡­ Heh,


    what was Miranda to him? At best, a ¡°toy¡± he wasn¡¯t done ying with yet.


    1/2


    Charte


    And yet, Miranda treated him like a treasure. Ha, what a precious treasure Indeed.


    Jerome¡¯s finger sported the engagement ring he shared with Miranda. Raising his hand, he adjusted


    his sses, ¡°Speaking of which, your sister misses you. How about we all have dinner tonight, catch up


    a bit?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s tone was sharp, ¡°Is that a threat?¡±


    Jerome¡¯s smile never wavered, ¡°Of course not.¡± He turned to Manny, ¡°I need a moment alone with


    Quinn, if you wouldn¡¯t mind stepping away.¡±


    Manny looked at Quintessa, and with a dismissive wave from her, he quickly made himself scarce.


    Once Manny was out of earshot, Jerome leisurely stepped closer to Quintessa and asked, ¡°Short on


    cash?¡±


    They stood inches apart, and as Jerome spoke, his head bowed, the breath brushed against


    Quintessa¡¯s forehead.


    She repliednguidly, ¡°In need, indeed. Why, nning to charm me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve wanted to charm you since three years ago. Didn¡¯t you know that?¡± Jerome¡¯s lips. curled, his


    gentle demeanor suddenly taking on a more sinister edge.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    Jerome squinted at the vision before him, Quintessa, sheer beauty personified.


    He was no stranger to pretty faces; women had always been plentiful in his life, some even more


    stunning than Quintessa. But none had ever captured his soul quite like she did. One nce and he¡¯d


    find himself ensnared, haunted by her image night and day.


    Quintessa was even more gorgeous than she had been three years ago, the naive. greenness gone,


    reced by a seductive bloom. Like a poppy in the wild, intoxicating and fatal, one knew of its poison


    and yet the heart¡¯s frenzied desire was undeniable.


    Otherwise, Jerome wouldn¡¯t have kept tabs on Quintessa, wouldn¡¯t havee here to corner her.


    Never had he felt such an urgent craving for a woman. He wanted to strip her bare and had sex with


    her, right here, right now.


    Quintessa sneered, that was the real Jerome behind the mask, hypocritical, repulsive.


    She looked at him, contempt written all over her face, a cold, mocking smile on her lips, ¡°Jerome, do


    you really think I didn¡¯t see you that night three years ago when Rachel drugged me? You knew and did


    nothing to stop it, didn¡¯t even warn me. You just wanted to ¡®rescue¡® me once the drugs took effect, to


    take advantage, to have me owe you, to y with me like a toy. Do you take everyone for a damn


    fool?¡±


    Miranda, always paranoid, suspecting Quintessa of seducing Jerome, had no idea it was Jerome who


    had been plotting after Quintessa all along. From the moment Quintessa first met Jerome, she knew he


    was bad news.


    Surprise flickered across Jerome¡¯s face but vanished quickly as he reached out to tilt Quintessa¡¯s chin,


    ¡°You¡¯re so much more interesting than Miranda. What do you say? Stick with me, I could make you the


    lead in every scene.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips twisted in a sneer, ¡°Oh, Jerome, for someone like you.¡± She abruptly grabbed his tie,


    yanking it tight around his neck, pushing him back against the wall with a solid thud. Quintessa


    continued unhurriedly, ¡°Really disgusts me.¡±


    She tilted her chin, ¡°I might be cheap but I¡¯m not desperate. You, I wouldn¡¯t give the time of day.¡±


    Jerome leaned casually against the wall, unresisting, a smirk ying on his lips, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t give the


    time of day, huh? But Tyrone is different, right?¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°Exactly.¡±


    A cold light shed in Jerome¡¯s eyes, and he uttered, ¡°Then wait for it. Sooner orter, I¡¯ll have you.¡±


    Quintessa retorted, ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll wait. If you live long enough to try.¡±


    1/2


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    14:1761


    In the evening, Jerome attended a party with Emberbrook¡¯s elites, the venue teeming with beauties,


    each trying to outdo the other in short, morous dresses.


    His gaze swept over the room until itnded on the man in the seat of honor. Delicate features, slightly


    upturned eyes, thin red lips, and a fairplexion that was neither feminine nor soft, but exuded an air


    of nobility and breathtaking talent. Such a man was unforgettable once seen.


    Women were at his beck and call, one massaging his shoulders, another his legs, one pouring his


    drink, all serving him like reverent disciples, neat and orderly, no one daring to step out of line.


    While carnal desires ran rampant in the rest of the room, he remained untouchable, a solitary, noble


    bloom.


    At any given time, a son of the York family, like him, made everyone else mere background yers.

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    Wouldn¡¯t give the time of day, but Tyrone is different, huh?


    Exactly.


    Quintessa¡¯s word echoed relentlessly in Jerome¡¯s ears, stirring a nameless rage within him. How in the


    world was he any less than Tyrone?


    Suddenly, someone quipped, ¡°What¡¯s up with you today, Mr. Lott? You¡¯re not in your usual spirits. That


    cute chick over there, and you¡¯re not making a move? What¡¯s the matter, afraid yourdy back home


    will get jealous?¡±


    Jerome¡¯s mind raced, and he managed a smile, saying, ¡°Nothing much, just bumped into an old


    acquaintance today. Got me a bit sentimental.¡±


    The guy casually probed, ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°My future sister¨Cinw.¡±


    ¡°Your sister¨Cinw?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Miranda¡¯s sister.¡±


    At that, the guy lit up, ¡°Oh now I remember; you mean Quintessa, right?¡±


    A curious spark ignited in Jerome, ¡°Howe you remember?¡±


    ¡°Remember? How could I forget? Man, I had such a, let¡¯s just say, a keen interest in that woman. I


    heard she¡¯s quite the flirt, loves to seduce others¡® boyfriends. I used to wonder why she never came


    after me.¡±


    Someone else joked, ¡°What, you wanted her to seduce you?¡±


    ¡°Of course, man. A woman like that, she¡¯s not ordinary, she¡¯s a knockout ¨C a rare find. Just seeing her,


    I¡¯d get a hard¨Con, seriously. It¡¯s been years, and I still regret not making my move before she was


    shipped off overseas.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°She¡¯s back now, so here¡¯s your chance.¡±


    ¡°You said it.¡±


    Jerome¡¯s grip on his ss tightened until his knuckles turned white. It seemed he wasn¡¯t the only man


    with Quintessa on his mind.


    Someone else asked, ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t your fianc¨¦e Quintessa¡¯s aunt? You ever meet that


    woman?¡±


    Tyrone lounged on know her.¡±


    e couch, swirling his drinkzily, drawling, ¡°Quintessa? Don¡®


    Jerome nced over. Tyrone¡¯s face wore a half¨Csmile; Quintessa¡¯s name seemed to have


    no effect on him whatsoever. It was as if it really didn¡¯t matter to him.


    The casting for the TV series ¡°Shadows of the Past¡± was settled; all that was left was to sign the


    contract and wait for the call to join the set.


    However, there had been no news about the role in the film ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡°. After a full week of


    waiting, at 10 p.m. on a weekend night, Quintessa was already asleep when Violet burst in.


    ¡°Quinn, get up, quick! Director Gardner, the producer, and a few of the investors want to meet you.¡±


    Quintessa frowned, ¡°Thiste? Where?¡±


    ¡°Tonight, the leads for the movie are meeting with the producer, the investors, and the director for a


    get¨Ctogether. Quinn, you need to be sharp; whether or not you get this part depends on tonight. It¡¯s


    crucial.¡±


    Violet didn¡¯t spell it out, but the implication was clear to Quintessa.


    Ate¨Cnight meeting, huh. Quintessa nodded, ¡°I understand.¡±


    Seeing Quintessa agree so readily, Violet felt a pang of guilt, ¡°Quinn, you¡¯re new to the scene, but


    you¡¯re not getting any younger. If you don¡¯t seize this chance, there might never be another one.¡±


    As Quintessa picked out her outfit, she replied, ¡°Yeah, you don¡¯t need to tell me; I know what I want.¡±


    Quintessa knew better than anyone what she was after power, revenge. She had waited three long


    years; she wasn¡¯t in a hurry, not for a moment more. Now, what she needed to do was to rise quickly in


    the world of entertainment.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    Violet said, ¡°It¡¯s good that you get it. Really, the oue depends on your own effort. It¡¯s not


    necessarily going to be the worst case scenario.¡±


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa replied, ¡°Mm¨Chmm.¡±


    Quintessa arrived at the destination Violet had given her, the swankiest business club in Emberbrook ¨C


    Luxe Haven Club.


    The name was elegant, but the inside was a den of hedonism.


    Once she got there, Quintessa could only think of two words ¨C burning cash. The crowd that frequented


    this ce was the kind with money to burn, and they came here to do just


    that.


    A charming hostess led Quintessa to a private room, and as she pushed open the door, Quintessa


    heard someone singing.


    Quintessa¡¯s mouth twitched. The producer saw her and said, ¡°Ms. Young, you finally made it. You¡¯re


    late today; time to pay the penalty with a drink.


    Quintessa smiled; there was no avoiding the booze, so she might as well drink up. She downed three


    shots of vodka in one go before greeting the director and lead actor.


    She noticed the lead actress, Marian, half¨Cleaning on an investor, his hand creeping up the inside of


    her thigh. Marian was clearly annoyed but put up with it, her face stered with a smile as she cooed


    in response.


    The director was chatting with the lead actor Quennel, and even if he saw what was happening, he


    pretended not to notice.


    Quintessa found it distasteful. Was this what her future looked like? She didn¡¯t want that.


    Another investor, Hans, with beady eyes, had his gaze fixed on Quintessa, ¡°Ms. Young, in person


    you¡¯re much more beautiful than any photo. It¡¯s been years since I¡¯ve seen a beauty with such charm


    as you.¡±


    Quintessa smiled, ¡°You tter me, Hans. Just call me Quinn.¡±


    Her response seemed to please Hans. Half an hourter, with a stomach full of liquor and an unwanted


    caress on her thigh and behind by the investor, Quintessa ¡°identally¡± spilled her drink on her dress,


    seizing the chance to escape to the restroom.


    The investor¡¯s intentions were clear; he had made an unmistakable hint that the role was hers if she


    spent the night with him.


    Whether it was the alcohol talking or not, Quintessa felt a wave of self¨Crespect wash over her. Hell no,


    she didn¡¯t want to sleep with that old and ugly dude. She didn¡¯t want to sell her body cheaply. She knew


    these transactions: once it happened, there would always be a


    1/2


    14:17


    second time.


    Quintessa didn¡¯t care if her body was dirty or not, but she did care that it was given by her. mother.


    She remembered her mother¡¯s words on her deathbed, ¡°Quinn, live well, be happy.¡±


    Was this how she was supposed to live? Sleeping with someone for a couple of roles? Quintessa


    opened her purse, pulled out her lipstick, and removed the cap to reveal a small packet of white


    powder hidden inside.


    A hint of ruthlessness shed in Quintessa¡¯s eyes ¨C if it came down to it, she¡¯d rather y the badger


    game. She had anticipated this scene before returning her country, but Quintessa was not someone


    anyone could just sleep with.


    Her phone rang; it was Violet. Quintessa answered and briefly exined the situation.


    After a moment, Violet finally said, ¡°That¡¯s how it is back home. No connections, no role, unless you


    give something in return. A little harassment is inevitable, Quinn, you¡¯re the most determined woman


    I¡¯ve ever seen, and I know you¡¯ll make the right choice.¡±


    Quintessa sneered, ¡°Yeah, got it.¡±

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    Violet noticed her voice was a bit off, ¡°Quinn, you¡¯re not thinking of bailing, are you?¡±


    ¡°Balling? You must be joking.¡±


    Quinn had walked a long way to get where she was, with no room for retreat. No matter the cost, she


    was determined to get what she wanted.


    Bruised and battered, even at the brink of death, she wouldn¡¯t hesitate. As long as those sleazes who


    had wronged her and her mother got theireuppance, nothing else mattered to her.


    Violet¡¯s heart suddenly softened, ¡°Quinn, maybe you should just drop it. Come back home, or I could


    come to get you. If you lose this role, I can still help yound another one.¡±


    Quinn gazed at her reflection in the mirror, undeniably beautiful. At twenty¨Cfive, she was at the peak of


    her blooming youth.


    She ran her fingers gently across her face, ¡°Another role? Without this Hans, there¡¯s still others, it¡¯s


    pointless.¡±


    ¡°Quinn.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let myself be shortchanged.¡±


    After hanging up, Quintessa felt the buzz of alcohol setting in. She fished a pack of cigarettes from her


    purse and put one between her lips, but after rummaging around, she couldn¡¯t find her lighter.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Stumbling out, Quintessa saw a tall figure standing by the men¡¯s restroom. The light was dim; she


    couldn¡¯t distinguish his face, and only see his lips move as if he was on a call.


    Quintessa squinted, admiring his well¨Cshaped mouth. It was irresistibly kissable, and there was


    something oddly familiar about him.


    She approached, ¡°Hey buddy, got a light?¡±


    The stranger looked at her, and Quintessa looked up, slightly dizzy from the alcohol and her vision


    blurring; she tried to get a better look at his face but couldn¡¯t make it out.


    From a nearby private room, ¨¢ man burst out cursing, ¡°Damn it, I paid good money, and all I get is a


    saline bag? What the heck. I swear I¡¯ll file aint about this!¡±


    His mor only added to Quintessa¡¯s lightheadedness. She chuckled non¨Cstop at the words, proudly


    jutting out her C¨Ccup chest, ¡°Hey, you think these are saline bags?¡±


    A tiny me sparked to life, brought close to her face. Quintessa leaned in to light her cigarette,


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    ¡°Want one?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m good.


    As the me died, Quintessa finally saw his lips clearly- thin and cold, their red hue bright and shiny,


    with a seductive, nameless allure that felt eerily familiar.


    The alcohol in her veins seemed to morph into an aphrodisiac, heating her up, muddling her mind, and


    making her lose control.


    Her mouth went dry with a sudden thirst as she focused on his lips. Then, acting on impulse, she


    pushed him against the wall and stood on her tiptoes to capture his lips with hers.


    In the dimly lit restroom entrance, amid the background noise of arguments and curses, Quintessa


    kissed a man whose face she couldn¡¯t see, and she knew it was madness.


    But she was already a wild soul, and this was nothing new.


    Better to take advantage of a handsome stranger than to be taken advantage of by that Hans. This


    vengeful logic deepened her kiss, and the familiarity¡­it was so strange. Had she kissed him before?


    The scent of alcohol mingled with the woman¡¯s perfume, intoxicating beyond the wine itself.


    Lost in the moment, Quintessa eventually released him, ¡°Consider that a thank¨Cyou. Tastes pretty


    good.¡±

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    With a cigarette pinched between her fingers, Quintessa yfully pped the man¡¯s cheek, her


    laughter sultry yet tinged with a touch of sleaze, ¡°You know, a few years back, for a ciggie like this, I


    might¡¯ve actually dared to crash at your ce, hop into your bed.¡±


    She swayed on her feet, about to leave, when her wrist was suddenly gripped, pulling her back.


    Twisting around, she found herself back against thedies¡® restroom door, the world spinning even


    more, barely able to stand.


    The man she had kissed said, ¡°Spend the night with me, and I¡¯ll make you the lead actress In


    ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡°.¡±


    His voice was hoarse, seductive, yet there was an edge of gritted teeth to it.


    Quintessa blinked, ¡°This some kind of casting couch deal?¡±


    ¡°Suppose so.¡±


    Mysteriously mustering the strength, Quintessa shoved him away and turned to leave. After staggering


    a few steps, she stopped and looked back. The man she¡¯d boldly kissed still stood there, ¡°Why aren¡¯t


    you leaving?¡±


    ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°The casting couch, remember? Let¡¯s get a room, my treat.¡±


    Quintessa couldn¡¯t recall what hade over her. All she heard was his offer to make her the star of


    ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡°, and she followed him.


    As for that Hans, ha, who the hell cared about him now? She couldn¡¯t bear the sight of that pig.


    It was like a self¨Cimposed exile, driven by her own desires; she¡¯d rather leave with a stranger under the


    influence of alcohol than share his bed.


    Her consciousness blurred, Quintessa really was drunk. She


    t into the car and then fell asleep. When she woke up groggy in the hotel bed, the man was on top of


    her, making her ufortable, looking down at her, pinching her chin, ¡°You can still sleep?¡±


    Quintessa, still drunk, tilted her head and giggled, ¡°You look so much like someone I


    know.¡±


    ¡°Someone you know, who?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Quintessa chewed on her finger, thinking for a while, ¡°Can¡¯t really remember.¡±


    The man leaned down, biting her lower lip, his tongue tracing the shape of her lips, ¡°Can¡¯t remember


    the face or the name?¡±


    With a soft moan, Quintessa replied to hisforting kisses, ¡°Don¡¯t remember either.¡±


    14:17


    What the heck?¡±


    He gritted his teeth, ¡°You don¡¯t remember anything and yet say I¡¯m someone you know?¡±


    ¡°Kissing you felt familiar.¡±


    ¡°Damn it. How many people have you kissed over the years?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know.¡±


    Later, Quintessa only knew that her clothes had been torn off, and then there was no ¡°then¡°. A


    hangover didn¡¯t leave much room for memory. Being led away by a stranger and finding herself alive in


    the morning was a relief in itself.


    When she finally woke up, she was naked, with a splitting headache and aching all over. She nced


    aside; the pillow was indented, the air still carried a man¡¯s scent, but he was long gone.


    Quintessa got out of bed to find her clothes, including her lingerie, all torn to shreds. She cursed under


    her breath. That bastard! Ripping her clothes, he didn¡¯t want her to leave.


    Fury was about to make her explode. She had nned to y a trick on Hans the night. before, drug


    him, and by morning, at worst, she¡¯d be lying next to him. But she hadn¡¯t expected to be the one


    yed.


    Damn it, the allure of a man could lead her astray.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    Quintessa bolted to the bathroom in search of a bathrobe, but a nce in the mirror stopped her dead


    in her tracks. She cursed aloud, ¡°Holy shit, you asshole!¡±


    Her body was covered in love bites, scattered everywhere like a field of wildflowers in bloom, even on


    her back, her behind, and the top of her feet. Quintessa¡¯s skin was fair, the kind that would redden at


    the slightest pinch and stay that way for a while. Now, with so many marks, who knew how long they¡¯d


    take to fade.


    But she didn¡¯t feel vited. There was soreness, sure, but damn it, they were bite marks. Which meant


    that someone had nibbled her all over without actually taking a bite.


    Quintessa clenched her teeth. That freaking pervert. Whoever did this had to be seriously twisted to


    engage in such a disgusting act.


    She felt an itch at the root of her teeth as she went to look for her phone, only to find it gone. She


    growled, kicking the table in frustration. Her phone had been swiped.


    Quintessa called the front desk and had them contact her friend Violet to bring her some. clothes.


    After a half¨Chour wait, Violet finally arrived.


    Barging in, Violet was already in a huff, ¡°For heaven¡¯s sake, Quintessa, what¡¯s gotten into you? I¡¯ve


    been calling you non¨Cstop, and you didn¡¯t pick up once.¡±


    Wrapped in the hotel¡¯s bathrobe, Quintessa caught the bundle of clothes thrown at her, ¡°Someone took


    my phone.¡±


    Violet caught sight of the marks on Quintessa¡¯s neck and her face went pale with anger.


    ¡°Never mind the phone for now, what the hell happenedst night? If you didn¡¯t want to sleep with that


    Hans guy, you should¡¯ve told me. No one forced you. But you, you just ditched Hans halfway through,


    and now you¡¯ve screwed up the whole gig.¡±


    Early in the morning, the producer of ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡± had called Violet,ining about their


    talent, Quintessa, vanishing without a word, leaving Hans quite miffed. They¡¯d made it clear that


    Quintessa could forget about the supporting role, let alone being part of the production at all.


    Violet was seriously pissed at her.


    While holding the clothes, Quintessa exined, ¡°Last night, after I came out of the restroom, this guy


    told me to follow him, promising me the lead role in ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡®. So I went with him.¡±


    She shrugged off the bathrobe in front of Violet, who gasped at the sight of Quintessa¡¯s marked skin,


    ¡°Jesus Christ, you believed that? Look at the mess you¡¯re in now. You¡¯ve been basically taken


    advantage of. You¡¯ve run into a freak.¡±


    1/2


    14100


    Quintessa didn¡¯t catch Violet¡¯s words, she just dressed and rubbed her face, saying, ¡°I know who it


    was.¡±


    Violet shot up, ¡°Who?¡±


    She was all set to go after the bastard. Quintessa smiled, feeling a touch of warmth in her heart.


    Though she and Violet used each other for their own ends, there was a genuine bond between them.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, just an old acquaintance.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    Violet was astonished, ¡°You said you were drunk. How do you know?¡±


    Quintessa looked up at Violet, ¡°That scent, I remember it.¡±


    She recalled the taste of those lips from the night before, at the restroom door.


    In fact, the moment she saw him standing there, Quintessa recognized him ¨C she just didn¡¯t want to


    admit that she could so vividly remember a man she hadn¡¯t seen in three. years, that she could identify


    him without even seeing his face.


    Violet was incredulous, ¡°Damn, that¡¯s some memory.¡±

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    Violet¡¯s phone buzzed. She nced at the caller ID and instantly, her demeanor flipped like a switch. A


    smile spread across her face as she chirped, ¡°Director Frost, how are you?¡±


    Momentster, however, her expression soured. The phone call ended, and that smartphone was


    teetering dangerously close to bing a casualty of her iron grip.


    Quintessa asked, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Violet spat out with venom, ¡°Damn it, the deal slipped through our fingers. No way, I¡¯ve got to dig up


    what the hell happened.¡±


    She hammered out call after call on her phone, and finally, she had her answers.


    ¡°Just got the scoop. Turns out the Lott family¡¯s son rmended some new actress of theirs and


    poured a ton of dough into it. And just like that, our TV spot is toast.¡± Violet felt somewhat defeated. If


    that was the case, there¡¯d be no way to turn the table; she ranted, ¡°These business types, always


    sticking their noses where they don¡¯t belong.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes narrowed upon hearing that, ¡°The Lott family? Is the name Jerome Lott?¡± ¡°How¡¯d you


    know?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s an acquaintance.¡±


    ¡°Who did he rmend?¡±


    best


    ¡°Zenobia Abbott,st year¡¯s best new actor.¡±


    Memories of Jerome¡¯s thinly veiled threats sparked a coldugh in Quintessa. She thought, ¡°You want


    to y dirty, Jerome? Try to steal my thunder? Well, game on.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t going to let this slide. Turning to Violet, who was still in fury, Quintessa uttered, ¡°Get Manny


    over here to work his makeup magic. I¡¯ve got someone to see.¡±


    Violet asked, ¡°Who?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes, usually the epitome of charm, were now sharp as daggers, ¡°Going freaking debt


    collecting. Last night¡¯s fun won¡¯t be for free.¡±


    Violet felt her irritation subside all of a sudden, saying, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll make the call now.¡±


    After calling Manny, Violet prodded, ¡°Are you sure your acquaintance¡® can sort this out for us?¡±


    Quintessa replied, ¡°Let me put it this way if he can¡¯t help, there¡¯s no one in all of


    ¨C


    Emberbrook who can. Once we¡¯re in with him, we won¡¯t have to worry about any more stumbling


    blocks.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Enough talk, let¡¯s move.¡±


    An hourter, a car pulled up to the monolithle York Financial Group tower.


    Manny asked, ¡°Quinn, you sure about this? They run a tight ship here. Without their ess card, you


    can¡¯t even get through the door.¡±


    Before he could finish, Quintessa was already out of the car and striding towards the entrance. Manny


    scrambled to catch up.


    It was a mystery what Quintessa said to the security guard, but whatever it wan, it worked ¨C they were


    in.


    Once past the lobby, the receptionist intercepted them, ¡°Miss, may I ask who you¡¯re here. to see?¡±


    Quintessa slid off her sunsses, ¡°Tyrone.¡±


    The receptionist was clearly taken aback; she was here to see their boss, ¡°Sorry, but do you have an


    appointment?¡±


    Quintessa leaned in close, ¡°Is to sleep together considered as an ¡®appointment¡°?¡±


    The receptionist¡¯s cheeks med scarlet on spot, utterly unprepared for such a retort.


    Laughter echoed from behind them. The receptionist, grateful for the interruption, turned to that person,


    ¡°Mr. Franklin, thisdy is here to see Mr. York, but she doesn¡¯t have an appointment.¡±


    ¡°What business do you have with Mr. York?¡±


    The young man who had approached was striking, his face chiseled, voice clear and maic, with an


    easy charm that belied the sharpness of his features.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa swept him a nce, ¡°Here to collect a debt.¡±


    He leaned against the reception desk, arms crossed, looking at Quintessa with a half¨Csmile, ¡°Now this I


    have to hear. Tell me, what exactly does he owe you?¡±


    Towering over her, he was close enough for Quintessa to feel the imposing force of his


    presence.

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    She took a subtle step back, ¡°Like I¡¯d tell you the debt he owes me. Even if I told you, could you pay it


    off on his behalf?¡±


    Franklin found the situation intriguing and asked, ¡°Well, that depends. What¡¯s the nature of this debt?


    Let¡¯s hear it.¡±


    A smile crossed Quintessa¡¯s lips, ¡°For instance, imagine a guy who sleeps with someone, sneaks away


    at dawn without a word, not even bothering to pay for the hotel room, and on top of that, has the nerve


    to swipe their date¡¯s cell phone. Can you manage that kind of debt?¡±


    That was a lot to take in. Franklin suddenly felt overwhelmed by the audacity of it all. This was


    something he definitely could not handle.


    Rubbing his nose, Franklin inquired, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re talking about the Mr. York?¡±


    Quintessa retorted, ¡°Who else would be such a scumbag? You?¡±


    Franklin took another look at Quintessa. She was fierce. But he was genuinely curious about her


    usation. Was Tyrone that strapped for cash? To sleep with someone, not pay up, and then steal


    their phone?


    Muttering to himself, Franklin said, ¡°I¡¯m definitely not that despicable.¡±


    When he hooked up, at the very least he¡¯d cover the room charge. And even if he didn¡¯t, he¡¯d


    go


    Dutch.


    Spotting a familiar face, Franklin called out, ¡°James, thisdy¡¯s looking for Mr. York.¡±


    James, who had tried to slip away upon seeing Quintessa, was out of luck sold out by his own


    teammate.


    Forced to stop in his tracks, James slowly turned to face Quintessa¡¯s piercing eyes. Quintessa raised


    her hand, beckoning James with a curl of her delicate, nail¨Cpolished finger.


    With a sigh, James approached her, ¡°Ms. Quintessa Young, it¡¯s been a while.¡±


    James felt a bit uneasy around Quintessa. He didn¡¯t dislike her, but she definitely put him on edge.


    Quintessa smiled, ¡°Not bad, James. Remembering me after three years. I must hold a special ce in


    your heart. Take me to Tyrone.¡±


    James looked diforted, ¡°Mr. York¡¯s in a meeting. Maybe some other time.¡±


    But Quintessa was having none of it, ¡°His meeting is none of my concern. I¡¯m here to see him now.¡±


    1/2


    170


    James tried to maintain hisposure, but found it impossible against Quintessa¡¯s will, ¡°Please don¡¯t


    put me in a tough¡¯spot.¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Fine, I won¡¯t give you a hard time. Just ry a message for me. Tell him I¡¯m not


    someone he can just sleep with and then steal from. What, did he go crazy over a few bucks?¡±


    Upon hearing her words, James turned beet red with embarrassment. Being cussed out in the


    company where he worked was so humiliating, even if he wasn¡¯t the target.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll give him a call.¡±


    James took out his phone and made a call, ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    Before he could finish, Quintessa snatched the phone from his hand.


    Holding the phone to her ear, she mocked, ¡°Hey, Tyrone, slept wellst night? Ran off so early in the


    morning ¨C worried I¡¯d ask you to split the bill? Haven¡¯t seen you in three years. Still think I¡¯ve got a


    great figure? After a night of fun, got a sore jaw? Want a kiss to make it better?¡±


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    2/2

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    James, Franklin, and the receptionist were all flushed, their cheeks as red as a baboon¡¯s behind. Could


    the cad Ms. Young was ranting about truly be their dignified and graceful CEO?


    Secondster, after some unheard conversation on the phone, Quintessa tossed the device to James,


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    James quickly pocketed the phone, daring not to utter another word, ¡°After you.¡±


    Curiosity sparked within Franklin, and he immediately followed.


    Upon reaching the 36th floor, Quintessa saw that Tyrone was indeed in a meeting. The conference


    room was separated by transparent ss.


    The ss walls were soundproof, providing a clear view of Tyrone¡¯s expressions from the outside.


    Tyrone sat in his exclusive CEO chair, nked by department heads. Not another man could dazzle


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes the way Tyrone did.


    She admitted she was a sucker for good looks; for three years, she couldn¡¯t forget Tyrone¡¯s face. Not


    for anything specific, just because he was that handsome. Handsome enough to shake the soul.


    James said, ¡°You see, Mr. York is truly in a meeting. Could you possibly wait a moment?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes were locked on Tyrone, ¡°How long will it take?¡±


    James hesitated, ¡°I can¡¯t really say.¡±


    Quintessa didn¡¯t want to wait. The sight of Tyrone¡¯s calm and superior demeanor irked her. Why should


    he sit there so guilt¨Cfree after what he had done?


    Remembering what Tyrone had done the previous night made Quintessa want to bite him like a damn


    snake.


    With determination, Quintessa pushed the door open, but James quickly interjected, ¡°Ms. Young,


    please, you can¡¯t go in.¡±


    Quintessa shoved James aside, ¡°I must.¡±


    James didn¡¯t dare to touch Quintessa and could only watch as she brazenly entered the conference


    room.


    The room fell silent the moment Quintessa walked in. Tyrone continued without so much as ncing at


    Quintessa, ¡°Continue.¡±


    The manager, who was giving the report, quickly resumed, ¡°We¡¯ve conducted extensive market


    research, and there¡¯s immense potential among the mainstream demographic


    1/2


    17.04


    ged 16 to 40. We can tailor our products based on their feedback?


    Quintessa stepped closer to Tyrone, who remained stoic, his thin lips barely moving. ¡°This reportcks


    detall. Draft a moreprehensive one and bring it to my officeter.¡±


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa watched him for a moment, but he showed no reaction,pletely absorbed in his work.


    Quintessa couldn¡¯t help butugh. She bent down swiftly, her hand propped against the table, her


    whole body pressing over Tyrone¡¯s, and taunted, ¡°Mr. York, can you see me now?¡±


    Tyrone continued to ignore Quintessa, tapping on the table to urge the stunned managers, ¡°Proceed.¡±


    Quintessa hooked her finger under Tyrone¡¯s chin, ¡°We¡¯ve slept together; what the hell are you


    pretending for?¡±


    Tyrone nced at the low¨Ccut neckline of Quintessa¡¯s blouse. As she leaned over, he could see the


    hidden curves, and a blush of skin marked with marks like a cherry blossom, enchanting and alluring.


    His eyes turned icy, and he slowly pushed Quintessa¡¯s hand away.


    ¡°Carry on, who¡¯s next? If this quarter¡¯s priorities aren¡¯t met, no one leaves.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, nodding her head, ¡°Excellent, Tyrone, don¡¯t push me to extremes.¡±


    Tyrone remained utterly impassive.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    Quintessa hurled her purse aside, shrugged off her jacket, and flung it onto Tyrone, stunning everyone


    in the room. James, standing by the door, immediately covered his eyes and turned around, while


    Franklin craned his neck, curious to see what would happen next.


    James stopped Franklin, ¡°Mr. Franklin, I suggest you turn around. It¡¯s for the best.¡±


    ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t I watch? She¡¯s making quite a scene. Shouldn¡¯t we call security?¡± Franklin asked.


    ¡°You know Mr. York.¡± James replied, ¡°If he didn¡¯t want her here, Ms. Young would¡¯ve been kicked out


    before she even stepped into the boardroom.¡±


    Suddenly, Franklin¡¯s eyes widened, ¡°Damn, she¡¯s fiery!¡±


    Quintessa, with her left hand, lifted Tyrone¡¯s chin, forcing him to look at her, while her other hand


    reached for the zipper at the back of her skirt.


    Tyrone¡¯s pen ttered onto the table as he barked, ¡°Meeting¡¯s over; everyone, get out!¡±


    In less than five seconds, the conference room was empty.


    N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°Got the guts to keep pretending?¡± Quintessa taunted.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you have a bit of decorum?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    Tyrone shoved her hand aside, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Quintessa stepped back. ¡°You promised mest night, the lead role in ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡°. Don¡¯t


    think you can weasel out of it.¡±


    Tyrone, lounging back, ran his fingers over his lower lip, eyes narrowed, ¡°What lead role? What about


    last night? I don¡¯t recall.¡±


    His words made Quintessa feel like she¡¯d been bitten by a dog.


    Sheughed angrily, ¡°Tyrone, I never realized how shameless you could be. Last night, you slept with


    me, and at dawn, you zipped up your pants and took off without a word, even fricking snatching my


    phone. Are you even a man? Desperate much?¡±


    Tyrone nced at the faint marks on Quintessa¡¯s neck, his voice icy, ¡°Really? Are you sure. it was me


    you slept with?¡±


    A sudden ache pierced Quintessa¡¯s heart, followed by a surge of bitterness.


    Yes, everyone said she was promiscuous. Any man could take her to bed.


    She never cared what others sald, but hearing it from Tyrone made it unbearable.


    Her gaze turned frosty bit by bit. Suddenly, she wanted to reim some dignity In front of this man.


    Bending over with poise, Quintessa picked up her handbag, fished out a dime, and hurled it at Tyrone¡¯s


    face with force.


    She lifted her chin, her tough exterior encasing her, invulnerable.


    ?


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right.¡± She said with a nod and a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve had so many men; it¡¯s no surprise I got


    confused. My bad, Mr. York, I mistook you forst night¡¯s jerk. I¡¯ve wasted your precious time. Here¡¯s


    yourpensation.¡±


    Snatching her bag, Quintessa left without grabbing her clothes. Her strides were wide, her hair


    billowing behind her as she put on her sunsses, showing no sign of disarray, still the epitome of


    elegance.


    James opened the door to the boardroom just in time, and Quintessa walked past without a backward


    nce.


    Franklin called after her, ¡°Hey, beauty, let¡¯s grab a drink sometime!¡±


    Quintessa paused, and turned around with a seductive smile, ¡°I only make appointments in bed with


    men.¡±


    ¦§

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    With a loud crash, James and Franklin quickly turned to see aptop that had been sitting on the


    conference table now smashed on the floor, shattered into two halves, its screen fractured, leaving


    behind a trail of fury.


    Tyrone still satposedly, his attire immacte, his expression nonchnt, elegant and aloof, giving


    no indication that he was the one who had just demolished theputer.


    Tyrone nced sideways, ¡°Franklin, get in here.¡±


    His voice was even¨Ckeeled, but James shivered. Mr. York was terrifying in his calmness; the more


    composed he was, the scarier he seemed.


    Quintessa had already walked away. Franklin, gripping the doorknob, hesitated to enter. Even James


    could sense something was amiss, so how could Franklin be oblivious?


    Tyrone just looked at him and said, ¡°Come in.¡±


    James knew this was Tyrone¡¯s limit. He didn¡¯t want to make him repeat himself a third time, or he¡¯d be


    in for it too.


    James hurriedly urged, ¡°Mr. Franklin, get in there.¡±


    Franklin got scared.


    James ungraciously swung the door open and gave Franklin a firm shove from behind.


    Carried by inertia, Franklin stumbled into the room. He braked to a halt, ¡°Tyrone, you needed


    something?¡±


    They were college buddies, and by a twist of extended family ties, Franklin was supposed to be


    Tyrone¡¯s cousin.


    Between Tyrone¡¯s middle and index finger, a coin had materialized, twirling effortlessly.


    Tyronemanded simply, ¡°Sit.¡±


    Franklin, standing tall at 6¡¯2¡°, was sweating bullets. He took a seat cautiously.


    To his surprise, Tyrone¡¯s inquiries were all aboutpany matters, seeking his opinion on the business


    operations for the year. Everything was normal, without a hint of irregrity. As Franklin rxed and


    talked, he thought maybe Mr. York wasn¡¯t so hung up on that wild chick after all. She was just a


    woman, hardly worth Tyrone¡¯s trouble.


    Once they wrapped up the work talk, Franklin grew bolder, ¡°Tyrone, when did you hook up with such a


    fiery chick? She¡¯s hot¨Cheaded and even hotter¨Cbodied, curves in all the right ces, and that chest


    has got to be at least a C¨Ccup.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze fell to a woman¡¯s trench coat on the floor, ¡°Anything else?¡±


    17:04


    1


    ????? ? ? ? ?? ?? ? ??? ?? ??? ??? ???


    ?


    cordement du ?re nal shih back to work but he gunkly responded.


    nantinue to ga k my all¡®


    Tyrone fun wh?nd. The canyang has decided to sponsor the construction of 50 echones


    think he E me coat. 1 Bank pince be the perfect project leader¡±


    in the hughest


    Pandin was treaty funden. Tyne imean M: York¡±


    a


    ¡°Wang ubanimals¡± Tyne cat tum & nce, which sent a chit down Franklin¡¯s spine


    Fao atone too heal wegerunts. Then, absolutely not How could I object?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    548 kb]


    That the aftermson Franklin had hoped for a few days to plead his case or watt for mos bones ten asrat


    nyf tut them was no time given


    Franklin was all gossip, ¡°Did you really get with herst night? She said you swiped her phone, Tyrone,


    did you really take it?¡±


    Suddenly, Tyrone¡¯s fingers stopped the coin with a flick, and itnded in his palm, He looked up,


    ¡°Franklin, I¡¯m quite pleased with your work performance and resultstely.¡±


    Franklin paused, confused by the abrupt shift back to work. Still, he quickly responded, Thank you, Mr.


    York. I¡¯ll continue to give it my all.¡±


    Tyrone then added, ¡°Thepany has decided to sponsor the construction of 50 schools In the


    hignds at no cost. I think you¡¯d be the perfect project leader.¡±


    Franklin was instantly dumbstruck, ¡°Tyrone, I mean, Mr. York.¡±


    ¡°Any objections?¡± Tyrone cast him a nce, which sent a chill down Franklin¡¯s spine.


    Franklin shook his head vigorously, ¡°No, absolutely not. How could I object?¡±


    ¡°Depart with the team this afternoon at 1 PM.¡±


    ¡°What? This afternoon?¡± Franklin had hoped for a few days to plead his case or wait for his boss to


    cool off. But there was no time given.

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26


    Man, that was freaking brutal. It was already 11, and he had less than three hours left.


    Tyrone looked at Franklin, ¡°To show ourpany¡¯smitment to phnthropy, I want you to be


    involved in the building of these 50 elementary schools, from start to finish. Youe back when


    they¡¯re done.¡±


    Tyrone stood up, pped Franklin on the shoulder, ¡°Franklin, I have full confidence in you.¡± Damn, this


    was Tyrone¡¯s way of working him to the bone. Building 50 schools on the hignds? It might just kill


    him.


    James hurried after Tyrone into the CEO¡¯s office, where Tyrone held out his hand. James hesitated for


    a moment before pulling out a white smartphone from his pocket.


    Tyrone took it, the phone already unlocked, and he went straight to the gallery.


    There were plenty ofndscape pictures, but only a few portraits. One of them was a selfie.


    A handsome guy had his arm around Quintessa¡¯s neck, their heads touching in a quite intimate way,


    smiling joyfully at the camera.


    James nced at the phone, and then hung his head, wondering if the next moment it would shatter.


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Tyrone tossed something to him, and James caught it reflexively.


    ¡°Smash it.¡±


    James nodded promptly, ¡°Right away.¡±


    Stepping outside with the phone, James let out a sigh of relief. The secretary, Shirley, waiting outside


    with some documents, asked James, ¡°Can I go in?¡±


    James shook his head and drew a line across his throat with his hand, as if to say, ¡°Don¡¯t go in if you


    value your life.¡±


    Quintessa returned to her rented apartment, where Violet was already waiting for her.


    Violet asked impatiently, ¡°So, how did it go?¡±


    Quintessa copsed onto the couch, ¡°It was a bust.¡±


    She stared at the ceiling, her eyes vacant, pondering over something.


    Violet wanted to scold Quintessa, but seeing her like that, she softened and snapped, ¡°Men, there¡¯s no


    good one among them. From now on, we can only count on ourselves. We can¡¯t have any illusions


    about them.¡±


    Quintessa agreed, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    They couldn¡¯t depend on anyone but themselves. They couldn¡¯t trust anyone else; people had to rely


    on themselves.


    Quintessa thought about how ridiculous she was. Who was Tyrone, and what made her think that after


    three years, he would actually help her?


    Why should he help her? Just because of one night together three years ago? Please, as if Tyrone was


    short of women.


    What was she to him? In his mind, Quintessa was nothing but trash. Yes, trash.


    Seducing her own aunt¡¯s man, what kind of person did that? Even if they did spend the night together, it


    was because she ¡°volunteered¡°. It was a freebie.


    Violet, being the experienced one, quickly regained herposure. She had managed to leave a


    comfortable job to start her own studio, which said a lot about her.


    Violet said, ¡°I¡¯ve talked to an old friend of mine. She¡¯s got a project that¡¯s low budget, going for online


    distribution, not mainstream media. We can¡¯t be picky right now, and I¡¯ll


    introduce you to herter.¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Violet had more to say, but seeing Quintessa looking so exhausted, she patted her


    shoulder, ¡°Get some rest. I¡¯ll head out.¡±


    As Violet stood up and reached for the door, she heard Quintessa¡¯s faint voice behind her, ¡°Violet,


    having the dignity trampled on, it really doesn¡¯t feel good.¡±

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27


    N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Violet¡¯s hand paused mid¨Cair, the words from Quintessa hitting her like a ton of bricks, stirring a


    difort in her heart, ¡°You¡¯re right. It¡¯s tough. Which is why we gotta hustle. Wait till you hit the big


    time. Then we¡¯ll see who dares step on you.¡±


    Quintessaughed, ¡°Yeah, once I make it, I¡¯ll fricking finish them all.¡±


    Despite her fuller figure, Violet was known for her swift and decisive actions.


    The very next evening, she arranged a meet¨Cup at a swanky restaurant, co¨Cowned by celebrities, to


    introduce Quintessa to her old friend.


    Violet reassured Quintessa, ¡°My friend just shared some amazing news with me. She said. they


    suddenly got a hefty investment from a major corporation. The budget woes are gone, just like that.


    And with promotion and post¨Cproduction fully funded, we don¡¯t have a thing to worry about regarding


    your role.¡±


    Quintessa nodded. Violet¡¯s old friend was a female director named Laura Cooper, a woman in her


    forties with a sharp bob cut, quite slender, sporting sses that gave her a distinctly artsy vibe..


    Upon seeing Quintessa, she eximed, ¡°Violet, you had such a gem hidden up your sleeve! No


    wonder you were bold enough to leave Radiant Entertainment.¡±


    ¡°All I¡¯ve got is what you see.¡± Violet admitted, ¡°I¡¯m starting from scratch, so I¡¯m counting on


    your support.¡±


    Quintessa was dressed to the nines that day, exuding elegance over her usual sultry appearance. She


    greeted respectfully, ¡°Hello, Director Cooper. I¡¯m Quintessa. I look forward to working with you.¡±


    ¡°Of course, of course. Anyone Violet believes in can¡¯t be less than ster.¡®¡±


    Violet and Director Cooper were close friends and could speak freely since there were no other people


    with them.


    Director Cooper was genuinely keen to help Violet, telling Quintessa, ¡°The producer and screenwriter


    will join us shortly. It¡¯ll be good for you to meet them.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, I appreciate it,¡± Quintessa replied.


    Before long, the producer and screenwriter arrived. Quintessa stood up, readying her most amicable


    smile, but it faltered when she saw the man who followed them in.


    Laura quickly rose to her feet, saying, ¡°Mr. York, you here to take lunch also?¡±


    Tyrone offered a casual smile, ¡°Heard you were dining here and thought I¡¯d say hello.¡±


    Director Cooper hurriedly introduced him to Violet and Quintessa, ¡°This is Tyrone York, our project¡¯s


    financier.¡±


    1/2


    17:04


    It was beyond Director Cooper¡¯s wildest dreams that the York Financial Group would Invest in their


    modest production. And for Tyrone, the heir to the York family, to be mingling with them cordially felt


    surreal, like something out of a fairy tale.


    Quintessa summoned all herposure to refrain fromshing out at Tyrone.


    Tyrone, the York family¡¯s son, dining here? That was a joke if she¡¯d ever heard one. It now made sense


    why Violet mentioned a major sponsorship secured that day ¨C it was all Tyrone¡¯s doing.


    Quintessa was curious to see what his angle was.


    After Violet exchanged pleasantries with Tyrone, she sensed Quintessa¡¯s mood and discreetly tugged


    at her sleeve, whispering, ¡°Quinn.¡±


    Quintessa shed her signature smile, perfectly bnced for an initial encounter.


    ¡°Mr. York, a pleasure. I¡¯m Quintessa Young,¡± she greeted.


    Tyrone¡¯s lips, tinged with a subtle red, curved, ¡°Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Young.¡±


    He extended his hand. Quintessa¡¯s teeth clenched in silent fury, as she realized just how much the


    Youngs must despise her.

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28


    Quintessa took a deep breath and slowly extended her hand for a brief, firm handshake with Tyrone.


    In front of the director, she couldn¡¯t afford to make a scene with Tyrone. This was her shot, and she had


    to seize it. Plus, she didn¡¯t want to put Violet in a tight spot.


    Since Tyrone was ying the stranger, there was no point in calling him out. Revenge could wait. It


    wasn¡¯t a dish best served immediately.


    Quintessa intended only a quick touch before withdrawing, but to her surprise, as soon as she made


    contact with Tyrone¡¯s hand, he seized it tightly, refusing to let go. When she was about to lose her cool,


    he finally released her.


    As he let go, Tyrone¡¯s fingers trailed across Quintessa¡¯s palm in a way that made her feel sick.


    Everyone there was sharp enough to sense the tension between the two, but they all pretended not to


    notice.


    The producer, a portly middle¨Caged man with a bald head that gave him a slightly sleazy look, chimed


    in, ¡°Mr. York, have you dined yet? If not, care to join us?¡±


    Tyrone replied, ¡°Sounds good.¡±


    Quintessa nearly cracked a tooth clenching her jaw. She wouldn¡¯t swallow that bitter pill of resentment.


    She¡¯d find an opportunity for payback.


    By some design or ident, Tyrone took the seat to Quintessa¡¯s right, cing them side by side.


    Once seated, Quintessa casually pulled out a pack of wet wipes from her purse and began to clean her


    hands meticulously, rubbing until they were almost red.


    Tyrone¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly.


    As the group settled in, discussions about the movie¡¯s locations, shooting, and casting began; over


    thirty minutes passed, and everyone was sweating from relishing the hot dishes, except Tyrone, who


    remained cool, sipping water a few times and barely touching his utensils


    Quintessa watched with silent scorn. The heir to the York family never sharedmon dishes with


    others; he found it distasteful.


    Nor would he touch the likes of greasy burgers or buffalo wings what others considered delicacies in a


    hearty American meal.


    Tyrone¡¯s pte was ustomed to the finest ¨C Sceia foie gras, Beluga caviar, and white truffles.


    1/2


    17:05


    The first time Quintessa met Tyrone back then, she quickly learned how fussy he was. Or as she¡¯d put


    it- she¡¯d never seen a man so high¨Cmaintenance. It was a wonder the York family could afford his


    tastes.


    Watching Tyrone now, Quintessa felt a sting of irony. She picked up her ss of fiery bourbon and


    swallowed it, feeling the burn down her throat.


    She was plotting her next move. Having this scumbag Tyrone right in front of her and not acting out


    was just too much of a bitter pill to swallow.


    ss back on the table, Quintessa turned to him, her face a mask of smiles, ¡°Mr. York, why aren¡¯t you


    eating? I haven¡¯t seen you touch your cutlery once.¡±


    Tyrone nced at her, ¡°Tm not hungry.¡±


    Quintessa cooed, ¡°How can it be? Even if you don¡¯t feel hungry, you must try something. We¡¯re all here


    to dine, aren¡¯t we? It looks bad if you don¡¯t partake. These buffalo wings are delicious; you really should


    try some.¡±


    With exaggerated hospitality, she reached for a wing, dipped in hot sauce, clearly not Tyrone¡¯s cup of


    tea.


    Tyrone looked at the spicy dish with dread, his fingers tightening, his brow furrowing as he faced


    Quintessa. She locked eyes with him, her lips curled in a cold sneer, her defiance.


    gaze


    full ofN?velDrama.Org content.

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29


    It was as if she was saying, ¡°yeah, that¡¯s right, I did it on purpose; what are you gonna do about it?¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t touch his cutlery, and Quintessa asked, ¡°Don¡¯t fancy the dish? How about the sliced


    beef?¡±


    Quintessa scooped up a few for Tyrone, who just felt his stomach churning at the sight, though his face


    betrayed no particr emotion.


    This time, Quintessa wasn¡¯t going to let Tyrone off the hook. As long as he didn¡¯t pick up his utensils,


    she¡¯d keep serving him.


    The indignation of being used for a free night¡¯s stay, being chewed up and humiliated- those grievances


    never dissipated from Quintessa¡¯s heart. She was determined to get her own back from Tyrone.


    Violet, watching from the side, furrowed her brow. She knew Quintessa well enough to know that she


    wasn¡¯t this impulsive. Moreover, it didn¡¯t seem like she was trying to cozy up to Tyrone. Rather, it


    seemed like she was trying to disgust him. What was she up to? Didn¡¯t she know Mr. York was not to


    be trifled with?


    Violet wanted to warn Quintessa but was afraid of being too abrupt, so she could only worry in silence.


    Tyrone, looking at Quintessa¡¯s ingratiating face, said, ¡°So eager for me to eat, huh?¡±


    The lilt at the end of his sentence was like a hook, itching at one¡¯s heart, making at seemingly


    innocuousment sound like there was some mischief afoot between them. Quintessa smiled,


    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s all about whether Mr. York would do me the honor.¡±


    Just when Quintessa was sure Tyrone wouldn¡¯t touch the cutlery, he surprised her by picking it up ¨C


    specifically, the cutlery she had used.


    Tyrone¡¯s hands, long and fair, even made the act of holding cutlery a sight to behold. He grabbed a


    slice of beef dripping with hot chili oil, and popped it into his mouth ¨C his first time trying such a thing.


    Tyrone didn¡¯t even chew, and just swallowed it down.


    To Quintessa¡¯s astonishment, Tyrone took a taste and then burst into uncontroble coughing.


    The spice hit him hard, and he coughed non¨Cstop, his face turning a bright red. Quintessa feigned


    innocence, ¡°Oh, you can¡¯t handle spicy food? Why didn¡¯t you say so? I¡¯m terribly sorry; how


    embarrassing¡±


    Tyrone grabbed a ss of water and downed it in one; he then pulled out a handkerchief to dab away


    the moisture from his lips.


    17-05


    in actions that would seem awkward on anyone else, Tyrone managed to look effortlessly stylish.


    Quintessa¡¯s thirst for vengeance remained unquenched as she apologized again, 1 really am sorry, Mr.


    York I had no idea you couldn¡¯t handle the heat. Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    Director Cooper, not daring to offend this money man, quickly chimed in, ¡°Had we known, we¡¯d have


    opted for the mild dishes, I apologize.¡±


    Tyrone, watching Quintessa¡¯s pretense, felt irritation rising. Deliberately, he said, ¡°No matter, how can I


    refuse a dish served by a beautifuldy?¡±


    The people in the room castplicated nces at Quintessa, who nearly bit her tongue in frustration,


    ¡°What are you saying? That if a beauty offers you a cup of poison, you¡¯d drink it too?¡±


    Tyrone let out a half¨Csmile as he looked at her, ¡°That depends on who¡¯s offering it.¡±


    Quintessa could hardly force a smile because Tyrone was flirting with her! She grabbed a nearby ss


    and took a swig, but the anger inside her refused to be quenched.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Beneath the table, Quintessa found Tyrone¡¯s foot and stomped down hard.


    She wore her almost 2¨Cinch¨Cheel stiletto, sharp as nails, and she didn¡¯t hold back. The force of her


    stomp was like hammering a nail, and to make matters worse, Quintessa ground her heel in a bit more


    for good measure.

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30


    Despite the provocation, Tyrone¡¯s face remained impassive.


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curling disdainfully; she thought he was all about restraint ¨C until she attempted to


    retract her foot and found it trapped. Tyrone¡¯s legs were like a vise, mping down on her calf with an


    immovable determination.


    And as if that wasn¡¯t audacious enough, his hand had the gall to wander up to her thigh, an


    unapologetic trespasser in broad daylight.


    Quintessa¡¯s body shook with rage. What was this?


    To him, she was nothing but a ything, avable at his whim. She reached out and twisted his hand


    hard, but rather than recoiling, he doubled down, his hand venturing under her skirt with impudent


    stealth.


    With actions so lecherous, Tyrone still managed to look every bit the refined gentleman.


    Quintessa¡¯s gaze turned icy as she snapped her head up, but suddenly, a mocking smile graced her


    lips. Did he think her indignation was for show? Let him touch; she wouldn¡¯t give him the satisfaction of


    a response.


    She turned her attention to the director and producer, effectively dismissing Tyrone¡¯s


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    presence.


    The more she antagonized Tyrone, the more he thrived on it. The best tactic was to ignore. him


    completely.


    Quintessa was generous with her smiles to everyone else. When she wasn¡¯t trying to seduce, her smile


    was infectious and genuine, a beauty thatmanded attention.


    But in Tyrone¡¯s eyes, a shadow began to form.


    The producer was quite taken with Quintessa. A little tipsy, he was loose¨Clipped with hispliments,


    ¡°Ms. Young, your eyes are captivating ¨C so expressive. Rare in this show


    biz.¡±


    Tyrone interjected, ¡°Cosmetic surgery.¡±


    The producer, flustered, tried again, ¡°Your nose is so well¨Cdefined.¡±


    Tyrone cut in, ¡°It¡¯s augmented.¡±


    The producer continued, ¡°Your breasts are sensational.¡±


    Tyrone smirked, ¡°All thanks to the imntation.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s grip on her ss tightened, trembling with restrained fury. She wanted to throttle him, to


    shout the unspoken truth of their intimacy, challenging him to wait for what woulde.


    17.05


    Violet couldn¡¯t stand the tension. Quintessa was her charge, after all. She forced a smile, Well Mr. York,


    you¡¯re quite the joker.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s reply was cold, ¡°I wasn¡¯t joking.¡±


    The sound of ss on wood echoed as Quintessa ced her ss down, her smile radiant under the


    lights. Before the silent audience, she threw down the gauntlet, To figure out whether they are


    imnted, why not find out for yourself tonight, Mr. York?¡±


    Tyrone leaned back slightly, ¡°I just might.¡±


    The simmering broth on the table bubbled away. The room fell into an eerily silence, no one daring to


    make a peep; the atmosphere was chilled to the bone, with only the pot of broth offering any warmth.


    Violet, desperate to escape the tension, concocted a reason to take Quintessa out, ¡°Excuse us, Quinn


    and I need go to the restroom.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    As they rose, Quintessa¡¯s foot remained caught in Tyrone¡¯s trap. He didn¡¯t budge, causing her to


    stumble toward him. Tyrone didn¡¯t help, and just let Quintessa crash straight into his embrace.


    It was then that Tyrone¡¯s arms encircled Quintessa¡¯s waist, his hands caressing her through the fabric


    of her dress, ¡°Ms. Young, so eager to fall into my arms?¡±

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31


    Quintessa was so angry she was almostughing, but she managed to keep a smile stered on her


    face, her palm resting on Tyrone¡¯s chest, ¡°Oh yeah, I¡¯m dying to see you in action, to see just how


    much of a man you really are.¡±


    Tyrone responded, ¡°I guarantee you won¡¯t be disappointed.¡±


    Their tant banter made even the most seasoned veterans in the room shift


    ufortably.


    Tyrone¡¯s eyes darkened, his arm tightening around Quintessa¡¯s waist.


    Even Violet, who wasn¡¯t the sharpest tool in the shed, could see that there was no real chemistry


    between these two. There had to be another angle to it, and she was determined to find out.


    ¡°Sorry, Mr. York.¡± Violet interjected, ¡°Quinn¡¯s new here; doesn¡¯t know any better. I¡¯ll have a word with


    herter.¡±


    ¡°Quinn, look at yourself; get up now.¡±


    Tyrone shot Violet a chilling nce that made her feel as if her hair was standing on end.


    She had been in the show biz for years and had seen all sorts of characters. Even those who had


    yed kings time and again didn¡¯t have such an intimidating presence.


    Tyrone didn¡¯t let go, but Quintessa smirked, her fingers sliding down to his wrist and then one by one


    prying his fingers off.


    Standing up, Quintessa turned and smiled apologetically at the stunned Director Cooper and the


    others, ¡°Excuse me, I have to step out for a moment.¡±


    Violet hurriedly escorted Quintessa out. They didn¡¯t go far. The hallway was empty, and Violet asked


    immediately, ¡°Do you have some kind of beef with Tyrone? Did you know


    each other before?¡±


    Violet offered Quintessa a cigarette from her pack. What Violet didn¡¯t know was that the jerk who had


    taken advantage of Quintessa that night was none other than Tyrone himself.


    Lighting the cigarette, Quintessa took a drag and exhaled a perfect ring of smoke, replying, ¡°A little bit.¡±


    Violet could tell from Quintessa¡¯s angry yet restrained expression that their entanglement was anything


    but simple.


    ¡°Emotional entanglement?¡±


    Quintessaughed, her hand trembling with the cigarette between her fingers, ash crumbling down,


    ¡°Emotional? Violet, you give me too much credit. If I had emotional


    4704


    entanglement with the CEO of the York Financial Group, do you think I¡¯d be in this mess?


    Quintessa was more anxious than anyone could imagine. Two years ago, she had met Violet while


    traveling abroad, and Violet thought she had what it took to make it in showbiz.


    So, upon returning home, the n was to establish her career and then deal with the Young family.


    But now, everything was going wrong. There was no telling if she would make it big or not, and what


    about her revenge? Quintessa couldn¡¯t stand it any longer.


    Upon hearing her words, Violet realized that if Quintessa really had any connection with Tyrone, she


    wouldn¡¯t be in such dire straits. She would have been on the fast track to sess, notcking


    resources.


    Remembering the things Tyrone had said and done to Quintessa, Violet felt a surge of disgust. She


    suspected that Tyrone had deliberately tried to embarrass Quintessa.


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    What kind of man, especially one of power and influence, would stoop to humiliate a woman? Although


    Violet didn¡¯t dare cross Tyrone, she mentally tagged him as a jerk.


    She took a bitter drag from her cigarette, ¡°Why is your luck so rotten? Youe back home, finally


    land a couple of auditions, and one role gets snatched by the Lott family. The movie part falls through,


    and then some bastard takes advantage of you. Now this Tyrone guy seems hell¨Cbent on making your


    life miserable.¡±


    Quintessa took another puff, blew a smoke ring, and nced at a man emerging from a nearby private


    room. Her eyes narrowed, her red lips curled in a cold sneer, ¡°You¡¯re right; he¡¯s nothing but a bastard.¡±

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32


    Violet said, ¡°You better head back home; you can¡¯t go in there now. Looks like this whole show¡¯s gonna


    bomb anyway. Save yourself the trouble before Tyrone gives you more grief.¡±


    Quintessa felt a warmth in her heart, ¡°Okay, thanks, Violet.¡±


    Violet nodded, ¡°Alright, I¡¯m heading in.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Quintessa nced at the man standing a short distance away, his back to them as he spoke on the


    phone, a sinister smile ying on her lips.


    After hanging up, Tyrone returned to find Violet sitting there, but no sign of Quintessa. He asked about


    her, and Violet made up an excuse that Quintessa wasn¡¯t feeling well and had gone home.


    Tyrone¡¯s face soured on the spot. Without Quintessa, what was the point of sticking around? With a


    scowl, he left the joint.


    Stepping out of the ce, Tyrone disgustedly stripped off his jacket, the smell of smoke clinging to him,


    which he found particrly loathsome.


    There were parking spots right in front of the restaurant, and as Tyrone approached his car, the driver


    waiting inside quickly got out and opened the back door for him.


    As he bent to get in, the driver began to close the door, but before it shut, someone pushed it open,


    ¡°Hey, what are you doing?¡±


    The driver reached out to stop it, but was toote the intruder had already slipped inside.


    Under the faint evening light, Tyrone could still clearly see who had joined him. He paused, and then


    laughed, ¡°I thought you left.¡±


    Quintessa flipped her hair and turned, her smile sultry, ¡°You¡¯re still here, and how could I bear to leave?


    Didn¡¯t you say, Mr. York, that you wanted to try it tonight, see what¡¯s real


    and what¡¯s not?¡±


    Quintessa was never one to let things slide. She wouldn¡¯t let Tyrone make a fool of her and then slink


    away silently. Even if she couldn¡¯t get back at him, she wasn¡¯t about to make things easy for him.


    She might not be able to take him down, but she could sure as hell make him squirm.


    Tyrone, meticulous in all he did, would naturally choose the finest ride in the lot. Quintessa had


    scanned the parking area and spotted Tyrone¡¯s car almost instantly, watching it from a distance, waiting


    for him toe out.


    Tyrone¡¯s irritation melted away as he reached out and lifted her chin with two fingers,


    40.75


    admiring her face, a smile forming on his lips.


    The driver, unsure of what to do, hesitated, ¡°Mr. York?¡±


    This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In a swift motion, Tyrone pulled Quintessa into his embrace.


    ¡°Drive.¡±


    The driver didn¡¯t dare look back, quickly taking his seat behind the wheel.


    Tyrone held Quintessa close, her body pliant against his, the confined space of the car filled with her


    unique fragrance, intoxicating and addictive.


    Over the past three years, he rarely thought of Quintessa, but in the quiet of the night, it was her scent


    that lingered in his memory all along.


    Finally, Tyrone could no longer resist and leaned in to kiss her, but she deftly dodged, and his lips


    brushed her ear instead.


    He yfully nibbled on her earlobe, his husky voice a direct assault on her senses, ¡°To a hotel?¡±


    Suddenly, Quintessa thrust Tyrone with unexpected force. Caught off guard, he was pushed away.


    In one fluid movement, Quintessa boldly straddled hisp, herughter tinged with sarcasm. ¡°Why


    bother with a hotel? A car fling is more my style. Saves me from another money¨Chungry loser who


    skimps on the room. I¡¯d be at a loss.¡±

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    Quintessa¡¯sugh was wickedly enchanting, ¡°Besides, I¡¯ve never had the pleasure of making love in a


    Maybach.¡±


    Her flippant words,ced with a hint of promiscuity, led one to subconsciously assume she had yed


    this game with many men.


    From the shadows, Tyrone exuded a chilling aura of fury. Quintessa paid no mind to Tyrone¡¯s rage,


    reaching out to unbutton his shirt.


    To her, the angrier Tyrone got, the better. If he wasn¡¯t mad, what was the point of all this? Surely she


    wasn¡¯t expected to pacify him? His discontent was herfort.


    Tyrone¡¯s shirt was bespoke, crafted overseas, with even the cufflinks chosen from the finest gems.


    As Quintessa undid the buttons, she taunted, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that my chests and chin are imnted,


    my waist liposucked, my nose augmented? And you still want to get a room. with me? Quite the


    peculiar taste.¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t move, leaning backzily, allowing Quintessa to strip him of his clothes, raising an


    eyebrow to ask, ¡°Upset?¡±


    Quintessa let out a cold chuckle, ¡°Oh, Mr. York, so your eyes do work? And here I thought you had a


    vision problem.¡±


    With thest button undone, Tyrone¡¯s chest was exposed, lean and strong, without exaggerated


    muscles, but each defined line hinted at power.


    Quintessa had known about Tyrone¡¯s physique for three years now. Why not feel if it was free? Her


    index finger traced a line down from his sternum, but before it could reach his abdomen, Tyrone caught


    her hand, ¡°In such a hurry?¡±


    She arched her lips upwards, lifting her dress and pulling down her neckline to reveal swathes of skin,


    her shoulders round and smooth, the ck lingerie entuating her curves in the dark, a sinful


    temptation.


    Quintessa grabbed his hand and ced it on her chest, ¡°Yes, I can¡¯t wait for you to see if these are real


    or just saline bags.¡±


    Suddenly, Tyrone¡¯s stern voice cut through the tension, ¡°Stop the car.¡±


    The driver jolted, swerving into an S¨Ccurve before mming to a halt.


    Tyronemanded harshly, ¡°Get out.¡±


    The driver hesitated, wondering if themand was for him or the fiery beauty in the back.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone repeated, ¡°Get out.¡±


    9705


    His tone was so icy; the driver didn¡¯t dare linger, stumbling out and running a good twenty meters


    without looking back.


    Now there were only Tyrone and Quintessa inside the car. Thetter leaned into Tyrone¡¯s embrace,


    nibbling the soft flesh of his neck, giggling, ¡°Afraid of being seen?¡±


    Tyrone, clutching Quintessa¡¯s slender waist and kissing her exposed shoulder, retorted, ¡°Your sunt was


    right; you really have no shame.¡±


    A cold glint shed in Quintessa¡¯s eyes; she¡¯d deal with Rachel eventually.


    Pressing down on hisp, Quintessa challenged, ¡°And what about you? You got any shame? You are


    not even over her, aren¡¯t you? And yet you¡¯re feeling up her niece? Should I call you in shameless,


    Mr. York?¡±


    Tyrone grunted, Quintessa was a siren, and he was perversely curious to see how far she¡¯d go.


    Tyrone felt himself on the verge of frenzied outburst; his breathing grew heavier as he reached for the


    zipper of Quintessa¡¯s dress, ¡°You really are a¡­¡±


    Just as his fingers found the hidden zipper, Tyrone suddenly cried out in pain.

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34


    Suddenly, Tyrone let out a yelp of pain, and the interior of the car shook with amotion.


    In the next second, Quintessa kicked the car door open with one swift move, grabbing Tyrone¡¯s shirt


    with one hand while barefoot, she leaped out of the car with astonishing speed.


    Tyrone, clutching his neck and fuming to the point of distortion, roared out, ¡°Quintessa, you get your


    ass back here right now!¡±


    But Quintessa had already crossed the street to the opposite side; standing under a streetlight, she


    defiantly tilted her chin up at Tyrone, sticking out her tongue to lick the blood at the corner of her mouth,


    like a vampire who had just feasted on a victim, her eyes gleaming with triumphant amusement.


    A man blinded by desire was always at his most vulnerable. How else could she have managed to hurt


    him? She had not only bitten his neck but alsonded a solid kick to his family jewels.


    Tossing Tyrone¡¯s shirt into a nearby trash can, Quintessa flipped him the bird, threw her chin up in


    challenge, adjusted her own clothes, and hailed a passing cab. With a cool leap, she was gone, leaving


    the scene in less than a minute.


    She sat in the taxi; recalling Tyrone¡¯s livid face made her burst intoughter.


    Shirtless, Tyrone must be too embarrassed to chase after her, and then there was. Quintessa might


    have wanted to pull down his pants but feared if she did, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to escape.


    She was fed up with Tyrone always acting so superior!!! Fed up with the way he looked at her!!!


    Why should she just lie down and let him do whatever he wanted whenever he desired


    her?


    She wanted Tyrone to know what it felt like to be left burning with unsatisfied desire. Want to sleep with


    her? Hah, no chance now.


    If it weren¡¯t for the fear of brutal retaliationter on, Quintessa really would have wished her kick could


    have ended his lineage.


    Rachel¡¯s man! Turned out he was not much after all.


    Tyrone, half¨Cnaked and clutching the bite mark on his neck, seethed internally as if he had swallowed a


    few hundred pounds of dynamite.


    He had been seduced by countless women, but this time he had been yed by Quintessa ¨C he was


    actually fooled by her, and Tyrone felt this was the most embarrassing moment


    17 06


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    of his life.


    He had actually believed that Quintessa wanted to engage in some risky car escapades with him.


    Tyrone never thought he could be so ¡°nalve¡°. But with Quintensa, he was damned naive indeed.


    The driver, who had seen Quintessa jump out of the car from a distance, sensed something was off


    and hurried back, ¡°Mr¡­.Mr. York.¡±


    All he saw was Tyrone shirtless, with a savage bite mark on his neck, a wound that wouldn¡¯t disappear


    for days.


    The driver only dared to nce once before averting his gaze.


    Tyronemanded, ¡°Go home.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    The driver quickly got into the car. He had thought Mr. York would be furious, but to his surprise, after


    ten minutes, Tyrone actuallyughed.


    F F


    The driver trembled with fear; what level of anger must one reach to react like that?


    Half¨Cnaked, Tyrone sat enveloped in darkness, the smile on his lips chilling to the bone. His fingers


    brushed over the spot where Quintessa had bitten him, and he chuckled lowly, ¡°Quintessa, just you


    wait.¡±


    In the game of seduction, the thrill was everything. Quintessa, you¡¯d got guts!


    17:0

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35


    Tyrone strolled into the house, his clothes already freshly changed, a paper bag swinging


    from his grip as he made his way into the living room.


    It was past 11, yet the York family¡¯s living room was alive with chatter.


    ¡°Tyrone, you¡¯re back.¡±


    With a drawl, Tyrone replied, ¡°Mom, you¡¯re still up?¡±


    His mother, Mrs. York, stood from her seat, starting to say, ¡°Well, I was just¡­¡±


    Before Mrs. York could finish, the person next to her quickly interjected in a soft tone, ¡°Tyrone, you¡¯re


    home. I didn¡¯t have much going on today, so I thought I¡¯d drop by and check on Mrs. York. We got to


    talking and time just flew by.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze fell on Rachel, and he couldn¡¯t even muster the effort to give her a cold look, ¡°Mom,


    you¡¯re not getting any younger. Why are you burning the midnight oil? Looking to add more wrinkles to


    r collection?¡±


    Mrs. York was indeed over fifty but had taken such good care of herself that she appeared to be in her


    early forties. She touched her face anxiously, ¡°Oh dear, is that true?¡±


    Impatient, Tyrone said, ¡°I¡¯m beat. I¡¯m heading upstairs to bed.¡±


    Mrs. York caught hold of him, ¡°Hold on a sec. Rachel¡¯s been waiting for you for quite a


    while.¡±


    ¡°If she wants to wait, that¡¯s her problem, not mine.¡±


    Tyrone had never given Rachel a second thought. A few years back, she had done a small favor for


    Mrs. York, earning her good graces, and since then she had been spreading rumors about being


    Tyrone¡¯s fianc¨¦e.


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t care less, but Rachel was persistent. For three years, she endured being ignored by


    him, not even worth a nce, let alone a conversation. Still, she managed to keep up appearances,


    acting as if their rtionship was rock solid.


    Tyrone had never taken such a tantly ambitious woman seriously. If it weren¡¯t for the fact that she


    somehow kept his mother in high spirits, he would have had her dealt with long ago.


    Mrs. York had hoped to get Tyrone to exchange a few words with Rachel but inadvertently noticed a


    mark on his neck, ¡°Yikes, what¡¯s happened to your neck? Who bit you? And what¡¯s this?¡±


    The area around the wound was smeared with the remnants of lipstick ¨C the unmistakable sign of a


    recent rendezvous. He hadn¡¯t bothered to clean up after his escapade beforeing home!


    Mrs York fumed inside, the brazenness of these temptresses knew no bounds. Her expression soured


    as she turned to look at Rachel, whose pale face and slender frame were trembling slightly, clearly


    shocked.


    Mrs. York swatted Tyrone¡¯s arm, ¡°Look at you, getting worse every day. You¡¯re a grown man with a


    girlfriend; It¡¯s time to start acting like it.¡±


    Tyrone, visibly annoyed, turned away, ¡°I¡¯m heading up. From now on, don¡¯t let strangers stay in the


    house.¡±


    Mrs. York called after him, ¡°Tyrone, is that the way how you speak?¡±


    She wanted to discipline her son, but she had never been able to control him. Being the only son of


    her, Tyrone had been headstrong from a young age, listening to no one, Insisting everyone listen to him


    instead. His domineering nature was well known, and he had grown from a little tyrant into a full¨Cblown


    authority.


    Today, his mood was rtively good, evident by the fact he exchanged a few words with her. But on his


    bad days, a mere cold nce from him could leave Mrs. York speechless.


    Turning to Rachel awkwardly, Mrs. York suggested, ¡°Rachel, maybe you should head home for now.¡±


    Rachel¡¯s eyes were red as she spoke, ¡°Mrs. York, I just want to go upstairs and talk to Tyrone. I¡¯m not


    mad at him; it¡¯s just he can¡¯t be so careless with women. He¡¯s letting those loose women mark him up


    so badly. He might not care, but it hurts me to see him like


    that.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36


    Rachel poured her heart out, her words painting a vivid picture of her undying love for Tyrone.


    Mrs. York felt a twinge of guilt as she listened, ¡°You¡¯re just too kind¨Chearted. Those little vixens cut


    there are no match for you. How can Tyrone, s, go on up, but don¡¯t upset him. If he says no, don¡¯t


    enter his room, or it¡¯ll be your own downfall.¡±


    What Mrs. York had almost said was ¡°How can he noty his eyes on you?¡± But she held back, not


    wanting to make Rachel feel worse.


    Rachel nodded, ¡°Sure, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Tyrone tossed the paper bag on the floor, a corner of its contents peeking out ¨C a pair of women¡¯s high


    heels, ck, dainty, and delicate. It was Quintessa¡¯s shoes that she had left. in the car.


    Narrowing his eyes at the heels, Tyrone was baffled at why he had brought them home. He recalled


    how Quintessa had tossed his shirt into a trash can and sneered, ¡°Why didn¡¯t I just throw these away


    too?¡±


    Someone was knocking at the door.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    Rachel¡¯s voice came through, ¡°Tyrone, it¡¯s me. How¡¯s your neck? Does it hurt? Let me put some


    ointment on it.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Hearing Rachel¡¯s voice, Tyrone felt a wave of repulsion, ¡°Who let youe up? Get lost.¡±


    Rachel bit her lip, ¡°Tyrone, I won¡¯te in. Can I just stand at the door and talk to you for


    a moment?¡±


    She was 29 this year, soon to 30. Older than Tyrone by a year, she couldn¡¯t afford to wait any longer.


    Every time she looked in the mirror and saw the fine lines at the corners of her eyes that no amount of


    skincare could hold back, she was filled with dread.


    She had to hurry up and marry into the York family. Any more dy and her chances. would dwindle


    even further.


    She had tried everything to win Tyrone¡¯s favor, but to no avail. He wouldn¡¯t even nce at her. Ever


    since that night three years ago when he slept with Quintessa, Tyrone¡¯s disdain for her had only grown.


    Sometimes she wouldn¡¯t see him for a whole month.


    Tyrone chuckled mockingly, leisurely undoing his shirt buttons. He remembered Quintessa¡¯s delicate


    touch on his chest, a tickling sensation that he vowed not to let her


    go next time.


    With thoughts of Quintessa swirling in his mind, he coldly advised Rachel, ¡°I suggest you


    17-06


    Chapter 36


    give up on your dream of marrying into the York family, Rachel. Do you think you¡¯re worthy?¡±


    That statement was a dagger to Rachel. Her greatest dream was to be a part of the York family.


    She saw marrying Tyrone as her ultimate goal. She wanted to be someone of status, to have all of


    Emberbrook look up to her, to be respectfully addressed as Mrs. York, to be the envy of all other


    women.


    But for three years, Tyrone had ignored her, never so bluntly stating that she had no chance of joining


    the York family.


    His blunt words now made Rachel feel like she was copsing. She pushed open Tyrone¡¯s door,


    ¡°Tyrone, why can¡¯t you ept me? What¡¯s wrong with me? Tell me, and I¡¯ll change, I¡¯ll change until


    you¡¯re satisfied.¡±


    Tyrone spun around, his eyes fierce, ¡°Who gave you permission to open my door?¡±


    Rachel trembled with fear, ¡°Tyrone, I didn¡¯t mean to.¡±


    Suddenly, Rachel¡¯s gaze fell to the floor beside Tyrone¡¯s feet. Her eyes widened in shock at the sight of


    the paper bag. As a woman, there was no mistaking it ¨C those were a woman¡¯s shoes.

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37


    Rachel knew that Tyrone had never allowed a single piece of others¡® belongings to enter his room, not


    even those from his parents. Even if someone sent him any gift, it¡¯d end up in a specially arranged


    room.


    The man had a territorial instinct so strong that anything from outside was forbidden to get in. Except


    those servants who did regr cleaning in his room, even his parents had seldom entered there..


    But today, Tyrone had brought a woman¡¯s shoes into his room. A woman¡¯s shoes. This meant she


    wasn¡¯t just any woman in Tyrone¡¯s life; she was significant. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t possibly bring


    ladies¡® shoes in his room.


    Rachel¡¯s face twisted into a snarl, her voice rising to a fever pitch, ¡°You¡¯ve got another woman, don¡¯t


    you? Who is this siren?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s brow furrowed in disgust. Was she trying to provoke him? He took two quick steps forward


    and kicked Rachel on the shin, sending her sprawling out of the room.


    He had made it clear before; he had no rule against hitting a woman, especially Rachel. He couldn¡¯t


    recall anyone else who churned his stomach quite like she did.


    ¡°Scram! And if you show your face here again, I swear I¡¯ll break one of your arms.¡±


    Mrs. York, hearing themotion, came upstairs and found Rachel whimpering on the floor, her son¡¯s


    face dark with anger, ¡°What¡¯s going on? What¡¯s happened here?¡±


    Rachel, teetering on the edge of hysteria, ¡°Mrs. York, Tyrone¡¯s got another woman. He¡¯s got another


    woman.¡±


    Mrs. York frowned, ¡°Is that news?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    She knew her son didn¡¯t touch Rachel, so it wasn¡¯t bizarre for a young man his age to have a woman in


    his life.


    Rachel clung desperately to Mrs. York¡¯s hand, shrieking, ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that. You don¡¯t understand.¡±


    Mrs. York¡¯s hand turned red from Rachel¡¯s grip, and she shook it off forcefully. She looked. somewhat


    impatient, ¡°Alright, alright, I don¡¯t understand. It¡¯ste; you should head home. I¡¯m exhausted.¡±


    Rachel was unceremoniously escorted out by the York family¡¯s house staff.


    Mrs. York rubbed her sore hand and muttered to herself, ¡°What¡¯s gotten into that Rachel?¡±


    Tyrone, arms crossed, leaned against the doorframe, ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°Yes, dear?¡±


    I don¡¯t want that woman anywhere near the York family mansion again.¡±


    Mrs. York furrowed, ¡°But isn¡¯t she your girlfriend?¡±


    Besides, she had taken quite a liking to Rachel.


    Tyrone replied tly, ¡°Did I ever confirm that?¡±


    ¡°But everyone thinks¡­¡±


    Tyrone cut her off, ¡°Is my girlfriend decided by other people? I might get married someday, but it won¡¯t


    be to her. My taste isn¡¯t that bad.¡±


    He never saw Rachel as anything more than transparent; he could see through her pretenses, her


    belief that she disguised her true intentions well. To Tyrone, she was no more than a clown performing


    for an audience of one.


    ¡°If you invite her over again, then it¡¯ll just be you and her, because I¡¯ll move out,¡± Tyrone dered.


    Mrs. York waved her hands frantically at his words, ¡°Okay, okay, I¡¯ll listen to you. The house is so empty


    as it is. If you leave, I¡¯ll be scared.¡±


    Tyrone nodded, ¡°Alright, go to sleep.¡±


    He turned and closed his door behind him. Mrs. York sighed. She still thought Rachel was quite nice.


    ¡°Why did Rachel upset him so? Maybe I¡¯ll wait for him to cool down and then try to talk some sense into


    him.¡±

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38


    Tyrone stooped to pick up Quintessa¡¯s shoes and walked to the walk¨Cin closet. He pushed open the


    ss door to his shoe cab, which was a veritable wall of footwear, all his own. Casually, he tossed


    Quintessa¡¯s shoes into the mix.


    Til chuck it tomorrow.¡±


    After a shower, Tyrone stood in front of the mirror, toweling his hair. He caught sight of the angry red


    mark on his neck, the twin rows of bite marks stark against his skin, a clear sign that someone had


    meant business.


    ¡°Girl¡¯s got a bite,¡± he touched the mark. It was the first time in his years as a top dog that a woman had


    left her mark on him.


    Yet, the strange thing was, he felt thrilled by it.


    Tyrone didn¡¯t bother with ointment. After drying off his hair, hey back on the bed and started scrolling


    through his phone.


    He suddenly felt the urge to call Quintessa, but after flicking through his contacts and not finding her,


    he remembered with a jolt that her phone had been smashed.


    Tyrone felt nothing but frustrated.


    In the wee hours, Rachel¡¯s car came to a halt outside the York family mansion. She sat there, staring at


    the opulent mansion that seemed even more grandiose against the night sky, her eyes filled with a wild


    longing.


    She had dreamed of bing thedy of the York family, where it didn¡¯t matter whether she liked


    Tyrone or he liked her. What she craved was the power and wealth of the York


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    name.


    Rachel gripped the steering wheel, her voice a hushed, crazed whisper, ¡°I need to find out who that slut


    is. I¡¯m gonna figure it out. I won¡¯t let this go.¡±


    The next day, Tyrone woke up looking like a storm cloud.


    He skipped breakfast and left the house, causing Mrs. York to worry she had somehow done anything


    wrong.


    James, delivering documents to the office, saw Tyrone¡¯s thunderous expression and dared not even


    breathe too loudly.


    Suddenly, Tyrone barked, ¡°Phone.¡±


    James blinked, ¡°What?¡±


    With a snap, Tyrone tossed his pen, ¡°The phone.¡±


    Ah, realization dawned on James. Mr. York wanted Quintessa¡¯s phone.


    17.06


    It got smashed.


    ¡°Smashed?¡±


    Feeling a chill run down his spine, James stammered, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say,¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s eyes were dark, ¡°What did I say?¡±


    James swallowed his words, ¡°Just one moment.¡±


    He hurried out of the room.


    After James left, Tyrone tried to get back to reviewing documents, but he couldn¡¯t even finish a


    sentence before he kicked over the trash bin, his body radiating fury.


    He was ashamed to remember the morning¡¯s incident. A wet dream, damn it! At 28, he was having wet


    dreams.


    What made Tyrone even more enraged was the face of the woman in his dream; of all people, it had to


    be Quintessa!


    Three years ago, he had slept with Quintessa for one night, a mere fleeting encounter.


    In those three years, he swore he hadn¡¯t spared a thought for Quintessa, truly hadn¡¯t. He felt he¡¯d even


    forgotten what she looked like because, to him, she was just another


    woman.


    But, upon seeing her again, he felt all out of sorts! He felt like there was something he should be doing,


    but hadn¡¯t done, yet he couldn¡¯t figure out what it was supposed to be.


    James knocked and entered, holding a white smartphone, ¡°Mr. York, the phone.¡±


    Tyrone, with a frosty demeanor, said, ¡°I thought it was smashed?¡±


    James was at a loss for words. He was the one who wanted it smashed, who then asked for it, and


    now he brought it to him, and he was unhappy it was not smashed? What on earth did he want?


    Tyrone snatched the phone and threw it into the drawer, ¡°Go buy me a new phone.¡±

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    James ventured, ¡°For you?¡±


    One look from Tyrone had James mentally kicking himself for his casual address, ¡°I¨CI understand. On


    it.¡±


    ¡°Find out who that guy is.¡±


    Internally, James was groaning. Which guy? Could he get a hint, please? Luckily, he was quick; it


    struck him- probably that dude in the photo with Quintessa.


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    ¡°And I want to know everything about her for the past three years.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± James nodded.


    Once outside, a headache throbbed at James¡® temples. Running errands for Mr. York was surely


    Shirley, the secretary¡¯s job, not his.


    He shook his head. Tyrone wanted her whereabouts over three years now, after all this time of


    indifference. Men were so fickle.


    Ha


    His phone buzzed, and he pulled it out, surprised; it was Rachel, his brow furrowing in annoyance. He


    wasn¡¯t fond of Rachel and promptly hung up the call. Whatever she wanted, it couldn¡¯t be good.


    Quintessa had hoped that tweaking Tyrone¡¯s ego would brighten her mood, if only a little.


    But her own spirits plummeted as shey in bed, the brief flicker of joy extinguished. After waiting at


    home with no news for two days, insomnia took hold.


    The dawn was breaking, and she had yet to fall asleep.


    Without turning on the lights, she stepped onto the balcony in her pajamas and lit at cigarette, mocking


    herself. Was tweaking Tyrone really worth celebrating?


    She did it for a moment of delight, yet ticking Tyrone off would eventually just set herself up for trouble


    since the situation was already tough.


    However, she seriously couldn¡¯t just bite the bullet..


    Quintessa was sick of this plight; there were still tons of things she needed to do. She must find a


    breakthrough, unwilling to remain trapped in this limbo.


    As she was lost in thought, amotion from the neighboring balcony snapped her out of her reverie.


    A man and a woman were there, seeking thrills in the dead of night.


    The woman, bracing against the railing and gasping loudly, eximed, ¡°No one¡¯s watching, right?¡±


    17.06


    The man, cigarette dangling from his lips and clothes neat, replied coolly, ¡°So what if they are? You


    wanted excitement. Scared of an audience now?¡±


    Upon hearing his words, Quintessa paused. These apartments¡® balconies were open style, each of


    which was merely two meters away; if it weren¡¯t so dark, she could see everything quite clearly.


    She smirked. First time seeing the neighbors ¨C should she greet them?


    As she contemted snapping a photo, she remembered her phone had been stolen by that jerk.


    Shaking her head in disappointment, she lit another cigarette; since she found it hard to sleep,


    watching the free midnight show would be a perfect choice.


    The woman, catching a glimpse of the glowing ember on Quintessa¡¯s balcony, screamed, pushing the


    man behind her and bolted, leaving her underwear there.


    Leaning against the railing, Quintessa felt bored and prepared to head back inside when the man,


    fixing his clothes, remarked, ¡°Enjoy the show?¡±


    His husky voice carried through the cool night air, surprisingly pleasant, even though he was caught on


    spot, there wasn¡¯t a trace of shame in his face.


    Quintessa was caught off guard. This guy was interesting ¨C aware of her presence and utterly


    shameless.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40


    Quintessa flicked her cigarette butt, ¡°Not as much as you.¡±


    Is that it?¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Yeah, energetic.¡±


    The guy across from her choked a bit on his smoke, drawling, ¡°You scared off tonight.¡±


    my


    date


    Quintessa snorted, ¡°And you guys sted away any chance of sleep for me tonight.¡±


    ¡°Since we¡¯re both up, how about youe here continuing what has left?¡±


    Quintessa took another drag, crushed the cigarette on the balcony rail, and said, ¡°Buddy, I only y for


    keeps. Not into second¨Chand thrills.¡±


    With a wave of her hand, she turned to head back to bed. As she slid the patio door shut behind her,


    she heard the neighbor curse, ¡°What the heck!¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s mood instantly lifted. Someone was frustrated; looked like they were not getting any sleep


    tonight.


    As soon as the first light of dawn peeked through, just after 6 AM, Violet was already at the door.


    Quintessa, with barely two hours of sleep, yawned and shuffled to the door with tousled hair. She


    opened the door, eyes half¨Cclosed, leaningzily on the frame, ¡°Violet, why so early?¡±


    Instead, she heard Violet chatting excitedly with someone else, ¡°Great Snow Jackson, you live here


    too? What a coincidence.¡±


    Blearily, Quintessa opened her eyes a sliver and spotted a familiar figure the thrill¨Cseeker from the


    balconyst night.


    The guy didn¡¯t even respond to Violet; instead, he asked, looking at Quintessa, ¡°Violet, is she your


    talent?¡±


    Violet beamed, ¡°Yeah, she¡¯s new, yet to debut. We¡¯d love it if you could look out for her in


    the future.¡±


    ¡°Sure thing.¡±


    Quintessa was d in a ck nightgown, not prudish, not overly sexy, but the color set off her fair


    complexion. Leaning there, the epitome of sleepiness, with half¨Clidded eyes and slightly parted red lips,


    her wild hair made what should¡¯ve been a disheveled look into something irresistibly sensual.


    He suddenly said, ¡°Perfect timing. I¡¯m shooting a music video for my new single and


    17:07


    haven¡¯t found a lead actress. She¡¯s got the right vibe. Think we could get her on board?


    Violet was ecstatic, ¡°Really? To star in Great Snow Jackson¡¯s music video is a dreame true for us.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    It was a casualment from Violet, not expecting much, as her n wasn¡¯t to steer Quintessa


    towards a singing career. Even with Great Snow Jackson being a legend in the music industry, she


    didn¡¯t anticipate his actual help.


    She¡¯d never expected such serendipity. It felt like walking on the street, starving, and having a pie fall


    right out of the sky onto her head.


    Quintessa, still half¨Casleep, heard someone nearby saying, ¡°Snow Jackson.¡±


    She opened her sleepy eyes to meet his gaze. Even behind sses, Quintessa felt she could see right


    into his eyes. In a silent exchange, they both read the same message- neither was a saint.


    The next second, they shared a knowing smile, silently agreeing to leavest night¡¯s events unspoken.


    Quintessa looked at his outstretched hand and slowly extended hers, ¡°Quintessa Young¡±


    The man in front of her worerge sunsses and a snapback cap, leaving only a view of a sharp


    jawline and attractive lips. A trendy fellow.


    He seemed to squeeze her hand a bit tighter than necessary, letting go with a deliberate stroke.


    Quintessa thought to herself; damn, this guy was trying to hit on her.

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41


    Men flirting, it seemed, was a universal game.


    Snow said, ¡°I¡¯ll have my agent get in touch with you. I hope we can shoot this as soon as possible.¡±


    Violet nodded enthusiastically, ¡°Absolutely, we¡¯re ready anytime.¡±


    Snow said, ¡°Goodbye, I¡¯ve got to run.¡±


    Quintessa, still groggy from sleep, was dragged in by Violet, ¡°This is amazing, just amazing. Great


    Snow Jackson is truly a gem. I used to think he was all arrogance and ego, but he¡¯s actually pretty


    decent.¡±


    Yawning, Quintessa mumbled, ¡°But why do I get the feeling he¡¯s trying to hit on me?¡±


    Violet poked her forehead, ¡°Even if he is trying to hit on you, you¡¯d better jump at the chance to shoot


    that music video. We¡¯re talking about Snow Jackson here; do you even realize?¡±


    Quintessa shivered, suddenly fully awake, eximing, ¡°Wait, you¡¯re saying he¡¯s Snow Jackson?¡±


    ¡°Come to your senses?¡±


    Quintessa murmured, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m awake now. Snow Jackson.¡±


    Snow was a legend in the music scene for the past decade. At sixteen, he debuted with a hit that


    skyrocketed; after that, when recorded music graduallypsed, most singers were struggling for their


    career, yet he continued to break the million album sales mark with each release. His concerts always


    drew massive crowds.


    What did a million copies mean in today¡¯s market? Snow nearly monopolized every music award.


    Beyond his ssic hits, there was another reason for his fame ¨C the man was undeniably handsome,


    setting trends left and right. No wonder he had a swarm of young girls head over heels for him, earning


    him the nickname ¨C God Snow.


    Back in her naive days, Quintessa too had been smitten with him.


    Violet pinched Quintessa¡¯s arm, ¡°That¡¯s right, the Snow Jackson! You¡¯re getting a shot to debut with his


    music video. That¡¯s a great starting point.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Quintessa nodded. It was more than great; it was fantastic. Her spirits reignited with ambition. God truly


    hadn¡¯t abandoned her.


    Her memories of Snow were of a young, handsome, edgy genius with a wild streak. Butst night, that


    man on the balcony, tangled with a woman, suggesting a casual hook¨Cup with her.


    Quinteasa Taughed, shaking her head. Indeed, this idol of hers was m


    from a distance.


    Before leaving, Violet handed her a slightly used smartphone, ¡°Use this for now. Once you start


    earning, you can buy a better one. The number¡¯s new. Get some rest today; fil pick you up tomorrow


    morning.¡±


    Quintessa shrugged, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Regardless, the prospect of shooting Snow¡¯s music video was thrilling for Quintessa. His name alone


    was a golden ticket, sure to boost her career.


    She didn¡¯t care whether he was interested in her or not. If there was an opportunity to be utilized, she


    would seize it. Her goals had never wavered, and she was ready to use whatever meant necessary.


    At night, Quintessa received an email from Serenitia.


    After reading the email, a smile crossed her stunning face, which seemed almost venomous with deep¨C


    seated hate.


    She picked up the smartphone and made a call; the number was from the email.


    After a few rings, the call connected.


    Quintessa spoke, ¡°Is this Ynda Temple?¡±


    A brief pause on the other end, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. May I ask who¡¯s calling?¡±

 Chapter 42

    17:07


    Chapter 42


    Quintessa continued, ¡°I bet you¡¯re still looking for your sister who vanished eight years ago, aren¡¯t


    you?¡±


    The sound of shattering ss crackled through the phone before the voice on the other end changed


    its tone, ¡°Who is this?¡±


    Quintessa lifted her chin with a sense of poise, ¡°I¡¯m someone who can help you. Want to know about


    your sister¡¯s fate? Meet me at Central za, now.¡±


    After ending the call, Quintessa shut down herputer, slipped into casual ck sweats, donned a


    face mask and a hat, and slipped out into the night.


    Just after 10 PM, Central za was buzzing with life. The dance¨Caerobics enthusiasts had dispersed,


    skateboarders kept grinding the rails, couples huddled in sweet embrace, and hip¨Chop dancers battled


    fiercely. The city¡¯s heart beat as lively at night as it did under the


    sun.


    Quintessa spotted a slender figure sitting by the flowerbed. After watching for a moment, she walked


    over and took a seat behind her.


    With a smile Quintessa said, ¡°Good, you¡¯re punctual. Don¡¯t turn around. If you do, I guarantee you¡¯ll


    lose everything.¡±


    Ynda¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and as she started to turn, she reconsidered and faced forward again;


    she asked, ¡°Who are you, and what do you know? Where is my sister now?¡±


    Quintessa heard the urgency in her voice, the quiver. She looked up at the sky briefly and said, ¡°Stop


    looking. She¡¯s dead.¡±


    Ynda broke down right away, ¡°No, I don¡¯t believe it; she must still be alive.¡±


    ¡°Believe it or not, it¡¯s your choice. Three years ago, I used this secret to ckmail Sean and dodged a


    bullet.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe i


    Quintessa interrupted her, ¡°Eight years ago, your sister Yvonne was Sean¡¯s secretary. He got a crush


    on her, drugged her, raped her, and then tookpromising photos to ckmail her. She had no


    choice but toply. Later, she got pregnant and Sean¡¯s wife, Lilian, found out. She stormed over and


    kicked your sister in the stomach repeatedly. Your sister was four months pregnant at the time. She


    miscarried right there, bled out, a life for two lives. The couple saw a dead body, conspired to destroy


    the evidence, and then faked. the news that your sister¡¯s resigned and moved abroad.¡±


    Quintessa tossed an envelope to Ynda.


    Opening it, Ynda found a couple of yellowed photographs, one of which showed her


    17.07


    sister heavily pregnant. Her hands trembled so mach she be covered her mouth a choked sob


    escaping her throat


    Quintessa narrowed her eyes; she had oned like that when her own neither dest. But the years went


    by, she almost forgot how to one


    Does crying help? Will your sistere back to life? Can you seek vengeance That wingThis content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ynda wiped away her tears and said through grined teeth, want verge, must avenge my sister.¡±


    ¡°Then rip apart his family, bankrupt him, and ruin his reputation Anese the best way, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Why would you help me?¡±


    aneve Duts


    Quintessa¡¯s rosy lips curled. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t help you? The enemy of my enemy is Thy friend.¡±


    Ynda clutched the photo, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll work with you, but how do we start this revente


    Quintessa¡¯s voice was chillingly calm. Your beauty is your weapon. The best way to get close to a man


    is naturally¨Chitting the sheets. Make him fall head over heels for you. willing to kill his wife for you to


    hand over the Young family fortune. And then,


    A smile yed on Quintessa¡¯s lips hatred glinting in her eves as she slowly sat d then, a life for a life.¡±

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43


    Ynda¡¯s heart was in turmoil as she gazed at the photos, the proofs of a bitter reality. Memories of her


    sister, who dropped out of college just so Ynda could continue her education, burned in her mind.


    With a steely resolve, Ynda clenched her teeth and dered, ¡°I¨CI got it.¡±


    Quintessa tossed another envelope to Ynda, ¡°Here¡¯s Sean¡¯s file. Study it well, Seducing a man takes


    skill. Learn from the tutorials.¡±


    ¡°How do I get in touch with youter?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t contact me. I¡¯ll reach out if there¡¯s a need.¡±


    ¡°Alright.


    After Ynda left, Quintessa sat motionless in Central za for a long time.


    She felt a pang of guilt for dragging Ynda, an innocent girl, into her vengeful madness. But once she


    started down this path, she wouldn¡¯t regret it. There was no room for sympathy.


    As she rose to leave, a whistle cut through the air from a group of skateboarders nearby. Quintessa


    nced over nonchntly, and that nce turned into a sly smile. Luck seemed to be on her side.


    Narrowing her eyes at a stylish young man on a skateboard, she whispered few words. with a smirk,


    ¡°Matthew Young!¡±


    One of the skateboarders, the cherished son of the Young family, her half¨Cbrother Matthew, was


    unwittingly ying into her hands, which was a happy surprise.


    Quintessa then fished a small eyebrow razor from her pocket, musing on the wisdom of always


    carrying a ¡°de¡°.


    She turned and strode over to the parking area by the za. Matthew had always had a thing for


    motorbikes, and Lilian indulged him with only the finest.


    Among the bikes and scooters, a shiny Harley motorcycle stood out. Quintessa surveyed the area ¨C no


    one in sight. She quickly walked over, did what she came to do and turned to leave.


    As she finished, a car cruised by from about two meters away. Tyrone, inside the vehicle, caught a


    glimpse of Quintessa¡¯s fleeting gaze ¨C sinister and malevolent, as if it contained the world¡¯s darkness.


    Even for someone as hardened as Tyrone, that look sent a shiver down his spine.


    ¡°Stop the car,¡± Tyrone ordered immediately.


    He leapt out, but Quintessa had disappeared. Despite her masked face, he recognized her


    Instantly no hesitation.


    What was she doing out here dressed like that in the dead of night? With suspicion brewing, Tyrone


    climbed back into his car. Before pulling away, he saw Matthew wheeling out his motorbike from the


    parking shed.


    Tyrone squinted. Quintessa had paused by that motorbike. What had she done?


    ¡°Follow him,¡± Tyrone instructed the driver. Thetter promptly obeyed, ¡°Yes, Mr. York.¡±


    After trailing for a few minutes, Tyrone watched as Matthew¡¯s bike suddenly careened out. of control. At


    a red light, it smashed into an SUV.N?velDrama.Org content.


    Matthew was thrown high into the air, and then crashed to the ground, unconscious, blood pooling


    beneath him.


    Tyrone understood everything then, the corners of his mouth curling up ever so slightly. In the shadow


    of the night, those beautiful, gleaming eyes danced with a mboyant light.

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44


    That was Interesting!


    The driver, startled and jittery, blurted out, ¡°Mr. York, that¡¯s the Young family¡¯s son. We should call 911,


    right away!¡±


    Tyrone cast a nce that was as cold as ice, his gaze sharp as a de pressed against the jugr,


    chilling to the bone with its lethal intent.


    ¡°What Young family¡¯s son?¡± Tyrone said dismissively, ¡°I don¡¯t see anyone.¡±


    ¡°The one lying there,¡± the driver replied.


    ¡°Do his life and death concern you?¡± Tyrone asked with a thin smile.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Turn around. Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    Arriving home, Mrs. York noticed that Tyrone seemed to be in a rare good mood.


    She debated whether to discuss Rachel¡¯s situation with him but barely started when Tyrone interrupted,


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m in a good mood right now. Let¡¯s not spoil it with unpleasant


    matters.


    Mrs. York chuckled nervously, ¡°Alright, alright. I won¡¯t bring it up.¡±


    Back in his room, Tyrone made a phone call, ¡°Hey, Eric, I heard you got transferred to the RTA. I need


    a small favor.¡±


    FE 2 DRF SO


    The next morning, Violet arrived and said to Quintessa, ¡°Get ready; we¡¯re heading to the studio to


    shoot some test photos.¡±


    Quintessa, browsing the news on her phone, asked nonchntly, ¡°Oh? The show hasn¡¯t been


    canceled?¡±


    After the way she shed with Tyrone, she thought for sure he wouldn¡¯t let her off easily, yet here she


    was, still in the cast?


    Violet yfully flicked Quintessa¡¯s forehead, ¡°Can¡¯t you ever be positive?¡±


    Quintessaughed, ¡°My bad.¡±


    ¡°You seem cheery today.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I feel pretty good/


    Violet nced at the news on Quintessa¡¯s phone, expecting gossip, but it was just a regr news


    piece, ¡°Young people today, driving like they¡¯re invincible.¡±


    17:07


    Quintessa scrolled past the story, ¡°I know, right? The things money lets them get away with.


    The news reported, ¡°Last night, around 11 PM, a young man on a motorcycle was speeding and ran a


    red light, colliding with a passing SUV. He was thrown from his bike, suffering multiple fractures and isContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    in aa, critical but stable. A reminder to all citizens: please drive safely and obey trafficws. Do not


    speed in urban areas.¡±


    Quintessa turned off her phone as Manny arrived at 8 AM to take her to the studio.


    Director Cooper¡¯s project was a contemporary drama with a niche genre ¨C a modern supernatural tale.


    Quintessanded the lead female role after discussions between Violet and Director Cooper.


    Director Cooper had remarked Quintessa¡¯s looks were so striking that they were almost aggressive.


    Even if she yed the second lead, her beauty would overshadow the main star, so it made sense to


    have her as the lead.


    The character was supposed to be sexy, sharp¨Ctongued, and haughty ¨C a perfect fit for Quintessa.


    After getting into costume and makeup, the photographer directed Quintessa through various poses for


    her solo promotional shots. Then it was time for the paired photos with the male lead.


    The male lead was a neer named Reuben Laurier, a fresh¨Cfaced young actor who seemed a bit


    nervous. When he was asked to wrap his arms around Quintessa¡¯s waist for some intimate shots, she


    could feel his muscles tense up, leading to a couple of retakes.


    The director teased, ¡°Reuben, are you just trying to hold onto Quinn a little longer because she¡¯s so


    pretty?¡±


    ¡°No, no, that¡¯s not it.¡±


    ¡°Are we done here?¡± A cool, detached voice suddenly asked.


    Director Cooper turned to see that visitor and quickly greeted him, ¡°Mr. York, you¡¯re here.¡±

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45


    When Quintessa heard the name ¡°Mr. York¡°, a shiver of annoyance ran down her spine. She spun


    around, and sure enough, it was that jerk, Tyrone.


    Still looking all high and mighty with that aloof, stunning face, acting like no one could ever catch his


    eye. Quintessa scoffed inwardly.


    She knew this shoot wouldn¡¯t go smoothly. Tyrone wasn¡¯t someone to let things go easily. He nodded


    curtly, his face devoid of the smile he hadst time they met.


    Hisckey, James, quickly added, ¡°Mr. York just happened to be around on business, heard you were


    here for the costume shoot, and thought he¡¯d drop by!¡±


    The movie was backed by the York Financial Group, and this studio belonged to one of their


    entertainment subsidiaries. Director Cooper didn¡¯t think much of it.


    Quintessa pursed her lips. Just happened to be around, what a freaking coincidence.


    Director Cooper said, ¡°Well, we¡¯re almost done, just the couple shots left. Should bet wrapped up in an


    hour or so.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s gazended on Quintessa, who stood behind Director Cooper, his eyes narrowing, ¡°Carry on.¡±


    Quintessa was d in an elegant, off¨Cthe¨Cshoulder, deep purple gown, her makeup. exquisite and her


    lips curled into a mocking smile that screamed both sexy and frosty.


    Standing next to Tyrone, James could sense his mood was off. One look at Quintessa¡¯s dress, and he


    instantly understood why.


    Director Cooper turned to the young actor, Reuben, and said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s keep going. Reuben, make


    sure to bring your A-game this time.¡±


    The photographer had them change positions. They stood side by side, with Reuben behind Quintessa,


    her back against his chest, very close, his arms encircling her waist.


    Quintessa felt Reuben tense up and asked, ¡°Still nervous?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡±


    ¡°Rx, you¡¯ll get used to it. Just pretend I¡¯m a pillow when you hold me.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. I¡¯ll try.¡±


    Quintessa could feel a piercing re on her, and without looking, she knew who it was.


    She didn¡¯t turn her head, pretending not to notice. She was thinking of ways to handle Tyrone.


    17.08


    Tyrone was staring intently at the hand on Quintessa¡¯s waist, the animosity building in him. He nced


    sideways at James.


    James shivered, teeth gritted, and approached Director Cooper, ¡°Director Cooper, do you have a


    minute?¡±


    Director Cooper blinked, ¡°Sure.¡±


    They talked off to the side for about half a minute. When they returned, Director Cooper couldn¡¯t bring


    herself to look at Tyrone, and her gaze towards Quintessa turnedplicated.


    Director Cooper interrupted the shoot, ¡°Reuben is not loosening up, and the shots aren¡¯t turning out


    well.¡±


    The photographer interjected, ¡°Director Cooper, he¡¯s actually doing quite¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Director Cooper cut in, ¡°I don¡¯t think we need to force the intimate shots. Let¡¯s


    just get a chair and do a set with props.¡±


    The photographer said, ¡°Director Cooper.¡±


    ¡°Just do as I say.¡±


    Soon, they brought in a chair, and they shot a few standard photos with no close contact, not even


    sitting close enough to touch.


    With the shoot done, Tyrone still lingered. Quintessa acted as if he wasn¡¯t there and thanked the crew,


    ¡°Thanks, everyone. Great job today.¡±


    Manny quickly draped a coat over Quintessa¡¯s shoulders. She said to the director, ¡°Director Cooper, I¡¯m


    going to get changed.¡±


    Director Cooper opened her mouth to speak, but Quintessa was already on her way out.


    Looking troubled, Director Cooper turned to Tyrone, ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Tyrone stalked off without a word, leaving James to quickly say, ¡°Director Cooper, we appreciate your


    hard work.¡±

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46


    Quintessa pushed open the door to the dressing room and took a seat, staring at her reflection in the


    mirror. She saw her face ¨C beautiful, but her eyes ¨C fierce, filled with raw


    ambition.


    Tyrone wasing, but what was her next move?


    Today, Tyrone had made a point ofing over, and that look he gave her left no doubt in Quintessa¡¯s


    mind that he was into her. Otherwise, why wouldn¡¯t he have sought revenge after she toyed with him


    that night?


    Since he was showing interest, she¡¯d y the game ¨C keep him on the hook and turn that flicker of


    interest into a raging fire.


    She too wanted to hold herself with dignity, but the show business had no room for naivety. For a


    neer with no connections, dreaming of making it big was pure fantasy.


    Either way, in the vastndscape of Emberbrook, Tyrone was the best ally she could find. Besides, she


    wasn¡¯t in a position to challenge Tyrone. She couldn¡¯t beat him; it was better to use him than to oppose


    him and get squashed like an ant.


    Still, the thought of her pride being trampled on by Tyrone brought a bitter taste to her mouth. She


    looked down at her hands, wondering when they would be powerful enough to p Tyrone out of her


    way for good.


    Decisive as always, Quintessa wasn¡¯t one to dawdle.


    Footsteps approached from outside. Rising from her chair, she moved towards a nearby coat rack.


    The door swung open, and without turning around, Quintessa reached behind her for the stuck zipper,


    ¡°Manny, my zipper¡¯s caught. Would you be a dear and help me out?¡±


    After a moment, someone stepped behind her and tugged the zipper down. The breath on her neck


    was warm and ticklish, too close forfort.


    ¡°Good, you can step out now. I need to change,¡± Quintessa said.


    But the figure behind her didn¡¯t move. Quintessa spun around, ¡°What¡¯s the holdup?¡±


    She stopped mid¨Csentence, retreating a step, her voiceced with mock surprise, ¡°Well, if it isn¡¯t Mr.


    York. Didn¡¯t your teachers ever tell you to knock before entering a room?¡±


    As soon as Tyrone had pushed the door open, Quintessa knew it was him.


    Everyone¡¯s footsteps sounded different, and she could distinguish between Tyrone¡¯s and Manny¡¯s with


    ease.


    She had done it on purpose. Seduction required a certain finesse, after all.


    17:08


    Her step back was a clear stance, and Tyrone¡¯s eyes, sharp as a hawk¡¯s, locked onto hers. He


    advanced until Quintessa was pressed against the wall, trapped within his Imposing frame, ¡°Everything


    here is mine, including you if I want it. Why should I knock?¡±


    Quintessa could feel his anger, and though she thought of leading him on, she wasn¡¯t gonna y any


    game with him, ¡°Fine, I¡¯m leaving then.¡±


    She ducked, attempting to slip under his arm, but he pushed her back firmly, ¡°Did I say your could go?¡±


    Quintessa suddenly became serious in demeanor, which irked Tyrone a lot.


    She gritted her teeth and asked, ¡°So, Mr. York, what is it that you want exactly?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s lips curled into a sneer, ¡°You hit hardst time, didn¡¯t you? Who else would give you such a


    thrill without me?¡±


    The lingering pain on Tyrone¡¯s neck was a constant reminder. That kick, though not particrly severe,


    was a first for him.


    It was a feeling he reckoned he¡¯d only experience once in his lifetime. Quintessa, just by that act alone,


    had secured a permanent shadow in his heart.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa tilted her head back, letting out a hollowugh, ¡°Ha! That¡¯s hrious. The men who¡¯ve thrilled


    me are a dime a dozen. I hardly miss one less.¡±

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47


    Quintessa shot Tyrone a disdainful nce, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for your fancy title and deep. pockets, I¡¯d


    seriously consider kicking you where it would end your family line.¡±


    She meant every word. In fact, Quintessa had entertained the thought of kicking Tyrone to


    death.


    Her dress hung loose around her frame, the zipper undone in the back, offering little to no coverage for


    her upper body. Her exposed skin, as white as baster, was almostpletely revealed to Tyrone.


    The sight before him was undeniably tempting, the kind that could lure any man into sin.


    He remembered how Quintessa had called her assistant over to help with her dress, and it had lit a fire


    in his chest. Hearing her spiteful words now, he couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. With a sudden move, his


    head dipped, and he bit the skin on her chest.


    ¡°End my line, huh? You¡¯re vicious! Dare to mention how many men you¡¯ve been with again, and I¡¯ll


    make sure you nevery eyes on another man.¡±


    Quintessa winced, sucking in a breath through her teeth, ¡°Oh please, as if you¡¯re not one of them?¡±


    Tyrone felt his own anger spike, ¡°Quintessa, you really are too much, aren¡¯t you? Letting a man


    undress you?¡±


    She justughed, ¡°And what¡¯s wrong with that? It¡¯s not like you haven¡¯t undressed met before. I¡¯d


    advise you to be a bit more gentle, Mr. York. Wouldn¡¯t want to burst my saline imnts, now would


    we?¡±


    She had known all along it was Tyrone who had entered the room, pretending not to


    Just for the fun of it. She knew exactly how to pique his interest, always keeping him on the edge,


    never letting him have what he wanted.


    Tyrone released the tender flesh from his mouth, unable to bring himself to bite as cruelly as she had


    done earlier. A red mark would no doubt remain for a couple of days.


    He hooked a finger under Quintessa¡¯s chin, gazing at her lips, ¡°You really do have a fiery temper.¡±


    Quintessa put on an air of indifference, ¡°Do you want something else?¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°I do want something.¡±


    ¡°Then spit it out and get out.¡±


    He locked eyes with her and with you.¡±


    red two words ¡°ei-


    Quintessaughed, her hand finding its way around Tyrone¡¯s neck, her lips close to his ear. She said


    slowly, ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m just not interested in sleeping with you anymore.¡±


    17 09


    His body pressed down upon her with force, ¡°Do you really think you have a say in this?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s back was against the cold wall, difort creeping over her.


    She didn¡¯t bother to look at Tyrone, instead staring at the ceiling light, ¡°No, I don¡¯t. After all, you¡¯re


    Tyrone York, heir to the York family. Who could you possibly not bed? But here¡¯s the thing¨Cmy nose is


    packed with silicone, my face is full of hyaluronic acid, and my chest is fake. I¡¯m hardly your type, Mr.


    York. Wouldn¡¯t it be beneath you?¡±


    With a flick of his finger, Tyrone let her dress fall from her arm, ¡°Today, I¡¯m exactly in the mood for


    silicone, saline and hyaluronic acid.¡±


    Suddenly, a wave of irritation washed over her, and ring at Tyrone, she cussed out through gritted


    teeth, ¡°Are you sick in the head, Tyrone? I¡¯m not in the mood for your games, so back off.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze turned gradually fierce, ¡°Back off?¡±


    She was the one who started this, and now he was the one at fault? His temper red, and he gripped


    her waist tightly, lifting her dress.


    Quintessa felt a hint of fear, pushing at him, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare.¡±


    He didn¡¯t listen. With a rip, the dress tore open. Tyrone had made up his mind to have his way with her,


    right then and there.

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48


    The pent¨Cup frustration of thest few days was killing him, and he needed relief.


    But just as his determination was at its peak, it seemed like the universe was conspiring against him.


    A sudden, urgent knocking echoed through the room before the door swung open, ¡°Quin¡­¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s towering frame shielded Quintessapletely as he barked out, ¡°Get the hell out.¡±


    Manny, scared out of his wits, quickly shut the door behind him. From outside, he shouted, ¡°Quinn, we


    gotta hit the road soon. I¡¯ll wait for you in the car, you better hurry up.¡±


    Quintessa exhaled a sigh of relief, pushing Tyrone slightly, ¡°Let go.¡±


    Tyrone stood motionless. As if he would let go. Yeah, right.


    Quintessa tried again, ¡°Let go.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face turned cold as he slowly adjusted his tie, ¡°When I want something, nobody can stand in


    my way.¡±


    Quintessa felt a knot in her stomach. She knew she couldn¡¯t stop him if he really wanted her. Getting


    tough with him would only backfire on her.


    Biting her lip and seething inside, she softened her tone, ¡°Not now, I¡¯ve got something to do.¡±


    Tyrone replied, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t.¡±


    When someone was that stubborn, they really had no limits.


    Quintessa, trembling with anger, despised the way Tyrone always acted so superior, as if he didn¡¯t


    have to care about how anyone else felt, only what he wanted.


    Quintessa struggled to force a small smile, ¡°Tyrone, I really do have pressing matters. Let¡¯s y


    another time, okay?¡±


    Tyrone dered, ¡°Tonight!¡±


    After a moment of internal struggle, Quintessa smiled, ¡°Alright!¡±


    His eyes locked onto Quintessa, trying to gauge whether she was lying. Seeing her seemingly genuine


    smile, he finally let go, ¡°I¡¯ll have someone pick you up tonight.¡±


    Ignoring his remark, she said, ¡°I need to change. Can you step out for a moment?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone hooked his finger on her slipping dress, ¡°It¡¯s not the first time you undressed in


    1/2


    17-09


    front of me, what¡¯s there to be shy about?


    Hisment left Quintessa grinding her teeth In frustration. She nodded, ¡°True, I¡¯m actually better at


    taking my clothes off than putting them on, especially in front of men.¡±


    Quintessa angrily kicked off her shoes and peeled off the dress that was barely clinging to her body,


    grabbing her own clothes to put on. In her heart, she wished she could chop Tyrone into pieces and


    feed him to the dogs.


    As she dressed, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Tyrone, do you find it thrilling to sleep with your own niece¨C


    inw?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze never left her as he pondered why he agreed to let her go. Why had he gone. soft?


    Narrowing his eyes, he admitted, ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s quite a thrill.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°I bet getting caught in the act by my aunt would be even more thrilling.¡±


    He reached out and pulled her close by the waist, ¡°What, looking for a repeat performance?¡±


    She looked at him, ¡°Even in my dreams.¡±


    After pushing him away, she said, ¡°Alright, I gotta dash; see you around, Mr. York.¡±


    But Tyrone didn¡¯t let go. His expression was icy, his words rogue, ¡°You think you can just leave without


    giving me a little something?¡±


    No sooner had he finished speaking than Quintessa¡¯s lips were on his. The kiss was like a spark to


    gasoline, and in an instant, there were fireworks.


    Breathless, Quintessa pulled back, wiping a trace of moisture from her lower lip with a thumb, her tone


    flippant, ¡°If you wanted a kiss that badly, you could¡¯ve just taken it directly.¡±

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49


    Tyrone¡¯s face went from zero to thundercloud in a split second after hearing those words,


    Quintessa reached out, stroked his cheek with a casual touch, and licked her lips with at rogue¡¯s grin, ¡°I


    recall you weren¡¯t so modest back in the day, Mr. York. You tore my dress off with such ease!


    Remember that swarm of paparazzi? You were quite the exhibitionist, clinging to me like we were two


    halves of a whole. And now you¡¯re ying shy? That¡¯s a


    new one on me.¡±


    Tyrone was speechless. He felt as though the tables had turned. Had his thunder been stolen?


    For the first time, Tyrone felt a peculiar sense of suffocation, but couldn¡¯t quite put his finger on it.


    Quintessa turned to grab her purse, ¡®Alright, you¡¯ve had your bit of fun, and I¡¯ve got ces to be. y


    nice, will you?¡±


    Her words tossed out like a parent bribing a tantrum¨Cthrowing toddler with a piece of candy. Tyrone


    wiped the lipstick from the corner of his mouth and suddenly burst intoughter.


    He caught Quintessa as she was about to leave and slipped something into her embrace. She looked


    down to see a brand¨Cnew phone, its case a fiery red, just like the bold lipstick


    she often wore.


    Quintessa looked up at Tyrone, who was all cool detachment, ¡°It¡¯s got my number in it. Don¡¯t call unless


    it¡¯s important.¡±


    Though he said one thing, the message was clear: from now on, she¡¯d better call him for anything.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    The phone reminded Quintessa of her own device, which, to this day, Tyrone hadn¡¯t confessed to


    pocketing that night. No matter. She had kept it in mind, and would settle that score eventually.


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°What¡¯s this? A trade¨Cin? Since when did you be so petty, Tyrone York? Trying


    to woo a woman with a phone? It¡¯ll take more than that to get rid of me.¡±


    Tyrone gave a pointed look at her chest, a silent suggestion, ¡°Whatever you want, earn it by taking


    good care of me.¡±


    She tossed the phone into her bag and yfully tapped Tyrone¡¯s chin, ¡°Sure thing. You just wait and


    see. I¡¯ll have you happily opening that wallet of yours!!!¡±


    Three years ago, when their scandal broke, Quintessa told Tyrone his money was nothing to her. She


    wasn¡¯t bluffing. If she wanted to, she could make any man willingly foot the


    bill.


    17:08


    Anyway, I¡¯ve got my own business to attend to, Mr. York. Not all of us can live without e financial worry


    In the world.¡±


    Tyrone drawledzily, ¡°Come take care of me, and you¡¯ll never worry about anything but having too


    much money.¡±


    Thatment made Quintessa want to p him right there. Gritting her teeth and arching an eyebrow,


    she retorted, ¡°That¡¯s a job for the evening, not now.¡±


    With a wave of her hand, she turned to leave. Tyrone watched her go without a backward nce and


    felt an urge to not let her off so easily. Otherwise, it felt like a wasted trip, hardly worth the effort.


    Tyrone¡¯s lips curved into a smile; he uttered from behind, ¡°Tell me, do you think Matthew will pull


    through?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s mocking smile chilled, and she paused without turning back, asking casually, ¡°What?¡±


    Tyrone eyed her silhouette, ¡°Matthew had a car identst night. Didn¡¯t you hear?¡±


    Quintessa burst outughing, ¡°Oh, really? That¡¯s news to me. Thanks for the update. I¡¯ll buy you dinner


    sometime.¡±


    Tyrone crossed his arms, assessing Quintessa¡¯s figure from behind. So nonchnt?


    He prodded again, ¡°Last night around 11 PM, I happened to pass by Central za. Guess who I saw?¡±

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50


    Quintessa dabbed at the corner of her mouth, where her lipstick had smudged, and drawled, ¡°Mr. York,


    you¡¯re the big shot over at Emberbrook; you¡¯ve got connections everywhere, right? Why¡¯re you telling


    me? I¡¯m not your wife, not my circus, not my monkeys. If you really want me on your case, put a ring on


    it.¡±


    Tyrone could barely conceal his amusement. At this point, Quintessa was adamantly ying coy, and it


    tickled him pink.


    It was rare to find someone who could hold suchposure under fire; so interesting. He found himself


    oddly looking forward to what the future might hold with her.


    He chuckled, ¡°If you don¡¯t wanna know, forget it. Matthew¡¯s motorcycle? I took care of it. No one¡¯s


    gonna trace the tampered brakes back to us. Next time, try to be less messy. You can¡¯t expect to


    always be lucky enough to have someone as ¡®kind¨Chearted¡® as me stumble upon the scene.¡±


    A fierce coldness began to seep into Quintessa¡¯s gaze, her grip on her purse gradually tightening. In a


    swift move, she spun around, took two quick steps, and yanked on Tyrone¡¯s tie with a fierce pull,


    hissing, ¡°What¡¯s this? A threat?¡±


    Tyrone looked at herzily, his eyes filled with interest, ¡°You could say that. Is that an admission?¡±


    He had never expected to find himself attracted to such a tough, ruthless woman. But he did. And it


    was intriguing.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa¡¯s hand crept up to Tyrone¡¯s neck, then to his Adam¡¯s apple, caressing it gently. She looked


    up at him with feigned innocence, like a lover whispering sweet nothings, poutingly admitting, ¡°Guilty as


    charged. Why deny it? I¡¯m a killer. Go on, report me. It¡¯s not like it¡¯s my first rodeo behind bars!¡±


    A mischievous smile yed at the corners of her mouth as her fingers crawled from his neck to his lips,


    tapping them lightly. Her voice turned husky and suggestive, ¡°Or maybe you¡¯d prefer to tell Rachel? Let


    her know that the infamous Quintessa, the one who bedded her man three years ago, is back. And


    she¡¯s not done ying with her man yet. Send her my way.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s breathing grew heavier as he grasped her provocative hand, ¡°I¡¯ve never met a woman with a


    bigger set of brass ones than you.¡±


    Her fiery, relentless spirit was like an itch he couldn¡¯t scratch. Like a wild mustang, proud and


    untamable. Not breaking her spirit would be a lifelong regret.


    Quintessa hooked her arm around Tyrone¡¯s neck and pulled him down, biting his chin provocatively, ¡°Of


    course, I¡¯ve got to be bold. Who else would dare to tangle with their future uncle¨Cinw? Right,


    Tyrone?¡±


    17:08


    Chapter 50


    Tyrone wrapped his arms around her slender waist, ¡°You¡¯ve got a point. Tonight, show me Just how


    bold you can be.¡±


    Her hand yfully jabbed at his chest, ¡°I guarantee satisfaction.¡±


    Quintessa pushed Tyrone away and shed him a devilish grin before turning to leave.


    Once she was out the door, her expression turned icy. Damn it, Tyrone had got a hold on


    her.


    What rotten luck, of all the people, he had to be the witness. Now what? Silence him permanently?


    No, the price was too high. The best course of action ¨C seduce him!

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51


    James approached, ready to greet her, but the sight of Quintessa¡¯s thunderous expression mped his


    words back inside.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa seemed to not even notice James as she strode past, her aura fierce enough to tten


    everything around her.


    James wiped the sweat from his forehead, muttering to himself, ¡°She didn¡¯t have a spat with Mr. York,


    did she? What¡¯s the damage this time?¡±


    of


    After Quintessa left, Tyrone was leisurely straightening his tie in the dressing room. He¡¯d been looking


    forward to this evening. Ever since Quintessa returned to town, years. mundane life had started to


    ssh up some interesting waves,


    James knocked and entered, catching sight of the lipstick mark on Tyrone¡¯s cheek. Remembering the


    stormy Quintessa he had just encountered, he quickly bowed his head,


    ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    After adjusting his tie, Tyrone checked his reflection in the mirror, noting the bite mark still lingering on


    his chin and traces of lipstick Quintessa had left behind. His shirt was slightly rumpled ¨C to anyone else,


    it would¡¯ve looked like the aftermath of a passionate encounter. But that was far from the truth.


    Tyrone wiped away the lipstick with a handkerchief, his lips curling into an inscrutable, mischievous


    smile. His eyes werezy, his voice cool, Talked with Laura?¡±


    James nodded, ¡°Yes, she agreed. She¡¯ll talk to the screenwriter about the script, making


    sure there are no intimate scenes.¡±


    ¡°Intimate?¡± Tyrone nced sideways.


    James felt a chill down his spine and quickly added, ¡°No physical contact at all. Director Cooper


    promised she wouldn¡¯t let Ms. Young know about the script adjustments.¡±


    James understood Tyrone well. The man had a strong sense of territory; anything within his realm, from


    objects to people, was his alone to touch.


    Once ready, Tyrone noticed a pair of Quintessa¡¯s earrings on the table and pocketed them casually.


    James¡¯s mouth twitched at the sight. He remembered there was a dress belonging to Ms. Young in the


    office as well. What kind of quirk was this? He had never noticed before.


    With Quintessa¡¯s grim expression earlier and Mr. York¡¯s seemingly good mood now, what was really


    going on between the two?


    On the way back to the office, curiosity got the better of James, and he asked, ¡°Mr. York, if


    you¡¯re keen on helping Ms. Young, why not pick some blockbuster productions for her?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s response was curt, ¡°Why should I do that for her?¡±


    Huh??? Suddenly, James felt he couldn¡¯t read his boss at all. Wasn¡¯t the norm to shower a woman with


    everything she desired in pursuit? Why was it different with Ms. Young?


    James wanted to ask more but thought better of it and kept silent.


    Tyrone fiddled with Quintessa¡¯s earrings, his lips curving up, their color deepening from her kiss. He


    was clear as day about Quintessa ¨C that woman was a vixen through and through.


    If he handed her resources on a silver tter, let her appetite gorge itself and rise to stardom too


    quickly, she¡¯d turn on him in a heartbeat, ungrateful, shameless and cold.


    He hadn¡¯t totally had her, hadn¡¯t relished enough the intimacy, and how would he grant all her wishes?


    She was not just any woman ¨C she was his prey, unique and challenging. To win her over, he needed


    to be strategic, to be patient.

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52


    Tyrone said, ¡°Pick up Quintessa tonight, and have someone tidy up my room at the Luxe) Haven Club.¡±


    James nodded, ¡°Will do.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s hand brushed over the spot on his neck where Quintessa had bitten him,


    squinting his eyes like a predator biding its time, waiting for its prey to make an appearance.


    Meanwhile, Quintessa was in a foul mood as she left the photo studio and got into the car. Seeing


    Violet already inside, she quickly adjusted her emotions, ¡°Violet, when did you get here? I thought you


    had something on and couldn¡¯t make it.¡±


    The events of the previous night were one thing for Tyrone to know, but she couldn¡¯t let anyone else


    find out.


    Murder?


    Quintessa regretted not having enough time back then; if only she¡¯d had the chance to tamper with


    Matthew¡¯s motorcycle fuel tank. A collision would then have been more than an ident ¨C the bike


    would¡¯ve exploded.


    Such a damn pity! Quintessa narrowed her eyes, mulling over rapidly.


    Tyrone, after all, he was just a man. If she could just keep him hooked, make him unable to live without


    her, and utterly devoted, then this little secret would be safe for now.


    Besides, even if Tyrone had seen something, what of it? Where was the proof? Who else


    had seen it?


    There were no cameras in that ce; Quintessa felt a bit relieved. Even if Tyrone decided to settle


    scorester and report her, she could use him of defamation.


    Violet looked at Quintessa with surprise, ¡°Damn, you look like you just slipped out of someone¡¯s bed.


    Did you just sneak off for a quickie?¡±


    Pulling out the mirror and checking her reflection, Quintessa saw the smudged lipstick and a lingering


    flush on her face, her eyes still hazy with post¨Cpassion lethargy; she did look like she had just had an


    intimate encounter.


    Quintessaughed, ¡°You got it right, there was a situation, but it wasn¡¯t an affair.¡±


    ¡°What then? Did someone force you?¡± Violet reached to pull at Quintessa¡¯s clothes.


    Quintessa quickly held her hand back, ¡°No, he flirted, I yed hard to get, and then turned the tables


    on him. Don¡¯t worry; do I look like the type to let myself be taken advantage of?¡±


    Violet¡¯s expression darkened, ¡°Who? You¡¯re not even famous yet; you can¡¯t afford to mess


    up your rtionships with men


    Quintessa replied, ¡°Tyrone.¡±


    Violet¡¯s face changed Instantly, ¡°Did you seed?¡±


    Quintessa threw her a seductive nce, ¡°What do you think? If I set my sights on a man, as long as I


    want to, can he ever escape my clutches?¡±


    Violet burst outughing, ¡°You go, girl. Manny, drive.¡±


    Quintessa took out her phone, found Tyrone¡¯s number in the contact list, ¡°He wants to hook up tonight,


    but I¡¯m not nning to go.¡±


    Violet was puzzled, ¡°Why not? What a great opportunity to reel him in; you¡¯re really going to pass that


    up?¡±


    Quintessa turned off her phone directly, scoffing, ¡°I need to y the long game. Men are scum; too


    easy to get and they lose their interest. Just like those stores that do those hunger marketing stunts, I


    need to make him desperate first.¡±


    Violet pped Quintessa¡¯s shoulder yfully, ¡°Shit, lucky for me I¡¯m single right now; otherwise with a


    vixen like you around, my man would be long gone.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa rubbed her shoulder, pouting, ¡°Honestly, if he was your man, I doubt I¡¯d even be


    interested.¡±


    ¡°Get lost.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to catch some Z¡¯s.¡±


    Quintessa closed her eyes, a cold smirk in her heart. ¡°Tyrone,¡± she thought to herself, ¡°let¡¯s not rush.


    We¡¯ve got enough time! Who¡¯s ying who is still up in the air!¡±

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53


    At the same time, outside the ICU ward of the hospital, the entire Young family was gathered. Lilian


    had fainted from crying a couple of times, and Sean seemed to have aged a decade in just moments ¨C


    their only sony injured inside.


    Lilian¡¯s eyes were nearly swollen shut from tears, and her face twisted with frantic grief as she


    screamed at the police officer who hade to inquire. ¡°That monster who hit my son ¨C he must pay


    with his life! My boy is so badly hurt; why should he still be alive?¡±


    Matthew¡¯s condition was grave: a fractured skull, a left leg shattered into pieces, a ruptured liver,


    internal bleeding in his abdomen, and a broken spine. The doctors were uncertain if he would ever


    wake up.


    Even if he did, chances were he¡¯d never stand again. In short, the Youngs¡® only son was, for all intents


    and purposes, ruined. The blow to Lilian was like a thunderbolt from a clear sky.


    The officer was irritated and helpless as he reiterated, ¡°Mrs. Young, the cause of this ident was


    primarily your son¡¯s failure to obey trafficws. He was speeding and ran a red light, crashing into a


    vehicle that was moving legally. Your son should bear the main responsibility.¡±


    Internally, the officer felt that the SUV¡¯s driver was an innocent victim caught in the crossfire.


    Sean, holding back a sobbing Lilian, said, ¡°My son has loved motorbikes since he was young. He¡¯s


    never had an ident in all these years, never even a ticket. I think there¡¯s something fishy about this


    ident.¡±


    The officer frowned, ¡°If you don¡¯t trust our findings, you can check the surveince footage from the


    intersection yourself. We¡¯ve based our conclusions on that footage and a detailed technical analysis of


    the crash site. If you insist on questioning this, there¡¯s nothing more we can do.¡±


    The officer left after exining the situation. The Young family members sat in heavy silence.


    Sean asked Miranda to help Lilian get some rest.


    Rachel had been quiet until the mother and daughter left, and then she asked, ¡°Sean, have you heard


    from Quintessa recently?¡±


    At the mention of Quintessa, Sean¡¯s brow furrowed, ¡°Why bring her up all of a sudden?¡±


    Rachel shook her head, ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just feel like something¡¯s been off recently. Everywhere.¡±


    Sean was in no mood for this, his mind painfully burdened by his son¡¯s ident.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me about that harbinger of doom. One of these days, I¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s gone for good.


    Something¡¯s not right about this ident. I¡¯m going to have it quietly investigated. And our dealings


    with Mr. York, no matter what, must continue, at least out of the public eye, you understand?¡±


    Rachel clenched her teeth, ¡°I understand. I won¡¯t let it go either.¡±


    For three years, she knew Sean had hired hitmen multiple times, but none had seeded. The unease


    in Rachel¡¯s heart deepened.


    Quintessa was like a ticking time bomb in her life, one that could destroy her if it went off. Quintessa


    had to die so she could have peace of mind.


    In the evening, Quintessa had just finished a photoshoot for a magazine cover and grabbed a casual


    dinner with Manny and Violet.


    As the night darkened, Violet instructed Manny to drive Quintessa home. Before leaving, Violet took


    Quintessa¡¯s hand, ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to see Mr. York today?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely sure. When ites to reeling in a man, I think I¡¯ve got the upper hand.¡±


    Violet yfully smudged Quintessa¡¯s makeup, ¡°Go on back home. And hey, you¡¯re living next door to


    Great Snow


    1/2


    Jackson. Try to cozy up to him a bit more.¡±


    Quintessa teased back, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I might end up cozying up to him in bed?¡°


    Chapter 53


    At the same time, outside the ICU ward of the hospital, the entire Young family was gathered. Lilian


    had fainted from crying a couple of times, and Sean seemed to have aged a decade in just moments ¨C


    their only sony injured inside.


    Lilian¡¯s eyes were nearly swollen shut from tears, and her face twisted with frantic grief as she


    screamed at the police officer who hade to inquire, ¡°That monster who hit my son ¨C he must pay


    with his life! My boy is so badly hurt; why should he still be alive?¡±


    Matthew¡¯s condition was grave: a fractured skull, a left leg shattered into pieces, a ruptured liver,


    internal bleeding in his abdomen, and a broken spine. The doctors were uncertain if he would ever


    wake up.


    Even if he did, chances were he¡¯d never stand again. In short, the Youngs¡® only son was, for all intents


    and purposes, ruined. The blow to Lilian was like a thunderbolt from a clear sky.


    The officer was irritated and helpless as he reiterated, ¡°Mrs. Young, the cause of this ident was


    primarily your son¡¯s failure to obey trafficws. He was speeding and ran a red light, crashing into a


    vehicle that was moving legally. Your son should bear the main responsibility.¡±


    Internally, the officer felt that the SUV¡¯s driver was an innocent victim caught in the crossfire.


    Sean, holding back a sobbing Lilian, said, ¡°My son has loved motorbikes since he was young. He¡¯s


    never had an ident in all these years, never even a ticket. I think there¡¯s something fishy about this


    ident.¡±


    The officer frowned, ¡°If you don¡¯t trust our findings, you can check the surveince footage from the


    intersection yourself. We¡¯ve based our conclusions on that footage and a detailed technical analysis of


    the crash site. If you insist on questioning this, there¡¯s nothing more we can do.¡±


    The officer left after exining the situation. The Young family members sat in heavy silence.


    Sean asked Miranda to help Lilian get some rest.


    Rachel had been quiet until the mother and daughter left, and then she asked, ¡°Sean, have you heard


    from Quintessa recently?¡±


    At the mention of Quintessa, Sean¡¯s brow furrowed, ¡°Why bring her up all of a sudden?¡±


    Rachel shook her head, ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just feel like something¡¯s been off recently. Everywhere.¡±


    Sean was in no mood for this, his mind painfully burdened by his son¡¯s ident.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me about that harbinger of doom. One of these days, I¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s gone for good.


    Something¡¯s not right about this ident. I¡¯m going to have it quietly investigated. And our dealings


    with Mr. York, no matter what, must continue, at least out of the public eye, you understand?¡±


    Rachel clenched her teeth, ¡°I understand. I won¡¯t let it go either.¡±


    For three years, she knew Sean had hired hitmen multiple times, but none had seeded. The unease


    in Rachel¡¯s heart deepened.


    Quintessa was like a ticking time bomb in her life, one that could destroy her if it went off. Quintessa


    had to die so she could have peace of mind.


    In the evening, Quintessa had just finished a photoshoot for a magazine cover and grabbed a casual


    dinner with Manny and Violet.


    As the night darkened, Violet instructed Manny to drive Quintessa home. Before leaving, Violet took


    Quintessa¡¯s hand, ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to see Mr. York today?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely sure. When ites to reeling in a man, I think I¡¯ve got the upper hand.¡±


    Violet yfully smudged Quintessa¡¯s makeup, ¡°Go on back home. And hey, you¡¯re living next door to


    Great Snow


    1/2


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    18:24


    Chapter 53


    Jackson. Try to cozy up to him a bit more.¡±


    Quintessa teased back, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I might end up cozying up to him in bed?¡±

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54


    Violet rolled her eyes, ¡°Oh please, as if I don¡¯t know you. All talk, no action. You¡¯re light¨Cyears away


    from those starlets who silently bed their way through the entire crew. If Snow really wanted to get with


    you, you¡¯d flirt back just enough to keep him interested, then ditch him after the music video¡¯s shot.¡±


    A flicker of warmth passed through Quintessa¡¯s heart as she nodded, ¡°Got it.¡±


    Back at her dingy apartment, Quintessa was too exhausted to even flick on the lights. She kicked off


    her shoes and slumped onto the couch, her cellphone taken from her bag ttering onto the coffee


    table.


    The more Tyrone was itching to get her into bed, the more she was determined not to make it easy for


    him. A small investment in some indie web series? She hadn¡¯t even begun to reap the rewards.


    Quintessa wasn¡¯t just any easyy. She felt exhausted; her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts ¨C the


    two¨Cfaced Young family, her mother¡¯sst days, and the role Jerome had snatched from her.


    She had so much to do!


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    James lingered outside the door for a prolonged period, hesitating to enter. The door wasn¡¯t shut tight;


    slivers of light escaped into the hallway.


    The manager from Luxe Haven Club prodded him, ¡°James, just go in. Standing here isn¡¯t going to solve


    anything.¡±


    James leaned against the wall, ¡°You don¡¯t understand.¡±


    The boss had sent him to pick her up, and he¡¯de back empty¨Chanded. How was he supposed to


    exin?


    The manager pped him on the shoulder, ¡°We all gotta face the music sometime.¡±


    James cradled his forehead, wishing to dy the inevitable.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t get in there, you might as well go keep Franklinpany,¡± Tyrone¡¯s voice called out from


    the room, and the next second, James had pushed the door and stepped inside, the speed


    unprecedentedly swift.


    James saw Tyrone with a ss in hand, gulping nervously, unable to meet his gaze, ¡°Mr. York, I failed


    to bring Ms. Young. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    No one could shine like Tyrone. Even in silence, he was a living masterpiece, a sight that could


    captivate any onlooker.


    But only James knew how stunning ¨C and dangerous ¨C this man could be. In mere seconds, beads of


    sweat formed on James¡¯s forehead.


    Tyrone remained silent, his expression unchanging as he gently swirled his wine ss, savoring the


    drink. The wine¡¯s hue was like the finest gemstone, its brilliance enhanced by the elegance of his well¨C


    defined hands.


    The room was meticulously arranged ¨C luxuriously opulent, romantically charged, and spotless, perfect


    for a date.


    Tyrone looked utterly rxed, seemingly harmless, ¡°Huh, so she really didn¡¯t show,¡±


    Upon hearing it, James asked cautiously, ¡°You knew she won¡¯te?¡±


    Tyrone took a sip of his wine, ¡°She¡¯s just ying games, trying to bait me. Well, I¡¯m game.¡±


    Quintessa wouldn¡¯t havee so easily.


    James breathed a sigh of relief, ¡°Mr. York, Sean wants to dig into Matthew¡¯s car ident privately.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s got too much free time. Stir up some trouble at thepany for him.¡±


    ¡°Will do.¡±


    1/2


    18:24


    Tyrone set down his ss and grabbed his coat, heading out.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch anything in this room. Have it cleaned daily.¡±


    Because, sooner orter, he would have his use for it. A devilish glint shed in Tyrone¡¯s eyes. He was


    determined to have Quintessa in this room; otherwise, all her scheming would be a waste.


    Quintessa had seeded ¨C she had fully ignited his desire to conquer. The game had only just begun!

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55


    On the other side, Quintessa shivered in her sleep. She had no idea when she had drifted off or for


    how long, but the tter on her balcony jolted her awake. Someone was tossing empty soda cans onto


    her space, creating a relentless metallic symphony.


    Rubbing her eyes, Quintessa rose and stepped out onto the balcony.


    There, on the neighboring balcony, stood a figure who called out to her, ¡°Hey there, you up?¡±


    The chilly early spring breeze nipped at her skin, jolting away the remnants of sleep, ¡°What¡¯s up?


    nning to have another epic showdown on the balcony for me to witness and critique your


    performance?¡±


    Snow grimaced, ¡°Wow, you really don¡¯t hold back, do you?¡±


    Quintessa stretchedzily, ¡°As if you can hold back.¡±


    ¡°Got ns tomorrow?¡±


    Quintessa responded coolly, ¡°What do you think? I¡¯m just a small¨Ctime actress, remember?¡±


    ¡°How about you join me at the studio tomorrow morning? We¡¯re shooting a music video.¡±


    ¡°Sure, but did you settle on a rate with Violet?¡±


    Snow chuckled, ¡°For someone whopliments my stamina, I wouldn¡¯t dream of shortchanging you.¡±


    A rare smile flickered across Quintessa¡¯s face, her mood lightened for a moment.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    She turned to look at Snow, his features obscured in the darkness. It felt surreal to be having this


    casual conversation just a few feet away with the superstar; the man was utterly different from the one


    who shone brightly on stage.


    Quintessa asked, ¡°With all your money, why do you still live around here?¡±


    Snow retorted, ¡°Am I bothering you?¡±


    ¡°Not at all.¡±


    ¡°The night¡¯s still young, and since neither of us can sleep, why not invite me over?¡±


    Quintessa leaned on the railing, her chin resting on her hand as she eyed Snow, ¡°Is this your way of


    hooking up?¡± Her face seemed to glow in the night, her eyes bright and fox¨Clike. Snow felt a tingling


    sensation when he met her gaze.


    ¡°So, is that a yes?¡± He asked.


    Quintessa replied, ¡°I prefer causing trouble for others over harming my own kind.¡±


    Snow burst intoughter after a moment¡¯s surprise.


    ¡°I like your spirit. Knew we were kindred spirits the moment we met on the balcony. If not a hookup,


    how about a drink?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    Snow grabbed two cans of beer and tossed one to Quintessa across the divide. Jokingly, he said to


    Quintessa, ¡°Really, why work so hard? A little scandal with me and all your problems would be solved.¡±


    Quintessa nodded seriously, ¡°True, riding the coattails of your fame would rocket me to stardom. But


    why help me?¡±


    Why would someone she barely knew offer assistance?


    1/2


    18:24


    Chapter 55


    No up¨Canding celebrity wanted to hit the headlines for a scandal, especially not someone like


    Snow. There was no such thing as a free lunch.


    After taking a sip of his beer, Snow grinned, ¡°Because I want to sleep with you.¡±


    Quintessa remained silent, just watching him. Seeing this, Snowughed, ¡°I¡¯m kidding! You think I¡¯d go


    for just anyone? It would have to be a top¨Cnotch star. Look at you, you¡¯re not even on the radar.¡±


    Quintessa just smiled, not taking it to heart. She was tired tonight. After chatting with Snow for a couple


    of hours, she was ovee with drowsiness and excused herself, leaving him alone as she headed


    back to sleep. Snow stayed on the balcony, smoking three cigarettes back¨Cto¨Cback before chuckling at


    himself. In this day and age, he had actually found someone who didn¡¯t look at him like a piece of meat.

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56


    She wasn¡¯t ying hard to get; that was all.


    Snow returned to the house he hadn¡¯t visited in ages, never expecting a chance encounter would bring


    such entertainment.


    Early in the morning, Quintessa was rudely awakened by the relentless ringing of her cellphone.


    Groggy, she felt her head aching from the persistent noise. Curious as to who could be calling, she


    stumbled around the room, eventually finding the culprit. It was the phone Tyrone had given her the day


    before.


    ¡°Damn it.¡± She grumbled, ruffling her hair in frustration. ¡°Didn¡¯t I turn this thing off yesterday? How¡¯d it


    turn back on by itself?¡±


    It must¡¯ve been set to automatically power on in the morning. Annoyed, Quintessa picked up the phone


    to see Tyrone¡¯s number shing on the screen.


    Her first instinct was to hang up immediately. But no sooner had she ended the call than the phone


    rang again.


    Grinding her teeth, she knew if she didn¡¯t answer, Tyrone ¨C that son of a gun ¨C wouldn¡¯t let her off the


    hook.


    Taking a deep breath, Quintessa answered the call.


    ¡°Hello.¡±


    ¡°Not bad, you actually picked up.¡±


    Hearing Tyrone¡¯s cold, condescending voice, she couldn¡¯t help but scoff internally, glossing it over


    leisurely, ¡°What are you on about? Why wouldn¡¯t I answer? You make it sound like I¡¯ve done something


    wrong. I haven¡¯t stolen anyone¡¯s phone or anything.¡±


    Quintessa didn¡¯t feel guilty for ignoring Tyrone¡¯s calls. Why should she jump whenever he said so?


    Even if he wanted to getid, she wouldn¡¯t give him the satisfaction until she got what she wanted.


    Men were suckers for a chase. Gave in too easily, and how could she enamor him in the future?


    Tyrone, phone in one hand, was choosing his outfit from the closet with the other. His face was a mask


    of calm, betraying nothing except for the tight grip on his phone ¨C a clear sign of his simmering anger.


    He knew Quintessa was bold enough to stand him upst night, but hearing her speak so nonchntly


    fanned


    the mes of his irritation.


    He had lived his life where if he said ¡°yes¡°, nobody dared say ¡°no¡± in his presence. Quintessa had kept


    him waiting all night, and he wasn¡¯t going to let it slide so easily.


    Especially since she didn¡¯t seem to think she had done anything wrong. Not a hint of an apology, acting


    as if she never intended to show upst night ¨C as if she had been ying him from the start.


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t help butugh in exasperation, ¡°Quintessa, you¡¯re quite something. Do you really think


    these amateurish games will work on me?¡±


    She pulled a bottle of water from the fridge, ¡°You tter me, Mr. York, but haven¡¯t you been the one


    chasing me?¡±


    He mmed the closet door shut, ¡°You never nned on showing upst night, did you?¡±


    ¡°Was something supposed to happenst night?¡±


    ¡°If you keep this up, believe me, I can bankrupt your boss today.¡±


    Gripping the water bottle tighter, Quintessa reflected on the power of the York family¡¯s heir. Just like


    that, he could ruin someone¡¯s life with a snap of his finger.


    1/2


    18:25


    Chapter 56


    Nonchnt, she replied, ¡°Oh, you meanst night? My phone died.¡±


    Tyrone scoffed, ¡°Don¡¯t give me that damn crap. Do you think I don¡¯t know how long that batterysts?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57


    Quintessa replied with a nonchnt voice, ¡°Maybe I identally hit the power button or something.¡±


    Tyrone snapped with a chilling edge to his voice, ¡°Quintessa.¡±


    As Quintessa struggled to open a bottle of water with one hand, her frustration peaked, and she


    mmed the bottle onto the floor, snarling, ¡°Yeah, I turned it off on purpose. What¡¯s it to you? I don¡¯t


    want to sleep with you, okay? What are you gonna do about it? Force me?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s expression turned icy in an instant, his hawkish eyes darkening and a sinister smirk yed at


    the corners of his mouth.


    He drawled, ¡°So that¡¯s the only truth you¡¯ve told me, huh?¡±


    He had already figured out Quintessa didn¡¯t want to go with himst night and that she was probably


    ying hard to get. But now he was certain that deep down, she just didn¡¯t want to be with him at all.


    This woman didn¡¯t fall for him!


    Tyrone, always the one to dismiss others, now faced someone daring enough to give him the cold


    shoulder!


    Quintessa opened her mouth to respond but was cut off by Snow¡¯s voice, ¡°Quintessa, quitzing


    around. Time to get up and shoot the music video.¡±


    Stepping onto the balcony, Quintessa replied, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get ready in a sec.¡±


    She spoke into her phone, ¡°Got work to do, Mr. York. Gotta run.¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone heard a man¡¯s voice on the other end and a storm of emotions roiled within him, ¡°Quintessa, if


    you dare hang up on me today, you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, try and kill me then!¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ending the call abruptly. She had no desire to squabble with Tyrone over this.


    She hated feeling inferior to Tyrone, always having to appease him. Even worse was the way he


    treated her as if she were a ything.


    In the game of love and war, a little argument sometimes wasn¡¯t a bad thing. She knew how to bait


    Tyrone, and she believed in her charms.


    His interest in her was clear, and she intended to seize the opportunity. She was determined to make


    Tyrone fall for her. ying games with men? She had her ways.


    Tyrone held the phone, staring at the call ended notification. He smiled, licking his lips slightly, ¡°Dared


    to hang up? Okay, game on.¡±


    He made a call, ¡°Find out where Quintessa is shooting her music video today, and with whom.¡±


    Whatever the person on the other line said made Tyrone squint, his features and thin lips turning icy,


    exuding a


    cold and ruthless aura.


    He spoke slowly, ¡°What to do? What do you think?¡±


    After freshening up and changing her clothes, Quintessa¡¯s door was knocked. She opened it to find


    Snow, still in the quintessential celebrity disguise of a baseball cap, mask, and sunsses.


    ¡°Ready to go?¡± Quintessa inquired.


    Snow sized her up, ¡°You¡¯re all set?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, all good.¡±


    ¡°Not putting on makeup?¡±


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    18:25


    Chapter 57


    Quintessa flickered her hair, ¡°Does this face need makeup?¡±


    Her confidence in her elfin features was unshakeable.


    Snow raised an eyebrow, ¡°No, it doesn¡¯t.¡±


    Quintessa suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s head out, then. I¡¯ll call Violet and tell her to meet us directly at the studio.¡±


    Leaning against the doorframe, Snow teased, ¡°You know, sometimes you can be quite the killjoy. This


    is the moment when you should be inviting me in for a ss of water at least.¡±


    Quintessa grabbed her bag and shut the door behind her, ¡°Water? You wish. Here even hot water is


    something extravagant.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t even used the stove since she got here.


    Snow shook his head, yfully lifting Qui

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58


    Quintessa leaned forward, closing the gap between her and Snow, her hand reaching out to pluck off


    Snow¡¯s sunsses, ¡°Settle down? Who would dare marry a woman like me? You?¡±


    Snow¡¯s eyes were slightly rounded and vivid, strikingly beautiful. His gaze reflected Quintessa¡¯s face as


    he pinched her chin yfully, ¡°Sure, I¡¯d dare to marry you. But the real question is, would you dare to


    marry me?¡±


    Just as the elevator doors slid open, Violet stepped out to witness the scene, immediately feeling a


    wave of awkwardness wash over her. She cleared her throat, ¡°Ahem.¡±


    Violet¡¯s interruption provided an escape for Quintessa, who straightened up as Snow dropped his hand.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa asked, ¡°What brings you here, Violet? I was just about to call you.¡±


    Violet replied, diforted, ¡°I was worried you might oversleep, so I came to pick you up.¡±


    Internally, Violet rolled her eyes. Quintessa was such a sly fox, unabashed and bold, making her, the


    unintended witness, feel like the one who was embarrassed.


    As the three stepped into the elevator together, Snow asked Quintessa, ¡°Ride with me?¡±


    Violet quickly interjected, ¡°Actually, let Quinn ride with me. With the paparazzi always on your tail,


    Snow, it could be troublesome if they snap a photo.¡±


    Snow curled his lips, ¡°Whatever.¡±


    Once in the car, Manny started the engine..


    There weren¡¯t many people in Violet¡¯s studio, and Manny often wore many hats there. He handed


    Quintessa a paper bag with a burrito and a soytte inside, ¡°I got you some breakfast, just the usual


    stuff; have some.¡±


    Quintessa felt a twinge in her heart. It had been years since anyone had bought her breakfast, not


    since her mother passed away.


    She smiled, ¡°Thanks, I¡¯m starving.¡±


    After taking a bite, Quintessa added, ¡°Next time, ask them to load up on the hot sauce; I like it spicy.¡±


    Manny nodded enthusiastically, ¡°Sure thing!¡±


    Violet watched silently until Quintessa finished eating, and then she finally spoke up, ¡°Did Great Snow


    Jackson just say he¡¯ll marry you?¡±


    Quintessaughed, popping a couple of mints into her mouth to freshen her breath, ¡°Do you seriously


    trust what a man, who you barely know and is clearly just trying to get you into bed, says?¡±


    Violet considered this, ¡°You¡¯re right; never trust a man¡¯s words.¡±


    Then, Violet poked Quintessa on the forehead, ¡°But you little minx, flirting with everyone. You¡¯ve got Mr.


    York on the hook, and now you¡¯re toying with Great Snow Jackson. nning to y the field?¡±


    Quintessa leaned against Violet, ¡°It¡¯s not ying the field if nothing¡¯s happened yet, right? They¡¯re


    useful to me, so why not flirt a bit? Besides, it¡¯s not like I¡¯m initiating anything; theye to me. Why


    pass up the game?¡±


    She was determined to seed, to never again live in fear or be at the mercy of someone else¡¯s


    whims, to no longer live as if she were constantly on the run.


    ¨C And she was driven by a thirst for revenge.


    Everyone hadbeled her: the homewrecker, the femme fatale, the heartless maniptor. It seemed


    there was no one more wicked or shameless than Quintessa.


    If that was how people saw her, she might as well live up to their expectations.


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    18:25


    Chapter 58


    After three years abroad, Quintessa¡¯s body might have remained untouched, but her heart had turned


    to stone.


    She¡¯d witnessed even more filthy and vile scenes;pared to it, this was nothing to her. Quintessa


    smirked cynically to herself. It was just ying with men, after all.

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59


    What had she done wrong, really? If those guys hadn¡¯t made the first move, she wouldn¡¯t be able to


    string them along. There was no reason why men could y the field and women couldn¡¯t!


    Violet let out a sigh, ¡°Quinn, as someone who¡¯s been around the block, I gotta tell you, ying hard to


    get with folks and not giving them anything solid is going to bite you in the butt eventually.¡±


    Quintessa just shrugged, ¡°I know, but hasn¡¯t happened yet, has it? Just keeping them on the hook for


    now.¡±


    Violet shook her head. Quintessa was exactly the type that people loved to hate: she was tough as


    nails and cunning to boot.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Yet, for some reason, Violet just couldn¡¯t bring herself to dislike her.


    Violet had known Quintessa for two years and she¡¯d never forget the first time she saw her at


    Serenitia¡¯s. She was like a little animal caught in a trap, legs all but crushed, still fighting furiously.


    Those eyes were so bright, so fierce; all she wanted was to survive in this twisted, dark world.


    Quintessa hadn¡¯t had many good days in her twenty¨Csomething years. No one was born this way; they


    were driven to it, bit by bit. If they could, wouldn¡¯t everyone choose happiness?


    Violet had once asked her, ¡°Don¡¯t you ever just want to cry it out when you can¡¯t take it anymore?¡±


    Quintessa had only replied, ¡°Who¡¯d give a damn? Who would I cry for?¡±


    She was a kid with nobody to care for her, scrabbling up from the dirt on her own.


    Violet sighed, ¡°Just be careful, okay?¡±


    ¡°I know. Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t cause any trouble for you.¡±


    Violet asked, ¡°What about your family?¡±


    ¡°Keeping it under wraps. I can¡¯t let them know I¡¯m back. Not until I¡¯ve made something of myself again.


    The Youngs can¡¯t know I¡¯ve returned.¡±


    Quintessa had to keep her return from the Young family a secret. If they found out, they¡¯de after


    her with a


    vengeance.


    She had to wait until she made her mark, until she was on solid ground, where the Youngs couldn¡¯t


    touch her easily. Only then could she reveal herself.


    At the studio, the set was ready, and the music video director handed Quintessa the script.


    While Snow got his makeup done, his agent showed him a photo on his phone, ¡°How about this actor?


    Isn¡¯t he super macho?¡±


    Snow¡¯s agent was mboyantly gay, and loved a burly man.


    Snow didn¡¯t even look, and just pushed the phone away, ¡°Send him back.¡±


    ¡°What? I specially found him, and if you say no now, I can¡¯t find anyone else on such short notice.¡±


    Snow ran his fingers through his hair, ¡°I¡¯ll step in myself.¡±


    The agent let out a shrill, ¡°What?¡±


    Snow yed with his hair again, ¡°Tell the director we can add a few more intimate scenes.¡±


    The agent pointed at him, ¡°You?¡±


    ¡°Am I not clear?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    1/2


    18:25


    Chapter 59


    Snow urged, ¡°Then go.¡±


    The agent suddenly touched his forehead, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re not feverish? Are you sure you¡¯re


    Snow?¡±


    Snow pushed him away immediately, ¡°Tsk, I told you not to touch me.¡±


    The agent coyly pointed at him with his finger, ¡°It¡¯s been ten years since your debut and you¡¯ve never


    paired up with any actress for a music video. Have you lost your mind?¡±


    Snow saidzily, ¡°The music industry¡¯s tough right now; gotta create some buzz.¡±


    The agent stomped his foot in frustration, ¡°Bull. You¡¯re pulling the wool over my eyes. The rest of the


    industry might be struggling to sell records, but you? Worrying about buzz? You¡¯ve got your eye on that


    girl, don¡¯t you?¡±

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60


    Snow rolled his eyes, ¡°d you figured it out; no need to broadcast it.¡±


    ¡°Thatdy with the looks of a femme fatale, has obviously been entangled with countless men. Don¡¯t


    fall for her,


    man.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s chill voice followed from behind, ¡°What¡¯s this about being entangled with countless men?¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    The agent nearly had a heart attack, ¡°You eavesdropping?¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t close the door, it¡¯s your fault for being overheard, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Quintessa walked up to him, her gaze cold as it swept over him, ¡°I have dealt with plenty of men, sure,


    but none quite like you.¡±


    The agent, clutching his chest, took a step back, ¡°Hey, I¡¯m not just some guy you can mess with.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°No worries, when I y, it doesn¡¯t matter who the person is.¡±


    Snow couldn¡¯t help but chuckle,ing to his agent¡¯s aid, ¡°Are we ready to start shooting?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s piercing eyes left the agent trembling as she replied, ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s do this. Come on out.¡±


    With that, she turned and walked away.


    The agent, hand over his chest, eximed, ¡°Good lord, it scares the light out of me; she¡¯s terrifying!¡±


    Snow stood up, his tone casual, ¡°From now on, remember, if you don¡¯t know, don¡¯t talk. And don¡¯t judge


    a book by its cover.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve fallen for her?¡±


    ¡°The game hasn¡¯t even started yet.¡±


    Shooting the music video was straightforward, no lines, just acting out the love story depicted by the


    song¡¯s lyrics, the usual dance of romance and heartache.


    The shoot was going smoothly until, during a scene where Snow was about to kiss Quintessa, the


    studio suddenly lost power. The filming had to be paused unexpectedly.


    Initially they thought it was just a technical glitch; Snow¡¯s agent went to investigate but came back


    looking rather grim and whispered something to Snow.


    Snow¡¯s expression darkened, and he turned to Quintessa, ¡°Looks like a serious malfunction. It might


    take a while to fix. You guys head back for now, and we¡¯ll resume once it¡¯s sorted.¡±


    Quintessa was suspicious but didn¡¯t press the issue, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Leaving the studio, Quintessa saw Zenobia, who was in the next studio over taking promotional photos.


    Zenobia was all dressed up as the character Quintessa had previously yed in a drama about royal


    intrigue, looking stunningly beautiful. At the sight of it, Quintessa turned icy cold.


    Violet saw that, seething, and muttered, ¡°Damn it, I can¡¯t believe she got the role!¡±


    Quintessa turned to leave, her voice cool, ¡°Why rush? It¡¯s too early to worry about that.¡±


    Violet, puzzled, followed her, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes narrowed, ¡°If I had a bite of something and it was snatched away, I¡¯d snatch it right


    back. What¡¯s mine has to be mine.¡±


    Violet gulped, wondering what Quintessa had in mind.


    1/2


    18:25


    Chapter 60


    Getting into the car, Quintessa said to Manny, ¡°Manny, you¡¯reing with me tonight. Got a little


    errand to run.¡±


    She had some free time today; it was time to handle some serious business.


    Violet hurriedly asked, ¡°Quinn, what are you up to? Don¡¯t do anything rash.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a cold smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t.¡±


    She asked Violet, ¡°You¡¯ve been in the show biz here for a while. You¡¯ve got connections with the


    paparazzi, right?¡±


    Violet nodded, ¡°Of course, what do you need?¡±


    ¡°I need to know someone¡¯s whereabouts. Help me buy some information from them.¡±


    The paparazzi were like detectives; if they intended to track someone down, they could juste to


    paparazzi.


    Violet inquired, ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Jerome.¡±

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61


    Meanwhile, James cautiously entered the CEO¡¯s office after knocking on the door, ¡°Mr. York,


    everything¡¯s been taken care of. Snow¡¯s music video shoot got halted after just a few scenes.¡±


    Tyrone was toying with a coin between his fingers, his smile cruelly beautiful.


    His lips were thin and red, impassively stunning. ¡°No wonder she dared to stand me up. I thought she


    suddenly learned what ¡®backbone¡® meant, but it turns out she¡¯s already cozy with someone else. Didn¡¯t


    take her long to hook up with Snow after returning to the country.¡±


    James listened silently. Now was not the time to speak.


    After Tyrone finished speaking, James clenched his jaw and ventured, ¡°Mr. York, if they can¡¯t continue


    shooting in the studio, Snow might switch to an outdoor setting.¡±


    Tyrone nced over, making James shiver.


    ¡°Did I ask you that?¡±


    James quickly shook his head. Tyrone flipped the coin onto the desk with a snap, ¡°I want him to never


    finish that shoot.¡±


    James was nervous, ¡°Mr. York, Snow has the backing of Spark Entertainment and BrightStar Media,


    and he¡¯s a shareholder in both. Isn¡¯t this a bit much?¡±


    Tyrone nodded in agreement, ¡°Yes, it is!¡±


    Before James could rx, he heard Mr. York add, ¡°Tell Kevin to include Bright&Spark in our acquisition


    ns for this year.¡±


    James nearly copsed. Could the boss be a little less capricious?


    ¡°Yes, sir. I¡¯ll inform him right away.¡±


    James didn¡¯t dare persuade further and quickly left to carry out the orders. He couldn¡¯t wait to leave the


    office.


    Ten minutester, Tyrone¡¯s phone rang on his desk. He picked up, ¡°Hello?¡±


    A male voice came through immediately, ¡°Boss, what¡¯s going on? You said no more ventures into the


    showbiz this year, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Tyronezily twirled a pen in his right hand, ¡°I¡¯ve changed my mind.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Silence filled the other end of the line.


    ¡°Any problems?¡± Tyrone asked.


    ¡°No, not at all. All good. I¡¯ll get the acquisition proposal ready ASAP.¡±


    After hanging up, Keyin immediately asked James, who was sitting across from him, ¡°What on earth


    happened? Who¡¯s got the tyrant this riled up? Haven¡¯t seen him this fired up in ages.¡±


    James sighed, ¡°Got stood up.¡±


    Kevin¡¯s eyes widened in shock, ¡°Damn, who¡¯s got the guts? That¡¯s a death wish.¡±


    With a quarter Serenitian heritage, Kevin¡¯s features were strikingly handsome, with deep¨Cset eyes that


    widened like an overreactive exotic shorthair cat.


    James replied somberly, ¡°A woman.¡±


    Kevin snorted, ¡°Has she been thrown into the moat to feed the fish yet?¡±


    James shook his head, ¡°No, she¡¯s alive and well, better off than either of us.¡±


    1/2


    18:22


    Chapter 61


    Kevin mmed the desk, ¡°Why? That¡¯s impossible. I¡¯ve known him for years, and no one who¡¯s


    crossed him has ever ended up well. Just look at me. I¡¯ve never seen an exception.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s one now,¡± James said.


    ¡°Why? Who is this woman? I¡¯d like to know who the heck has the nerve to tick off Tyrone and get away


    with it.¡±


    ¡°Probably because he can¡¯t bear to do it.¡±


    Kevin was puzzled; what did that mean?


    James stood up. ¡°I need to get back to work. Let¡¯s both tread carefully these next few days.¡±


    A moment after James left, Kevin finally grasped the meaning. When James said ¡°can¡¯t bear¡°, he


    probably meant Tyrone couldn¡¯t bear to deal with that woman, so he was making life difficult for


    everyone else instead.


    18:22


    Chapter 67

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62


    At 2 a.m.. Quintessa had been waiting at the underground parking lot with Manny for a solid four hours.


    Manny was yawning relentlessly, his eyes bloodshot and weary, ¡°Quinn, you sure about this to? Maybe


    Jerome¡¯s not showing tonight, huh?¡±


    Quintessa seemed immune to fatigue, her face betraying not a hint of tiredness. She nced at her


    watch, ¡°Wel give it another hour. If he¡¯s a no¨Cshow, we¡¯ll bail,¡±


    Violet had sold Quintessa a hot tip about Jerome¡¯s whereabouts, gleaned from a seasoned


    entertainment journalist friend, Jerome usually spent his weekends at Zenobia¡¯s ce until the wee


    hours, and then retreated to his apartment. And tonight was Saturday.


    They were staking out the parking lot beneath Jerome¡¯s apartment, the most likely ce he¡¯d hit first on


    his way


    home.


    Half an hourter, headlights swept the entrance. Quintessa nudged Manny awake, ¡°Showtimet


    Manny snapped to attention, instantly alert.


    Quintessa reminded him. ¡°Remember what I told you, get the clear shot, but keep my face out of it*


    ¡°Got it. Don¡¯t worry, Quinn. I was the ace of my college photo club.*


    She donned her cap and shades, and stepped out of the car.


    Jerome killed the engine and stepped out; the door was barely shut when he heard a voice from


    behind, ¡°Late night, huh? Where¡¯ve you been gallivanting?¡±


    He spun around to find Quintessa leaning casually against a car, her hair cut into a chic bob. She wore


    a crisp white sundress with a short ck leather jacket studded at the shoulders, her legs crossed


    nonchntly. She was a mix of innocence, allure, and a dash of rebel.


    Seeing Quintessa, a devilish grin broke through Jerome¡¯s otherwise stoic fa?ade. Beneath his schrly


    sses, he looked both cultured and wild.


    He loosened his tie, taking deliberate steps toward her, ¡°Decided toe looking for me atst?*


    Jerome had purposely pressured Director Frost to snag a role from Quintessa, hoping to force her


    hand. But days had passed without a word from her, his mood took a plummet, and he was beginning


    to think he¡¯d miscalcted. But now here she was.


    Quintessa folded her arms, giving Jerome a once¨Cover, ¡°Just checking which little vixen lured my


    brother¨Cinw away.¡±


    Jerome opened the top two buttons of his shirt, feeling desire rise at the sight of Quintessa.


    ¡°Nobody¡¯s a match for you, if that¡¯s what you want,¡± he leisurely moved closer.


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Really? Then if she¡¯s not in my league, howe she snagged my role?¡± Hands


    on hips, chin lifted and chest out, she questioned, ¡°I don¡¯t understand, Jerome. Are you blind or what?


    She¡¯s prettier than me, got a nice body, or her skills are good in bed?¡±


    Jerome¡¯s arms encircled Quintessa¡¯s waist, pulling her close with a yank, ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter how good her


    skills in bed are. As long as you are willing, she¡¯s nothing to me.¡±


    Suppressing her disgust and the urge to kick where it hurt most, Quintessa tilted her head, and her


    handid on his shoulder, whispered into his ear, ¡°So, you really want to sleep with your sister¨Cinw?¡±


    Eyes closed, Jerome inhaled her scent deeply, ¡°Can¡¯t sleep because of it.¡±


    1/1


    18-23


    Chapter 62


    Chapter 62


    At 2 a.m., Quintessa had been waiting at the underground parking lot with Manny for a solid four hours.


    Manny was yawning relentlessly, his eyes bloodshot and weary. ¡°Quinn, you sure about this tip? Maybe


    Jerome¡¯s not showing tonight, huh?¡±


    Quintessa seemed immune to fatigue, her face betraying not a hint of tiredness. She nced at her


    watch, ¡°We¡¯ll give it another hour. If he¡¯s a no¨Cshow, we¡¯ll bail,¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Violet had sold Quintessa a hot tip about Jerome¡¯s whereabouts, gleaned from a seasoned


    entertainment journalist friend. Jerome usually spent his weekends at Zenobia¡¯s ce until the wee


    hours, and then retreated to his apartment. And tonight was Saturday.


    They were staking out the parking lot beneath Jerome¡¯s apartment, the most likely ce he¡¯d hit first on


    his way


    home.


    Half an hourter, headlights swept the entrance. Quintessa nudged Manny awake, ¡°Showtime.¡±


    Manny snapped to attention, instantly alert.


    Quintessa reminded him, ¡°Remember what I told you, get the clear shot, but keep my face out of it.¡±


    ¡°Got it. Don¡¯t worry, Quinn, I was the ace of my college photo club.¡±


    She donned her cap and shades, and stepped out of the car.


    Jerome killed the engine and stepped out; the door was barely shut when he heard a voice from


    behind, ¡°Late night, huh? Where¡¯ve you been gallivanting?¡±


    He spun around to find Quintessa leaning casually against a car, her hair cut into a chic bob. She wore


    a crisp white sundress with a short ck leather jacket studded at the shoulders, her legs crossed


    nonchntly. She was a mix of innocence, allure, and a dash of rebel.


    Seeing Quintessa, a devilish grin broke through Jerome¡¯s otherwise stoic fa?ade. Beneath his schrly


    sses, he looked both cultured and wild.


    He loosened his tie, taking deliberate steps toward her, ¡°Decided toe looking for me atst?¡±


    Jerome had purposely pressured Director Frost to snag a role from Quintessa, hoping to force her


    hand. But days had passed without a word from her, his mood took a plummet, and he was beginning


    to think he¡¯d miscalcted. But now here she was.


    Quintessa folded her arms, giving Jerome a once¨Cover, ¡°Just checking which little vixen lured my


    brother¨Cinw


    away.¡±


    Jerome opened the top two buttons of his shirt, feeling desire rise at the sight of Quintessa.


    ¡°Nobody¡¯s a match for you, if that¡¯s what you want,¡± he leisurely moved closer.


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Really? Then if she¡¯s not in my league, howe she snagged my role?¡± Hands


    on hips, chin lifted and chest out, she questioned, ¡°I don¡¯t understand, Jerome. Are you blind or what?


    She¡¯s prettier than me, got a nice body, or her skills are good in bed?¡±


    Jerome¡¯s arms encircled Quintessa¡¯s waist, pulling her close with a yank, ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter how good her


    skills in bed are. As long as you are willing, she¡¯s nothing to me.¡±


    Suppressing her disgust and the urge to kick where it hurt most, Quintessa tilted her head, and her


    handid on his shoulder, whispered into his ear, ¡°So, you really want to sleep with your sister¨Cinw?¡±


    Eyes closed, Jerome inhaled her scent deeply, ¡°Can¡¯t sleep because of it.¡±

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63


    Jerome caught a glimpse of Quintessa¡¯s sultry red lips and felt his Adam¡¯s apple bob. Closing his eyes,


    he leaned in to nt a kiss!


    But Quintessa was quick to put a stop to it, cing her index finger on Jerome¡¯s lips: she uttered,


    ¡°Dream on. I¡¯m not that easy to get. Otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t still be trying so hard, would you?¡±


    Jerome chuckled softly, utterly enchanted by her resistance. Despite knowing that her heart wasn¡¯t in it,


    that she was cold, cunning, and quick to turn her back, he couldn¡¯t help but be drawn to her.


    She was the prey just out of reach, but he couldn¡¯t get a taste, like an intoxicating poppy ¨C stunningly


    beautiful yet deadly poisonous.


    Such a woman was fatally alluring to a man because one might only encounter her once in a lifetime.


    Missing out would be a regret only a man could understand.


    And right at this moment, there she was, within his reach, a prize Jerome was determined not to let slip


    away.


    Jerome lifted Quintessa¡¯s chin, ¡°That role is yours for the taking, whenever you please.¡±


    Quintessa pouted, snorting, ¡°Pretty words. And what about that vixen, Zenobia?¡±


    With his arms around her, Jerome was desperate for her. He replied, ¡°Zenobia? She¡¯s nothing


    compared to you. You could be on set tomorrow if you wanted.¡±


    Zenobia meant nothing. Ten of her couldn¡¯t match Quintessa¡¯s allure. Yet, this woman was so elusive.


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, ¡°Ha! You think I¡¯m an idiot? A roommate I had abroad once told me never to


    trust the words of a man who¡¯s only after one thing. Their promises are worth less than a dog¡¯s bark.¡±


    Men? Aughable lot, the least trustworthy of all.


    But Jerome wasn¡¯t offended by herment; he only smiled wider, ¡°So, what do you want?¡±


    Grasping Jerome¡¯s tie, Quintessa twirled it around her fingers, ¡°I want to see action. Give Zenobia the


    boot and bring me on board. Until I see the real deal, you and I are just talking. I¡¯m no gullible kid.¡±


    Jerome stroked her waist, ¡°Once you get the part, I can¡¯t trust that you¡¯ll see me again.¡±


    He was sure that once Quintessa secured the role, she¡¯d drop him without a second nce. Quintessa


    was the kind of woman who didn¡¯t let anyone into her heart. She always went for the tangible.


    But her emotional detachment was, in a way, an advantage. It meant no one was special to her.


    Jerome was on an even ying field with everyone else, all vying to pluck the poisonous flower first.


    Quintessa gave a knowing smile, ¡°You talk as if you know me so well. Whether Ie to see youter,


    well, that depends on how irresistible you are. If you want me to strip down and wait for you in bed,


    you¡¯ve got to show some real charm, Jerome. You¡¯re not doubting yourself, are you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about doubting myself, it¡¯s that I just can¡¯t trust you.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa¡¯s rosy lips curled up, ¡°If you want me, show me you mean it. A couple of sweet nothings


    won¡¯t get me into bed. It¡¯s not that easy.¡±


    1/1

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    Chapter 64


    Jerome¡¯s face was devoid of smiles; he locked his gaze onto Quintessa¡¯s eyes with an intensity that


    could scorch, ¡°What if I want it right now?¡±


    Did Jerome know what game Quintessa was ying?


    He was painfully aware that what he held in his grasp was exactly what she coveted.


    Handing it over easily would mean war in the next heartbeat.


    With a sudden jerk, Quintessa pulled at Jerome¡¯s shirt, while her face was twisted with a smile that


    didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes which wereced with venom. ¡°Then by all means, try. After all, I¡¯m quite


    curious to see just how capable my dear brother¨Cinw really is.¡±


    Their gazes were locked, each reflecting the other¡¯s face; their thoughts were seemingly transparent


    yet enigmatic.


    Jerome¡¯s eyes darkened bit by bit, then a dangerous glint emerged.


    He was like a wolf, power coiled tight, ready to pounce, and Quintessa was the prey he had long


    salivated over.


    Jerome spoke slowly, ¡°Then watch closely.¡±


    But Jerome had already made up his mind; he wasn¡¯t going to let Quintessa slip away tonight. Just


    then, his phone began to ring.


    He had no intention of answering, but the ringtone went on and on. In the echo of the empty parking


    garage, it was particrly grating.


    Biting back his irritation, Jerome pulled out the phone and saw the name¨CMiranda.


    ncing at the screen, Quintessa sneered internally. If they were truly a couple in love, the names


    saved on their phones would be terms of endearment, no matter how cheesy or intimate, but certainly


    not a full name.


    A phone contact name could reveal how insignificant Miranda was in Jerome¡¯s heart.


    Quintessa released Jerome¡¯s tie with a click of her tongue, ¡°Oh, my dear sister is checking in. Aren¡¯t


    you going to answer it, brother¨Cinw?¡±


    Jerome¡¯s eyes were icy as he let go of Quintessa and answered the call.


    ¡°Hello, Miranda.¡±


    ¡°Jay, I can¡¯t sleep. Where are you?¡±


    Quintessa was close enough to hear Miranda¡¯s pouty voice on the phone.


    Jerome¡¯s face was a mask of impatience, but his voice remained soothing, ¡°I¡¯ve already hit the sack.


    Why are you calling sote?¡±


    ¡°I just couldn¡¯t sleep and wanted to check if you had. Jay, it¡¯s been days since you visited. I miss you.¡±


    ¡°Work¡¯s been hectic; I¡¯ll drop by in a couple of days.¡±


    Quintessa chuckled inwardly. If your boyfriend hadn¡¯t been in touch for days and when he did, he gave


    excuses like ¡®I¡¯m busy¡® or ¡®I don¡¯t have time¡®, well, you didn¡¯t need to be a genius to figure out that


    someone was on the outs.


    Miranda whined, ¡°A couple of days, always a couple of days, you say that all the time. I don¡¯t care, you


    have toe see me tomorrow.¡±


    Quintessa licked her lips, sensing a golden opportunity. She really should do something to stir the pot.


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    18:23


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    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Otherwise, she¡¯d be doing Miranda a disservice,


    Quintessa tilled her head and pinched her voice into a coquettish tone, ¡°Darling, why haven¡¯t youe


    yet? The water¡¯s getting cold, weren¡¯t you going to join me for a bath? You promised.¡±


    Jerome spun around, and his cold eyes sliced through Quintessa,


    She raised an eyebrow in challenge.


    Let¡¯s see what you can do now.


    On the phone, Miranda had already started screaming, ¡°Jay, who is that bitch? Are you with another


    woman? Where are you guys, where? I¡¯m going to tear that slut apart, tell me now.¡±


    Jerome stepped towards Quintessa, and said with an icy voice, ¡°You heard it wrong.¡±

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a mischievous smile. ¡°Jerome, who are you on the phone with? I better not


    be that annoying girlfriend of yours. Didn¡¯t you say she doesn¡¯t hold a candle to a single strand of my


    hair? That once you had me, you¡¯d kick her to the curb? Why bother with her? Come on over and let¡¯s


    live it up!¡±


    With a yful sprint, Quintessa dashed a few steps ahead, swung open the car door, and hopped into


    the passenger seat before Jerome could catch up.


    Manny hit the gas and the car shot forward.


    Quintessa rolled down the window, waved mockingly at Jerome, then shed the ultimate gesture of


    contempt the middle finger. No need to hide her disdain now.


    Let them make a scene. Let Miranda hassle Jerome until he can¡¯t stand it any longer.


    Miranda¡¯s call was actually a stroke of luck for Quintessa, which spared her from having to concoct her


    own escape n. Everything was falling into ce.


    Jerome squinted, watching Quintessa¡¯s car disappear in the distance. The opportunity to be with her


    had slipped through his fingers once again.


    On the other end of the line, Miranda was still sobbing and causing amotion, Jerome felt nothing


    but disgust and irritation at the sound of her voice.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°It¡¯ste; I¡¯m going to bed,¡± he said coldly.


    ¡°Jerome, are you going to sleep with that tramp? How could you do this to me? You can¡¯t touch another


    woman. If you do, I¡¯ll make you regret it.¡± Miranda¡¯s voice was hysterical over the phone.


    Impatience and loathing spread across Jerome¡¯s face. ¡°I already have, Miranda. Let¡¯s break up. I¡¯m


    done.¡±


    Yes, he was done.


    Without Quintessa, he could still muster some pretense of patience for Miranda.


    But with Quintessa back, he couldn¡¯t bear to even nce at Miranda.


    Miranda¡¯s voice shook uncontrobly. ¡°Jay, what did you say?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re through! No room for negotiation. That¡¯s it.¡± Jerome dered without hesitation before he ended


    the call, and turned off his phone.


    Staring at the exit of the underground parking lot, he wondered why Quintessa had left so easily


    without getting the answer she wanted. She wasn¡¯t one to back down, unless she had another scheme


    up her sleeve.


    Quintessa could be cold¨Chearted and frightening, but even knowing that, he couldn¡¯t help himself. He


    was intrigued to see what she would pull next.


    Manny sped out of the underground parking, merging onto the highway. Quintessa asked, ¡°Did you get


    clear shots?¡±


    Handing over the camera, Manny assured her. ¡°All set, take a look.¡±


    Quintessa flipped through the photos. They basically all showed her from behind, and even in some


    photos that captured her side profile, her face was obscured by her hair. But Jerome was another story;


    his face was clearly visible in every shot.


    Each photo showed them locked in an intimate embrace, and from certain angles, they even appeared


    to be kissing. The evidence was incriminating.


    Quintessa was pleased. ¡°Once I¡¯m rolling in dough, I¡¯ll throw in a bonus for you.¡±


    1/2


    18:23


    Her visit to Jerome was solely to ¡®put on a show.¡® She didn¡¯t expect him to be blinded by desire and


    actually agree to her requests.


    Manny chuckled, ¡°Thanks, Quinn.¡±


    ¡°Just remember, not a word of this to anyone.¡±


    Manny patted his chest, ¡°You got it. My lips are sealed.¡±


    After dropping Quintessa off at her apartment and watching her safely inside, Manny drove away.

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66


    Quintessa stood by the window, her gaze tracking Manny¡¯s car as it vanished into the night.


    Dawn was still a few hours off, and with the Youngs in disarray, she figured she could stir the pot just a


    bit more. She dialed a number on her phone.


    ¡°It¡¯s me. Let¡¯s meet. The usual spot.¡±


    After hanging up, Quintessa changed into the same ck tracksuit she worest time, threw on a


    baseball cap and a mask, and stuffed a packet of something into her pocket.


    Downstairs, she made her way to themunal parking lot, where electric scooters and bikes were


    locked up. She grabbed a ck cable lock from above and unlocked one of the electric bikes.


    Pushing it out, she remembered that she didn¡¯t have keys, which triggered a curse slipped from her


    lips, these damn electric bikes wouldn¡¯t start without keys.


    Quintessa clenched her jaw in frustration. Being car¨Cless was a real pain.


    Thankfully, this was downtown. If luck was on her side, she might still snag a cab at this ungodly hour.


    But after ten minutes of walking, there was not a taxi in sight; she was starting to worry when her phone


    buzzed¨Cit was Tyrone.


    A coldugh escaped her. She knew Tyrone well enough; he wouldn¡¯t let her sleep if she ignored his


    call. With a hint of irritation, she answered, ¡°I was sleeping, not in the mood for your games.¡±


    ¡°Sleeping? Looks like you¡¯re sleepwalking then, wandering the streets in the middle of the night.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s voice. waszily husky and sensually deep in the dark.


    A shock ran through Quintessa. ¡°How did you¡­¡± Before she could finish, headlights flooded over her,


    and she turned to see a car approaching. With a mocking smile, she said, ¡°Running into Mr. York in the


    middle of nowhere at this hour, should I consider this fate? Or should I curse your mother?¡±


    This was some shit luck. Every time she nned something shady, this bastard would show up.


    Tyrone chuckled from inside the car, ¡°Seems like you¡¯re in a good mood.¡±


    After spending half the night at the Luxe Haven Club, yet having no improvement in his mood, Tyrone


    decided to head home, only to stumble upon something entertaining¨CQuintessa, of all people!


    Quintessa gritted her teeth, ¡°Yeah, so good I wish I could run you over if I had a car.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, you better start running then, because without a car, you can¡¯t even catch up to hit me.¡±


    In the darkness, Quintessa narrowed her eyes and smiled with a ghostly charm, ¡°Oh? Does that


    include catching you in bed? Not fast enough?¡±


    ¡°Wait for it. I¡¯ll bring the bed to you!¡±


    The call ended with a series of beeps, and the car slowly pulled up beside her.


    Quintessa frowned. What the hell was it between her and this son of a bitch?


    As the car window rolled down, Tyrone¡¯s striking face appeared, ¡°Bed¡¯s here. So, how about it? The


    perfect time for a secret rendezvous, to make up for that other night?¡±


    Tyrone watched Quintessa with his arm resting on the window, and his index finger slowly tracing his


    lower lip; his eyes were dark and dangerously seductive.


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Sorry to disappoint, just got back from my little affair. I¡¯m stuffed, no appetite left.¡±


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    Tyrone eyed Quintessa¡¯s outfit, ¡°No appetite for theft, but maybe for murder?¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The quiet night air suddenly tensed, as if a bowstring was drawn taut, ready to unleash its arrow at any


    moment, Quintessa leaned in slowly, propping herself on the car roof; then brushing her lips against


    Tyrone¡¯s ear, she whispered, as if to a lover, in a soft and sultry voice, ¡°Murder you? Would you let


    me?¡±

 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67


    Quintessa¡¯s voice was soft and lingering, the kind that could weave its way into a man¡¯s very soul and


    leaving an indelible mark.


    Every man who had ever heard her speak found himself undone, Intoxicated by the mellifluous tones


    that seemed to caress the air around them. Yet Tyrone, despite the warm buzz in his ears, was well


    aware that her words were far from sweet nothings.


    They were deadly serious.


    Quintessa meant to kill him.


    She had every reason to want him dead after all, he¡¯d caught her red¨Chanded thest time she¡¯d


    roughed up Matthew. There was no innocence in her; she was as ruthless as theye, and her heart


    was a shade of pitch ck. And Tyrone, for all his bravado, knew deep down that he might never be


    able to change her,


    But that very danger and that very challenge made him all the more determined to keep her close.


    Tyrone chuckled, making a low, mischievous sound. ¡°That depends on how you n to do it. If it¡¯s in


    bed, well, feel free.¡±


    She had her hand slowly climb his neck as she smiled slyly, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure you die a happy man, the


    envy of every ghost out there.¡±


    Though she spoke with a smirk, the undertones of her words were lethal, and she was keenly aware of


    their true intent. She genuinely wanted to end Tyrone¡¯s life right then and there.


    Without him, she¡¯d be free of the threat he posed.


    But in reality, shecked the means. The disparity in strength between a fit man and a woman was


    obvious.


    Tyrone¡¯s fingers traced the contour of her waist, then gripped it lightly. ¡°I¡¯m right here. Why not give it a


    try?¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow. ¡°Sure thing!¡±


    But in the next breath, she added, ¡°Not tonight, though.¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    His hand lingered on the slender waist beneath her tracksuit. ¡°What, got some dirty deeds to do?¡±


    She matched his gaze with a challenging tilt of her head. ¡°My business? You¡¯d do well to stay out of it.


    Even if you do find out, y dumb. Otherwise, if you know too much, I can¡¯t promise how I might treat


    you in the future.¡± If Tyrone were to uncover too much about Quintessa, she would inevitably craft a


    wless n to dispose of him. She refused to expose herself to someone as unpredictable as Tyrone.


    Trust wasn¡¯t a luxury she afforded


    to men.


    He was mesmerized by her eyes ¨C those captivating, sly fox eyes that held within them an undeniable


    ferocity.


    She was a woman who would stop at nothing to get what she wanted.


    And Tyrone was itching to tame her. What did he care about her past misdeeds? He was no saint


    himself; why should he aspire to be a moral paragon?


    He gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. ¡°Tsk, aren¡¯t you cold¨Chearted. We have our little


    secrets, don¡¯t we?¡±


    Quintessa scoffed. Secrets? More like threats.


    ¡°Get in the car. Wherever you¡¯re going, I¡¯ll take you. Are you n to walk in the middle of the night?


    Haven¡¯t you heard news about the young women disappearingtely, only to be found dayster?


    Aren¡¯t you the least bit scared?¡±


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    18:23


    Quintessa retorted sharply. ¡°No need. I¡¯m afraid if I got into your car, they might just find a male body


    instead in a few days.¡±


    She genuinely feared she might not be able to restrain herself from making a move against Tyrone.

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Tyrone shed a mischievous grin, ¡°You talk like you¡¯re some kind of fairy who could devour me


    whole.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile as she replied smoothly, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m a siren who lures men to


    their doom, especially guys like you.¡±


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to take you up on that ride then. I¡¯ve always had a thing for dangerous women.¡±


    Quintessa knew then that Tyrone was intent on pursuing her. She nodded, yfully pinched his neck,


    and chuckled, ¡°Looking for trouble, are you?¡±


    Tyrone, feelingpletely unfazed, responded, ¡°Would you dare?¡±


    The next second, Quintessa got into the car.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re so willing, I might as well indulge you.¡¯


    Noticing that Quintessa hadn¡¯t buckled up, Tyrone didn¡¯t remind her. ¡°Where to?¡±


    In the dead of night. Tyrone felt strangely invigorated.


    Quintessa nced at him sideways, ¡°For a murder, it¡¯s always the usual spot.¡±


    Tyrone started the car and after about fifteen minutes, they pulled up at Central za.


    From afar, Quintessa could see the lone, dark silhouette on the square. The ce was deserted at this


    hour, making the figure all the more conspicuous.


    Quintessa hopped out of the car, ¡°Wait here.¡±


    Tyrone caught her hand, and pressed into her palm, ¡°I¡¯ve already witnessed you in action, what else is


    off¨Climits?¡±


    Quintessa grabbed his wrist with a reverse grip and gave him a beguiling smile, ¡°That¡¯s right, Mr. York,


    better keep your distance when I¡¯m up to no good. If you know too much, who knows, I might have to


    silence you tonight.¡±


    Her words were tinged with ambiguous threat.


    ¡°What if I insist oning along?¡± Tyrone challenged.


    Quintessa ced a hand on his shoulder, ¡°Then try me.¡±


    Their eyes locked in the dim light of the car.


    Quintessa withdrew her hand and pushed the car door open to step out. Tyrone watched her.walk


    away, his eyes narrowing in thought. This woman was a damned enchantress.


    He didn¡¯t follow her. Pushing Quintessa too hard might backfire spectacrly. She needed to be


    handled with


    care.


    Quintessa, now masked and hatted, approached the figure named Ynda.


    ¡°You¡¯ve arrived,¡± Ynda acknowledged.


    Nodding, Quintessa pulled a packet from her pocket and handed it over.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Ynda asked, while taking it.


    ¡°Poison. The kind that kills,¡± Quintessa replied; her voice, which was chilling to the bone, sliced through


    the night.


    Ynda¡¯s hand trembled slightly.


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    18:24


    Chapter 6


    Quintessa spoke coldly, ¡°Lately, Sean¡¯s been a handful. Handle this well, and you¡¯ll have the perfect


    chance to reel him in. The poison is colorless and tastases, but if a little at a time, and it¡¯ll slowly act,


    not even a doctor Could defect it Whether you use it or not, that¡¯s up to you.


    Ynda was torn for a moment before she made up her mind and gripped the packet tightly.


    ¡°Alright, I understand.¡±


    ¡°Good luck,¡± Guintessa wished.


    ¡°And to you as well,¡± Ynda returned.


    After Ynda left, Quintessa turned to leave in the opposite direction.


    Back in the car, Quintessa said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Where to now? Tyrone asked.


    Quintessa blew on her nails, with a devilish grin spreading across her face. ¡°My dear little brother¡¯s


    been in the hospital for days, and I¡¯ve yet to pay him a visit. As a sister, I feel somewhat remiss!¡±


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    Chapter 69


    Quintessa nced at Tyrone with a hint of mischief. ¡°Since Mr. York is so keen today, let¡¯s just say I¡¯ll


    let you in on a few more secrets!¡±


    Though she couldn¡¯t eliminate Tyrone, she couldn¡¯t keep being threatened by him either.


    If he already knew one of her secrets, well then, she might as well let him in on another. Transform him


    from a mere witness into an aplice.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Quintessa always lived by the rule: If I can¡¯t have it my way, neither can you.


    Tyrone was all too eager, and so, he was going to be dragged into the mire as well.


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow. ¡°I¡¯m game!¡±


    A surge of excitement bubbled within him, reminiscent of the thrill he felt during his school days when


    getting up to no good¨Cit was oddly invigorating.


    They pulled up to the outskirts of the hospital in Tyrone¡¯s car.


    The hospital was quiet in the dead of night, with few souls around; an eerie silence pervaded the air.


    They could almost smell the antiseptic even before getting too close.


    Quintessa hopped out of the car and headed straight for the inpatient building.


    Tyrone grabbed her arm. ¡°You¡¯re really nning to just waltz in like that?¡±


    Quintessa rolled her eyes. ¡°Do you honestly think I¡¯m that stupid?¡±


    Dodging hospital surveince, they made their way to the on¨Ccall room where the nurse was sound


    asleep. Tyrone clearly saw Quintessa effortlessly unlock a secured closet and pull out a whiteb coat


    and a set of scrubs.


    In thedies¡® restroom, Quintessa said, ¡°Put it on.¡±


    Tyrone refused, ¡°I don¡¯t do second¨Chand clothes.¡±


    Who knew what kind of person had worn those scrubs before? Tyrone never used anything that wasn¡¯t


    his own.


    Quintessa snorted. ¡°Really?¡±


    The next second, she spun around and turned on the faucet, then she grabbed a cup that had been


    lying around for who knows how long, filled it with water, and drenched Tyrone with it.


    Tyrone, getting all soaked, eximed, ¡°You!?¡±


    Quintessa dropped the cup and held up theb coat. ¡°You¡¯vee all this way tonight. You¡¯ll wear it


    whether you like it or not.¡±


    She was determined to drag Tyrone down with her.


    He looked at his wet shirt, then back at Quintessa, and suddenly wondered if he¡¯d been led astray by


    her.


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, wearing a mischievous smirk on his face. ¡°You going to dress me?¡±


    In the harsh fluorescent light, his wet figure managed not to look disheveled. Some people always


    seemed to carry an air of sophistication, no matter the circumstances.


    As he gazed upon that face that could dazzle time itself, Quintessa felt a teasing itch. ¡°I¡¯m more used to


    taking clothes off than putting them on.¡±


    Tyrone stepped closer and closer, until his face was inches from hers. ¡°Taking clothes off is definitely


    better. We¡¯re alone here!¡±


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    18:24:


    apler by


    The Innuendo in his voice was crystal clear, just short of outright suggesting they make the most of


    their privacy.


    Quintessa pushed away Tyrone¡¯s wandering hand. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll help you get dressed.¡±


    As she helped him into theb coat, shemanded, ¡°Let¡¯s go, Mr. York!¡±


    Both wearing surgical masks, they left together.


    Tyrone led the way; he was not even flinching as they passed the surveince cameras. The inpatient


    building was deserted, and their footsteps were the only sound echoing through the halls.


    They reached the ICU ward without incident. Under her mask, Quintessa¡¯s smile was dark and sinister.


    She grabbed Tyrone and pulled him into the room.


    On the bedy Matthew, eyes closed; hisplexion was deathly pale, with an oxygen mask strapped


    to his face.


    Quintessa gently caressed Matthew¡¯s cheek and whispered tenderly, ¡°Dear brother, your sister is here


    to visit.¡±


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    With a sharp snap, Tyrone pped Quintessa¡¯s hand away.


    ¡°What are you touching for? You scared of catching something?¡±


    Quintessa, rolling her eyes, pulled out a syringe from her pocket and handed it to Tyrone: ¡°Get going.¡±


    Tyrone paused, ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    He knew all too well that the syringe was meant for Matthew, but whatever was inside was definitely no


    candy.


    Quintessa shot him a look: ¡°That¡¯s none of your business. It¡¯s not lethal, let¡¯s just say he won¡¯t be


    waking up anytime soon.¡±


    Matthew was a linchpin for the Young family, so his downfall would be a devastating blow.


    Her vendetta started with Matthew. Now that she had set the wheels in motion, there was no turning


    back.


    Tyrone saw the icy coldness in Quintessa¡¯s eyes, devoid of any emotion or any warmth.


    He pulled her into his embrace: ¡°Dragging me down with you?¡±


    Both were masked, with only eyes revealing, and they saw the reflection of each other. Quintessa


    suddenly smiled, wrapping her arms around Tyrone¡¯s neck: ¡°What else did you expect? You in?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s slender fingers toyed with the syringe, ¡°If I do it, what¡¯s in it for me tonight?¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow: ¡°How about I keep youpany in bed?¡±


    Tyrone suddenly leaned in, kissing Quintessa¡¯s lips through the mask, as if he could feel the burning


    heat.


    He let go of her: ¡°Deal.¡±


    Quintessa watched Tyrone injecting the liquid into Matthew¡¯s arm. A sinister smile grew in her eyes.


    Tyrone pulled out the needle: ¡°There, now I¡¯m an aplice to¡­ whatever this is. Are you satisfied


    now?¡±


    Quintessa leaned in towards Matthew: ¡°Dear brother, farewell! May you sleep forever.¡±


    Tyrone frowned, grabbed Quintessa¡¯s arm, and dragged her out.


    ¡°We¡¯ve done the deed, and it¡¯s time to make a run for it. You¡¯ve never been one for subtlety. Without


    me, you¡¯d


    have been behind bars long ago.¡±


    Quintessa snickered.


    shing with him was exactly why she always got caught.


    They reached the exit. Hearing the nurse¡¯s footsteps. Tyrone pulled Quintessa into an adjacent room to


    hide.


    Once the nurse passed, they slipped out.


    After dodging their way to the staff room, they found it empty, so they quickly changed back into their


    own


    clothes.


    Leaving the hospital, Quintessa nced at Tyrone: ¡°You seem pretty adept at this. Not your first rodeo,


    huh?¡±


    Tyrone drove with one hand, while holding Quintessa¡¯s with the other: ¡°Yep, and I can get even worse.


    Wanna try?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re looking to dig your own grave, I won¡¯t stop you.¡±


    Quintessa had no more reservations about Tyrone. Reporting him, threatening him, what for? He was


    an


    10


    12-74 K


    Chapter 70


    aplice now, what did she have to fear?


    As dawn broke, they arrived at Tyrone¡¯s private house. Once indoor, he couldn¡¯t wait to devour this


    seductive


    siren.


    He couldn¡¯t believe he¡¯d help a woman with such a deed!


    Quintessa blocked Tyrone¡¯s kiss with her hand, and gave him a radiant smile: ¡°I said I¡¯d stay the night,


    but look, it¡¯s already morning. No more staying now, huh?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71


    Tyrone stood in silence; his darkplexion was a stark contrast to the dimly lit living room. Quintessa


    had just yawned her way past him, while her fingers trailed on his ebony face; her voice wasced with


    the weight of impending slumber, ¡°I¡¯m beat. Gonna hit the hay and don¡¯t you dare disturb me.¡±


    With a nonchnt push to the bedroom door, she waltzed in, kicked off her shoes without a care, and


    flopped onto the bed, fully clothed. The night had taken its toll, and she was out cold as soon as her


    head hit the pillow.


    Tyrone lingered alone, feeling a cocktail of emotions brewing within as minutes ticked by.


    As he pondered over Quintessa¡¯s audacity, a wry smile yed on his lips. How could she be so bold to


    sleep so soundly under his roof, with her fate resting in his hands?


    She had dragged him through a night of mischief, all to implicate him in her schemes, and to ensure


    he¡¯d be unable to threaten her any longer. Now that her crisis was averted, her true colors shone


    through, and turned to be unapologetically indifferent.


    Was she toying with him just like that day at the photo¨Cshoot?


    As he slowly unbuttoned his shirt, Tyrone¡¯s eyes glinted with a dangerous allure.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Quintessa had guts, but she seemed to have forgotten one crucial detail¨CTyrone was not a man to be


    trifled with. He had entertained her antics because he chose to, but should she truly irk him, he had a


    myriad of ways to put her in her ce. As Tyrone strode into the bedroom, his torso was now bare. His


    figure was a sculptor¡¯s dream, chiseled to perfection. Any woman would kneel before him¨Cif he wished


    it.


    3 F 23 5 0 3 2 0 1 2 3 0 F PEEF 25 3


    But no audience was present to appreciate the show.


    There, Quintessay asleep; her slumber was deeper than the allure of the most handsome man.


    Tyrone felt like he was the sole actor in a one¨Cman y, his frustration boiling over, as Quintessa slept


    like a rock.


    In a rough grab, he flipped Quintessa over, and reached out his hands to peel away her clothes with


    brute force.


    Soon, her ck tracksuity discarded, leaving her in a sports bra and panties. The morning light


    bathed her, turning herplexion into a radiant pearl¨Can indescribable temptation.


    Tyrone squinted, leaning in.


    Before his body made contact with her, the sleepy woman on the bed spoke in a voice heavy with


    drowsiness, ¡°Mr. York, if you find the idea of assault so thrilling, be my guest.¡±


    Tyrone froze, feeling his pride wounded. He was not a paragon of virtue, but assault? That was an


    insult to his ego, an affront to his dignity.


    With a cold, detached expression, he felt his fiery desire vanished as if it had never been. He was


    always in control¨Cexcept when it came to Quintessa.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Tyrone¡¯s voice was icy, ¡°I¡¯ll let you off the hook this time. You now owe me another night.¡±


    Quintessa, eyes still closed, smirked disdainfully, turned away, and fell back into her deep sleep, utterly


    indifferent to her state of undress.


    Tyrone¡¯s eyes were as cold as the heart of winter. He could not fathom why he tolerated this woman.


    What was so good about her, anyway?

 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72


    ¡°Is she pretty


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Had he not seen women prettier than her?


    Good¨Cnatured?


    What a joke! He never knew a woman who could have such a foul temper.


    Kind?


    Bullcrap. He had never met anyone more malicious or deceitful than her,


    And yet, why did he, Tyrone, do such irrational things for her? He actually helped hermit murdert


    Tyrone red at Quintessa. When people are sleep, they usually lower their defenses, and maybe


    be less irritating.


    But she was different. Even in sleep, she still had her fists clenched, her brows furrowed, and her lips


    pursed; her face always carried a guard against the world.


    It seemed like anyone who got close would be bitten to


    th the


    xt second.


    After he stared at her for a good half hour, his calm exterior grew Increasingly agitated. Abruptly, he


    turned and grabbed his phone, stepping outside.


    Tyrone dialed a number: ¡°Hey, it¡¯s me. Erase all the surveince footage from the hospital tonight.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± asked the voice on the other end.


    Tyrone¡¯s thin lips twisted into a cold smirk. ¡°Why? It¡¯s my family¡¯s hospital. I want it gone. Got a problem


    with that?¡±


    After hanging up, Tyrone felt him unable to suppress the rage boiling inside him, so he tossed the


    phone aside and stormed back into the bedroom.


    He grabbed Quintessa¡¯s slender ankle, ¡°Get out. This is my bedroom.¡±


    Awakened again, Quintessa murmured, ¡°Don¡¯t bother me.¡±


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, ¡°My bed!¡±


    Quintessa gave azy kick, ¡°I¡¯ve slept with you. What¡¯s a bed to me?¡±


    Tyrone was speechless.


    The next second, Tyroney in bed and pulled the entire nket over himself.


    He thought Quintessa would leave once she got cold enough, but she curled up on the edge, looking


    like she might fall off at any moment, and continued to sleep soundly. It seemed as though the harsh


    conditions didn¡¯t affect her at all.


    She didn¡¯t even seek warmth like others would; she justy, there, still.


    Tyrone exhaled a defeated breath. After all that fuss, he was the one who ended up shortchanged.


    He raised his foot; a simple nudge would send Quintessa toppling off.


    But after a few seconds, he retracted his foot and turned away, ignoring her.


    ? ?? ? ? ?? ??? ??


    Tyrone figured he¡¯d be too angry to sleep, but to his surprise, he dozed off quickly.


    Quintessa woke up, feeling chilled to the bone. Sitting up, she saw Tyrone under the covers on the


    other side, with more than a meter between them, like an uncrossable chasm.


    Being expressionless, Quintessa got out of bed, got dressed, grabbed her shoes, and left the room


    barefoot.


    And then.


    The moment Quintessa stepped out of the bedroom, the front door swung open from outside.


    In walked a matronly woman.


    ?


    Both were momentarily stunned.


    The woman quickly recovered, and her expression was exaggerated as she pointed at Quintessa,


    ¡°Who are you? What are you doing in my son¡¯s house?¡±


    Quintessa understood immediately. Thisdy, dressed sovishly, was clearly a woman of leisure. She


    slowly put on her clothes and said indifferently, ¡°What else? I came to sleep with your son. What else


    could it be?¡±

 Chapter 73

    16:25


    Chapter 73


    Quintessa dressed at a leisurely pace, unfazed by Mrs. York¡¯s presence in the room.


    She wouldn¡¯t be embarrassed even if it were her son standing there ¨C modesty wasn¡¯t exactly her


    strong suit.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But Ms. York was another story. The mention of her son sent her into a tizzy. ¡°Nonsense, my son would


    never allow strangers in his


    home


    Tyrone was a private man. Even in the sprawling York estate, he¡¯d make sure his bedroom was off¨C


    limits to everyone.


    Even his


    can downtown apartment was a fortress ¨C his mother might drop by now and then, but friends? Never.


    His sanctuary remained untouched by outside influence.


    Mrs. York had been worried sick. Tyrone hadn¡¯te home all night, and now it was past noon with no


    answer from his phone.


    So, here she was, checking on him, only to find a half¨Cnaked siren in his apartment.


    Quintessa slid into her jeans, taunting, ¡°Auntie, you¡¯re Tyrone¡¯s mom, right? You¡¯ve had kids; surely you


    don¡¯t think I¡¯m here just for a ss of water?¡±


    Mrs. York¡¯s wrinkles seemed to deepen with her frown. ¡°You shameless creature, how could my son


    possibly be interested in you?¡± Quintessa zipped up her jacket, ¡®Sorry to burst your bubble, but your


    son, he¡¯s quite taken with me. If he weren¡¯t so head over heels, why would I be here?¡±


    Mrs. York pointed an usatory finger, ¡°Just wait until my son deals with you.¡±


    Quintessa chuckled, ¡°Funny you should say that. As the ¡®siren, I¡¯ve already ensnared your son.¡±


    With that, Mrs. York stormed toward the bedroom ¨C a ce she rarely entered, and upon getting in the


    room, she found her son.


    He was asleep, with a nket slinging low around his waist, bare¨Cchested in a way that screamed


    impropriety.


    Mrs. York¡¯s mind raced with scandalous thoughts of the previous night¡¯s encounters. Her only thought


    was like, her son had been taken advantage of.


    Quintessa headed for the door, but Mrs. York blocked her, ¡°Hold on, you can¡¯t leave. Who are you, and


    how did you ensnare my son?¡± Seeing Quintessa¡¯s foxy grin only fueled Mrs. York¡¯s ire. What was it


    about this girl that had captured her son¡¯s attention? Leaning against the door with a mocking tone,


    Quintessa said, ¡°Auntie, it happened. What more do you want? Should I take responsibility, or should


    he?¡±


    Mrs. York was speechless.


    Patting Mrs. York on the shoulder, Quintessa added, ¡°If you don¡¯t want me around your son, just step


    aside and let me go. And keep your son away from me.¡±


    Mrs. York retorted, ¡°My son would never want you.¡±


    Quintessa smirked, ¡°Yet, I did end up with your son.¡± Her hand went to her belly, ¡°And who knows, if I¡¯m


    not careful, I might just give you a grandson in ten months.¡±

 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74


    Mrs. York¡¯s eyes widened as she stared intently at Quentessa¡¯s belly


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Quintessa, already finding Mrs York¡¯s scrutiny annoying, decided to provoke her further expecting to


    intensify the dralibe


    But to her surprise. Mrs York seemed almost fixated on her abdomen.


    ¡°Maam, please step aside, or I might just camp out here after all, Quentessa said with a hint of sass.


    Mrs. York¡¯s garo wasplex as she looked at her


    Quintessa shook her head. Tyrone¡¯s mother was indeed different from what she had imagined.


    She opened the door and stepped out.


    Mrs. York tiptoed to watch Quintessa disappear into the distance, her face twisting with worry, ¡°What if


    she¡¯s actually pregnant?¡±


    After leaving Tyrone¡¯s house, Quintessa nced at her watch, it was already 1 PM. She had slept


    longer than expected


    The sunlight was just right overhead, and she squinted against the brightness until her eyes adjusted.


    Her phone rang: it was Violet.


    Tm on my way back.¡± Quintessa spoke into the phone.


    Not long after Quintessa left, Tyrone woke up.


    He sat up quickly, and soon realized that the space beside him was empty. 16:25


    Quintessa dressed at a leisurely pace, unfazed by Mrs. York¡¯s presence in the room.


    She wouldn¡¯t be embarrassed even if it were her son standing there ¨C modesty wasn¡¯t exactly her


    strong suit.


    But Ms. York was another story. The mention of her son sent her into a tizzy. ¡°Nonsense, my son would


    never allow strangers in his


    home


    Tyrone was a private man. Even in the sprawling York estate, he¡¯d make sure his bedroom was off¨C


    limits to everyone.


    Even his


    can downtown apartment was a fortress ¨C his mother might drop by now and then, but friends? Never.


    His sanctuary remained untouched by outside influence.


    Mrs. York had been worried sick. Tyrone hadn¡¯te home all night, and now it was past noon with no


    answer from his phone.


    So, here she was, checking on him, only to find a half¨Cnaked siren in his apartment.


    Quintessa slid into her jeans, taunting, ¡°Auntie, you¡¯re Tyrone¡¯s mom, right? You¡¯ve had kids; surely you


    don¡¯t think I¡¯m here just for a ss of water?¡±


    Mrs. York¡¯s wrinkles seemed to deepen with her frown. ¡°You shameless creature, how could my son


    possibly be interested in you?¡± Quintessa zipped up her jacket, ¡®Sorry to burst your bubble, but your


    son, he¡¯s quite taken with me. If he weren¡¯t so head over heels, why would I be here?¡±


    Mrs. York pointed an usatory finger, ¡°Just wait until my son deals with you.¡±


    Quintessa chuckled, ¡°Funny you should say that. As the ¡®siren, I¡¯ve already ensnared your son.¡±


    With that, Mrs. York stormed toward the bedroom ¨C a ce she rarely entered, and upon getting in the


    room, she found her son.


    He was asleep, with a nket slinging low around his waist, bare¨Cchested in a way that screamed


    impropriety.


    Mrs. York¡¯s mind raced with scandalous thoughts of the previous night¡¯s encounters. Her only thought


    was like, her son had been taken advantage of.


    Quintessa headed for the door, but Mrs. York blocked her, ¡°Hold on, you can¡¯t leave. Who are you, and


    how did you ensnare my son?¡± Seeing Quintessa¡¯s foxy grin only fueled Mrs. York¡¯s ire. What was it


    about this girl that had captured her son¡¯s attention? Leaning against the door with a mocking tone,


    Quintessa said, ¡°Auntie, it happened. What more do you want? Should I take responsibility, or should


    he?¡±


    Mrs. York was speechless.


    Patting Mrs. York on the shoulder, Quintessa added, ¡°If you don¡¯t want me around your son, just step


    aside and let me go. And keep your son away from me.¡±


    Mrs. York retorted, ¡°My son would never want you.¡±


    Quintessa smirked, ¡°Yet, I did end up with your son.¡± Her hand went to her belly, ¡°And who knows, if I¡¯m


    not careful, I might just give you a grandson in ten months.¡±


    She ran off?


    Before Tyrone could get angry, he heard somemotion outside. A smirk touched his lips, as he


    thought she hadn¡¯t left after all. But when he swung open the bedroom door, he was greeted by the


    sight of his busy mother.


    Tyrone¡¯s mood soured instantly, ¡°Mom, what are you doing here?¡±


    He scanned the room, but there was no sign of Quintessa, the enchantress.


    Mrs. York huffed: ¡°I had toe. Otherwise, that little witch would¡¯ve left you nothing but bones.¡±


    Tyrone frowned; his mother and Quintessa had crossed paths. It seemed Quintessa wouldn¡¯t be the


    one at a disadvantage.


    ¡°Where did the witch go?¡± he asked.


    Mrs. York lifted her chin proudly: ¡°1 chased her off, of course.¡±


    Tyrone scoffed. He knew Quintessa well enough, just as he knew his mother¡¯s fighting spirit¡® was no


    match for her.


    Mrs. York stepped closer to her son: ¡°Son, I¡¯m not saying you can¡¯t have your fun with women. If you


    don¡¯t like Rachel, I won¡¯t force you. But for heaven¡¯s sake, find a girl from a decent family, will you?¡±


    Tyrone walked to the kitchen, grabbed a beer from the fridge, and popped the lid. ¡°Girls from decent


    families aren¡¯t exciting. I like those who are a little naughty.¡±


    Mrs. York, now at her wit¡¯s end, recalled Quintessa¡¯s words, ¡°Even if you¡¯re ying around, at least be


    careful. What if you identally start a life? I want grandchildren, but I¡¯m picky about who their mother


    is.¡±


    ¡°What life?¡± Tyrone asked, taking a sip of beer.


    Mrs. York said, ¡°That witch told me she might just gift me with a grandson in ten months if she¡¯s


    unhappy.¡±


    Tyrone choked on his drink, spewing it out.


    Seeing his reaction, Mrs. York thought it was true: ¡°Son, you must be safe. Of course, if it happens, a


    child of the York family mustn¡¯t be left out in the cold.¡±


    Mrs. York was torn; she disliked the witch but not the idea of a grandson.


    What to do?


    Tyrone wiped the beer from his lips, a devilish grin spreading across his face, as he pondered: ¡°Heh. If


    there¡¯s really a grandson, I¡¯ll make sure to im him for you!¡±

 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75


    On that fateful night, Quintessa¡¯s world was awash with color and spectacle, while the Young family¡¯s


    home buzzed with an undeniable vibrancy, with its lights burning bright until dawn.


    Miranda¡¯s cries echoed through the night, and her walls from midnight to morning disrupted the family¡¯s


    rest. Her room was a chaotic mess; her smartphone¡¯s screeny shattered, and amid the debris, she


    sat on the floor, with tears streaming down her cheeks. ¡°He wants to break up with me for some floozy,¡±


    she sobbed. ¡°I just heard that tramp¡¯s voice, and she has the nerve to take a bath with Jay, the


    shameless hussy. Just like Quintessa, they¡¯re all the same, nothing but tramps.¡±


    Suddenly Miranda leaped to her feet, feeling her rage boiling over. ¡°That vixen, I¡¯ll skin


    her alive, I¡¯ll scratch her face off¡±


    Jerome, the apple of Miranda¡¯s eye, had shattered her world the night before and driven her to the


    edge of despair,


    Lilian, ever the peacemaker, tried to calm her daughter. ¡°It¡¯s the dead of night, dear. Even if you know


    where they are, where would you begin to look? If you must confront them, wait until tomorrow.¡±


    But Miranda was inconsble; she flung herself into her mother¡¯s arms and wept bitterly. ¡°Mom, how


    could he do this to me? Am I not pretty enough? Is my family not good enough, or did I not love him


    enough? Where did I go wrong?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Across the room, Rachel watched with a detached coolness, feeling a twisted sense of relief. Ever


    since she discovered Tyrone¡¯s affair, she felt her heart had been seething with agony. She¡¯d


    approached James and even Tyrone¡¯s secretary, Shirley, for gossip but to no avail. She didn¡¯t want her


    family to know about Tyrone¡¯s intentions to discard her, and her days were a torment. But seeing


    Miranda¡¯s


    was somewhat alleviated by her plight. downfall, she couldn¡¯t help the smirk that crept across her face.


    Her own misery


    ¡°If I¡¯m suffering, Miranda won¡¯t fare any better,¡± Rachel thought with cold satisfaction.


    Lilian, feeling her heart aching for her daughter, cursed Jerome for his infidelity. ¡°Men are scoundrels,¡±


    she spat it out before shooting a ful re at Sean.


    Sean, however, remained stoic. ¡°Enough with the drama, Miranda. It¡¯s time you checked that princess


    attitude,¡± he said with a firm voice. Though he was her father, Sean secretly sympathized with Jerome.


    He knew his daughter well; her high¨Cmaintenance ways could drive any man away. Men, he knew,


    preferred a gentle touch, and as a man, he was acutely aware of this truth.


    Besides, for a bachelor like Jerome, it would have been odd not to have women vying for his attention.


    ¡°Father, are you even on my side? Jerome¡¯s out there with another woman, and you me me? What


    did I do wrong? Where did I fail?¡± Miranda¡¯s voice was a mixture of anger and despair; she was unable


    to see her own faults.


    Lilian was quick to console her by reassuring her, ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, darling. It¡¯s that seductress. Your


    rtionship with Jerome has been stable for years, and she must have lured him away.¡±


    ¡°Yes, she must have! That witch. I¡¯ll tear her apart.¡±


    Rachel¡¯s eyes flickered with a hint of scorn. Stable rtionship? If it were truly stable, they would be


    married by now. Three years had passed, and yet there was no talk of marriage, not even an


    engagement.


    Sean felt his head throbbed with the noise. ¡°Enough! Tomorrow I¡¯ll speak


    Jerome. He¡¯s


    a


    man; you need to give him some respect.¡±


    He wanted to tell her to be more gentle, to avoid making a scene at every turn, but the sight of Miranda


    gearing up for another outburst made him promptly seal his lips.

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76


    Sean felt the weight of the world on his shoulders. His son had been in a car ident, his daughter


    was in turmoil, and to top it off, hispany was facing endlessplications these past few days. He


    couldn¡¯t remember a time he had felt more drained.


    With a frustrated shake of his head, he grabbed his jacket and headed out the door.


    Driving through the city. Sean pulled up to a modest suburban neighborhood. He rang the doorbell


    twice and was greeted by the door swinging open. As he stepped inside, he wrapped his arms around


    the young woman waiting for him, ¡°This is the only ce that brings me peace¡±


    ¡°Sit down, I¡¯ll get you some water, she said softly, her voice a soothing balm to his frayed nerves.


    As Sean sank into the plushfort of the sofa, the young woman turned to fetch the water. She


    discreetly added a white powder from a container into the ss. It dissolved instantly, leaving no trace


    She handed him the water with a gentle smile, the picture of tenderness and charm.


    Back at her own ce. Quintessa was met by her agent Violet, who was already waiting for her.


    ¡°Check out these pictures fromst night,¡± Quintessa said, while showing her phone to Violet. ¡°Can you


    even tell it¡¯s me?¡±


    Violet¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, ¡°Is that you?¡±


    The person in the photos sported a pixie cut, a baseball cap, and a style of clothing far removed from


    Quintessa¡¯s usual ir. It was only the silhouette that bore any resemnce, and even then, Violet


    would


    not dare to assume


    With a flick of her long hair, Quintessa grinned, ¡°So you can¡¯t tell, huh? What do you think will happen if


    I


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    send these to Miranda?¡±


    Violet, privy to some of Quintessa¡¯s family drama, asked with concern, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid shelle


    after you?¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Come after me? How could she? And even if she tried, she¡¯d be looking for


    Zenobia What¡¯s that got to do with me?¡±


    The previous night, Quintessa had deliberately dressed up to mimic Zenobia for her rendezvous with


    Jerome


    Violet felt a pang of sympathy for Zenobia, ¡°So, is Zenobia just an unwitting scapegoat?¡±


    ¡°Not at all, Quintessa retorted. ¡°She stole my role. I¡¯m just reiming what¡¯s mine. Besides, I¡¯m not


    framing her. She actually did have a fling with Jerome.¡±


    Quintessa had always been clear: what was hers was hers alone, and no one was allowed to snatch it


    away. Even if it¡¯s taken, she would fiercely reim it. Her possessions and her territory were off¨Climits


    to all


    Violet probed further, ¡°So, by sending the pictures, you¡¯ll get the role again? Is Jerome on your side?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s fingertips traced over her phone, her smile was blooming as she browsed through the


    photos, ¡°Whether Jerome helps me or not is irrelevant now. What matters is that the role will never end


    up with Zenobia again¡±


    1/2


    19:20


    Chapter 76


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know my dear sister¡¯s temper, Quintessa exined. ¡°Once she believes Zenobia is the one


    in the photos, she¡¯ll storm right up to her. Even if Jerome doesn¡¯t care about the Young family¡¯s


    influence, the Youngs have their connections in Emberbrook. They can easily squash a small¨Ctime


    actress.¡±


    With that revtion, Violet understood it. Quintessa was using a cunning strategy to hit multiple targets:


    to get back at Miranda, reim her role, and leave Jerome holding the bag.


    ¡°Damn, you¡¯re just diabolical.¡±


    Quintessa inserted a bumer SIM card that she had Manny pick up from a street vendor, selected ten


    pictures, entered Miranda¡¯s number, and hit send. With a whoosh, the deed was done. She then


    snapped the SIM card in half and casually tossed it into the trash bin.


    ¡°Watch and wait,¡± she smirked. ¡°In a couple of days, you¡¯ll be getting a call from Director Frost.¡±

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77


    Violet felt a chill creeping up her spine, ¡°Can you really guarantee that without Zenobia, Director Frost


    wille knocking at your door?¡±


    Quintessa tilted her chin up, brimming with confidence and pride, ¡°Yes. I can guarantee that in Director


    Frost¡¯s heart, I¡¯m the one, his favorite Queen Seraphina.¡±


    Quintessa was disheveled yet stunning; her face was alight with self¨Cassurance, and she shone with


    the brilliance of a diamond.


    Observing that, Violet sincerely said, ¡°You¡¯re going to be a star, a huge star,¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile, ¡°It¡¯s inevitable. If Quintessa doesn¡¯t light up the sky, the


    universe won¡¯t stand for it.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, getting cocky, aren¡¯t we? That night you brushed off Mr. York, has there been any fallout these


    past few days?¡±


    Quintessa recalled the previous evening and chuckled, ¡°Nope.¡±


    What happened that night was known only to the heavens, to her, and to Tyrone!


    Still, Quintessa couldn¡¯t be sure what Tyrone would do next.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Violet probed, ¡°What¡¯s your n? I¡¯ve heard Tyrone is no pushover, and that people who cross him


    won¡¯t end up in a good ce.¡±


    Quintessa perked up, insisting. ¡°Well, I¡¯m not someone to be trifled with either.¡±


    Violet scoffed, ¡°Oh please, get over yourself.¡±


    It hadn¡¯t been an hour after Quintessa sent the photo to Miranda that she found out who the ¡®vixen¡® in


    the picture was, thanks to Violet deliberately leaking the news about Zenobia cozying up to Jerome.


    After smashing an antique vase at home in a fit of rage, Miranda immediately took Lilian to confront


    Zenobia.


    She tried calling Jerome, but he was unreachable. She looked for him, but he was nowhere to be


    found. Jerome was making it clear with his silence that their game was over.


    All of Miranda¡¯s hatred was now directed at Zenobia.


    Miranda truly loved Jerome; even though her man had hooked up with the starlet, she still made


    excuses for him in her heart. She was convinced that Zenobia must have seduced Jerome; otherwise,


    how could


    he betray her?


    Miranda¡¯s tantrum was unknown to Quintessa, but Violet, who kept a close watch, ryed the news¨C


    Zenobia was hospitalized.


    Indeed, it was Miranda who had sent her to the ER.


    Quintessa Quintessa¡¯s machinations were indeed ruthless.


    neered without a shred of sympathy for Zenobia. Though they had never exchanged a word,


    But the faulty in Zenobia because she tried to steal Quintessa¡¯s role.


    That¡¯s show business for you¨Cif you¡¯re not cutthroat, you¡¯ll have your chances snatched away time and


    1/2


    19:20


    Chapter 77


    again.


    Then, just a dayter, Violet received a call from Director Frost.


    Violet was the epitome ofposure on the phone, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll convey the message to Quinn and get


    her thoughts on it. We¡¯ll get back to you as soon as possible, goodbye Director Frost.¡±


    After hanging up, Violet leapt onto Quintessa with her robust frame, nearly crushing her.


    ¡°Director Frost¡¯s call, Queen Seraphina, it¡¯s still yours, still yours! Quinn, you¡¯re truly incredible.¡±


    Quintessa gasped for air, ¡°Get off. I can¡¯t breathe.¡±


    Violet¡¯s face was flushed with excitement, ¡°In twenty minutes, I¡¯ll call Director Frost back and tell him


    that you¡¯ll ept the role. Quinn, I¡¯m over the moon.¡±


    The reason why Violet hadn¡¯t agreed immediately over the phone earlier was to maintain some dignity


    and make Director Frost think they weren¡¯t desperate for the part.


    Despitecking leverage, one must always carry oneself with a certain poise.

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78


    After the initial excitement, Violet said with a tinge of sympathy, ¡°Poor Zenobia, I heard she got a


    concussion and her face was scratched up so bad that she¡¯s almost unrecognizable.¡±


    Quintessa snorted dismissively, ¡°Please, she had iting. She messed with Miranda¡¯s guy. She¡¯s


    lucky Miranda didn¡¯t do worse. You have no idea how much Jerome means to her.¡±


    Violet prodded. ¡°And yet you still? *


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa shrugged nonchntly, ¡°Yeah, I flirted with Jerome. But chill, that guy? Not my type at all.


    Everything about Miranda, in my eyes, is trash¡±


    Quintessa didn¡¯t care for Jerome, but as Miranda¡¯s favorite, he was the perfect target for her vendetta


    against the Young n. The most convenient way to hit them where it hurts.


    In other words¨Cyeah, I¡¯m messing with your man. What are you gonna do about it?


    Violet voiced her concern, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid Jerome will spill the beans to the Youngs about your


    return?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to fear?¡± Quintessa scoffed. ¡°If Jerome wants to lose face, let him. He can go ahead and


    tell the Youngs he¡¯s got the hots for me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re unbelievable.¡±


    Violet thought to herself that in this lifetime, you could cross anyone, but never Quintessa. If so, it


    would be a terribly painful mistake.


    ¡°What about Tyrone, then?¡± Violet asked, trying to shift the subject.


    ¡°He¡± Quintessa paused, ¡°isn¡¯t much better than Jerome.¡±


    After agreeing to star in Director Fitch¡¯s new film, ¡°Shadows of the Past,¡± Violet signed the contract that


    very day.


    Meanwhile, Snow¡¯s music video hit a snag and was on hold, so Quintessa packed her bags and


    headed to Zion City¡¯s film studio to start shooting.


    On the day she was leaving, Snow showed up at her ce, just in time to catch Quintessa on her way


    out. ¡°I¡¯m off to Zion City for the shoot. Just let me know when you¡¯re ready to do your music video, and


    I¡¯ll be back in no time,¡± Quintessa told him


    Snow, looking a bit worn, nodded with a smile, ¡°Sure thing. Don¡¯t go getting too famous on me and then


    bail


    A smirk yed on Quintessa¡¯s lips, ¡°To star in God Snow¡¯s video? I¡¯d do it for free.¡±


    Violet gestured frantically from the side¨Cthey were runningte for the flight.


    Seeing Violet¡¯s pantomime, Snow said to Quintessa, ¡°Take care, and good luck with the filming.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Quintessa replied with a nod


    As Quintessa and her assistant Violet stepped into the elevator, Snow massaged his temples. His


    phone started ringing¨Cit was his agent, and he picked up at once.


    ¡°God Snow, what did you do to tick off York Financial Group?¡± the agent sounded frantic on the phone.


    Chapter 78


    Snow frowned, ¡°The ones after me are from York Financial Group?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. York Financial Group¡¯s CEO Kevin just visited Spark Entertainment to discuss a buyout¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle it. I¡¯m heading there now¡±


    Kevin returned from the unsessful meeting at Spark Entertainment and went straight to Tyrone¡¯s


    office Kevin dropped into a chair, ¡°Man, why are you so set on acquiring those two? When I went to


    negotiate with Spark¡¯s CEO today, do you know the price he quoted? Thirty percent above their


    company¡¯s market


    value.¡±


    Tyrone looked up from hisputer screen, ¡°Am I short on cash?¡±


    Kevin hesitated, then shook his head, ¡°Obviously not, but that extra thirty percent is a fortune. Even if


    we¡¯re loaded, that¡¯s just burning money.¡±


    Tyrone leaned back in his chair and said coolly, ¡°Then why don¡¯t you just tell him, if he doesn¡¯t like the


    price, we might as well take it by force.¡±

 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79


    Kc paused, then let out a dry chuckle, ¡°Bro, we¡¯re civilized folks, right? We can¡¯t just go ¡®round robbing


    people in broad daylight. When¡¯s thest time we pulled that kinda stunt?¡±


    Tyrone gave him a look, ¡°Did I say anything about a holdup?¡±


    Kevin smirked knowingly, ¡°Gotcha, I¡¯ll handle it on the down low. Trust me, it¡¯s as good as ours.¡±


    Tyrone waved him off, and Kevin, with a roll of his eyes, stood up.


    He lingered in the doorway, not quite ready to leave, ¡°Hey, I heard some dame¡¯s got you all twisted up.


    Spill the beans, who is she? I¡¯ll take care of her for you.¡±


    A chill flickered in Tyrone¡¯s eyes. ¡°You think this is your fight?¡±


    If anyone was going to handle it, it would be him, personally.


    ¡°Sorry, I overstepped,¡± Kevin quickly made himself scarce.


    As Kevin stepped out, he saw James, clutching a folder, was about to enter. He couldn¡¯t help but throw


    out


    a friendly warning, ¡°He¡¯s in a foul temper, just so you know.¡±


    James shot him an annoyed nce, ¡°When¡¯s thest time you saw the boss in a good mood?¡±


    Kevin thought for a moment, ¡°Can¡¯t remember.¡±


    James took a deep breath and knocked before entering.


    ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    He greeted him and ced the folder on the desk.


    Tyrone flipped it open, and nced at it leisurely, ¡°What¡¯s she been up to these past few days?¡±


    Ever since that night, Quintessa hadn¡¯t reached out to Tyrone again.


    James knew exactly who Tyrone was referring to, though he was unaware that Quintessa had already


    set off for Zion City. ¡°Nothing much, just holed up in her apartment.¡±


    Tyrone sneered, ¡°ying it cool, huh? Tell Laura to dy that investment. When she¡¯s out of roles to


    y, let¡¯s see how long she can keep her cool.¡±


    Tyrone thought after they¡¯d both been part of something so dark that night, she would reach out to him.


    But she was proving to be tough as nails.


    James hesitated before voicing his concern, ¡°Mr. York, don¡¯t you think you¡¯re spending too much time


    on Ms. Quintessa Young?¡±


    Without looking up, Tyrone scrawled his signature on the document, ¡°You sure do talk a lot for


    someone who¡¯s supposedly so busy.¡±


    His signature was as bold as his personality.


    But this time, as James watched, the signature seemed to tremble with a barely contained rage, each


    stroke like a de etched across the page.


    ¡°Sorry, I spoke out of turn,¡± James quickly apologized.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Chapter 79


    Tyrone tossed the pen aside, aware that he had been fixating on Quintessa more than usual.


    But that feeling is something that others couldn¡¯t understand, that even he himself couldn¡¯t fathom.


    It was a kind of feeling that if he couldn¡¯t have her, he¡¯d be unsettled for life, left with a regret that would


    gnaw at him forever.


    Quintessa, Quintessa. Her name, along with her very being, was bing an obsession, a demon in


    his mind that he had to conquer, to hold in his grasp to exorcize that demon.


    ¡°Let her stew. When she¡¯s backed into a corner, she¡¯lle crawling,¡± Tyrone said evenly. ¡°Be ready to


    tell Shirley to prep for a business trip tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Right away!¡±


    A weekter, Tyrone returned from his business trip.


    After a night¡¯s rest at home, the next day he was back at the office.


    James stood before Tyrone, trembling, not daring to move an inch.


    Tyrone was framed against the backdrop of a vast floor¨Cto¨Cceiling window; the morning sunlight


    streamed in and cast an ethereal glow on his striking face, which bore an expression of chilling beauty.


    He narrowed his eyes, and the icy twist of his lips seemed capable of freezing the entire City. He spoke


    slowly, ¡°So what you¡¯re telling me is that she hasn¡¯t made a single move this whole week.¡±


    James hurriedly replied, ¡°A week ago, Ms. Young started a new film project. Currently she¡¯s acting in


    Zion City¡±

 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80


    slowly turned around, his eyes sharp as a hawk¡¯s. ¡°Acting?¡±


    Tyrone s


    James stuttered, ¡°I mean that TV show role that got snatched away. Ms. Quintessa Young snagged it


    again.¡±


    James had dug up the details; it seemed like a ssic case of two dogs fighting for a bone, and a third


    walking away with it. But something felt off to him. He¡¯d sent people to investigate, and it wouldn¡¯t be


    long before he¡¯d know the full story.


    Tyrone¡¯s face was a mask of cool indifference, but inside, he was seething. Anytime Quintessa¡¯s name


    came up, it set him on edge.


    A smirk curled on Tyrone¡¯s lips. ¡°Impressive. I underestimated her.¡±


    He thought that he could keep Quintessa under his thumb, and that she¡¯de crawling to him for help


    to boost her career if she had no connections. But she was craftier than he¡¯d given her credit for.


    After all, for a woman capable of anything, even murder and mayhem, what couldn¡¯t she do?


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Three years ago, when Quintessa was arrested, he waited for her toe begging. Instead, she


    walked free on her own terms.


    Now, three yearster, he thought she¡¯d lost all allure, but she¡¯d only be more enchanting and


    more elusive.


    It was like a repeat of the past; he waited for her to need him, but she clearly didn¡¯t.


    That itch in Tyrone¡¯s mind, that restless agitation, was maddening.


    He felt like being the hunter on the prowl, while Quintessa was the elusive prey he was determined to


    capture.


    His dark eyes shed with ruthlessness. ¡°How did shend that role?¡±


    James confessed, ¡°It went down like this: Miranda caught wind of Zenobia¡¯s affair with Jerome. She


    went to Zenobia¡¯s and gave her a piece of her mind,nding Zenobia in the hospital. The Young family


    applied pressure, so Zenobia¡¯s role was scrapped. That¡¯s when the director thought of Ms. Quintessa


    Young again.¡±


    After hearing the story, Tyrone scoffed, full of disdain. ¡°Do you really believe she had no hand in this?¡±


    James replied, ¡°Honestly, no.¡±


    Tyrone adjusted his tie. ¡°Keep tabs on Quintessa, and book me a flight to Zion City for tomorrow.¡±


    James was shocked. Was his boss really nning to chase her down to Zion City?


    He wanted to advise against it, but seeing the fierce determination in Tyrone¡¯s eyes, he wisely kept his


    mouth shut.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    That night, Tyrone was in a foul mood, but his childhood friend Alexander Harrington, usually abroad,


    called to say he was back in town.


    Tyrone: ¡°I thought you settled in Serenitia?¡±


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    ¡°I¡¯m back to find someone. If I seed, I¡¯ll return,¡± Alexander¡¯s voice had a tinge of mncholy and


    regret.


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it when I find them.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t pry. Since you¡¯re back, let¡¯s meet at Luxe Haven Club for a wee back bash.¡±


    Late into the night at Luxe Haven Club, Mr. York, surrounded by the elite of Emberbrook, was still


    wearing a thunderous face.


    Finally, Alexander couldn¡¯t take it anymore. ¡°C¡¯mon, we haven¡¯t met each other for ages, and you can¡¯t


    even crack a smile?¡±


    Since sitting down, Tyrone hadn¡¯t given a single smile, and remained a chilly aura. The girls who had


    been. pampering him with massages and attention had all been sent away.


    MEX


    Kevin shook his head. ¡°Our Mr. York has been in this mood for days now. It¡¯s killing me.¡±

 Chapter 81

    Chapter 81


    Kevin shook his head in exasperation, ¡°Man, Mr. York, this has been going on for days, and it¡¯s totally


    wrecking me.¡±


    Tyrone swirled his drink nonchntly, ¡°If you can¡¯t stand the heat, go hang with Franklin.¡±


    At the mention of Franklin, Kevin waved his hands frantically, ¡°No, no. I¡¯m great, really. I can pull an all¨C


    nighter, no sweat.¡±


    He had desire to trek up to the hignds where Franklin was roughing it. Thest photo he¡¯d seen


    made Franklin look like a total hobo, and it scared the bejesus out of him.


    Alexander couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Even with his usually


    angelic demeanor, thatugh could make one¡¯s heart race and face flush.


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    The girls in the private room couldn¡¯t help but steal nces his way.


    The other guys, sensing their thunder being stolen, weren¡¯t thrilled. Dammit, the guy was hogging all


    the


    attention.


    So, one of them, craving the spotlight, blurted out, ¡°Hey, I¡¯ve been wondering, what¡¯s with Jerome¡¯s


    thing for Miranda? She¡¯s like a she¨Cdevil. Just the other day, she sent some starlet to the ER. Nearly


    wrecked the poor girl¡¯s face. Man, if it were me, I¡¯d have ditched her ages ago. What¡¯s the Young family


    anyway? Acting all high and mighty?¡±


    Heads turned at his words.


    One of the girls chimed in, ¡°Maybe Mr. Lott¡¯s really in love with Ms. Miranda Young? Maybe he likes her


    fiery spirit?¡±


    ¡°Pssh, cut it out. If it were true love, he wouldn¡¯t be all over that starlet. Did you guys see those photos?


    I¡¯ve got them on my phone. Jerome and that girl were all over each other in the parking lot. Looked like


    Jerome was ready to take her right there. Guys are all the same. Jerome ys Mr. Clean, but behind


    closed doors, once the pantse off, they¡¯re all the same.¡±


    Kevin¡¯s curiosity piqued, ¡°What photos? Let me see


    The


    uy quickly pulled out his phone, opened the gallery, and handed it over.


    guy


    Kevin took a look and said, ¡°Wow, look at Jerome¡¯s face; seemed he was burning with desire. He¡¯s


    usually so prim and proper. What happened next? They probably went at it right there in the parking


    lot.¡± Before Kevin could finish, the phone was snatched from his hand. He turned around and found


    Tyrone holding the phone, with an odd expression on his face.


    Kevin chuckled awkwardly, ¡°Bro, Jerome¡¯s really something else in private, huh?¡±


    ¡°That woman, is it Zenobia?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s voice was eerily calm, and Alexander gave him a side nce.


    Having known Tyrone for years and being a top¨Cnotchwyer himself, Alexander had a sharp sense


    about his case. He instantly picked up on the unusual tone in Tyrone¡¯s voice.


    The phone¡¯s owner nodded, ¡°Yeah, Mr. York, that¡¯s the starlet Zenobia. When Miranda saw the


    pictures, she went ballistic, knocking the girl out cold. They had to call an ambnce, and she¡¯ll


    probably be in the


    Chapter 81


    hospital for a month.¡±


    Looking at the photos, Tyrone suddenlyughed.


    Everyone knew Tyrone had a charmingugh, which was enough to captivate anyone who heard it.


    Those who had seen it would say that if you haven¡¯t seen Tyroneugh, it¡¯s like you¡¯ve never seen the


    sunrise.


    The room fell silent, no one daring to speak.


    Only Alexander, Tyrone¡¯s childhood friend, could see the truth. Thatugh wasn¡¯t joy¨Cit was ferocious,


    a sign that Tyrone was on the brink of rage.


    Alexander sneaked a peek at the photos. The couple seemed to be kissing; though the woman¡¯s face


    was obscured, her figure looked suggestively attractive.

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    Chapter 82


    What secret was buried in that photograph that made Tyrone suddenly ze up with such fury?


    Staring at the woman in the picture, Alexander felt that something was off.


    He saw Tyrone flick his fingers a few times to send the photos to his own phone before systematically


    deleting each one from his device


    Without a word to Alexander, Tyrone tossed his phone to Kevin and took off, not even bothering to say


    goodbye.


    The room buzzed with shock. What the hell had gotten into Tyrone?


    Alexander chased after him, with concerncing his voice. ¡°Tyrone, you okay, man? What¡¯s with the


    photo? Is that rising starlet Zenobia somehow tied to you?¡±


    Tyrone stopped and chuckled dryly. ¡°Zenobia? Sure, Zenobia. I never imagined she¡¯d make it this far.¡±


    Everyone thought the woman in the photo was Zenobia.


    But Tyrone wasn¡¯t blind. Even without seeing her full face, even if she changed clothes and wore a wig.


    he¡¯d recognize her anywhere¨Cit was Quintessa.


    -Quintessa!


    Quintessa was damn cunning, stringing him along while also ensnaring Jerome.


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    No wonder she snagged the role back. So that¡¯s how she yed the game.


    Well yed, indeed!


    For the first time, Tyrone felt he had been yed.


    And there he was, like a fool, waiting for Quintessa toe begging back, when clearly, she didn¡¯t


    need to. Alexander sensed the turbulence. ¡°Dude, what¡¯s going on? I¡¯ve never seen you like this.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got stuff to handle. We¡¯ll talkter.¡±


    Once outside, Tyrone called his assistant.


    ¡°Book me on the next flight to Zion City.¡±


    James, woken in the wee hours by his boss¡¯s voice, sensed trouble. ¡°Mr. York, I¡¯ve got tomorrow


    morning¡¯s first.


    Before he could finish, Tyrone cut him off sharply. ¡°I need one now, immediately.¡±


    James¡¯s hand holding the phone trembled. This was bad.


    Even through the call, he felt Tyrone¡¯s terrifying rage. He knew Tyrone had a temper, but it had


    mellowed with age. Lately, things hadn¡¯t been great, but he had never been like this; he was like a keg


    of gunpowder with a lit fuse, ready to explode.


    James was d he wasn¡¯t by Tyrone¡¯s side.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll check now, he said cautiously.


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    Chapter 82


    James scoured the flight schedules with shaking hands. No luck for tonight.


    ¡°Mr. York, there are no flights to Zion City tonight. Can I book you on the earliest one tomorrow?¡± he


    whispered.


    Tyrone hung up without another word.


    ¡°Hello? Mr. York, Mr. York¡±


    Holding the dead line, James wondered who the hell had stirred up trouble with the big boss thiste,


    and ruined any chance of a peaceful night.


    Tyrone tore back home; upon arriving, he skipped the living room and headed straight for the garage,


    then pulled out another sports car.


    Mrs. York emerged, feeling startled. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Just going out,¡± Tyrone said with a steady voice, betraying no hint of his inner storm.

 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83


    Mrs. York felt a flutter of panic in her chest as she watched the sleek automobile pull up: ¡°But why are


    your taking out your Pagani, Tyrone? I thought you said you were done with racing?¡±


    There isn¡¯t a man alive who doesn¡¯t love a good set of wheels, and Tyrone York was no exception. He


    was passionate, he was loaded, and he could afford the luxury. His garage housed a collection of the


    world¡¯s most elite supercars, valued at over ten million dors. In his wild youth, he¡¯d bet on races and


    tore up the tracks himself.


    And those two Paganis, priced at a cool $3.5 million each, weren¡¯t even the crown jewels of his


    collection. Tyrone swung open the car door and hopped in: ¡°Got business to handle.¡±


    Mrs. York, with her anxiety spiked, blurted: ¡°What business? Where are you off to? You¡¯re not meeting


    someone for a race, are you? Son, you can¡¯t do that.¡±


    Not even acknowledging her, Tyrone just closed the door, fired up the engine, and sped off, leaving


    Mrs. York clutching her heart and eximing in distress, ¡°Everything was fine, what on earth is going


    on?¡±


    Alexander had a gut feeling that something was off with Tyrone. After multiple attempts, he finally got


    through on the phone, and said with a voiceced with urgency, ¡°Tyrone, where are you?¡±


    Tyrone gripped the steering wheel, with the streetlights and tall buildings shing by in a blur; the


    speed. was too much for the average eye to track.


    Just on the road,¡± Tyrone responded coolly.


    ¡°What road? Where are you headed?¡±


    ¡°Zion City.¡±


    Alexander felt a rush of disbelief, ¡°Are you mad? It¡¯ste, and you¡¯re driving? That¡¯s insane, it¡¯s a two¨C


    hour flight away.¡±


    Tyrone hung up abruptly.


    He needed to do something; otherwise, how would he manage to sleep tonight?


    After being cut off, Alexander couldn¡¯t reach him again.


    From Emberbrook to Zion City, it was over 130 miles as the crow flies. Even if Tyrone pushed his car to


    the limit at 250 miles per hour, it would take him over three hours to get there.


    And if he really hit 250, he¡¯d be caught by the cops before long. No matter how you sliced it, it was


    going to take at least six hours to arrive.


    Alexander sat in his own car, worried sick, knowing sleep was out of the question tonight.


    He couldn¡¯t fathom what was going on with those photos.


    He had never seen Tyrone lose control so quickly before. Sure, Tyrone had his reckless days in the


    past, but in recent years, he had seemed to mature and stabilize.


    Those photos, though, were trouble.


    Shaking his head, Alexander marveled at the sight of Tyrone getting so worked up over a woman. It


    was


    Chapter 83.


    nothing short of a miracle.


    At 6:34 AM, after more than five hours on the road, when the sky just began to lighten, Tyrone finally


    drove into Zion City.


    He¡¯d had his fair share of police chases along the way, but every time he was pulled over, he¡¯d give a


    quick call and have the cops letting him go.


    After a night of furious driving without a wink of sleep, Tyrone felt his rage had subsided somewhat, and


    his cool was gradually returning.


    A woman had managed to throw him off bnce like this. It was almostughable, even to him.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    A sardonic smile yed on Tyrone¡¯s handsome features. It had been years since he¡¯d lost his


    composure like that. Quintessa was indeed a formidable woman.


    His life had been clearly divided into two distinct worlds since she came into the picture.


    With others, Tyrone was aloof, cold,posed, and controlled.


    With Quintessa, all his reason seemed to evaporate in an instant, leaving him utterly unlike himself.

 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84


    g the passing countryside with a nonchnt gaze, Tyrone felt his anticipation to confront the V. woman


    that had been bolling his blood was now simmering down to a calctive coolness. He needed to


    strategize on how to deal with her, and he couldn¡¯t just let his anger dissipate into thin air.


    After another half hour drive, he was almost at the shooting location when his phone buzzed again. He


    had no intention of answering, but a nce at the caller ID made him pick up- it was James.


    ¡°Hello,¡± he answered casually


    James stuttered over the line, ¡°Mr. York. Miss Young, she took the 6.10 AM flight back to Emberbrook.¡±


    Tyrone was lost for words


    Four hours passed, and James was at the Emberbrook airport waiting to pick up Tyrone.


    Despite having not slept all night and having driven for over five hours, Tyrone looked surprisingly


    fresh, save for the slight redness in his eyes. His demeanor wasposed, and his features were set


    in an icy detachment.


    James rushed over to him, ¡°Sir. Since you¡¯ve not slept all night, you¡¯d better head home to rest. I¡¯ve


    arranged for your car to be shipped back by our local branch. It¡¯ll arrive soon.¡±


    The news of Quintessa¡¯s return to Emberbrook had hit him like a ton of bricks at dawn. James had


    nearly broken down while booking the earliest flight for Tyrone, who had now returned.


    The whole ordeal of the night still baffled James, even now.


    Since Tyrone had taken over as president, James seldom called him ¡®sir, but the sight of Tyrone


    morning had made the term slip out involuntarily.


    Once in the car, Tyrone shut his eyes and instructed, ¡°Take me to Harmony Retreat.¡±


    Without protest, James replied, ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    that


    Harmony Retreat was none other than the current residence of the troublesome Ms. Quintessa Young.


    Upon arrival, the security guard questioned them briefly. James said smoothly. ¡°We¡¯re friends of Ms.


    Young from apartment 9-2-17, here to take her out for lunch.¡±


    With the details James provided, the guard let them in: ¡°Alright, go on through


    Reaching the building, Tyrone had his eyes snap open.


    ¡°Give me your phone. Wait for me here.¡±


    James hesitantly handed over his phone, while his heart was pounding with unease. He felt something


    wasn¡¯t right with Tyrone, and without his phone, he couldn¡¯t even dial for help if needed. As Tyrone


    stepped out of the car and into the building, James remained worried about the potential for trouble.


    Tyrone entered the elevator and dialed a number casually.


    Quintessa had spent the week shooting her scenes, which went rtively smoothly despite some


    friction with the cast and unsavory hints from the assistant director. She had gritted her teeth and


    carried on.


    With a few days off from the set, and with Director Cooper¡¯s new project starting, she had returned


    home.


    She was packing her things when her phone rang with an unfamiliar number. Hesitating for a moment,


    she


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    Chapter 84


    answered, ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Where are you?¡±


    Recognizing Tyrone¡¯s voice, Quintessa paused and checked the number, then she clenched her teeth


    and spoke as calmly as possible, ¡°Out shooting.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s voice was rxed, ¡°Is that so? Because I¡¯m here to settle the two nights you owe me.¡±


    Quintessa failed to catch the threat, her eyebrow arching, ¡°You nning on taking care of it over the


    phone?¡±


    Stepping out of the elevator, Tyrone yed along. ¡°Sure, start by calling out for me.¡±

 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85


    Tyrone stepped out of the elevator with a smug look on his face. ¡°C¡¯mon, give me a holler before we


    get started.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s teeth were practically grinding as she took a deep breath. ¡°I couldn¡¯t care less. Mr. York.


    Are you sure this is how you want to y it?¡±


    ¡°Of course not,¡± he smirked. ¡°I always prefer a live showdown¨Copen up.¡±


    Startled, Quintessa blurted, ¡°I¡¯m seriously shooting a scene out here.¡±


    Tyrone let out a derisive chuckle. ¡°Cut the crap. I know you¡¯re in there. If you don¡¯t want to see me saw


    down this door, you¡¯ll open it like a good girl.¡±


    With her hand trembling in fright, Quintessa scurried over to the door. Peering through the peephole,


    she met his fiery gaze, which instantly turned her knees to jelly.


    She knew he couldn¡¯t see her, yet the very thought sent shivers down her spine.


    Quintessa saw the man outside wear a casual smile, but having struggled through enough close calls


    to have a razor¨Csharp sense for danger, she still sensed that something about Tyrone was off.


    She knew that theirst encounter was far from settled. Tyrone woulde for her sooner orter, and


    deep down, she feared that moment.


    Tyrone was patient, leisurely undoing the top button of his shirt.


    ¡°Don¡¯t make me ask twice.¡±


    With resolve hardening in her chest, Quintessa unlocked the door. ¡°How did you find this ce?¡±


    Ignoring her question, Tyrone shoved past her, kicked the door shut, and scanned the apartment with a


    disgusted look. ¡°Men have been here.¡±


    Quintessa snapped back, ¡°Obviously, my assistant is here daily.¡±


    ¡°And he¡¯s a man, too.¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Quintessa eyed him warily.


    Tyrone shed a grin; he tossed his phone aside, shed his coat, and with a predatory smile, his lips the


    color of fresh blood, he said, ¡°What do I want? You. Now, shall we hear those moans?¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s temper red. ¡°Go home and listen to your mom.¡±


    Her face was pale, while her eyes were burning with anger.


    Tyrone closed in, yfully lifting her chin with his fingers. ¡°I¡¯d much prefer to hear you call out.¡±


    Quintessa swatted his hand away. ¡°Get lost.¡±


    Without warning, Tyrone scooped her up and tossed her onto the bed.


    ¡°Perfect, because I¡¯ve been dying to roll around with you right here. It seems we¡¯re on the same page.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s heart skipped a beat, she tried to get up, only to be pinned back down by Tyrone.


    Yanking off his tie, he quickly bound her wrists, then secured them to the bedpost.


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    Her face flushed with panic. ¡°Tyrone, you¡¯re a freaking psycho. Let me go.¡±


    Seemingly in good spirits, Tyrone sauntered around her room, and eventually found a pair of scissors.


    ¡°Drop the act. You¡¯re no saint. After all, you¡¯ve been with Jerome. Why y the innocent now?¡±


    Quintesse¡¯s face turned ashen, and everything clicked in her head.


    Tyrone knew about her and Jerome


    Having no idea how much Tyrone knew about it, she feigned ignorance. ¡°What about Jerome? Could


    you be more specific? I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s jaw clenched in annoyance. ¡°Still ying tough, huh? The photos caught you two pretty cozy.


    How was the little rendezvous in the parking lot? Enjoyable, eh?¡±


    Suddenly feeling a chilling calm, Quintessa stared at Tyrone coolly ¡°So, Mr. York, what are you doing?


    Are you jealous?¡±

 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86


    Tyrone arched an eyebrow, saying nothing, while having the scissors slowly snip away at Quintessa¡¯s


    clothes.


    He didn¡¯t seem too angry, yet his words were sharp enough to cause Quintessa actual pain.


    Beingnguid and cool, Tyrone drawled, ¡°Since Jerome¡¯s already had his fun with you, I¡¯m not exactly


    jumping at the chance. Come on, tell me, what made you think you couldn¡¯t snag me, so you went after


    Jerome instead?¡±


    Quintessa wasn¡¯t feeling well today. She hadn¡¯t eaten breakfast. Three years abroad had taught her the


    pangs of hunger; it¡¯s usually the case that her money was too tight for even a meal, and sometimes she


    could not even afford a sip of warm water. That¡¯s why she was left with a sensitive stomach. At this


    moment, Quintessa couldn¡¯t tell if it was her stomach aching or the sting of his words that was causing


    her more distress.


    In this world, no one believed in her, not a single soul.


    Everyone thought Quintessa was nothing but a temptress, who was unable to rest easy unless she was


    the other woman, ready to sleep with any man, devoid of shame, of dignity, without a single standard.


    That¡¯s what they all assumed.


    Including Tyrone.


    Quintessa thought she¡¯d grown ustomed to it, that she wouldn¡¯t waste a bit more energy on such


    matters. But now, she realized she still cared, she still hurt. Indeed, no one could bepletely


    impervious to poison.


    Quintessa, being a person who¡¯d been hurt too much, had learned to be strong in adversity. The


    greater the disadvantage, the more she armored herself with an appearance of dominance. With a cold


    laugh, she turned her head, not bothering with him. It was pointless to say anything to this man before


    her, as he was


    a madman.


    Tyrone reached out to grip Quintessa¡¯s chin, forcing her to look at him with a twist of his hand.


    His hawk¨Clike eyes bore into her coldly, ¡°Speak.¡±


    Quintessa smiled; her makeup¨Cfree face was still alluring, likely capable of seducing anyone she


    pleased. ¡°So, Mr. York, what would you like to hear?¡±


    ¡°Answer my question.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s clothes were now cut open, revealing a deep purple bra as well as her enticing skin.


    She looked straight at Tyrone, not betraying any shame despite her exposed state. ¡°You belong to


    Rachel, and Jerome belongs to Miranda. Does it make a difference if I sleep with you or with him? After


    all, I¡¯m a natural¨Cborn homewrecker, a professional mistress, ustomed to sleeping with others¡® men.


    Didn¡¯t you realize that long ago? You should have understood when you caught me red¨Chanded,


    shouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Each word Quintessa spoke was aggressive and challenging.


    Her words grated harshly in Tyrone¡¯s ears, sparking an urge in him to silence her. The words of this


    woman never failed to displease him.


    Tyrone tightened his grip on Quintessa¡¯s jaw. ¡°Are you trying to provoke me, Quintessa? Believe me, I


    could


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    19:35 1


    Chapter Bo


    p you senseless.¡±


    Quintessa leaned her face close to Tyrone¡¯s, ¡°Go ahead, try pping me. If you don¡¯t, you well call


    ght a me ¡®Mom,¡±


    Finally, Tyrone, not able to hold back, leaned down and bit Quintessa¡¯s lip fiercely, ¡°Sometimes,


    Quintessa, I really want to know just how low you can go.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s bite was harsh, drawing blood. It hurt, truly hurt, but this pain was insignificant to Quintessa.


    Licking her lips with a hint of blood, she smiled wickedly; her words were always shocking. ¡°How low?


    That¡¯s hard to say. But feel free to test me; bring your father to me, and who knows, I might just dare to


    be your step¨Cmom and give you a little brother.¡±


    2/2

 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87


    Quintessa knew she was about as significant as an ant in Tyrone¡¯s presence, and her defiance was


    nothing more than a bluff.


    But even in her bluff, she wouldn¡¯t make things easy for him.


    Why should she let him trample all over her?


    With a vicious rip, the skirt she wore was torn in two.


    Tyrone looked at her with icy detachment, ¡°Oops, my bad, Slip of the hand.¡±


    Now, d only in her underwear, Quintessay on the bed, as vulnerable as amb awaiting ughter.


    Quintessa¡¯s face was stony. ¡°No worries, Mr. York. You can afford it. Just pay me back for the skirt. And


    don¡¯t think about weaseling out of recing my blouse.¡±


    Tyrone ignored her; instead he was admiring whaty before him. He had to admit that Quintessa had


    a stunning figure ¨C not a pound more, not an ounce less, curves in all the right ces.


    Come to think of it, Tyrone had only been intimate with Quintessa once, three years ago.


    Reflecting on that night, he reveled in the memory of pure bliss.


    Yet, this woman, the only thing worth admiring about her was her body.


    Tyrone¡¯s hand glided over Quintessa¡¯s exposed stomach. ¡°So, you want to be my stepmom, huh?


    Clever n. But I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be having any little brothers for me.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Because his old man¡¯s ¡®seed¡® was no good anymore.


    Quintessa frowned, and stared at him with a frosty gaze.


    Tyrone¡¯s smile was edged with mockery. ¡°You can try to y stepmom, but if you want a son, you¡¯d


    have to ¡®borrow¡® from me.¡±


    In an instan Quintessa understood. Tyrone¡¯s father was likely sterile or had a vasectomy. No wonder he


    wasn¡¯t as outraged as she expected.


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes were icy. ¡°What do you really want? Came here to throw your weight around just


    because I hooked up with Jerome? What right do you have to interfere with my life? What are we to


    each other? At best, I¡¯m just a woman you¡¯ve spent a night with. No, to put it correctly, you¡¯re just a


    man I¡¯ve spent a night with. I¡¯ve had plenty of men. If they all acted like you, I¡¯d be driven mad by now.¡±


    Nearly naked and in a humiliating pose, Quintessa red at Tyrone, yet her dignity was unmarred.


    Tyrone chuckled


    ¨C a truly handsome sight, yet to Quintessa, that smile sent chills down her spine.


    Hey down beside her, ¡°What I¡¯ve touched must remain mine, even if I don¡¯t want it. Years ago, I had


    a cat for just a week before it ran away. I spent a lot of effort and money to get it back. Guess where it


    is now?¡±


    Quintessa stayed silent as Tyrone continued, ¡°The day I brought it back, I gave it onest meal. Now,


    there¡¯s a peach tree in my backyard that blossoms exceptionally well every spring.¡±


    A shiver ran through Quintessa. This man was mad.


    In Tyrone¡¯s world, there was one rule: what he once upied was left a mark of him and would stay his


    forever; whether he wanted it anymore, no one else could touch it.


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    19:36 I


    Chapter 87


    He was so possessive, domineering, and insanely territorial.


    Quintessa regretted underestimating Tyrone. She had no idea just how messed up he was.


    She wanted nothing more than to escape this one¨Con¨Cone with Tyrone. Why did she let Manny leave


    early? Who knew what this lunatic would do next?

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88


    Quintessa just wanted Tyrone to get the hell out. She didn¡¯t have time to waste on his nonsense.


    Not everyone was born with a silver spoon in their mouth like Tyrone, who seemed to have it all, fear


    nothing, and control everything. All that he possessed was a stark contrast to Quintessa¡¯s meager


    existence. It wasn¡¯t long ago that even the thought of surviving another day felt like a luxury to her.


    Lifting her chin defiantly, she sneered, ¡°If you¡¯re gonna fight, then bring it on. If you¡¯re gonna kill me,


    just do it already. And if you¡¯re not gonna do a damn thing, then get lost. I¡¯ve got a million better things


    to do than waste my time with you.¡±


    Tyrone squinted his eyes and said with a hint of intrigue, ¡°Alright then, since you¡¯re so eager, let¡¯s


    begin.¡±


    An hour passed, and Quintessa was drenched in sweat, utterly exhausted without an ounce of strength


    left.


    Through it all, not a single tear escaped her eyes.


    Tyrone was puzzled. Was this woman incapable of crying?


    Anyone else might have been reduced to tears by now.


    But Quintessa did not beg. She did not cry. She showed nothing.


    She always remembered what someone once told her: A woman¡¯s tears are only powerful in front of


    someone who cares about her. Otherwise, they¡¯re worthless.


    Why should she cry in front of a bastard like Tyrone? What gave him the right to see her at her


    weakest?


    Tyrone hadn¡¯tid a hand on Quintessa, but his scorn was worse than physical harm.


    He didn¡¯t want her and dismissed her as filthy, even though it seemed to take every ounce of his self¨C


    control not to touch her.


    Quintessaughed bitterly, thinking to herself, ¡°He finds me disgusting, yet he can¡¯t keep away from


    me? Who¡¯s the real wretch here, him or me?¡±


    Drained, Quintessa no longer had the strength to hold herself up. Tyrone¡¯s anger subsided a bit as he


    saw her powerless form, and he suddenly felt an odd sensation stirring within him.


    He pulled out a handkerchief to wipe his fingers and lightly touched Quintessa¡¯s face, warning, ¡°From


    now on, keep it straight. Don¡¯t tick me off again. You¡¯ll only be bringing trouble on yourself.¡±


    Opening her eyes, Quintessa showed no sign of surrender orpromise. She said in a hoarse voice,


    ¡°That role was meant to be mine. I was just iming what belonged to me. What¡¯s wrong with that?


    Why should I care about pleasing you? What makes you think you matter to me?¡±


    Who cared about whether she was happy or struggling?


    Frowning, Tyrone retorted, ¡°It¡¯s just a supporting role. Was it really worth all this scheming? If you


    wanted it so badly, why didn¡¯t youe to me?¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Quintessa looked at him with scorn, ¡°Come to you, and you¡¯d help me? Why would you? By spending a


    night with you, I¡¯d have you hand it to me? How would that be any different from sleeping with


    Jerome?¡±


    Besides, she hadn¡¯t slept with Jerome, yet still got what she wanted.


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    19:36


    Chapter 88


    It would take a brain filled with Botox to choose Tyrone over that.


    She was new in town, still finding her footing with no real clout. She couldn¡¯tpete with their power


    and influence.


    But Quintessa could still im what she wanted on her own terms.


    Quintessa kept these thoughts to herself, though. She wouldn¡¯t tell Tyrone about it because he wouldn¡¯t


    believe her. Nobody did.

 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t help butugh, letting out a mocking sound that reverberated through the room.


    ¡°Quintessa, you truly are the most ambitious woman I¡¯ve ever met.¡±


    So many women longed for his attention and his approval; here he was, hand extended, waiting for her


    to grasp it, but she just wouldn¡¯t bite.


    Quintessa¡¯s gaze was icy as she retorted, ¡°ttery will get you nowhere. You¡¯re also the most repulsive


    man I¡¯ve ever encountered,¡±


    At her words, Tyrone felt the anger he had managed to quell red up again. His phone suddenly rang,


    cutting through the tense air. He scowled as he fished it out and saw it was Alexander calling.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Tyrone answered brusquely.


    ¡°Are you back in town?¡± Alexander asked straight to the point.


    Tyrone nced at Quintessa, whoy motionless on the bed, and responded, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m back.¡±


    ¡°Did you take care of business?¡±


    ¡°More or less.¡±


    He figured today¡¯s lesson would keep Quintessa in line for a while.


    ¡°Then can you meet me? It¡¯s urgent,¡± Alexander pressed.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Tyrone asked before hanging up.


    Reluctantly, Tyrone prepared to leave. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Alexander¡¯s call meant real


    trouble. He took onest look at Quintessa¡¯s disheveled form, feeling a twisted sense of satisfaction,


    and picked up his jacket. As a parting gesture, he ¡®kindly¡® untied the necktie binding her wrists.


    ¨C


    Quintessa was a mess. Her hair was clung to her face, and her lips were swollen and bleeding from


    where Tyrone had bitten her. She was a far cry from her usual radiant self now looking fallen, pitifully


    beautiful, and maddeningly enticing.


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t resist leaning down to kiss her, but this kiss was different, as it was tainted with the


    salty taste of blood. Yet, he was spellbound.


    Quintessa remained unresponsive throughout, as lifeless as a stone.


    After releasing her, Tyrone gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. ¡°Let me make this clear:


    when I want to y, you¡¯ll y along, no questions asked. You want to mess around? Fine. But that will


    wait until I¡¯m done with you. If there¡¯s a next time, the way you came back to this country is the way


    you¡¯ll leave it.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s icy stare could chill to the bone; it seemed her fox¨Clike eyes held the depth of a winter¡¯s


    midnight.


    ¡°Be smart, Quintessa. Don¡¯t make any more trouble for me,¡± Tyrone warned before he stood to leave.


    As he reached the door, her hoarse voice stopped him, ¡°Tyrone, you better pray to God that you never


    fall for me because if you do¡­¡±


    The threat hung in the air, unfinished but clear.


    Tyrone didn¡¯t look back or respond.


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    19:36


    Chapter 89


    Love her? That woman? The thought wasughable.


    Downstairs, as Tyrone approached his car, he saw James manhandling a guy, pinning him down in the


    backseat with a hand mped over his mouth as if interrogating him.


    What the hell are you doing, James? Tyrone frowned.


    ¡°Mr. York, this is Ms. Quintessa Young¡¯s assistant. He was trying to go upstairs, so I stopped him,


    James exined hurriedly.


    Waiting in the car had been agonizing for James. When he saw Quintessa¡¯s assistant Manny


    attempting to go up, he couldn¡¯t let it happen ¨C not with the possibility of Tyrone up there wreaking


    havoc. He needed to keep watch. So he had grabbed Manny, pulled him into the car, and started


    grilling him for information.


    ¡°Mr. York, I got some intel. Those photos held by Miranda were taken by this guy.¡±


    Tyrone paused, processing the information. This guy had taken those photos?This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90


    Tyrone paused, his mind racing. Manny had taken the photos after all?


    He began to sense something fishy was going on. He¡¯d originally nned to push Manny out of the


    picture, but he changed his tactle and confronted him instead. ¡°You took those photos?¡±


    The first time he saw them, he¡¯ll suspected that some paparazzi had snapped the shots.


    But if Quintessa was behind it, there had to be something off.


    Manny was nearly getting his arm twisted off by James; he didn¡¯t want to spill the beans, but he knew


    James¡® reputation, and he knew Tyrone had designs on Quinn. He was, after all, fiercely loyal to Quinn.


    But James was ruthless. If Manny kept mum, his arm would be toast, and he couldn¡¯t fight back, so he


    spilled his guts.


    Instant regret washed over Manny. How could he betray Quinn?


    Tyrone pressed for answers, but Manny mmed up. With a little more pressure from James, Manny


    let out a howl; he could even hear the creak of his own bones.


    ¡°Spit it out. Did you take them?¡±


    Sweat beaded on Manny¡¯s forehead. ¡°Yes, I took them. If it wasn¡¯t for me, howe there¡¯s not a


    single straight shot of Quinn¡¯s face in the photos?¡±


    Tyrone narrowed his eyes, with a dangerous chill shing in his gaze. ¡°And after that?¡±


    Manny shivered uncontrobly. ¡°After that, of course, I hightailed it out of there with Quinn. You think


    we¡¯d just stick around? She had it all nned, snapping those twisted angle shots. Quinn and that guy


    didn¡¯t even kiss. My Quinn isn¡¯t that kind of girl.¡±


    Manny was a guy; he had an inkling of what Tyrone wanted to know. It was all about whether Quinn


    had something going on with Jerome.


    Guys, they always care about that stuff.


    Seeing Mr. York¡¯s face, Manny figured he was pretty hung up on it.


    Tyrone¡¯s mind shed back to thest thing Quinn had said, and a pang of difort pricked his heart.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Tyrone felt his heart skip ufortably, but he pushed the feeling down and growled, ¡°Get


    lost.¡± Manny didn¡¯t need telling twice. He scrambled out of the car and dashed into the building.


    Noticing Tyrone¡¯s pallor, James asked quietly, ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    Tyrone closed his eyes, not responding, and James didn¡¯t dare to move.


    After a long silence, Tyrone said, ¡°Let¡¯s go. We¡¯re meeting Alexander.¡±


    Tyrone reminded himself that even though Quinn hadn¡¯t actually been with Jerome, the fact that she¡¯d


    deliberately flirted with him¡¯was undeniable. She was stringing him along while ying up to Jerome,


    which was wrong.


    Even if it was a misunderstanding, it was her own doing.


    1/2


    19:36 1


    He thought today would be a tesson for her Let her stew for a while, then he¡¯ll sweet talk her in a


    couple of dans if she wanted fame and wanted to act, helt finance a couple of movies for her. That¡¯s


    how you pande womw!


    You cant fute them. The more you do, the more they take advantage.


    at he went to her now today¡¯s efforts would be for naught. Quinn was the type to take advantage, after


    all.


    Troe Coved himself that he was in the right.


    Out of the blue Tyrone mused, ¡°Has Jerome been having too easy a timetely?


    James¡¯s hand twitched knowing exactly what that meant, he nodded. ¡°Right, seems like.¡±


    Teone¡¯s coldugh was filled with an ominous threat.

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91


    Manny stood at the front doot ringing the bell repeatedly, yet he got no answer. His worry crept up to a


    boiling point, and he was moments away from dialing 911 when the door finally creaked open.


    What he saw next nearly sent chills down his spine Quintessa, pale as a ghost and trembling, stood on


    the threshold. It looked like the had just stepped out of the shower, with her hair still dripping; her body


    was weak and shaking


    Manny quickly reached out, grabbing Quintessa¡¯s hand and steadying her as he guided her inside.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? Stomach acting up again?


    Quintessa didn¡¯t answer his question. ¡°Got a smoke? I need one.


    Will a dude¡¯s brand do?


    Surre


    Manny fumbled in his pockets and extracted his own pack of cigarettes, then he carefully pulled one


    out and offered it to Quintessa before flicking his lighter and igniting the tip.


    Back to the days she was abroad, whenever her stomach was unbearably painful, Quintessa would


    smoke. It wasn¡¯t addiction; it was a


    habit.


    Manny watched her with a mix of fear and concern. ¡°Quinn, you look terrible. How are you feeling?¡±


    Quintessa blew a smoke ring and said, ¡°Fetch me some antacids, will you?¡±


    The pain in her stomach was severe, and the harsh scent of the cigarette did little to ease her


    difort.


    I can¡¯t just do that, Manny objected. ¡°You¡¯re in bad shape, and this isn¡¯t the first time. I¡¯m taking you to


    the hospital for a check¨Cup. I have a rtive who works there, and they can skip the lines for us.¡±


    Quintessa nced at Manny. After the ordeal with Tyrone, the slightest warmth from Manny was


    something she didn¡¯t want to reject.


    ¡°Alright,¡± she conceded.


    *Shall we head out now?¡± Manny asked.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she nodded in agreement.


    Quintessa went to the restroom to change her clothes. When she returned, Manny caught a glimpse of


    marks on her neck and quickly looked away; in the meantime he felt anger stirring within him. ¡®What


    kind of man is Tyrone to treat Quinn like that?¡® he thought.


    On the way to the hospital, Quintessa rested with her eyes closed to conserve energy. Manny knew


    she was in pain¨Cdeep, relentless pain that kept her from sleeping. Yet, she never cried out or


    comined.


    Manny broke the silence. ¡°Quinn, 1¨CI ran into Mr. York downstairs.¡±


    ¡°Mhm.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I told him about our n to frame Jerome.¡±


    A coldugh escaped Quintessa. Tyrone must know by now that she was innocent¨Cor at least, he


    wouldn¡¯t think she was. Guys like him always believe they¡¯re right. In his eyes, it was her fault for


    approaching Jerome in the first ce and she deserved whatever came her


    way.


    Quintessa mused slowly, ¡°It was my mistake, thinking I could y a man like that. I forgot he was never


    someone I could handle.¡± She couldn¡¯t let Tyrone win, but swallowing her pride wasn¡¯t an option either.


    She¡¯d make Tyrone fall for her, deeply and desperately.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    A smirk formed on her lips. She was confident she could do it.


    Tyrone, one day I¡¯ll get the better of you. Just you wait and see.


    At the hospital, Manny found his rtive and quickly got Quintessa registered ahead of others.


    The doctor examined her and warned, ¡°You can¡¯t ignore this gastric problem. If it worsens, you might


    end up with a perforation. Eat on time, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and stay away from alcohol.¡±

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92


    Quintessa nodded, and said with a hint of gratitude in her voice. ¡°Thanks, Doc.*


    in one ear and out the other.


    The doctor just shook his head, clearly sensing that his advice had gone He had Quintessa set up for


    an IV drip and wrote out a prescription. The nurse swiftly inserted the needle, and Manny held the IV


    bag. Supporting Quintessa as they made their way to a seat in the hallway.


    The drip was clow and it took a full hour for the liquid to empty. But by the end, Quintessa felt that the


    gnawing pain in her stomach had finally subsided.


    During that hour, her mind was haunted by Tyrone¡¯s face.


    She was not about to let him off the hook that easily.


    Even if ying with a guy like Tyrone was out of her league, she was willing to take the risk. After all,


    she had nothing to lose¨Cwhat was there to fear?


    Taking a gamble was what Quintessa did best.


    Noticing the IV bag was nearly empty, Manny quickly said, ¡°It¡¯s almost done. I¡¯ll go get the nurse to¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t finish his sentence before Quintessa ripped off the tape securing the needle to the back of her


    hand and pulled it out herself, blood oozing from the puncture


    Manny gasped, ¡°Quinn!¡±


    Quintessa stood up, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Manny stuttered, ¡°O¨Cokay.¡±


    He hurriedly handed Quintessa a couple of tissues, ¡°Quinn, you should wipe the blood off.¡±


    Quintessa took the tissues and pressed them against the small wound. They were instantly soaked.


    Manny winced at the sight, but Quintessa¡¯s face remained stoic.


    She tossed the bloodied tissues into the trash and put on her face mask; barely taking a few steps, she


    heard someone call her name.


    ¡°Quintessa


    Turning around, she saw the caller and smile intuitively.


    ¡°Fancy meeting you here. Oh, that¡¯s right, you¡¯re here to see Ms. Abbott, aren¡¯t you? How¡¯s your little


    fling? Her face still pretty?¡± Jerome looked quite well, not the least bit ill. It had been a week since


    Zenobia was hospitalized after a brawl with Miranda, and naturally, Jerome would be expected to visit.


    Jerome sauntered over to Quintessa, ¡°Was it you who deliberately had those photos taken, then gave


    them to Miranda to make her think the person with Zenobia was me? Did you n all this, Quintessa?


    Is that it?¡±


    Seeing Jerome so calm, Quintessa started sizing him up. Zenobia had been in the hospital for some


    time, and Miranda was supposed to be making a fuss with him. Surprisingly, he seemed unbothered,


    which confirmed Quintessa¡¯s suspicion that he felt nothing for Miranda.


    What a piece of work this man was.


    And Miranda had only herself to me for being blind.


    ¤½This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Quintessa didn¡¯t bother to hide the truth, but admitted openly, ¡°Yeah, it was me. I took the photos. So


    what? Did I manage to capture your stunningly handsome and charming side?¡±


    Instead of getting angry, Jerome seemed more intrigued, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll tell the Youngs you¡¯re


    back in town?¡±


    Quintessa spread her hands nonchntly, ¡°Go ahead. Tell them I¡¯m the one in the photos. Let them


    know you¡¯re two¨Ctiming the Young family¡¯s eldest daughter with her own sister. If you don¡¯t care about


    your reputation, I¡¯m certainly not going to stop you.¡±


    Despite hisck of affection for Miranda, Jerome knew all too well how important pride was to his


    family,


    If Quintessa didn¡¯t hold this card, she wouldn¡¯t dare be so bold in front of Jerome.


    Seeing Quintessa¡¯s defiant stance, Jerome was reminded of her demeanor three years ago when he


    saw her off at the airport.


    He chuckled, with a sly look in his eye, ¡°Just as shameless as you were three years ago.¡±

 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93


    Quintessa arched an eyebrow, with a yful smirk gracing her lips. ¡°Of course I¡¯m different. I¡¯m even


    more stunning than I was three years ago, more enchanting. Otherwise, how could I keep you so


    hopelessly captivated?¡±


    Jerome had to concede, ¡°You¡¯ve got a point.¡±


    ¨C


    Indeed hopelessly captivated. So much so that despite knowing she was scheming against him, he still


    covered for her and kept her return a secret.


    Lately, Jerome had been at his wit¡¯s end over Zenobia¡¯s drama, feeling like his head was about to


    explode. Yet, he hadn¡¯t even considered throwing Quintessa under the bus.


    Part of the reason was just as Quintessa said he had his pride. But another reason was that he was


    curious to see just how far she would go.


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve taken on the role of the leadingdy in ¡®Shadows of the Past,¡± Jerome said, ¡°you might


    as well y it to the hilt. At least do justice to Zenobia, who¡¯s caught in the crossfire, thanks to you.¡±


    At the end of the day, Jerome still felt that Quintessa¡¯s framing was unfair to Zenobia.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Quintessa scoffed with disdain, ¡°Oh please, as if you were the one who handed me the role. It was


    mine to begin with. I¡¯m just taking back what¡¯s mine. Why should I thank you? Zenobia caught in the


    crossfire? Please. It¡¯s as if you two were ever so innocent, as if you¡¯ve never toyed with her.¡±


    Jerome red.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got things to do, I¡¯m out of here. Oh, and I¡¯d advise you not to stir up another one. What¡¯s mine is


    mine, and no one can take that from me. Otherwise, they¡¯ll find out just how fierce my bite can be.¡±


    Watching Quintessa¡¯s retreating figure, Jerome had his eyes narrowed. There was a wild allure about


    her that was maddeningly irresistible, and in that moment, he felt utterly defenseless against her


    charm.


    If it weren¡¯t for the public setting, he might have taken her right then and there.


    ¡°Oh, I forgot to mention,¡± Jerome called out leisurely, ¡°I didn¡¯te to see Zenobia. I came for your


    sister. She attempted suicide.¡±


    Zenobia had been through a rough patch, and Jerome, who had grown to detest Miranda, was resolute


    on breaking up with her. But Miranda wouldn¡¯t have it. She had shed her wrists yesterday ¨C not truly


    to die, but to frighten him. Yet, the wound was real enough.


    Quintessa was overjoyed upon hearing this.


    Who knew that this chain reaction would lead to Miranda¡¯s suicide attempt?


    ¡°Wow, no wonder I¡¯ve been in such a great mood today. Did she die?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°What a pity.¡±


    Her words were genuine; if Miranda were dead, it would save Quintessa the trouble.


    ¡°She¡¯s in room 501,¡± Jerome said before walking away.


    Manny asked, ¡°Shall we go?¡±


    ¡°Not yet,¡± Quintessa responded. ¡°I have something to take care of first.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Go find that rtive of yours and get me some sleeping pills.¡±


    ¡°Uh.¡±


    Room 501 was empty, and the patient was seemingly asleep.


    As Quintessa moved to enter, Manny, pale as a ghost, grabbed her arm. ¡°Quinn, this isn¡¯t right. Should


    we really be doing this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not right,¡± Quintessa stopped short. ¡°Let¡¯s get some potassium chloride instead.¡±


    Manny instantly objected, ¡°Maybe we should stick to the sleeping pills.¡±


    Quintessa pushed the door open and entered. On the bed, Miranda looked pale, with an IV drip


    attached to her arm, her wrist wrapped in thick bandages.


    Quintessa pulled out a disposable syringe filled with a slightly murky liquid.


    She crushed the sleeping pills, diluted them with a bit of glucose, and drew the solution into the


    syringe.


    With the needle piercing the IV line, Quintessa pushed the sedative into the drip.

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94


    As the needle pierced into the IV line, Quintessa pushed the sedative into the drip with a sinister


    precision.


    With a sardonic chuckle, she whispered to herself, ¡°Sweet dreams, dear sister.¡±


    Once outside the hospital room, Manny sidled up to Quintessa, his voice tinged with anxiety. ¡°Quinn,


    what if something goes wrong? What if someone finds out?¡±


    Quintessa shrugged off the concern with a careless wave of her hand. ¡°So what if they do?¡±


    Though she harbored a burning grudge against the entire Young n, Quintessa wasn¡¯t about to


    commit daylight murder. She¡¯d merely administered a dose strong enough to keep Miranda sleeping for


    days, nothing lethal.


    Besides, with the sedative coursing through Miranda¡¯s veins via the IV, it would be untraceable.


    There were no cameras at the door of the hospital room, so there was no evidence to worry about.


    This was merely a lesson for Miranda, a small dose ofeuppance.


    Quintessa hadn¡¯t gone as far as to inject her with anything truly destructive like HIV or any contagious


    disease¨Cthat would have been


    mercy.


    Manny supported the feigning frail Quintessa as they walked to the hospital parking lot, where, by


    sheer coincidence, they bumped into


    someone.


    Upon locking eyes, both Quintessa and the neer paused; an immediate mutual dislike shed


    between them.


    Quick as a cat, Quintessa had her lips curled into a faux¨Cfriendly smile. ¡°What a surprise, Cecilia, to run


    into you here.¡±


    Cecilia, clutching her designer purse, scowled coldly. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Just seeing this little temptress irked Cecilia to no end.


    With a theatrical sigh, Quintessa touched her abdomen in a disy of woe. ¡°Well, you might want to


    ask your son about that. I¡¯m pregnant with his child, and he doesn¡¯t want it. Looks like I have no choice


    but to get rid of it.¡±


    Manny¡¯s jaw dropped. Wait a minute¨Cwhat happened to a simple stomachache?


    Theposure which Cecilia prided herself on was shattered at the revtion; her eyes were


    widening as she scrutinized Quintessa, as if trying to see through her very soul.


    Quintessa¡¯s face was ghostly pale; her body was quivering, and her lips bloodless: She truly looked the


    part of a woman who had just lost a child.


    And the more Cecilia observed, the more convinced she became. Pointing a trembling finger at


    Quintessa, she stammered, ¡°Y¨Cyou.¡±


    Cecilia felt her resilience crumbling. It hadn¡¯t even been a month since Quintessa had hinted at bearing


    a grandson for her, and now. Feeling lightheaded, Cecilia steadied herself against her car, taking deep


    breaths. ¡°Don¡¯t spout nonsense. How could I know if it¡¯s truly my son¡¯s child?¡±


    With a bitter smile, Quintessa yed the tragic figure. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter now, does it? The child¡¯s gone.


    No one in the York family is decent, not even Tyrone. Since he was willing to kill his own flesh and


    blood, I wonder how he¡¯ll fare in the end.¡±


    Cecilia felt a pang of maternal defense despite her doubts. ¡°Don¡¯t use him falsely. My son isn¡¯t that


    kind of person.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, her face twisted with disdain. ¡°Cecilia, you know what kind of man your son is. He¡¯ll


    have no son, and you¡¯ll have no grandson. Once I recover, I¡¯ll marry off just the same. It¡¯s no loss to


    me.*


    Then, with a heavy sigh, she added, ¡°It¡¯s just tragic for the child, isn¡¯t it? Being killed by his own father.


    The Yorks now have blood on their hands.¡±Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95


    Cecilia felt her heart clenched in sudden pain. ¡°Stop talking nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Whether it¡¯s nonsense or not, you can go ask your son.¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Cecilia lifted her chin defiantly. ¡°I will ask him myself, hmph. My son would never fall for some little


    temptress like you. Don¡¯t think you can threaten me, I will not give in.¡±


    Quintessa let out a mockingugh. ¡°Funny thing is, this little temptress is carrying your grandson, even


    though it hasn¡¯t been born.¡±


    Feeling another pang shot through her heart, Cecilia couldn¡¯t stand her ground in front of Quintessa


    any longer. With her purse in hand, she straightened up, huffed indignantly, and walked past


    Quintessa.


    Manny whispered, ¡°Why did you lie to her?¡±


    Quintessa smirked. ¡°Because she¡¯s easy to fool.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s mother was much easier to handle than he was.


    How could Quintessa not see Cecilia¡¯s deep desire for a grandson? The lie she casually tossed out


    today was sure to stir up the York family for days.


    Tyrone, if you make my life difficult, there¡¯s no way I¡¯ll let you have peace of mind.


    Cecilia hurried all the way to the maternity clinic to find a doctor.


    Just then, a young nurse called out, ¡°Next!¡±


    Cecilia quickly approached her. ¡°Nurse, did a beautiful girle in for a check¨Cup? She¡¯s pregnant?


    Very pretty but, you know, a bit too shy?¡±


    The nurse nodded. ¡°Yes, we had someone like that.¡±


    The clinic saw many pretty young women every day.


    ¡°And then what happened?¡± Cecilia pressed on.


    The nurse looked indignant. ¡°Oh, her boyfriend is just the worst. Insisted she get an abortion. Men


    these days are just the worst.¡±


    The nurse repeated ¡°just the worst¡± twice, and Cecilia felt a chill settle in her heart.


    Because deep down, she knew her son was indeed the worst.


    Cecilia clutched at her heart, her grandchild was gone.


    Watching Cecilia, who looked lost, walk out, the nurse shook her head and muttered to herself, ¡°Men


    these days, all they care about is their own pleasure, never mind what happens to the woman


    afterwards. I¡¯ve seen this happen four times just today.¡±


    The chauffeur asked from behind, ¡°Ma¡¯am, shall we still go to see Mr. Lee?¡±


    Cecilia, grinding her teeth with anger, snapped, ¡°What for? Go home, just go home!¡±


    Her original n had been to have Mr. Lee check on her heart, but now, she had lost all mood for it.


    As she got into the car, Cecilia felt her thoughts grew angrier and her heart more sore.


    She was so annoying to look at that little vixen, but it wasn¡¯t the child¡¯s fault.


    Once home, Cecilia felt her fury had given her a headache. She clutched her forehead and told the


    housemaid Wilma, ¡°Call that scoundrel and tell him toe see me this instant. I¡¯m furious, absolutely


    furious.¡±


    Cecilia rarely got angry because it caused wrinkles and made her age faster. This was the first time


    Wilma had seen her in such a state. ¡°Don¡¯t be upset, ma¡¯am. I¡¯ll call the young master right away and


    have hime home.¡±


    When Wilma called Tyrone, he was with Alexander.


    ¡°Master Tyrone, did you do something to upset madam? She¡¯s very angry and wants you toe


    home immediately,¡± Wilma asked.


    Tyrone, already in a foul mood, replied coldly, ¡°Tell her I¡¯m busy.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Wilma¡¯s voice was reced by Cecilia¡¯s on the phone, ¡°You get back


    here now, immediately, get your backside home this instant. If you dare note, you¡¯ll being


    back to your mother¡¯s funeral.¡±

 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96


    After hanging up the phone, Tyrone was left scratching his head in confusion. This was the first time his


    mom had ever blown up at him like that. Normally, the feisty olddy was the one tiptoeing around him.


    Figuring something serious must be up, he said, ¡°I gotta swing by the house. Mom¡¯s got something


    going


    on.¡±


    Alexander nodded in understanding, ¡°Alright, you head home. This search isn¡¯t gonna wrap up in a


    sh anyway. You¡¯ve got a solidwork back here¨Ckeep an eye out for me, will ya?¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°You got it.¡±


    With that, Tyrone took off.


    As soon as he walked into the living room, Wilma signaled to him on the down low.


    There was his mom, lounging on the couch with an ice pack on her forehead, looking worse for wear.


    ¡°What¡¯s so urgent you had to drag me back here?¡±


    In a split second, Cecilia surged to her feet and flung the ice pack at Tyrone. ¡°Urgent? What have you


    been up to that¡¯s so great, huh?¡±


    Tyrone frowned, ¡°Mom, what¡¯s got you eating firecrackers?¡±


    The mention of firecrackers seemed to make her chest hurt with anger. ¡°Firecrackers? I wish I had


    swallowed an atomic bomb! Spill it, what were you up to today?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face set in a cool mask, ¡°My business isn¡¯t your concern.¡°


    ¡°Not my concern? Did you go see that little siren today?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    Cecilia pped the table, ¡°That little siren we ran into at your cest time.¡±


    Remembering Quintessa¡¯s smug smile, Tyrone murmured, with his expression chilling further, ¡°Oh,


    where did we run into her?¡±


    Cecilia, infuriated by his nonchnt demeanor, shot back, ¡°¡®Oh¡® is all you can say? Of course, it was at


    the hospital!¡±


    Tyrone looked up sharply, ¡°The hospital?¡±


    ¡°Yes, the hospital! You little rascal, give me back my grandson.¡± Cecilia grabbed whatever was at hand


    and hurled it at Tyrone.


    Tyrone dodged nimbly; he couldn¡¯t recall ever seeing his mother so unhinged.


    He snapped, ¡°Mom, what are you ranting about? Since when do you have a grandson?¡±


    Cecilia pointed at him, her face white with rage, ¡°You still won¡¯t admit it? That siren is pregnant with


    your child. Did you tell her to get rid of it? If you don¡¯t even want your own kid, what kind of man are


    you?¡°


    This was probably the angriest Cecilia had ever been with Tyrone.


    Rubbing his temples, Tyrone tried to sort out his thoughts, ¡°She told you she¡¯s pregnant?¡±


    11:13


    Chapter 96


    ¡°What else would you think?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s mind was a jumble, ¡°She said the kid is mine?¡±


    Cecilia smacked him several times in rapid session, ¡°You dare to do the deed but not own up to it?


    Are you saying you never slept with her?¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t quite know how to feel, ¡°Mom, I thought you disliked her?¡±


    Cecilia¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears, ¡°Of course I dislike that temptress, I never liked women who reek of


    trouble. But she¡¯s carrying a York, and you just decide to throw it away? I can¡¯t deal with this.¡±


    Tyrone let out a hollowugh.


    Cecilia red, ¡°Youugh?¡±


    Grinding his teeth, Tyrone thought this woman was ying some twisted game.


    He didn¡¯t confront Quintessa, he could guess her angle¨Cit was probably just to make his life hell.


    Instead, Tyrone said, ¡°What¡¯s the rush? It¡¯s just a grandson, right? I promise you¡¯ll have plenty more


    down


    the line.¡±


    ¡°So produce one for me!¡± Cecilia demanded.


    Tyrone replied, ¡°It¡¯ll happen sooner orter.¡±


    Quintessa, that woman was something else.


    Damn it, he hadn¡¯t even been with her for real since she came back. Without seed being sown, how


    could


    there be a child?


    11:13


    Chapter 96


    ¡°What else would you think?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s mind was a jumble, ¡°She said the kid is mine?¡±


    Cecilia smacked him several times in rapid session, ¡°You dare to do the deed but not own up to it?


    Are you saying you never slept with her?¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t quite know how to feel, ¡°Mom, I thought you disliked her?¡±


    Cecilia¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears, ¡°Of course I dislike that temptress; I never liked women who reek of


    trouble. But she¡¯s carrying a York, and you just decide to throw it away? I can¡¯t deal with this.¡±


    Tyrone let out a hollowugh.


    Cecilia red, ¡°Youugh?¡±


    Grinding his teeth, Tyrone thought this woman was ying some twisted game.


    He didn¡¯t confront Quintessa; he could guess her angle¨Cit was probably just to make his life hell.


    Instead, Tyrone said, ¡°What¡¯s the rush? It¡¯s just a grandson, right? I promise you¡¯ll have plenty more


    down


    the line.¡±


    ¡°So produce one for me!¡± Cecilia demanded.


    Tyrone replied, ¡°It¡¯ll happen sooner orter.¡±


    Quintessa, that woman was something else.


    Damn it, he hadn¡¯t even been with her for real since she came back. Without seed being sown, how


    could


    there be a child?


    Chapter 96


    After hanging up the phone, Tyrone was left scratching his head in confusion. This was the first time his


    mom had ever blown up at him like that. Normally, the feisty olddy was the one tiptoeing around him.


    Figuring something serious must be up, he said, ¡°I gotta swing by the house. Mom¡¯s got something


    going


    on.¡±


    Alexander nodded in understanding, ¡°Alright, you head home. This search isn¡¯t gonna wrap up in a


    sh anyway. You¡¯ve got a solidwork back here¨Ckeep an eye out for me, will ya?¡±


    ¡°You got it.¡±


    With that, Tyrone took off.


    As soon as he walked into the living room, Wilma signaled to him on the down low.


    There was his mom, lounging on the couch with an ice pack on her forehead, looking worse for wear.


    ¡°What¡¯s so urgent you had to drag me back here?¡±


    In a split second, Cecilia surged to her feet and flung the ice pack at Tyrone. ¡°Urgent? What have you


    been up to that¡¯s so great, huh?¡±


    Tyrone frowned, ¡°Mom, what¡¯s got you eating firecrackers?¡±


    The mention of firecrackers seemed to make her chest hurt with anger. ¡°Firecrackers? I wish I had


    swallowed an atomic bomb! Spill it, what were you up to today?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face set in a cool mask, ¡°My business isn¡¯t your concern.¡±


    ¡°Not my concern? Did you go see that little siren today?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    Cecilia pped the table, ¡°That little siren we ran into at your cest time.¡±


    Remembering Quintessa¡¯s smug smile, Tyrone murmured, with his expression chilling further, ¡°Oh,


    where did we run into her?¡±


    Cecilia, infuriated by his nonchnt demeanor, shot back, ¡± ¡®Oh¡® is all you can say? Of course, it was at


    the hospital!¡±


    Tyrone looked up sharply, ¡°The hospital?¡±


    ¡°Yes, the hospital! You little rascal, give me back my grandson.¡± Cecilia grabbed whatever was at hand


    and hurled it at Tyrone.


    Tyrone dodged nimbly; he couldn¡¯t recall ever seeing his mother so unhinged.


    He snapped, ¡°Mom, what are you ranting about? Since when do you have a grandson?¡±


    Cecilia pointed at him, her face white with rage, ¡°You still won¡¯t admit it? That siren is pregnant with


    your child. Did you tell her to get rid of it? If you don¡¯t even want your own kid, what kind of man are


    you?¡±


    This was probably the angriest Cecilia had ever been with Tyrone.


    Rubbing his temples, Tyrone tried to sort out his thoughts, ¡°She told you she¡¯s pregnant?¡±

 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97


    Tyrone asked with a mix of frustration and disbelief, ¡°Why do you hate that siren so much, ma? With


    the baby gone, she can¡¯t use that to worm her way into our family. Isn¡¯t that a good thing? If she


    actually managed to get her foot through our front door, do you really think life would be a bed of


    roses?¡±


    Cecilia huffed with an air of Irrefutable authority, ¡°Good or bad, that¡¯s my business. Don¡¯t you try to


    sidestep this, or feed me any of your tall tales. You¡¯re not getting any younger, Tyrone. Do you really


    think you can just snap your fingers and have kids whenever you want? You¡¯ve lost your own flesh and


    blood, and I tell you, you just wait and see. Hmph!¡±


    Rubbing his temple, Tyrone felt a headache brewing from his mother¡¯s relentless nagging.


    Quintessa was an absolute nightmare. He rose abruptly, ¡°I¡¯ve got to run. Something¡¯se up.¡±


    Cecilia¡¯s voice boomed behind him, ¡°Tyrone, you think you can just sweep this under the rug? Think


    again!¡± He halted midstride, and turned back briefly, ¡°Mom, you should wise up a bit, too.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°Wise up? Who are you calling clueless? You stay right there!¡±


    After escaping the family drama, Tyrone made a call to his assistant. ¡°James, can you dig up what


    Quintessa was up to at the hospital today?¡±


    Although Tyrone was inclined to believe that Quintessa was just being her usual thorn¨Cin¨Cthe¨Cside self,


    a


    part of him


    He


    Couldn¡¯t help but feel worried.


    confront her right then and there to get the story straight.


    The following mongst


    at his office, James handed Tyrone a stack of papers. ¡°Mr. York, Ms. Quintessa Young went to the


    hospital for a gastric issue yesterday. She was on an IV drip. And here¡¯s the information you asked me


    topile on Ms. Young¡¯s past three years abroad. It took some time because she moved around quite


    a bit in Serenitia, and some of the records are iplete.¡±


    Relieved to hear that Quintessa¡¯s visit was for a stomach problem and not something more serious,


    Tyrone felt his concern eased¨Cbut only momentarily. Upon reviewing the extensive yet iplete file,


    he tensed up again, with his expression darkened; his hands were trembling slightly as he read.


    For the past three years, Quintessa¡¯s life had been nothing short of a harrowing series of odd jobs and


    escapes.


    The Young family never ceased their persecution. She had been framed, plotted against, beaten, and


    hunted.


    She had lived on the streets, starving and freezing.


    During her darkest moments, when she was close to death, not a soul offered her warmth or a helping


    hand to shield her from life¡¯s storms.


    Wandering alone in a foreignnd, amidst the cold indifference of strangers and relentless attacks from


    her own kin, she fought like a cornered animal¨Cbloody and battered, but somehow she survived.


    Beauty, at times, was a curse.


    The more beautiful the woman, the harder it seemed for her to live in this era.


    No one knew the hardships Quintessa endured, nor could anyone fathom the depths of her suffering.


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    11:13


    Chapter 97


    What deep¨Cseated hatred could drive her own family, the Youngs, to relentlessly pursue


    the earth?


    the ends of


    Tyrone had never taken the time to understand the intricate dynamics within the Young family, he was


    only aware of that Quintessa¡¯s animosity towards them probably stemmed from her mother¡¯s past.


    Even after rescuing Quintessa from one of Rachel¡¯s schemes, he had remained disinterested¨Cuntil


    now.

 Chapter 98

    Chapter 98


    Because he figured that if it didn¡¯t concern him, if they weren¡¯t on his radar, why should he waste time


    on someone he didn¡¯t care about?


    Then, Quintessa left.


    Tyrone mulled it over for a few days, but still felt that she was just a one¨Cnight stand with a bit of


    intrigue, not worth his prolonged attention. In the past three years, he¡¯d jet off to Serenitia for a mix of


    vacation and business, yet he never once thought to check on Quintessa.


    While he lounged in five¨Cstar hotels, savoring gourmet meals, Quintessa was out there somewhere,


    struggling to get her hands on a slice of bread to stave off hunger,


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Tyrone had his grip tightened on the documents, which featured a photo of Quintessa. On the snow¨C


    covered streets, she walked alone, in thin clothes, her face marked with distinct bruises.


    Her eyes were colder than the snowkes that settled on her.


    Suddenly, Tyrone didn¡¯t know what attitude he should adopt for their next meeting.


    For the first time in his life, he realized that he might have made a mistake.


    -Tyrone, you better pray you don¡¯t fall for me, otherwise.


    Quintessa¡¯s words echoed in his ears.


    Her voice was calm and weak, but that underlying resentment sent chills down his spine.


    Tyrone covered his eyes, leaving the documents scattered to the floor, burying his feet.


    He had never felt pity for others; he¡¯d seen people in worse straits than Quintessa.


    But the mere thought of Quintessa¡¯s plight made his chest feel tight and his heart race.


    This was a feeling he¡¯d never experienced before.


    Tyrone¡¯s car was parked beneath Quintessa¡¯s apartment building for three or four hours until he finally


    went up. He stood for an hour outside her door, but he didn¡¯t make it ringing the bell in the end.


    He realized he was scared.


    He didn¡¯t know how to face Quintessa.


    Tyrone found it ridiculous that he¡¯de to know what ¡®fear¡® was in his lifetime!


    At 10 p.m., Tyrone returned home,


    Cecilia was in the living room, with her face thered in a beauty mask, engrossed in her favorite


    drama series. She followed it religiously, staying upte without a second thought.


    Upon seeing her son, she rolled her eyes; she was too miffed to bother with him. Normally, she¡¯d have


    asked: ¡°Tyrone, you¡¯re back. Have you eaten? Want me to whip up somete¨Cnight snacks?¡±


    ¡±


    But she was still irritated with him.


    Not in the mood of talking, Tyrone just wanted to go straight upstairs.


    But then he remembered something and stopped, saying, ¡°Mom, if you did something not¨Cso¨Cnice to


    1/2


    11.14


    Chapter 98


    somebody, how would you normally, go about apologizing?¡±


    Cecilia¡¯s shock was palpable, even with her face mask on.


    She¡¯d lived this long and never heard such words from her son.


    Cecilia turned off the drama, and took a while to respond: ¡°Apologize? Ty, what¡¯s going on? Are you


    feeling alright? No fever? Oh, I know, have you finally realized the error of your ways, feeling guilty


    about the child?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face darkened: ¡°I¡¯m going to bed.¡±


    As Tyrone headed upstairs, Cecilia sat dumbfounded for a good while.


    Tyrone thought he did something wrong? Could it be he finally felt that he shouldn¡¯t have been such a


    scoundrel?


    Cecilia¡¯s thoughts ran wild; she was contemting the possibility of a grandchild in the near future.


    That night, Tyrone couldn¡¯t fall asleep.

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99


    For the past week, Quintessa¡¯s life had been tranquil and fulfilling.


    Over at the Young residence, chaos had reigned because Miranda had been unresponsive for days,


    and the hope for Matthew¡¯s recovery was dwindling. The whole family was in an uproar.


    Jerome had been unusually well¨Cbehavedtely, not causing any trouble for Quintessa.


    Tyrone too had been quiet. Since that day, he hadn¡¯t shown his face again.


    It gave Quintessa a sense of peace, a feeling that she finally had a couple of days of calm after a


    month of being back.


    Quintessa harbored thoughts of revenge against Tyrone, but she knew this was not something to rush.


    She needed a meticulous n. Tyrone was a man she would only deal with when absolutely


    necessary, and when she did, she was determined toe out on top.


    The perfect way to exact revenge on a man was to make him fall hopelessly in love with you, then do


    as you please!


    Quintessa wouldn¡¯t seek Tyrone out. She¡¯d wait for him toe to her. The key to flirting was to never


    let the man think you¡¯re actually interested.


    Quintessa spent a few days shooting honestly for the movie ¡°Requiem¡°; as she was familiar with


    Director Cooper, everyone on set thought she and Tyrone were close and treated her with extra care;


    no one gave her a hard time.


    After five straight days on set, the team from ¡°Shadows of the Past¡± called her in for her scenes, and


    Quintessa nned to pack up and head to Zion City.


    While packing at home, Violet received two calls from well¨Cknown producers in the industry, both


    expressing that they wanted Quintessa as the lead actress in their movies.


    Even if her schedule didn¡¯t align, they were willing to wait for her¨Cno matter how long it took.


    This kind of offer was rare, even for A¨Clist stars.


    But Violet didn¡¯t seem overly thrilled. After hanging up, she asked Quintessa, ¡°These two sudden big¨C


    budget film offers, with investors from the York Financial Group, they¡¯re gained because of Tyrone,


    aren¡¯t they?¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Probably.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to go?¡± Violet probed.


    Quintessa scoffed and took a deep breath, ¡°Why not? In his eyes, I¡¯m just a nobody. Who cares about


    pride when you can gain something tangible? Besides, he owes me.¡±


    In Tyrone¡¯s presence, Quintessa felt she had lost her dignity long ago. What was the point of putting on


    airs now?


    Securing the role was what mattered most.


    Quintessa was clear on one thing: food only satisfies hunger when it¡¯s eaten.


    Violet patted her shoulder, ¡°One day you¡¯ll stand on the highest stage and im the crown of Best


    Actress.¡±


    1/2


    Chapter 99


    Quintessa smiled, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Someday, she would shine brilliantly.


    Her aim wasn¡¯t just to revenge, but to gain sess as well.


    ¡°I¡¯ve decided to sign Reuben,¡± Violet announced, ¡°He¡¯s a good kid. Look out for him, will you?¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Sure.¡±


    Reuben was the fresh¨Cfaced actor who yed opposite Quintessa; being polite and handsome, shy


    and blushing in her presence, he wasn¡¯t disliked by Quintessa.


    Then Violet remembered something, ¡°Oh, and it looks like the music video with Great Snow Jackson


    might not happen.¡±


    Quintessa frowned, ¡°Why not?¡±


    Violet hesitated before revealing, ¡°The two recordbels behind him are being acquired by the York


    Financial Group.¡±


    Quintessa stayed silent for a moment before resuming her packing.


    ¡°I see.¡±


    No wonder the music video shoot was abruptly halted that day, and that¡¯s the reason why there had


    been no progress in the following days.


    Quintessaughed to herself.

 Chapter 100

    Chapter 100


    She hadn¡¯t expected Tyrone to do such a thing for her.


    Talk about clout!


    To have Tyrone step up for her was no small feat.


    She had her lips curled into a smirk; her chances of winning Tyrone over just got a little bit better.


    Holding her phone, Quintessa stared at Tyrone¡¯s number.


    Should she call? For a guy like Snow, was it worth reaching out to Tyrone?


    If she called Tyrone now, it would be like admitting defeat. What she¡¯d say doesn¡¯t matter; the point is,


    making the first move would mean she¡¯s bowing down first.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    After ten minutes, Quintessa decided to postpone her trip to Zion City by a day and dialed Snow¡¯s


    number. ¡°Hey, Snow, you free today?¡± she asked casually.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, trying to ask me out?¡± Snow¡¯s voice was as cheeky as ever, light and unfazed.


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°Yeah, up for it or what?¡±


    Snow chuckled, feeling intrigued. ¡°Well, I gotta say, I¡¯m curious. I only do dates with hotties, anything


    else is pretty hard to get on my calendar. So, how you nning to woo me?¡±


    Snow¡¯s tone was breezy, almost carefree.


    Quintessa couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Sorry to disappoint, but we¡¯re talking about shooting a music video,


    not a date.¡±


    There was a pause on the other end before Snow replied, ¡°My album might get dyed, so the music


    video thing is on hold for now.¡±


    Before Snow could finish, Quintessa cut in, ¡°Don¡¯t give me maybes. I¡¯ll tell you straight: once I sink my


    teeth into something, I don¡¯t let go. Even if someone snatches it from me, I snatch it right back. If you¡¯re


    a man, give it to me straight.¡±


    Her words struck a chord in Snow; it was something he hadn¡¯t felt in a long time.


    He hesitated, ¡°Even if I agree now, we don¡¯t have a studio ready.¡±


    ¡°Who needs a studio? Grab your assistant and a camera.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Snow didn¡¯t ask what Quintessa was up to. Both theirpanies were being eaten alive by the York


    Financial Group. Facing such a powerhouse, there was little resistance they could offer, and the


    takeover was inevitable. Snow¡¯s album waspletely on ice.


    With things this far gone, there was no point in worrying about the details.


    When they arrived at the location, Snow was stunned. It was a mountain of old cars; there was


    destion as far as the eye could see, with an air of decay that seeped into one¡¯s bones, along with a


    sense of helplessness.


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    Chapter 100


    Snow¡¯s agent, Tony, pinched his nose andined loudly, ¡°Why are we in this gooxen ce? It¡¯s


    filthy!¡±


    He gestured dramatically at Quintessa and bellowed, ¡°What can we possibly shoot here with just us?¡±


    Ignoring him, Quintessa simply said to Snow, ¡°Let¡¯s do this.¡±


    Having worked on film sets abroad, Quintessa knew a thing or two about shooting. She wasn¡¯t one to


    back down. No studio? She¡¯d find a location. No photographer? She¡¯d do it herself. It was just a music


    video, and she was determined to make it happen.


    Snow was a creative genius. The moment he saw the ce, he felt his heart skip a beat, as if he¡¯d


    instantly captured the soul of his hit song.


    He slung an arm around Quintessa¡¯s neck, ¡°Thanks, you¡¯re a genius. If it weren¡¯t for the fact that you¡¯re


    one of a kind, I¡¯d seriously consider hitting on you.¡±

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101


    The ce was indeed the perfect spot for a shoot. Stepping onto the scene, Snow felt his creativity


    ignited like a lightbulb flickering to life.


    Quintessa paid no mind to Snow¡¯s half¨Cserious, half¨Cjoking banter. If she had no interest in ying the


    flirtation game with a man, she certainly wasn¡¯t about to entertain his every remark.


    With a smile that could light up the darkest room, Quintessa said, ¡°When your new single drops, you¡¯d


    better give me a shout¨Cout.¡±


    Snow replied with a grin, ¡°You know it.¡±


    After Manny finished working his makeup magic on Quintessa, she slipped into her outfit, a pair of bare


    feet nting her firmly atop an abandoned car. The wind caught her crimson skirt, a flurry of red like


    spilled blood, and at the moment the shutter clicked, the image was frozen in time, which was a y of


    shadows and light. Beauty and decay, darkness and brilliance, it was as if two worlds had collided.


    Though theycked staff and a professional photographer, they still nailed it.


    The music video was shot with a simple mix of wide shots and shaky, jump¨Ccut close¨Cups, yet it was


    still stunning.


    All that was left was post¨Cproduction and scoring, and that would be left to Snow¡¯s personal studio to


    handle.


    After the shoot, Quintessa was gone, off to Zion City, racing against the clock.


    Sitting in his car, Snow scrolled through the photos on his camera, again and again.


    There was Quintessa, poised on the weathered, patchy car. Her frame was slender yet strong, as if she


    harbored a mighty force within. Her shadow stretched out on the ground, monstrous, brimming with


    vigorous life, as if nothing could bring her down.


    Snow turned to Tony and said, ¡°She¡¯s breathtaking, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    Tony, almost reflexively, nodded while muttering, ¡°As stunning as she is, she¡¯s not gonna turn me


    straight.¡±


    Snow¡¯s gaze never left the photos of Quintessa: ¡°You were born this way, I like it, and that¡¯s enough.¡±


    Tony, surprised, blurted out, ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    Snow affirmed, ¡°Yes, I really like her!¡±


    ¡°Mr. York, Ms. Quintessa Young has headed back to Zion City,¡± James reported carefully, wary of his


    phrasing.


    It had been a week since Tyrone had poured over Quintessa¡¯s files, and he still hadn¡¯t fully recovered


    from the shock.


    Whenever he had a moment to himself, Quintessa¡¯s face would haunt him¨Ccold, fierce, like a de


    forged and tempered in mes.


    And her words echoed in his ears¨CDon¡¯t fall in love with me!


    Tyrone felt like he was on the verge of a breakdown.


    The initial panic slowly subsided, yet he stillcked the courage to face Quintessa, which was a knot in


    his


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    14:47


    Chapter 101


    heart that wouldn¡¯t untie.


    Though for days, he¡¯d found himself drawn to the building where she lived.


    But what could he do if he went up?


    Apologize?


    Could he even bring himself to say it?


    If not to apologize, then what?


    What could he possibly say to her face to face?


    Tyrone was in turmoil every day, desperate for advice but too ashamed to speak of it.


    Noticing Tyrone¡¯s distraction, James called out twice, ¡°Mr. York, Mr. York.¡±


    Tyrone snapped back to reality: ¡°Alright, I got it.¡±


    Knowing she was off to Zion City again, Tyrone frowned.


    Seeing his boss¡¯s mind elsewhere, James ventured, ¡°Mr. York, there¡¯s another thing. Miss Rachel


    Young has been trying to reach you through me.¡±


    The mention of Rachel¡¯s name sent a chill over Tyrone¡¯s face, his lips drawing into a thin, harsh line,


    ¡°Tell her to stay as far away from me as possible.¡±


    The name Rachel sparked more than just anger in Tyrone now. Thinking about what the Young family


    had done to Quintessa, he felt his blood boil with a rage that bordered on murderous.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    James cautiously added, ¡°I¡¯ve told her to back off, but.¡±


    2/2

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102


    ¡°I¡¯ve told her to back off, but.¡±


    Rachel no matter how harshly he put it, she¡¯s like a dog with a bone, day after day.


    That woman Rachel, she¡¯s something else a real piece of work, a force to be reckoned with. She¡¯s like


    the Energizer Bunny on steroids!


    Tyrone scoffed coldly, pretty sure he knew why Rachel was hounding him.


    Flipping through his contacts on his smartphone, he had his long fingers scroll up and down before


    stopping on Quintessa¡¯s number. ¡°That thing I asked you to dost time, how¡¯s iting along?¡±


    James nodded, ¡°It¡¯s done. Thosepanies tied up with the Youngs have either pulled out or put their


    deals on ice. The Young family¡¯s stocks took a nosedive recently.¡±


    Poor Sean¡¯s hair had turned white overnight, and he had been scrambling for cash everywhere.


    Tyrone shook his head, ¡°Not enough.¡±


    ¡°Right, I¡¯ll push them harder.¡±


    James mentally lit a candle for the Young family.


    That evening, Tyrone and Alexander were knocking back a few drinks.


    They barely exchanged a word; Tyrone sat there with a scowl, while flipping through his phone with


    evident irritation.


    Alexander couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°What¡¯s with the phone? Waiting for a call? You¡¯re totally out of it.¡±


    Tyrone cleared his throat, ¡°Am I?¡±


    He felt a twinge of guilt, as if his inner turmoil had beenid bare.


    Alexander eyed Tyrone, ¡°Definitely. You haven¡¯t done something you¡¯re regretting, have you?¡±


    Tyrone put down the phone and hesitated before asking, ¡°Alexander, have you ever had a woman drive


    you so crazy that you hate her guts, so much so that sometimes you wish you could¡­ you know, but


    just can¡¯t bring yourself to do it? And then, when you realize you¡¯ve got it all wrong about her, you get


    this panic?¡±


    Alexander paused mid¨Csip and looked at Tyrone as if he¡¯d grown a second head, ¡°Dude, are you in


    love?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s heart skipped a beat, but he scoffed, ¡°Love? You kidding me?¡±


    Love?


    Please! Since when does that have anything to do with him?


    Alexander thought about the Tyrone he¡¯d known since childhood, ¡°Maybe, but you? Fall for someone?


    That¡¯s a stretch.¡±


    Tyrone wasplex, a man who seemed transparent at times, yet confoundingly deep. One thing was


    for sure, Tyrone¡¯s heart was icy and discerning; there wasn¡¯t much that caught his eye, especially when


    it


    came to women.


    Feeling the previous topic a bit too ¡®dangerous¡®, Tyrone changed the subject, ¡°What about that woman


    you were looking for? Any news?¡±


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    14:47


    Chapter 102


    ¡®on¡¯t even


    Alexander¡¯s handsome face clouded over, ¡°Nothing. It¡¯s like looking for a needle in a haystack know her


    real name, where she¡¯s from, and I don¡¯t have a single picture of her just the image in my


    head.¡±


    Tyroneughed, ¡°You¡¯re chasing a ghost, man.¡±


    ¡°But I know I like her.¡± Alexander looked up at Tyrone earnestly, ¡°It was love at first sight.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Tyrone mocked, ¡°Love at first sight, huh? Alright, for the sake of your so¨Ccalled love at first sight, I¡¯ll


    help you find her. I¡¯m curious to see who this enchantress is that¡¯s got Alexander ¨C of all people ¨C head


    over heels.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, a real enchantress ¨C you¡¯d fall for her too, in a heartbeat.¡±


    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t wait to meet this siren.¡±

 Chapter 103

    Chapter 103


    Alexander rolled his eyes as he took a swig from his beer. ¡°Man, if it wasn¡¯t for that I need your help to


    track her down, I¡¯d rather you didn¡¯t meet her at all.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡± Tyrone asked, leaning back on the worn leather couch.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll try to steal her away from me!¡± he half¨Cjoked, with a smirk ying on his lips.


    ¡°Get outta here,¡± Tyrone scoffed, while setting his own drink down with a thud. ¡°It¡¯s just a woman. Is she


    really worth all this fuss to you?¡±


    Lately, Tyrone¡¯s mind had been anywhere but on his work. Shirley hadid out a whole list of


    appointments, but the boss hadn¡¯t so much as blinked an eye.


    Shirley was itching to get out early but didn¡¯t dare to ask. Everyone knew that the boss was in one of


    his moodstely.


    Only one item remained on her list. She cleared her throat softly and ventured, ¡°Mr. York, Kevin¡¯s


    prepped to merge the two newly acquiredpanies into a media conglomerate. He¡¯s nning a trip


    to Zion City to scope things out and is requesting a couple days off.¡±


    That caught the boss¡¯s attention. ¡°Hold on, what¡¯s Kevin up to again?¡±


    Shirley quickly replied, ¡°Kevin¡¯s asking for a short leave. He¡¯s aiming to do some recon in Zion City.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s response was curt. ¡°Tell him no, the leave¡¯s not approved. He doesn¡¯t need to go.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Because¨CI¡¯m going.¡±


    Quintessa arrived in Zion City a dayte due to a music video shoot with Snow, and she hadn¡¯t even


    had a moment for water before she had to rush into costume and makeup to start filming.


    As she sat in the makeup chair, she ran her lines.


    The scene for the day was a dark one where her character, Queen Seraphina, plots a miscarriage.


    ying Seraphina was like second nature to Quintessa. All she had to do was channel the character¡¯s


    malevolence, ruthlessness, and lust for power, and she¡¯d nail it. Simple.


    Even Director Fitch Frost, who was not too pleased about the dy Quintessa caused, could not deny


    her perfect portrayal of Queen Seraphina. Watching her act was both a treat and a chilling experience.


    The treat was her beauty; the chill came from her cold¨Cblooded performance.


    So, while Quintessa breezed through her scenes without a hitch, it was Roxanne Ferber, the lead


    actress, who kept getting stopped.


    Fitch, feeling exasperated, finally snapped, ¡°Roxanne, what¡¯s the deal? Can¡¯t you act? You¡¯re stiff as a


    board. If you can¡¯t cut it, we might as well rece you. Look at Quintessa, for crying out loud. Can¡¯t you


    take a hint from her?¡±


    During a break, the cast lounged in the makeup room where Roxanne, with deliberate loudness,


    spewed sarcasm. ¡°Someone already think she¡¯s A¨Clister, strutting around like she¡¯s hot stuff, without


    having even made her debut. But she¡¯ll never make it big¨Cshe¡¯ll be just a nobody forever, trading favors


    for minor roles.¡±


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    14:47


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    Quintessa, sipping the water that her assistant Manny handed her, just smirked.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Roxanne, with her sweet looks, had been in the industry for a few years without making a big ssh.


    Still, she had connections, and for Fitch¡¯stest project, she was a significant investor.


    The other actresses, mostly lesser¨Cknown, clustered around Roxanne. One of them, eager to ingratiate


    herself, said, ¡°C¡¯mon, Roxanne, why let some trash get under your skin? I heard she¡¯s been with


    everyone from the producers to the stagehands, and that¡¯s the only reason she got this part.¡±


    Women can be strange creatures, often banding together to ostracize someone more attractive out of


    sheer instinct.


    And Quintessa was the one being ostracized.

 Chapter 104

    Chapter 104


    Manny¡¯s face flushed with anger, as he was ready to retort, Quintessa stopped him with a gesture.


    Roxanne snorted, ¡°Whatever. It¡¯s just a vile thing, not worth my energy.¡±


    As the crew signaled the beginning of the shoot, Quintessa stood up and turned with a radiant smile


    towards Roxanne and her clique.


    Roxanne¡¯s face twisted in rage.


    Manny watched Quintessa striding away while casually flicking her wrists. ¡°Quinn, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve got an action scene this afternoon.¡±


    ¡°Action scene?¡±


    Manny scratched his head; he was clueless about any fight sequence.


    It all became clear once the shooting started. Quintessa¡¯s character, Queen Seraphina, was in the


    prime of


    her royal favor. Roxanne¡¯s character, a new arrival and a minor talent, had just enjoyed a rare moment


    of royal attention. When Queen Seraphina finds it out, she looks for an excuse to punish her.


    Quintessa delivered a resounding p, her voice dripping with disdain: ¡°Who do you think you are; how


    dare you talk back to me?¡±


    Although such p scenes were usually faked, Quintessa¡¯s strike was real and forceful.


    The venom in Quintessa¡¯s eyes, the swift execution, the cold smirk, and the dismissive arch of her


    brow¨Call were perfect for the scene, which earned a loud ¡°Cut, that¡¯s perfect!¡± from the director behind


    the monitor.


    The director might have been pleased, but Roxanne was stunned, with her hand covering her cheek.


    Coming to her senses, she cursed at Quintessa, ¡°Did you just hit me for real?¡±


    Quintessa frowned slightly, ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s my first time in such a scene. I didn¡¯t gauge my strength


    properly.¡±


    The director, seeing the disruption, lost his temper. Quintessa had set the scene perfectly, but Roxanne


    wasn¡¯t ying along. Tossing his headphones aside, he stood up, ¡°Roxanne, what¡¯s the matter with


    you? If you don¡¯t want to act, then get out.¡±


    Roxanne¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears of humiliation. ¡°But she hit me!¡±


    Director Frost snorted in frustration, ¡°That¡¯s the point! I¡¯ve never seen such an unprofessional actor.


    Poor acting skill is one thing, but apleteck of professionalism is another. I truly regret signing


    you on.¡±


    Roxanne, trembling with anger, tried to respond, but Director Frost cut her off, ¡°Get out, now!¡±


    Everyone knew of Frost¡¯s fiery temper on set, but it was rare for him to tell someone to leave. This time,


    he was truly incensed.


    Roxanne¡¯s agent hurried over, trying to smooth things over with the director and to console Roxanne.


    Half an hourter, the filming resumed.


    Roxanne¡¯s cheek was slightly swollen, but after a heavyyer of makeup, it was hardly noticeable. She


    red at Quintessa, with her teeth clenched, ¡°This isn¡¯t over.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa shrugged nonchntly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll put even more effort into it¨Cpping you, that is.¡±


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    14:47


    Chapter 104


    So, when the filming continued, Quintessa delivered another solid p.


    This time, Roxanne held back her anger, but the scene was cut short once more.


    ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be aggrieved, holding back, heartbroken¨Cnot hateful. Do you understand? Let¡¯s try


    it again,¡± the director instructed.


    Roxanne felt faint with fury, fully aware that Quintessa was taking revenge. If they kept shooting, she


    would receive real ps, and all she could do was endure,


    Roxanne took a deep breath, and after six more takes, the scene was finally eptable.


    Quintessa smirked, ¡°How was that? Feeling better?¡±

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105


    Roxanne¡¯s face was swollen from the p, and her mouth was split at the corners, with blood filling;


    her teeth felt like they were on the brink of falling out.


    After the scene ended, she red at Quintessa with venomous eyes and growled, ¡°Just you wait.¡±


    Roxanne wanted to spit out a few harsh words, but the pain was too much, and just mouthing those


    few words nearly brought her to tears.


    She hurried off with her agent to the hospital, frightened that the blow might have disfigured her


    beautiful


    face.


    Director Fitch wasn¡¯t fond of Roxanne, to begin with. Even knowing that Quintessa had hit her on


    purpose, he still turned a blind eye and wanted to keep filming. Hollywood was always a cutthroat


    ce.


    Manny handed Quintessa a thermos, ¡°Quinn, you holding up okay?¡±


    Quintessa shook off her hand, ¡°I¡¯m fine, just a bit of a numb hand.¡±


    Manny gulped nervously, whispering, ¡°You were fierce.¡±


    Quintessa flexed her right hand.


    This skirmish was far from over; in fact, it was likely just the beginning.


    A film set was a battlefield, anding out on top was never easy.


    There was more toe for Roxanne, she was the least of Quintessa¡¯s concerns.


    That night, Quintessa¡¯s scene was with the lead actor ying the King, the famous Jonathan Winters, a


    36¨Cyear¨Cold cinema star who had taken a hiatus from the silver screen to return to television.


    Jonathan was the epitome of handsome and sophisticated charm; his features were sharp and her


    eyes were a deep, brooding pool. His poprity with the audience was undeniable; with a slew of


    international awards under his belt, he deserved the fame as the ¡®Movie Star Jonathan¡®.


    Rumors about his influential connections were rife, and though the media had spent over a decade


    trying to unearth his background, they hade up empty¨Chanded.


    Jonathan exuded courtesy and kindness to everyone, which earned him the reputation of being one of


    the nicest stars around. But Quintessa knew better; these kinds of men, who were seemingly warm on


    the outside, often harbored a chilling indifference within.


    Otherwise, despite the many male and female stars who had tried to catch his eye, not one had


    managed to engage him in conversation for more than five minutes.


    Their scene that night was an intimate one, with just a few sweet nothings followed by the drawing of


    curtains and lying down together.


    As theyy side by side, Jonathan suddenly asked, ¡°Was it intentional?¡±


    His voice was captivating, as he always used his natural tone on set, and when he spoke, it was as if


    he were reciting poetry, which was enchanting and intoxicating.


    Knowing exactly what he was referring to, Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°Yeah, it was intentional. Got


    a problem with that? If you do, keep it to yourself.¡±


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    14:47


    h


    Chapter 105


    She had no intention of clinging to Jonathan for support. She could tell right away that he wasn¡¯t one to


    warm up to easily, so why waste her time trying to impress him?


    Jonathan smiled, feeling surprised by her frankness. She was different from the other actresses,


    different from any girl he¡¯d ever met.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He said, ¡°You know, it might not be a good look for ady to be sobative. Men usually prefer a


    gentler touch.¡±


    Quintessa loathed this patronizing tone; it reminded her of Sean, whom she couldn¡¯t put up with. She


    turned to face Jonathan, who was only inches away, ¡°Look, mister, whether I¡¯m good or not is none of


    your business. After all, I¡¯m not the one causing you any trouble, so why worry?¡±


    Jonathan was lost for words.


    He grimaced. Why did being called ¡®mister¡® sound so irritating?


    ¡°Do you always have a barb ready for everyone?¡± he asked.

 Chapter 106

    Chapter 106


    When the production crew outside called it a wrap, Quintessa sat up, while her gaze was lingering on


    Jonathan¡¯s smooth features. ¡°You seem to be nice to everyone, but what¡¯s the real deal? You know


    what¡¯s in your heart.¡±


    A shadow of coolness crossed Jonathan¡¯s face as he looked back at Quintessa with an oppressive


    intensity. ¡°Listen, kiddo, there are things better left unsaid once you see through them. It¡¯s for your own


    good.¡±


    Quintessa snorted withughter. ¡°Seems like keeping my mouth shut hasn¡¯t done me any good so far,


    Mister. Please, step aside. I need to get out of bed.*


    ¡°Out of bed? I¡¯ve heard that you, Quintessa, are more familiar with getting into them.¡±


    Despite the vulgar insinuation of his words, it seemed his character was not tainted by what he said.


    Her smile broadened. Apparently, Roxanne had made sure her reputation for ¡®sleeping around¡® was


    known to everyone on set.


    Quintessa leaned forward suddenly, pinning Jonathan with her body. She locked eyes with him and


    said, ¡°So, I¡¯d advise movie star Jonathan to keep your distance. They say I¡¯m the kind of woman who¡¯s


    slept with every man in the crew.¡±


    After a moment of stunned silence, Jonathan replied, ¡°If you¡¯ve really been with everyone, what am I


    then? Not a man? I¡¯d like to think I¡¯m worth a bit more than the others, right? If you were really after


    quick gains, you wouldn¡¯t ignore an Oscar winner like me, would you?¡± For a split second, he thought


    Quintessa was pretty badass; it¡¯s almost like the roles of men and women between them had been


    reversed.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    With a sly grin, Quintessa pinched Jonathan¡¯s chin. ¡°Ever heard of ying hard to get?¡±


    Jonathan retorted, ¡°Don¡¯t paint yourself in such a bad light.¡±


    Suddenly, Quintessa didn¡¯t feel like talking anymore. She let go, and her expression was chilling as she


    pushed aside the bed curtains. ¡°You¡¯re wrong. I¡¯m exactly that bad, even worse than you could


    imagine.¡±


    She was bad, indeed, worse even than she admitted to herself. If anyone dare block her path, she


    wouldn¡¯t care what she might do.


    It waste when Quintessa shed her costume, wiped off her makeup, and changed into her clothes to


    head back to the hotel.


    After a night shoot thatsted until 5 in the morning, she arrived at the hotel, feeling too tired to be


    picky about its modest amodations.


    She stumbled to her room, too weary to even flick on the light. She made her way to the bed and


    copsed onto it after feeling its edge; too exhausted to even undress, she was just ready to sleep.


    But within seconds, Quintessa sprang up from the bed.


    Click. The room light snapped on.


    She saw the man lying on her bed.


    All the panic in her eyes vanished as she spotted him, and her face twisted into a sardonic smile. ¡°Well,


    well, look who it is. Sneaking into my bed in the middle of the night? Isn¡¯t this Mr. York?¡±


    In the dead of night, in Zion City, which was miles from Emberbrook, Quintessa couldn¡¯t believe Tyrone


    would show up in her bed. There were no five¨Cstar hotels here, no gourmet cuisine, and certainly no


    pretty girls.


    Tyrone wore a shirt, the top two buttons of which were undone, revealing his alluring corbone.


    Despite his weary look, his eyes were bright as he leaned against the headboard, gazing at Quintessa.

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107


    Under Tyrone, a bath towel Quintessa had brought from home wasid out, which was an indication of


    his disdain for the less¨Cthan¨Cster amodations of this ce and his refusal to trust the hotel¡¯s


    linens.


    Tyrone ignored Quintessa¡¯s sarcasm as if it were nothing; without budging an inch, he just said while


    furrowing his brow, ¡°Why¡¯re you back sote?¡±


    His voice was tinged withint, me, and an unsettling familiarity


    -as if he were the lord of this domain.


    They say beauty grows under the soft glow ofmplight, bing ever more enchanting.


    Quintessa had to admit that the more she looked at Tyrone, the handsomer he seemed. But with each


    passing moment, she felt her resentment growing.


    If she had a vial of acid in her hand right now, she was convinced that she¡¯d throw it at him without a


    second thought.


    Leaning back against the wall, Quintessa let the solid structure support her weary body. She would


    never again show weakness in front of Tyrone.


    Some humiliations, once tasted, were enough.


    With arms crossed over her chest, Quintessa looked evidently exhausted; her eyes were bloodshot


    from the previous long night of shooting. She spoke with a hint of disdain, ¡°Geez, you sound like a


    neglected housewife. Got an itch? Take a left outside, pick any actress¨Cfrom the crew you fancy, and


    have at it with whoever you please.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s teeth ached, literally, from irritation.


    He had been looking for an excuse to see Quintessa for days but couldn¡¯t find the right reason or


    muster the courage to face her, perhaps out of a sense of anxiety.


    Finally, two days ago, Kevin had acquired Spark Entertainment and BrightStar Media, nning to


    merge them into a single entertainment conglomerate. Kevin intended to inspect the Zion City film


    complex with thoughts of investing.


    And so, Tyrone had jumped at the chance toe himself.


    But hearing Quintessa¡¯s words now, he felt his teeth aching even more. She really had a way with


    words¨Cor rather, a way of getting under his skin.


    He had thought that perhaps he could go easy on her, considering her struggle, but upon seeing her,


    he found any softness he once felt turned back into anger.


    Tyrone had considered sweet¨Ctalking her, but her sharp words changed his mind. ¡°I¡¯m not the type to


    fool around, but tonight, I¡¯m all about you.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a smirk, ¡°Looking for a game, huh? Why didn¡¯t you say so earlier? Why the


    false modesty? You¡¯re not the casual type, but I can be quite the opposite when I choose to be.¡±


    With swift steps, Quintessa pushed Tyrone, causing him to lie askew on the bed.


    She straddled him, with her hands braced on his chest, licking her lips seductively, ¡°Mr. York, however


    you want to y, I¡¯m game. I¡¯ll make sure you feel right at home, satisfaction guaranteed.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s breathing grew heavier, and his hands found her waist.


    Noticing the dark circles under her eyes and the redness in them, he frowned; as he was about to


    speak, Quintessa suddenly rolled off him.


    Laughing, Quintessa said, ¡°Oops, I forgot. I¡¯m dirty, you know. Didn¡¯t you hear the rumor about our


    crew? That I¡¯ve slept with every guy on set? Someone like me is hardly a match for Mr. York. We don¡¯t


    have the right props here. How about we switch to a more adventurous motel?¡±


    The more Tyrone heard, the more ufortable he felt. He knew he had overstepped that day, but it


    was out of anger.


    The fire rising within Tyrone slowly subsided, and he said with a furrowed brow, ¡°It¡¯ste. Let¡¯s just


    sleep.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Depends on what you mean by ¡®sleep.¡±Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Tyrone¡¯s voice was icy, ¡°Take a break.¡±


    Quintessa shoved him forcefully, ¡°You didn¡¯te all this way just to chat under the nkets, did you?


    I don¡¯t have the luxury to lie in bed with you. Either we get down to business, or you can get lost.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s brows furrowed tightly. He was used to telling others to scram, but in front of this woman, he


    was always the one being told to hit the road.


    And yet, he just couldn¡¯t bring himself to leave.


    Tyrone wasn¡¯t the type to sweet¨Ctalk a woman. He couldn¡¯t even utter an apology, let alone know how


    to begin one.


    He never thought he needed to apologize to a woman, even though he did feel a bit sorry for


    Quintessa.


    But Quintessa was something else. He felt annoyed by her, yet he couldn¡¯t let go.


    Did he like her?


    Tyrone didn¡¯t think so. In his mind, even if he did fall for a woman, it wouldn¡¯t be someone like


    Quintessa.


    But it was precisely because he didn¡¯t think he liked her, and yet couldn¡¯t let go, that he felt such


    strange irritation.


    Tyrone¡¯s expression turned cold, and he lifted Quintessa¡¯s chin with his hand.


    ¡°I learned about that Jerome incident.¡±


    Quintessa paused, her face full of scorn: ¡°So, why are you here? Feeling guilty? Pity? Sympathy?¡±


    ¡°From now on, if you¡¯re in trouble, you cane to me, and the Young family won¡¯t let anyone chase


    after you again.¡±


    Quintessa knocked Tyrone¡¯s hand away; she came to know why he hade all of a sudden. It


    seemed he had investigated her life in Serenitia.


    E


    She sneered, ¡°If you had shown up like this when I needed someone the most, I might have fallen for


    you and done anything for you. But now, Tyrone, I truly find you repulsive.¡±


    For the first time, Tyrone tried to speak gently to a woman, but she wasn¡¯t having any of it.


    Tyrone clenched his teeth, ¡°Can¡¯t you just ept a little kindness?¡±


    Quintessaughed sarcastically, ¡°Seems like you forgot that I¡¯m naturally shameless. What do I need


    shame for? Do I even have shame?¡±


    Tyrone felt it impossible to have a conversation with Quintessa, she was all thorns, through and


    through.


    Without another word, he pulled her into his embrace, ¡°Let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    F ???? ???? ? ? ?? ? ?? ? ?? ?? ? ??? ? ?


    Quintessa demanded, ¡°Let go.¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t budge, and suddenly he sniffed her chest, ¡°Who have you been with?¡±


    Quintessa was startled, then retorted, ¡°A man, obviously. Who else would I be with thiste at night?¡±


    Tyrone pinched her chin, ¡°Stop talking like that. Are you trying to provoke me on purpose?¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a new one. What are you to me? How can my words get to you? Even if it¡¯s about being


    cheated on, that¡¯s none of your business, is it? Don¡¯t worry about ying the husband, I can do without


    that.¡±


    Tyrone suddenlyughed, ¡°Well, I¡¯m worried now.¡±


    Quintessa rolled her eyes.


    Interesting conversation, indeed.


    Quintessa thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re really not leaving?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t nned on leaving once he arrived.


    Quintessa was exhausted but couldn¡¯t fall asleep. She hadn¡¯t taken her clothes off, and the man beside


    her held her tightly, his leg pressing down on her. In the darkness of the night, Quintessa¡¯s smile was


    cold.


    She always knew how to make Tyrone fall for her.


    And this moment, wasn¡¯t it a perfect start?


    Men, foolish creatures.

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109


    The first light of dawn crept into the room when Quintessa finally found sleep.


    Her shoot was on the afternoon, which allowed her the luxury of a restful morning.


    At 8:30 am, Manny returned from his morning errand carrying breakfast for Quintessa. He never forgot


    the doctor¡¯s advice: three square meals a day, with breakfast being the most important.


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    He had darted out early to grab some oatmeal, considering its benefits for the stomach, and picked up


    a few veggie muffins along the way, then he rushed to deliver them to Quintessa.


    But could someone exin why, upon opening the door, he was greeted by a man, and not just any


    man, but the one he loathed and feared the most?


    Little Manny was dumbstruck, ncing at the room number: ¡°Sorry, I must have got the wrong room.¡±


    Manny turned to leave, feeling dazed.


    ¡°Come back.¡±


    That voice sent a shiver down Manny¡¯s spine as he turned back slowly.


    Tyrone was leaning against the door¨Cframe, wearing one of Quintessa¡¯s oversized T¨Cshirts and a pair


    of trousers, with her slippers on his feet¨Cwhich were too small, leaving his heels sticking out. Despite


    the odd attire, he still exuded a disheveled elegance; his drowsy eyes did not diminish his


    handsomeness.


    Manny swallowed hard; he gripped the muffins tighter as he sneakily eyed the T¨Cshirt Tyrone was


    wearing. That was definitely Quinn¡¯s.


    Tyrone¡¯s imposing presence made Manny stutter, ¡°I¡¯ve got muffins and oatmeal. Quinn has a serious


    stomach condition. The doctor insisted she mustn¡¯t skip breakfast:¡±


    ¡°Hand it over, Tyrone demanded.


    Worried about Quintessa, Manny clenched his teeth and asked, ¡°Mr. York, why are you in Quinn¡¯s


    room?¡±


    Manny internally cursed, wondering when this harbinger of doom had arrived.


    Quinn, how do I save you?


    Tyrone scoffed, ¡°If not me, should it be you?¡±


    2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3/8 2


    Manny was caught off guard, and before he knew it, the breakfast was snatched from his hands.


    Manny hurriedly said, ¡°You¡¯ve got to make sure Quinn eats something, at least finish the oatmeal with


    dates; it¡¯s good for the stomach. Her condition is serious. Just after you leftst time, I took her to the


    hospital. The doctor said if it¡¯s not taken care of, it could lead to perforation.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s grip faltered.


    He knew about Quintessa¡¯s hospital visit and her stomach issues, but since Mrs. York had told him


    Quintessa was pregnant, he hadn¡¯t paid much attention to her stomach problems, thinking they weren¡¯t


    that serious.


    He seemed to always overlook things.


    Tyrone felt a heaviness in his heart, though his face remained impassive, ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Seeing Tyrone¡¯s indifference, Manny grew frantic, ¡°Please don¡¯t ignore this. The doctor said if the


    stomach issues are neglected, they could be malignant, with grave consequences.¡±


    The door closed in Manny¡¯s face.


    Tyrone looked down at the paper bag with the muffins and the oatmeal, feeling as if a lump had lodged


    in his throat, as hard as a rock. ncing at the bed, he saw Quintessa sleeping soundly; her face was


    serene,cking the usual defiance she showed him. Her features were soft, and her plush lips were


    slightly pursed.


    A sudden memory shed through Tyrone¡¯s mind ¨C the first time he met Quintessa. Back then, her


    cheeks still held the roundness of youth, but now, they were gone, her jawline became sharper, her


    face thinner, and her body was much leaner than before

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    Chapter 110


    ne¡¯s mind was echoing with Manny¡¯s words, ¡°Severe stomach issues!¡±


    vonder she¡¯d looked so frailst time, but he¡­


    ne massaged his temples.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    e truths, it turns out, are better left unknown. The more you learn, the less peace of mind you have.


    not like Tyrone hadn¡¯t yed rough with others before. What he did to Quintessa was nothing


    compared to that¨Cbarely a blip.


    it bothered him.


    couldn¡¯t fathom why this woman was worth such trouble.


    nced at the muffin in his hand; initially, he had intended to chuck it, but now.


    h a smirk, Tyrone tossed it on the table and grabbed his phone, heading to the bathroom.


    as supposed to be a peaceful weekend sleep¨Cin for James.


    in the early morning, his phone started ringing. Without checking the caller ID, he groggily answered,


    ¡°Hello.¡±


    one could tell James was still in bed, probably having not even opened his eyes: ¡°Must be nice, having


    nothing better to do.¡±


    e next second, James bolted upright: ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    need you to take care of two things for me, pronto.¡±


    ure-


    rone came out and sat on the edge of the bed, staring at Quintessa¡¯s face again.


    arefaced, her skin was clean and untouched.


    rone prodded Quintessa¡¯s cheek: ¡°Really, not that much to look at, are you?¡±


    e¡¯d seen his fair share of stunning women, yet he was inexplicably hooked by her.


    wasn¡¯t like him at all. Everyone, from his family to school, and from school to the wider world, knew


    they don¡¯t mess with the Yorks. ross Tyrone, and he could make you miserable for a year or, if he felt


    like it, for your entire life.


    espite his infamous hard¨Cheartedness, he felt a strange sense of guilt towards Quintessa.


    le poked her again, unable to help himself.


    Not pretty? Last night you were all over me,¡± Quintessa¡¯s eyes remained closed, her voice raspy and


    cold.


    Last night, Tyrone had clung to her like glue, like a ko to a tree, and she had never seen a man


    sleep with such clinginess.


    With his hand still on her face, he didn¡¯t feel embarrassed; instead, he squeezed gently: ¡°Now that


    you¡¯re awake, how about getting up for some oatmeal?¡±


    Feeling too drowsy to move, Quintessa turned away to continue sleeping.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother me.¡±


    She didn¡¯t even want to open her eyes to look at Tyrone.


    He kept squeezing her cheek: ¡°Get up, oatmeal time.¡±


    Quintessa. ¡°Leave me alone.¡±


    Tyrone stood up, ¡°Fine, since you¡¯re in such a mood this morning, I guess I¡¯ll just have to y along.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes flew open, only to see Tyrone halfway through taking off his T¨Cshirt, revealing a


    beautifully sculpted torso.


    Only two words crossed her mind¨Choly sh*t.


    She flipped out of bed and padded barefoot into the bathroom.


    Sitting on the toilet, Quintess saw Tyrone casually lean against the door frame, watching her


    In her head, she was cursing him out, that damn bastard.

 Chapter 111

    Chapter 111


    Quintessa couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, while draping an armzily across her face; then she said


    with a voice dripping with sarcasm, ¡°Wow, that¡¯s some fetish, spying on me while I pee?¡±


    Tyrone was speechless.


    Quintessa had thought she wouldn¡¯t care, but damn it, now she had stage fright and couldn¡¯t do her


    business.


    With a fierce re at Tyrone, she yanked up her jeans and stomped past him, deliberately stepping on


    his foot as she exited.


    Tyrone winced, the corner of his mouth twitching in pain.


    After brushing her teeth and washing her face, Quintessa cleaned up and went out for some oatmeal.


    Tyrone emerged from the bathroom just in time to see Quintessa pulling a muffin out of a paper bag,


    and he couldn¡¯t help butment, ¡°You should stick to the oatmeal, and skip the muffins. An actress


    needs to watch her figure; don¡¯t you worry about turning into a barrel?¡±


    If he hadn¡¯t been thinking about her stomach issues, he wouldn¡¯t have let her near the oatmeal.


    That fast food, bought by some other guy, ugh..


    Quintessaughed with a hint of mockery, ¡°Not eating them, huh? You worried I¡¯ll get a barrel waist?


    Since when is my body any of your business?¡±


    Was Tyrone known for being fussy and nitpicky? Didn¡¯t Quintessa know that? He wouldn¡¯t touch fast


    food with a ten¨Cfoot pole. Even the thought of it made him ufortable.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s my business. The one holding you at night is¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t finish his sentence as Quintessa snatched up a plump muffin and took a big bite.


    Tyrone was speechless.


    Quintessa savored her meal; someone who had known hunger surely understood the value of food and


    never wasted it.


    Tyrone frowned as he watched her devour the muffin and slurp down her oatmeal.


    He had seen plenty of women who ate like birds to maintain their figures, terrified of gaining an ounce.


    But Quintessa? She ate heartily in front of him without a care.


    Watching her, Tyrone suddenly felt hungry himself. Were those muffins really that good?


    Tyrone grumbled, ¡°At least try to eat like ady. You¡¯re a mess.¡±


    Quintessa lifted her chin defiantly, ¡°There¡¯s the door. Use it.¡±


    Who did Tyrone think he was?


    Go along with him, and he¡¯d tire of you quickly. Push back, and sometimes you¡¯d get a rise out of him.


    But strike the right bnce, and his interest would never wane.


    Quintessa intended to keep him on the hook; she was determined to make him fall for her, and to make


    him understand what it felt like to be tormented.


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    Tyrone slid onto the seat next to Quintessa, close enough to make her skin tingle.


    ¡°With all that food, aren¡¯t you afraid of getting fat? Give me one.¡±


    His handnded casually on her shoulder.


    Quintessa didn¡¯t budge, her voice tinged with scorn, ¡°Go get your own. Letting you crash here for the


    night was charity enough. You want me to feed you too? What, did the York family hit rock bottom?¡±


    Tyrone had his lips curled into a smirk, while his eyes flicked over to the bowl of oatmeal with dates,


    ¡°Feed me one of those dates,¡±


    Quintessa pped his hand away with a scoff, ¡°How about I give you a date with the door?¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Tyrone¡¯s lips, red and thin, were usually cold and detached, but now they bore a teasing smile, ¡°Why


    would I leave? We haven¡¯t finished rolling in the hay, have we?¡±


    Quintessa bit back her irritation, ¡°Mr. York, are you that broke? Can¡¯t afford your own hotel, so you


    crash at my ¡®fancy¡® ce? And who allowed you to wear my tee? Can you even afford it?¡±


    She nced at Tyrone, who was decked out in her tee, and couldn¡¯t help butugh. Who would have


    thought Tyrone would one day be wearing a $13 shirt?


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 Chapter 112

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    The thing was, it was a woman¡¯s dress¨Ca woman¡¯s dreas that she had worn.


    Tyrone had gone off the deep end,pletely bonkers, wearing someone else¡¯s hand¨Cme¨Cdowns.


    With a nonchnt backward slump, Tyrone drawled, ¡°Booking rooms is your thing, isn¡¯t it? The hotel


    you chose that night wasn¡¯t bad, I must admit, and I was quite satisfied.¡±


    Quintessa chuckled, rolling up her sleeves with a smirk, ¡°Oh, finallying clean, are we? I thought


    you¡¯d y the shrinking violet forever, and never own up to it. Well, since you¡¯ve opened up, let¡¯s have


    a proper chat.¡±


    The emphasis she put on ¡®proper chat¡® signaled she meant business.


    Tyrone squinted his eyes; his devilishly charming face made him look like he was asking for a punch,


    ¡°Have I ever denied it? Really?¡±


    Though he never confirmed it, he certainly never denied it either.


    Quintessa, unable to hold back any longer, kicked Tyrone away with a scoff. ¡°Ha! Since you¡¯ve owned


    up, let¡¯s talk about the money for that room. I¡¯m not going to fleece you¨Clet¡¯s split it, $263. Since you¡¯re


    so broke that you can barely afford underwear, I¡¯ll knock off the change. Just give me $260,¡±


    Before Tyrone could respond, Quintessa sized him up with a curled lip, ¡°Damn, you¡¯ve be even


    more miserly over the years, not even willing to shell out for a room.¡±


    ncing at her outstretched palm, Tyrone grabbed it and pulled her hand down towards him


    suggestively, ¡°Tsk, but as I recall, ady offered to treat me that night.¡±


    Quintessa, yanking her hand back, stood up with a face so cold that it could freeze over.


    ¡°Yeah, I said I¡¯d treat you, but only on the condition that Inded the lead role in ¡®Whispers in the Wind.


    Where¡¯s that leading role now? You had a free night with me, and I haven¡¯t even pressed you for that.


    All I¡¯m asking for is half the room cost, and you¡¯re balking about it?¡±


    Tyrone released her hand, and leaned back with his hands behind his head, ¡°Broke.¡±


    Quintessa burst outughing.


    ¡°Get lost.¡±


    After a couple ofughs, Quintessa¡¯s face turned stormy, and she pointed dramatically at the door as if


    to say, ¡®get out or I¡¯ll sic the dogs on you!¡¯


    Tyrone wrapped his arms around Quintessa¡¯s waist and rolled with her onto the bed, ¡°So you do want


    to roll with me.¡±


    Quintessa ground her teeth in frustration. It had been three years, and she hadn¡¯t realized just how


    shameless Tyrone could be. To everyone else, he was untouchable, never sparing a word or a nce


    as if it would be charity. But now, she was convinced that he had lost his mind.


    Gritting her teeth, she seethed, ¡°Tyrone, can you be any more shameless?¡±


    As Tyrone began to undo the buttons of her blouse with his teeth, he asked rhetorically, ¡°Shame?


    What¡¯s that?¡±


    Pinned down by Tyrone, Quintessa was helpless as her blouse began toe off. ¡°Tyrone, if you dare


    1/2


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    14:35


    Chapter 112


    move another inch, I swear I¡¯ll end you.¡±


    Tyrone kissed her corbone, ¡°What¡¯s the rush? Wasn¡¯t the lead role in ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡® always


    yours?¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Me, Quintessa, I¡¯m 25 years old, and I¡¯m not some gullible infant in your belly. You


    can¡¯t fool a toddler or even a fertilized egg with that line. You think you can still fool me?¡±


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t help butugh. Leave it to Quintessa toe up with something like deceiving a


    fertilized


    egg.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, why not give Violet a call? She¡¯ll tell you whether I¡¯m telling the truth.¡±


    ¡°Get your ws off me.¡±


    ¡°Not letting go.¡±

 Chapter 113

    Chapter 113


    Tyrone felt her anger had reached its boiling point, so he let go of Quintessa for the moment.


    With a fluid motion, Quintessa rolled over, grabbed her phone, and dialed Violet¡¯s number.


    ¡°Violet, that film ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡®.¡±


    ¡°Oh my gosh, Quinn, I was just about to tell you. You got the lead of ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡®! Can you


    believe it? That producer was all high and mighty, telling me you couldn¡¯t even be an extra, and now


    he¡¯s practically begging you to be the star.¡±


    A coldugh escaped Quintessa¡¯s lips. Power and money¨Cdamn, they were sweet.


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    Her gaze upon Tyrone was icy as she shrugged off her shirt, revealing more than she concealed. Her


    look was a mix of disdain, mockery, and seduction¨Ca wild ze that seemed to scorch Tyrone from the


    inside


    out.


    No one but Quintessa could make him feel this way.


    Whether he liked her or not wasn¡¯t the point. He had to have her within his grasp.


    Violet¡¯s voice broke through, ¡°Hey, Quinn, how¡¯s the shoot going? You¡¯ll be done with your scenes in a


    week, right?¡±


    Quintessa flicked her hair back and beckoned Tyrone with a finger. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll be done.¡±


    In an instant, Tyrone grabbed her ankle and pulled her back, pinning her beneath him. ¡°Wrap it up.


    We¡¯ve got business to attend to.¡±


    Violet paused, then blurted, ¡°Quinn, did I just hear a man¡¯s voice? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve got a guy there


    with you?¡±


    With azy drawl, Quintessa replied, ¡°Just a stray who wandered into my room in the middle of the


    night. He¡¯s easy on the eyes, so why not?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s jaw clenched.


    Violet was frantic, ¡°Quinn, you can¡¯t do this. You¡¯re on set, and your reputation is crucial, especially at


    the beginning of your career.¡±


    After hearing a lengthy lecture from Violet, Quintessa simply said, ¡°Oh, I forgot to mention. The stray¡¯s


    name is Tyrone.¡±


    Violet was speechless.


    Quintessa pinched Tyrone¡¯s chin. ¡°Hey there, stray.¡±


    Frustrated, Tyrone tore at her clothes.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to thank your stray?¡± he growled.


    Quintessa¡¯s hand glided over Tyrone¡¯s corbone. Her cool, calloused fingertips sent shivers down his


    spine.


    Her voice was chilling, ¡°That role in ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡® was always mine. Why should I thank you


    for what¡¯s rightfully mine?¡±


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    They were both domineering in their own right¨Ctwo forces equally matched.


    Tyrone loved to control everything that caught his eyes.


    And Quintessa¨Conce something was in her possession, and once she wanted it, she wouldn¡¯t let


    anyone


    else have it.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Tyrone caught her hand, ¡°Typical. You never own up, do you?¡±


    He knew all too well. Quintessa was rebellious and hard¨Chearted, who would be quick to burn bridges


    once she got what she wanted.


    But her forthrightness was exactly what appealed to Tyrone¡¯s taste.


    ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t own up,¡± Quintessa retortedzily. ¡°Just like how you pretend this isn¡¯t all about getting


    me into bed.¡±


    Men, she thought, they¡¯re all the same.


    Their reasons for approaching her wereughably predictable¨Cit was all about her body, her bed.


    Tyrone¡¯s smile was a mix of challenge and amusement, ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯m dying to find out if you¡¯ve


    improved your skills over the years.¡±


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 Chapter 114

    Chapter 114


    Quintessa fluttered hershes with a teasing glint in her eye. ¡°Of course, I¡¯ve seen my fair share of


    men. I¡¯ve got skills you¡¯ve yet to witness.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t help but notice that Quintessa always liked to stir him up with her words. Other women


    tried their best toe off as pure as the driven snow, but not her. She relished in portraying herself as


    a sly temptress.


    At first, such talk would annoy Tyrone, but after hearing it so often, he started to think it was all just big


    talk ¨C which was too deliberate and too forced.


    Still, hearing Quintessa put herself down like that, Tyrone felt uneasy. Not because he believed she


    was that kind of woman, but because he felt she didn¡¯t need to belittle herself.


    Tyrone retorted, ¡°Alright then, I¡¯m game to test out these skills of yours, just as long as it¡¯s not all talk.¡±


    Quintessa paused, then shoved Tyrone with a huff, ¡°Ugh, not in the mood to deal with you today.¡±


    But Tyrone pulled her back, ¡°That¡¯s not up to you, is it?¡±


    She scoffed coldly, ¡°Right, as if my consent matters to you, Tyrone. You barged into my room without it,


    remember?¡±


    Quintessa teased, while plucking at the fabric of Tyrone¡¯s shirt, ¡°And you¡¯re wearing my clothes, Mr.


    York. Aren¡¯t you afraid of being caught?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to fear? You¡¯re the only witness,¡± he replied nonchntly.


    Tyrone¡¯s hands moved to undo Quintessa¡¯s robe. He had waited all night, and it was time to indulge.


    Quintessa didn¡¯t resist, butmented coolly, ¡°Well, it¡¯s that time of the month. If you don¡¯t mind


    painting yournce red, be my guest.¡±


    Tyrone cursed under his breath.


    Grinding his teeth, he retorted, ¡°I¡¯ve always had a taste for the bold. You know that, right?¡±


    As he yanked off Quintessa¡¯s robe, he was determined to discover the truth.


    Suddenly.


    ¡°Quinn, the director needs you. He wants to go over the script with you.¡±


    Manny¡¯s voice boomed from outside the door, which was loud enough to wake the entire floor.


    Tyrone¡¯s expression darkened. This was the second time his moment had been interrupted by that


    obnoxious kid at the door.


    Seeing Tyrone¡¯s frustrated scowl, Quintessa couldn¡¯t help butugh, and she felt her mood lifted


    slightly.


    She pushed Tyrone away, ¡°Looks like Mr. York¡¯s taste for the exotic isn¡¯t so appetizing after all.¡±


    As she picked out clothes from her trunk, she changed right in front of him, almost as if to challenge


    him. As if saying,e on then, if you dare.


    Tyrone was fuming, ¡°Script talk? In the director¡¯s room?¡±


    Quintessa slipped into a dress, taking her time, ¡°That¡¯s right. Or would you rather apany me? I


    1/2


    14:35


    Chapter 114


    wouldn¡¯t mind letting people think I¡¯ve snagged Mr. Tyrone York. It could only do wonders for my


    reputation.¡±


    Standing up, Tyrone said with an eyebrow raised, ¡°Fine, let¡¯s go.¡±


    In the end, of course, Tyrone didn¡¯t apany her.


    He received a phone call, and after hanging up, he suddenly grabbed Quintessa, pinned her against


    the wall, and kissed her fiercely.


    Tyrone¡¯s domineering kiss left Quintessa¡¯s resistance futile, his arms tightly encircled her and


    immobilized


    her.


    After the kiss, he said, ¡°I¡¯ve got to take care of something. Wait for me tonight!¡±


    Quintessa wiped her lips, ¡°Why should I wait for you? There are plenty of men around the set. You¡¯re


    hardly my only option.¡±

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115


    Tyrone clicked his tongue in irritation. ¡°Stop saying things that irritate me, will it kill you?¡±


    ¡°No, but it sure doesn¡¯t sit right with me.¡±


    ¡°Alright, have your moment offort. I¡¯ll deal with you when I get back.¡±


    Quintessa snorted with a mockingugh. ¡°Fine, if you don¡¯t, you¡¯re a coward.¡±


    Tyrone bit back at Quintessa. ¡°If I don¡¯te, I¡¯ll call you ¡®grandrna¡®.¡±


    Leaving those words behind, Tyrone left.


    Quintessa watched Tyrone hurry off with his phone, a cold smile on her lips.


    As a rookie starlet, getting involved Tyrone, with Emberbrook¡¯s golden boy, would set the tabloids on


    fire if word got out. She¡¯d shoot straight to stardom. But Tyrone¡­ how would he allow any news that


    might tarnish his image leak? That would smear the York Financial Group.


    Men, always with one face when they¡¯re with you, and another as soon as they turn around.


    Never trust whates out of a man¡¯s mouth.


    Quintessaposed herself before meeting with Director Frost.


    Director Frost talked to her about the y; it seemed like he was nning to give her a few more


    scenes because he was seriously unsatisfied with Roxanne¡¯s performance. In contrast, Quintessa¡¯s


    professionalism and acting talent made him view her positively despite her temper, seeing her as


    genuine and a talent worth fostering.


    With the director putting it that way, Quintessa was more than happy to go along, eager for more


    screen


    time.


    The shooting resed in the afternoon. It was a scene where Quintessa¡¯s character causes Roxanne¡¯s


    ingenue to lose her child, and upon finding out, she came to confront her in a rage. The plot was simple


    enough.


    Once the filming started, Roxanne quickly got into character, excellently portraying the hatred and


    madness of a mother who lost her child, primarily because she genuinely harbored such feelings


    towards


    Quintessa!


    A handmaiden pushed Roxanne, who lunged forward, twisting her arms behind her back. Quintessa, in


    a stunning crimson gown, approached with a smirk, moving elegantly while her headpiece gently


    swayed.


    Quintessa leaned down, grabbed Roxanne¡¯s chin, and smiled triumphantly, wicked enough to make


    one grit their teeth. ¡°It was my doing. What can you do about it? The King belongs to me. Competing


    with me for a man is suicidal!¡±


    Roxanne struggled fiercely!


    With a sharp p, Quintessa struck her down.


    ¡°Cut!¡± the director shouted. ¡°Perfect, this was good. Keep that energy going forward. That¡¯s a wrap,


    next group, get ready.¡±


    The staff hurried to set up props for the next scene, leaving Quintessa and Roxanne out of the


    spotlight.


    1/2


    14:35


    Roxanne, covering her face, red at Quintessa with pure loathing. ¡°Quintessa, dare to hit me again?


    Sooner orter, I¡¯ll make you regret it.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh, you like being pped? Why didn¡¯t you say so earlier? I¡¯d be more


    than happy to oblige!¡±


    ¡°Fine. Quintessa, you¡¯ve got guts, just wait. I¡¯ll get back at you double for today¡¯s p someday.¡±


    Quintessa drawled, ¡°Double? In that case, I might as well give you a little extra.¡±


    Roxanne immediately sensed something was wrong. ¡°What are you nning to do?¡±


    Quintessa grabbed Roxanne, forcefully dragging her forwaru.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Quintessa replied, ¡°Just some emotional exchange between peers, talking about the uing


    scenes,¡± Quintessa replied smoothly.


    Roxanne tried to break free, but Quintessa was far stronger. Her agent and assistant were engaged in


    a conversation with the assistant director, too far away to notice her plight.

 Chapter 116

    Chapter 116


    Thus, Quintessa dragged Roxanne into a nearby prop room and shoved her into a chair with a firm


    push.


    Roxanne¡¯s legs turned to jelly with fear. ¡°What are you going to do?¡±


    Quintessa cocked her head to the side with a smirk. ¡°What am I going to do? Honey, I¡¯m not a man, so


    obviously I can¡¯t do that to you.¡±


    Roxanne¡¯s face turned beet red in an instant, ¡°You¡¯re shameless.¡±


    It was the first time in her life that another woman had spoken such words to her. Roxanne felt


    completely uneasy, her eyes wide with terror when she looked at Quintessa. Quintessa pinched


    Roxanne¡¯s chin, ¡°Tsk, weren¡¯t you the one saying I¡¯ve been around with every man on set? What


    dignity do I, a woman like that, have left to lose?¡±


    Roxanne trembled, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare mess with me, I have backups.¡±


    With a swift motion, Quintessa grabbed Roxanne¡¯s hand tightly and yanked her hair back so hard that


    Roxanne cried out in pain.


    Quintessa drawled, ¡°Rx, your backup might not arrive in time. Haven¡¯t experienced being assaulted


    by a woman, have you? Maybe you could give a try today?¡± ¡°Freak, you¡¯re a freak. Quintessa, what the


    hell are you, you whore! Just wait, if you dare do anything to me today, I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re dead


    tomorrow without knowing how.¡± Roxanne screamed in terror, her face drained of color.


    Smack!


    Quintessa¡¯s p sent Roxanne seeing stars, her mouth corner cracked with a taste of blood in her


    mouth.


    Scared, Roxanne whimpered and cried.


    Quintessa¡¯s expression turned cold, ¡°Don¡¯t f*** with me, Roxanne. Don¡¯t try to y me, and don¡¯t you


    dare threaten me. I¡¯ve never been scared of anyone, and if you think you can take me on, believe me, I


    could end you right now.¡±


    She cast a disgusted look at Roxanne, ¡°You think I don¡¯t know about your nightly visits to the assistant


    director¡¯s room? You¡¯re nothing but a used¨Cup tramp. Trying to y the innocent in front of me?¡±


    Quintessa had never been exposed to any elite education. Her experiences were from the lowest,


    darkest, and most brutal struggles for survival.


    She could see right through Roxanne.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Terrified, Roxanne shivered, ¡°How do you know?¡±


    Quintessa snorted, ¡°I know a hell of a lot more than you think. From now on, behave yourself. Don¡¯t f***


    show your face in front of me, or I¡¯ll p you every time I see you don¡¯t believe I can¡¯t beat some sense


    into that mouth of yours.¡±


    Roxanne was wailing, ¡°I won¡¯t dare anymore, I swear.¡±


    Quintessa let her go, ¡°Don¡¯t get any funny ideas. Those who¡¯ve crossed me are either six feet under or


    on their way there.¡±


    Roxanne wanted to tear Quintessa to pieces in her heart, but after all, she was an actress¨Cshe knew


    best to put on an extraordinarily fearful and pitiful look, brimming with tears. ¡°I get it, I really do, Quinn.


    Please, just let me go¡­ From now on, we¡¯ll stay out of each other¡¯s way.¡±


    Quintessa sneered, probably pegging Roxanne as someone who¡¯d run headfirst into a wall.


    ¡°Remember your words. Now get lost.¡±


    Roxanne clutched her face and scrambled out of the room.


    Quintessa dusted off her sleeves, ready to leave.


    But then, from behind a row of costumes on the left, someone stepped out.


    Seeing him, Quintessa¡¯s mouth twitched, ¡°Oh, what¡¯s Movie Star Jonathan doing here hiding away for


    some quiet?¡±

 Chapter 117

    Chapter 117


    Quintessa let out a breath and blew a strand of bangs from her forehead. She thought to herself the


    irony of her life. It seemed that every time she did something a little shady, someone was there to


    witness it. What was that about? Could she not be a proper viin in peace? Jonathan nced at


    Quintessa¡¯s hands, beautiful, her face, gorgeous; but that heart¨Cdamn, it was ruthless. A woman


    assaulting another woman? He couldn¡¯t believe she could say such a thing.


    ¡°You can¡¯t mess with Roxanne¡¯s connections. If she really acted against you, you wouldn¡¯t be able to


    handle it.¡±


    Quintessa looked at her own palm, which was flushed from the force of her earlier p. With a chill in


    her voice, she retorted, have lifted a finger in the first ce. Once I have, I¡¯m not afraid.¡±


    Jonathanughed, ¡°Sweetheart, a girl still needs someone who can protect her.¡±


    Quintessa shot him a look. ¡°Are you volunteering?¡±


    Jonathan¡¯s clear and refined face showed a hint of a smile. ¡°Can¡¯t I?¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, genuinely amused¨Cshe hadn¡¯t thought about flirting with this man, but


    was he asking for it himself?


    She rubbed her chin. ¡°It¡¯s not that it¡¯s impossible; it¡¯s just that I¡­¡±


    was afraid of her connections, I wouldn¡¯t


    Before she could finish, the door was thrust open. In the resulting disturbance, Tyrone¡¯s tall figure stood


    at the door, his voice chillingly cold. ¡°Quintessa, I dare you to say ¡®yes¡®. Just try it.¡±


    Quintessa turned around to see Tyrone approaching and suddenly felt as if a mountain was hurtling


    toward her. His terrible anger sent shivers down her spine.


    She¡¯d never seen Tyrone like this.


    But she wondered, why was he back so soon? She had thought he would be gone for days. Tyrone


    walked up to Quintessa without giving her a chance to speak, pulled her into his embrace, and tilted


    and violent.


    her chin


    up to meet his


    lips. His kiss was like a tornado, fierce


    Quintessa¡¯s mind went nk¨Cdamn.


    When Tyrone finally released her, he turned to Jonathan with a cold re. ¡°She is


    Jonathan looked mildly surprised, then nced at Quintessa, who was now


    my


    y woman. Don¡¯t


    even


    think


    about it!¡±


    rubbing her lips


    Jonathan turned to Tyrone. ¡°Long time no see. When did you arrive Zion City? Let¡¯sdainfully. ¡°No


    wonder you¡¯re not worried about Roxanne.¡±


    Quintessa paused. So, he thought she was fearless because she was with Tyrone? That was an


    underestimation!


    Quintessa was surprised. ¡°You two know each other?¡±


    Jonathan nced at Quintessa. ¡°Technically, Tyrone should be calling me


    Quintessa squinted her eyes. So, Tyrone should call Jonathan¨Cuncle?


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    grab a drink tonight.¡±


    Perhaps thinking of something, a shadow crossed Tyrone¡¯s eyes, his voice cool and detached, ¡°We¡¯re


    not that close. Nothing to catch up on.¡±


    He took Quintessa¡¯s hand and led her away. ¡°Come on, we¡¯re leaving.¡±


    Tyrone squeezed her shoulder hard. ¡°Crush any inappropriate thoughts you might have. If I find out you


    dare to flirt with Jonathan, I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯ll never get out of bed again, And as for your adulterer¨CI¡¯ll


    end him.¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow; he was really worried she might go for Jonathan. Sheughed. ¡°Oh, how


    very noble. Fine, we¡¯ll see who can¡¯t get out of bed.¡±


    Tyrone replied, ¡°You¡¯ll find out tonight.¡±


    Jonathan watched their retreating figures and chuckled lightly.


    What a surprise!

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118


    There was no one else in the dressing room. Quintessa was removing her. Makeup and changing


    clothes, ignoring Tyronepletely.


    Tyrone, holding Quintessa¡¯s phone and browsing through it, asked, ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±


    Quintessa replied with a nomittal shrug, ¡°Nothing much, just not used to it.¡±


    ¡°Not used to what?¡±


    Quintessa nced at Tyrone¡¯s lips. ¡°Well, usually I¡¯m the one who kisses you first. You catch me off


    guard with a kiss, obviously, I¡¯m not used to it.¡±


    ¡°What, you want to kiss me back?¡±


    Suddenly, Quintessamanded, ¡°Bow your head.¡±


    Tyrone frowned. ¡°What for?¡±


    Without warning, Quintessa hooked her arm around his neck and yfully nibbled on his lip: ¡°There,


    that¡¯s more like it, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°It¡¯s not too bad this way.¡±


    Quintessa sneered internally, she was slowly, but surely, wrapping Tyrone around her finger.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you¡¯d be back in the evening?¡±


    Tyrone looked at Quintessa¡¯s casual yet alluring look, twirling a strand of her ck hair. ¡°What, aren¡¯t


    you happy that I came back early?¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve ruined my chances with movie star Jonathan, how could I be happy?¡±


    Tyrone pulled on her hair slightly, ¡°Tsk, mention him less to me.¡±


    Quintessa yanked her hair out of his grasp. ¡°Speaking of which, you came back early because you¡¯re


    afraid of calling me ¡®Grandma, right?¡±


    Tyrone reached out to lift Quintessa¡¯s chin. ¡°Scared? Why should I be afraid, if not for afraid that you


    would miss me.¡±


    Quintessaughed it off.


    ¡°Fine, since you¡¯re so afraid, say ¡®Grandma¡® for me.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face darkened.


    Quintessa, teasingly looking at him, hooked her hand around his neck and pinned him against the


    vanity, a mischievous grin on her lips: ¡°No? If you don¡¯t say it, perhapster you can call me ¡®Auntie¡®


    instead!¡±


    Tyrone clenched his teeth. ¡°I should¡¯ve known you were up to no good!¡±


    Quintessa, this wicked woman, always had a way of flirting.


    Gritting his teeth, Tyrone spat out, ¡°Quintessa, you¡¯d better swallow that slyness of yours, or even if you


    do be my auntie by marriage, I won¡¯t hesitate to take you both down.¡±


    Quintessa rolled her eyes. ¡°As if you could stop me.¡±


    Tyrone squeezed Quintessa¡¯s face hard. ¡°Then ahead and try me.¡±


    The following day, Quintessa learned from the director that all her intimate scenes with the King had


    been rewritten.


    Quintessa cursed under her breath: Damn you, Tyrone!


    After wrapping up the day¡¯s shoot, she stormed back to the hotel: ¡°Tyrone, are you ying dirty tricks?


    What gives you the right to change my scenes?¡±


    Tyrone, who was ying a mobile game, respondedzily, ¡°What does it have to do with me? I don¡¯t


    know a thing.¡±


    Tyrone was at the critical moment of the game, about to defeat a boss. Suddenly, the phone was


    snatched from his hand, the game ended with his character dying in an instant.


    Quintessa tossed the phone aside with a huff. ¡°You dare to do it but not own up?¡±


    Leaning back, Tyrone cradled his head in his hands, a picture of innocence. ¡°Of course, why would I


    admit to something I didn¡¯t do? But I must thank the director. Somehow, he just understands me so


    well, doesn¡¯t he?¡±


    Quintessa felt a headache and pointed to the door, ¡°Get out, and make it quick. The farther, the better.


    Don¡¯t let me see your face again.¡±

 Chapter 119

    Chapter 119


    Tyrone justy down, sighing. ¡°To have meat every day but not able to eat it, I¡¯ve lost all my energy and


    can¡¯t make it quick.¡±


    Tyrone, in all earnestness, yearned for Quintessa.


    But every night, as his clothes were shed, just shy of the final step, Quintessa would always douse the


    fire on Tyrone¡¯s head with a single sentence.


    It left Tyrone with an irrepressible fire that felt like a kettle that¡¯s bubbling but never quite reaches the


    pour. It just cools down, bit by bit.


    Thus, Tyrone was left hungering and hungering.


    Quintessa, annoyed, shot at him, ¡°Do you have no shame?¡±


    Tyrone nced at her, ¡°No, what¡¯s the point of having that when I¡¯m with you?¡±


    He wasn¡¯t always like this. Back in his school days, everyone would refer to him as a cool prince. But


    now? Now he¡¯d really broken through all his bottoms in front of Quintessa.


    Sometimes Tyrone wondered if this was the real him. In front of others, he had to pretend, tow wear a


    mask, and calcte with those with ulterior motives.


    But with Quintessa?


    Quintessa suddenly bent down, her face inches from Tyrone¡¯s, ¡°Tyrone, you¡¯ve fallen for me, haven¡¯t


    you?¡±


    Tyrone paused for a moment, his pupils seemed to contract sharply, but then heposed himself,


    ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Quintessa gently touched Tyrone¡¯s face with her hand, her voice tender, ¡°Remember what I told you


    that day?¡±


    He felt softened by her touch, ¡°Which day?¡±


    Quintessa twisted him hard, ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb with me.¡±


    Tyrone winced, rubbing his cheek with a half¨Csmirk, ¡°If I have really fallen for you, what would you do


    about it?¡±


    Quintessa patted Tyrone¡¯s face, ¡°You¡¯ll find out in the future.¡±


    Tyrone: Future? She was so sure about the future?


    Tyrone stayed in Quintessa¡¯s hotel room for a few days, during which the two got along without issues.


    Quintessa was intent on baiting him, and noticing Tyrone¡¯s apparent guilt, she deliberately led him on.


    At night, they slept in each other¡¯s arms. What puzzled Quintessa was that, no matter how much


    Tyrone seemed to want it, he never went beyond a few kisses and caresses. Even though he often lost


    control, with just a single prick from her words, Tyrone would actually cease all movement, which was


    truly miraculous, almost to the point where Quintessa couldn¡¯t believe it.


    Quintessa sneered inwardly. She didn¡¯t buy the idea that Tyrone was sparing her feelings. More likely,


    he was just disgusted by her.


    After two days, duty called Tyrone back to Emberbrook, and Tyrone had no choice but to return, telling


    Quintessa he woulde back after finishing his business. Like thest time, Quintessa mocked, ¡°Why


    bothering back? To have another pillow talk session? I¡¯d rather watch a movie than be with you.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face darkened like the bottom of a pot at those words. Never before had anyone spoken to


    him that way. For the first time, he feltpassion for a woman, thinking she was tired from filming, so


    he didn¡¯t push it. But her response was less than grateful.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Saying he was less desirable than a movie?


    Tyrone pulled Quintessa into his arms, bowed his head to seal her lips with a kiss, biting lightly, ¡°Fine,


    just you wait. When I get back, I¡¯ll show you if I¡¯m man enough¡±


    Quintessa clicked her tongue, tired of hearing those words.


    She pinched Tyrone¡¯s chin, ¡°Off you go, then.¡±


    Willing it or not, Tyrone still left first.

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120


    He was baffled. There were so many people in thepany, were they all just freeloading? Always


    calling him back, he couldn¡¯t even enjoy his leave or flirt in peace.


    After Tyrone left, Quintessa let out a coldugh. The revolution was just at its beginning, conquering


    the high roller was going to take some effort


    The rtionship between her and Tyrone was actually at its best now. She needed to seize this


    opportunity.


    After Tyrone left, Quintessa continued filming as usual.


    Her scenes were already into the second half, where Roxanne¡¯s character, the lead actress, was rising


    to her zenith, while Queen Seraphina, yed by Quintessa, was on the wane, getting worse and


    worse.


    Now, the roles of Quintessa and Roxanne had reversed.


    The scene where Queen Seraphina is stripped of her title, Roxanne looked at Quintessa with a triumph


    in her eyes as if saying, ¡°Now you¡¯ve got youreuppance


    ording to the script, Roxanne was supposed to p Quintessa in this scene.


    Roxanne had been all pumped to give it her all, but as she raised her hand and met Quintessa¡¯s fierce


    and malevolent gaze, her courage faltered


    Quintessa was silent, yet her eyes conveyed everything she wanted to say: ¡°Dare to p me and see


    what happens.¡±


    Seeing Roxanne¡¯s inaction, the director threw down his headset and yelled, ¡°Cut! Roxanne, what are


    you doing? Adjust your attitude and let¡¯s go again¡±


    Roxanne¡¯s face twitched. She said to Quintessa, ¡°Quinn, it¡¯s written this way in the script, please don¡¯t


    me me.¡±


    Quintessa shrugged, ¡°I never said you couldn¡¯t p me. Go for it.¡±


    Roxanne¡¯s smile was insincere, ¡°Then, I¡¯d rather not-¡±


    Before she could finish, Quintessa cut her off, ¡°As long as you still want your hand afterwards.


    The smile on Roxanne¡¯s face instantly froze. Quintessa grabbed her hand and said with augh, ¡°Such


    a pretty hand. It would be a pity to chop it off.¡±


    The director called for them to get ready. Quintessa let go of Roxanne¡¯s hand.


    *Come on, make it a hard one. Remember this feeling of pping someone for thest time. You won¡¯t


    get to feel it again.¡±


    A chill ran down Roxanne¡¯s spine. She was sure Quintessa wasn¡¯t just making empty threats; this


    woman was seriously ruthless.


    Roxanne looked at her own hand, which was trembling.


    Gritting her teeth, Roxanne started filming and tried to calm herself.


    After finishing her lines, it was time to p Quintessa. Roxanne bit down and pped hard, but she


    controlled the position well, not actually hitting the face. Quintessa yed along perfectly, and from the


    side, it looked like a crushing blow.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    The director was finally pleased. Quintessa stood up, a mischievous grin on her lips, ¡°ying nice,


    huh?¡±


    Roxanne red at her fiercely and stormed off.


    Quintessa quickened her pace, came up beside Roxanne, and tripped her, making her fall t on her


    face. Roxanne¡¯s knees and elbows were painfully scraped. Angrily, she shouted, ¡°You did that on


    purpose!¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Yeah, I did it on purpose. Come fight me.¡±


    Roxanne felt a mix of fear and hatred toward Quintessa. She called her agent over and quickly had him


    help her leave. Roxanne fled, and Quintessa felt a touch relieved. Turning around, she saw Jonathan


    standing behind her.


    Quintessa¡¯s face darkened!


    Cha

 Chapter 121

    Chapter 121


    Chapter 121


    4


    Howe there¡¯s always something stopping her from being a proper viin?


    Jonathan sized her up, a young girl, pretty, petite, with a slender figure, yet he wondered where she got the nerve to always be


    up to no good. ¡°Why is it that every time | see you, you''re always doing something bad?¡±


    Quintessa feigned innocence, ¡°Because I¡¯m a viin, uncle. You better watch out.¡±


    Uncle?


    That sounded awkward!


    What followed was a scene between Quintessa and Jonathan, where after the modifications to their romantic and intimate


    scenes, what was left mostly revolved around intense confrontations.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Queen Seraphina had fallen out of favor, despised by the King, who doted on the female protagonist, causing Queen


    Seraphina¡¯s glory to fade.


    Their final face-off took ce in the cold, abandoned wing of the castle.


    Stripped of her regal attire, Quintessa stood in simple cotton clothes, her face pale and weary, devoid of makeup. She asked the


    King, ¡°Your Majesty, over all these years, have you ever loved me, even the slightest?¡±


    Jonathan, who yed the King, stood outside the door, looking at Quintessa with aplex gaze, ¡°Stay here and live out your


    days in peace. Do not disappoint me again, and | shall your safety for the rest of your life.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s eyes slightly reddened, yet no tears fell. She smiled miserably and sarcastically, ¡°Life? Do | still have a life?¡±


    The fate of a disgraced queen was death, sooner orter.


    The King spoke coldly, ¡°My words are all you need to believe.¡±


    E


    Quintessa looked at Jonathan, her voice filled with immense grievance, resentment, and a love she could not express, ¡°I


    believed in you for ten years, but what about you? Is this how you repay me?¡±


    ¡°That is the consequence of your own doing.¡±


    With those final words, the King turned and walked away. The doors closed behind him, and Quintessa¡¯s figure disappeared in


    the scene.


    Their face-off was a true test of acting skill, full of emotional depth andplexity. Yet, they nailed it in one take.


    ¡°Cut! That''s a wrap! Excellent job. Get ready for the next scene. ces, everyone,¡± the director called out.


    Quintessa came out in her costume, with Jonathan waiting for her outside.


    ¡°Is Tyrone still around?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s your nephew, not mine. How should | know?¡±


    Jonathan slowly said, ¡°I advise you to pull out sooner rather thanter.


    Quintessa stopped, her smile teasing, ¡°Uncle, you seem awfully concerned.¡±


    ¡°For your own good,¡± Jake replied.


    Quintessa retorted, ¡°No, thanks. | don¡¯t need it.¡±


    Quintessa didn¡¯t have much of her part left. The director gathered her scenes, wanting her to quickly finish filming.


    That night''s shootsted until the wee hours of the morning.


    During a break, the crew had prepared somete-night snacks, like barbecue and such.


    Quintessa was about to dig in when Manny hurried over. ¡°Quinn, here¡¯s yourte-night snack.¡±


    Quintessa was surprised to find a pot


    of soup, the aroma waftin through


    the air, ith,a steohgvhedicinal scent,


    abpetizing at first nce. ¡°Manny, did


    you make this?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    ¡°Don''t joke. | can¡¯t afford this, and | don¡¯t know how to cook,¡± Manny replied.


    ¡°Violet?¡±


    ¡°Violet was too thrifty for that. How would she be willing?¡±


    ¡°True, then where did thise from?¡±


    ¡°Have it first. You''ll need the energy to keep shooting through the night.¡±


    The director was urging on the other side, Quintessa quickly downed a bowl and rushed back to the set.


    After shooting for several days


    straight, Quintessa qe poexhaiisted


    tetine cpl ise nto bed as soon


    as she got home. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone returned to the city and


    stayed for only two days before


    coming over, Stl refusing fo feave


    Quirites room, acting as be


    bothered with him, even when she


    saw him around. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    he had taken root there. Quintessa couldn''t

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122


    Chapter 122


    Tyrone had been unusually well-behaved these past few days, not bothering Quintessa at all.


    However, the way he looked at Quintessa was different, making her suspect that he might be up to no good again. After all,


    Quintessa had put him in his ce before, implying he was less desirable than a movie.


    They were living in a state of cautious coexistence, sharing a bed but exchanging hardly a word.


    Every night, Quintessa would cocoon herself in theforter, a clear barrier between them. Yet, morning after morning, she¡¯d


    wake to find his limbs sprawled over her. Every day, Quintessa was awakened by his weight. Each time she woke up, she was


    very grumpy and kicked him.


    When het kick startled him awake, he¡¯d just blink at her, still half in dreand, and grumble, ¡°Sleep!¡±


    That day, they wrapped up at nine, a bit earlier than the previous days. Quintessa was eager to hit the sack and whipped through


    her makeup removal routine.


    In the dressing room, several other actresses huddled in a gossiping circle, casting nces her way.


    As she prepared to leave, someone finally asked, ¡°Quinn, | heard that someone has seen a man entering and leaving your room


    for several nights. Don¡¯t tell me you''re secretly keeping a man?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we''re all friends here,¡± another chimed in.


    Quintessa paused, her tone dripping with disdain, ¡°Yeah, | am keeping a man. What¡¯s wrong with that? He¡¯s not sleeping in your


    bed, is he? Why do you care so much?


    Her words shut them up, but only for a second.


    ¡°Well, bring him out then, let us have a look and give you our opinion, in case he¡¯s a jerk.¡±


    Quintessa responded leisurely, ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal for him to meet you. The real talent would be if you dared to bring your men to


    me.


    That immediately silenced the actresses; truth be told, they really didn¡¯t dare.


    From their point of view, Quintessa was a siren, a heartbreaker¡ª-the men on set were exceedingly indulgent towards her.


    Finally, Someone snapped, ¡°You''re really confident, as if you¡¯re the only attractive woman in the world. Are you so sure that once


    you bring your man out, he will still be yours?¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow and said sarcastically, ¡°The man in my room is very picky, yet he happens to like me. You lot


    wouldn''t stand a chance.¡±


    Knock, knock. The escting tension in the dressing room was interrupted by a knock on the door.


    All eyes turned to find a man standing at the threshold, dressed in casual wear, shades obscuring his eyes. presence so bright it


    fought off the darkness of the night.


    He looked at Quintessa, ¡°Ready to go?¡±


    The dressing room fell into sudden silence, everyone looking at him.


    She stood up, ¡°Not yet. You go back first.¡±


    Tyrone said, ¡°I''ll wait here for you.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Quintessa gave him a sidelong


    nce, ¡°You eet hapwas said"


    iystnowdian MS you?¡± The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone¡¯s smile was enigmatic, ¡®kn


    heard ever word \axdO Thee


    ig¡éom\En.Novelxo! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    She arched an eyebrow, ¡°And what? You don¡¯t like it?¡±


    His smile widened, ¡°Who would


    argue? I¡¯m so Pictneetocreb er


    terswit, iy ste¡± he content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!

 Chapter 123

    Chapter 123


    Quintessa turned around, ¡°You hear that? My man, he has no interest in you.¡±


    The other actresses¡® faces turned green with envy.


    Tyrone¡¯s smile deepened.


    Quintessa felt cold in her heart. The brighter her smile, the colder her heart was.


    The filming finally came to an end, wrapping up on thest day.


    Quintessa, ying Queen Seraphina, was sentenced to death. The King sent a goblet of poisoned


    wine, and with eyes full of defiance and deep¨Cseated hatred, Queen Seraphina smashed the goblet to


    the ground, using her final moments to cast a venomous curse, ¡°If there is another life, I will make sure


    his royal lineage is obliterated.¡±


    The doors to the pce closed, Queen Seraphina turned away, and soon after, a great fire engulfed


    the ce. The mes painted the sky red as Queen Seraphina sumbed to death.


    Quintessa¨Cthat¡¯s a wrap.


    Due to the heavy filming schedule, the director hosted a modest wrap party for the crew in Quintessa¡¯s


    honor.


    Fitch, impressed with Quintessa¡¯s performance, handed her a beer, and said, ¡°Keep honing your acting


    skills. I hope we get to work together again.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    nking her ss against his, Quintessa replied, ¡°Thank you, director. I¡¯ll work hard.¡±


    She took a sip of her beer as the rest of the cast and crew came to say goodbye, and she thanked


    each one with genuine warmth.


    To those who had never hurt her, Quintessa was not stingy with her smile.


    The staff had little time for rest, so the wrap party was brief¨Cafter a drink and a bite to eat, everyone


    had to get back to shooting.


    Once the crowd around Quintessa had mostly dispersed, Jonathan came over to her.


    Dressed in his regal costume, with clear, dignified features, he stood there as if truly anointed with the


    aura of a dragon, a worthy movie emperor indeed.


    Jonathan, carrying nothing in his hands, said, ¡°Go rest well. I look forward to the chance of working


    together in the future.¡±


    His words were simr to the director¡¯s, official and polite.


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Sure.¡±


    It was as if both had forgotten the awkwardness of that day.


    Jonathan looked at Quintessa¡¯s beautiful face, hesitated, and then said, ¡°As for you and Tyrone, never


    mind, it¡¯s not my ce to ask. Whatever it is between you two, it¡¯s not going to work out.¡±


    Feigning ignorance, Quintessa probed, ¡°Work out for what?¡±


    Jonathan smiled, appearing inscrutable, ¡°You know.¡±


    Quintessa crossed her arms, ¡°What happens between him and me is none of your business, as if


    saying it would work out for you and me.¡±


    Jonathan, ¡°We could try!¡±


    This really left Quintessa at a loss for words; Jonathan was flirting with her.


    Someone called out for Jonathan from a distance, signaling him back to the set.


    Jonathan didn¡¯t move but instead. He pulled a business card from the wide sleeve of his robe and gave


    it to Quintessa, ¡°If you need anything, give me a call.¡± Quintessa held the business card between two


    fingers.


    The card was clean and bold, just Jonathan¡¯s name with a line of numbers below.


    Quintessa made a face of disdain, wanting to throw it away, but then she noticed a mark below. It


    seemed to be Jonathan¡¯s private number, which might actually be useful someday.


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°Just phone calling?¡±


    Jonathan¡¯s smile was warm and inviting, like a gentle breeze on a spring day, brightening the moment


    with the promise of a beautiful season, ¡°You¡¯re not that kind of person.¡±

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124


    Chapter 124


    Quintessa nced at the business card; she curled her lips and thought to herself: why wouldn''t she be that kind of person ¡ª she


    Indeed was!


    As she tumed to leave, Quintessa¡¯s gaze fell upon Roxanne lurking in the shadows, her eyes dark with malice. A shiver ran down


    Quintessa¡¯s spine; it was clear that Roxanne was


    out for revenge.


    Manny, holding Quintessa¡¯s belongings, nudged her, ¡°Quinn, let¡¯s head back.¡±


    Quintessa nodded, ¡°Let''s go.¡±


    She nned to leave Zion City tomorrow for Emberbrook to shoot ¡°Requiem.¡± Being cautious tonight should keep her out of


    trouble.


    The filming location wasn¡¯t too far from where she was staying, just a 30-hour drive away.


    But unexpectedly, halfway there, the car suddenly stalled.


    Quintessa sat in the passenger seat, her head heavy and foggy.


    Manny checked around the car but couldn¡¯t pinpoint what was wrong. They were close to their destination, at most a fifteen¡ª


    minute drive. He looked around; there was no one in sight.


    Anxiously, Manny said to Quintessa, ¡°The car broke down, | don¡¯t know how to fix it.¡±


    Quintessa opened her eyes, and everything was spinning. Initially, she thought it was just exhaustion, but her instincts, honed by


    years of evading danger, sensed something was off.


    ¡°Damn it,¡± she muttered, ¡°we''ve been set up.¡±


    She pinched the palm of her hand hard to focus.


    Manny was confused, ¡°What''s wrong?¡±


    Clutching her dizzy head, Quintessa said, ¡°Someone drugged my drink. | bet they''ll be here soon. Manny, swap clothes with me.¡±


    She had a hunch that Roxanne was behind this, but Quintessa didn¡¯t expect her to act so swiftly.


    The only thing Quintessa had consumed was a sip of beer handed to her by the director; that must have been where the problem


    lay.


    Manny was in a panic; he had never faced such a situation before, But he always did as Quintessa asked, and quickly took off


    his clothes to give to Quintessa.


    Quintessa bit her tongue tobat the dizziness; the pain, the taste of blood, made her mind a bit clearer.


    With Manny¡¯s help, Quintessa got dressed in his clothes.


    Just as they swapped, Manny alerted her, ¡°Quinn, there¡¯s a caring.¡±


    Seeing the car approaching, Quintessa knew it was Roxanne¡¯s people, and she grabbed Manny¡¯s hand, ¡°They''re after me. Wear


    my clothes and lead them away. They''ll let you go once they realize you¡¯re not me. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Manny''s heart pounded heavily, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, | know. As long as you are fine, that''s all that matters. | am a man; I''ll protect you.¡±


    After saying that, Manny jumped out of the car and ran in the opposite direction.


    The people in the car gave chase, not even bothering to get out.


    Quintessa opened the car door, got out, and staggered forward. She was barefoot, not wearing her heels, which would have


    been cumbersome during her escape. She knew they''de back for her after catching Manny and realizing he wasn¡¯t her. She


    couldn¡¯t stay


    in the car.


    However, those people, driving the car, quickly caught Manny. Upon realizing he wasn¡¯t Quintessa, they kicked him twice, turned


    around, and chased after Quintessa.


    Mannyy on the ground in pain, took out his phone, and managed to dial 911..


    ¡°Hello, I¡¯m reporting a kidnapping. Hurry, please.¡±


    Chapter 125


    Damienas kepame taghtyics in the math road, so the city was by that made the footages hehet has prea indexemply nam


    Chu daved ja kas tok taning that single red senior bath the rang dangers pested to engull he


    Chambeesane beady were admes begund her esmist moving forward Ruman utval impales her bare few was.


    hated was thy the uneven ground the constant pain jubibing at Quintess bit sumping her just ennseuse enough to presen


    Suddenly, her he was yanked fly, bringing her spring to an area with the mentious force from brand, her scale ward with pain es


    here buy was dragged backward


    Avoice raide Quintessa screamed-Oh crapt


    Asecondter a crisp p sounded


    Struck by the p, Quintesse immediately tasted blood, her head spun more dizzyingly as the world turned upside down, making


    the figure before herpletely indistinct.


    Stans burst in Quintessa¡¯s vision, and she could only make out a blurry silhouette. She heard the person clutching her roared,


    ¡°You


    nk you can run after being drugged? Run now, | dare you!*


    Quintessa swayed her scalp feeling as if it might be torn off at any second.


    Despite her blurred vision, her words came out razor-sharp, her voice icy, ¡°Roxanne sent you, didn¡¯t she? Kill me today, or don¡¯t


    bother. If | live to see tomorrow, | swear I''ll make you wish you were dead. I¡¯ll make your whole family¡¯s life a living nightmare¡±


    The mynad dangers she had encountered enabled Quintessa to maintain herposure at all times, even though this time, she


    might


    be unable to escape.


    However, as long as there was a chance, it was always worth a try.


    The two thugs momentarily stunned at her words.


    The next second, one of them


    sneered, ¡°You slut, quite the bluffer.


    Don''t listen to her, she¡¯s jus @yminor


    actres ith nombackin ¡® What can


    she do 0 us? Let''s have our fun with


    her today, snap a few dozen nude


    photos, and make a little home


    movie. With these, we can make you


    do whatever we want.¡± The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Quintessa scoffed, recognizing this as Roxanne¡¯s tactic¡ªclich¨¦ but cruel enough to ruin her.


    ¡°You ever hear of the York Financial Group?¡± she asked with ice in her voice.


    ¡°So what if we have?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Tyrone York. Tyrone is my man.¡±


    The thug yanked her hair in disbelief, ¡°And | suppose the President is your secret lover?¡±


    Quintessa, barely clinging to


    consciousness, saw a shadow move.


    She smiled, blogd|tiickling Con her


    split(lips nerugh chilling in the


    darkness, ¡°Since you don''t believe,


    well, you can go to hell.¡± The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Bang, bang, each of the men took a blow to the back of their heads with a stick, falling to the ground before they even had the


    chance to look back.


    Tyrone¡¯s tall figure appeared in front of Quintessa.


    Holding a baseball bat in his hand, he


    strode forward, scooping her up.


    Seeing her swollen ghe@k sloeuy


    njouth, Bh@her dazed state, he


    grumbled, ¡°Was | a bitte picking


    you up, and you turned yourself into


    this mess?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    In Tyrone¡¯s arms, Quintessa¡¯s taut heart finally eased. Her consciousness fading, she murmured, ¡°You bastard. Why''d it take you


    so long?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone was speechless, ¡°I had just saved you Shouldn¡¯t you be saying ¡®thank you''?¡±

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125


    Chapter 125


    Quintessa became highly conspicuous on the main road, so she continually veered into narrow alleys by the roadside. The


    footsteps behind her grew increasingly nearer. She dared not look back, fearing that a single nce would confront her with the


    menacing dangers poised to engulf her.


    Quintessa¡¯s body was almost beyond her control, moving forward purely on instinctual human survival impulses. Her bare feet


    were chafed raw by the uneven ground, the constant pain jabbing at Quintessa but keeping her just conscious enough to press


    on.


    Suddenly, her hali was yanked fiercely, bringing her sprint to an abrupt halt. With the tremendous force from behind, her scalp


    seared with pain as her entire body was dragged backward.


    Avoice inside Quintessa screamed-Oh, crap!


    Asplit secondter, a crisp p sounded.


    Struck by the p, Quintessa immediately tasted blood, her head spun more dizzyingly as the world turned upside down, making


    the figure before herpletely indistinct.


    Stars burst in Quintessa¡¯s vision, and she could only make out a blurry silhouette. She heard the person clutching her roared,


    ¡°You wretch, think you can run after being drugged? Run now, | dare you!¡±


    Quintessa swayed, her scalp feeling as if it might be torn off at any second.


    Despite her blurred vision, her words came out razor-sharp, her voice icy, ¡°Roxanne sent you, didn¡¯t she? Kill me today, or don¡¯t


    bother. If | live to see tomorrow, | swear I''ll make you wish you were dead. I¡¯ll make your whole family¡¯s life a living nightmare.¡±


    The myriad dangers she had encountered enabled Quintessa to maintain herposure at all times, even though this time, she


    might truly be unable to escape.


    However, as long as there was a chance, it was always worth a try.


    The two thugs momentarily stunned at her words.


    The next second, one of them sneered, ¡°You slut, quite the bluffer. Don¡¯t listen to her, she¡¯s just a minor actress with no backing.


    What can she do to us? Let¡¯s have our fun with her today, snap a few dozen nude photos, and make a little home movie. With


    these, we can make you do whatever we want.¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, recognizing this as Roxanne¡¯s tactic¡ªclich¨¦ but cruel enough to ruin her.


    ¡°You ever hear of the York Financial Group?¡± she asked with ice in her voice.


    ¡°So what if we have?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Tyrone York. Tyrone is my man.¡±


    The thug yanked her hair in disbelief, ¡°And | suppose the President is your secret lover?¡±


    Quintessa, barely clinging to consciousness, saw a shadow move. She smiled, blood trickling from her split lips, herugh


    chilling in the darkness, ¡°Since you don¡¯t believe, well, you can go to hell.¡±Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Bang, bang, each of the men took a


    blow to the back of their he ds with a


    stick, faling.t¡é ipa grotird before


    they even had the chance to look


    back. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone¡¯s tall figure appeared in front of Quintessa.


    Holding a baseball bat in his hand, he


    strode forward, scooping her up.


    Seeing her swollen ghe@k sloeuy


    nyoyth, BhOner azed state, he


    grumbled, ¡°Was | a bitte picking


    you up, and you turned yourself into


    this mess?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    In Tyrone¡¯s arms, Quintessa¡¯s taut


    heart finally eased. Her co an


    consciquspess gabiXo che


    murrhured. ¡°You bastard. Why''d it


    take you so long?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone was speechless, ¡°I had just saved you. Shouldn¡¯t you be saying thank you*?¡±

 Chapter 126

    Chapter 126


    With a cold snort, Quintessa finally gave in to the darkness of unconsciousness


    Tyrone shook her. ¡°Hey, Quintessa, wake up.¡±


    But there was no response from her.


    Tyrone curved his lips, pinched Quintessa¡¯s chin, noticed her swollen cheek and the fierce glint in her


    eyes, then let go and said, ¡°We¡¯ll see if you¡¯ll still be this disobedient after this.¡±


    His gaze swept coldly over the two figures sprawled on the ground. One of them groaned and seemed


    to be trying to cram towards them. Tyrone¡¯s lips twisted into a sinister smile as he delivered a swift kick.


    The man let out a muffled grunt and closed his eyes.


    Bright lights appeared at the end of the alley, followed by the sound of disorderly footsteps and


    morous voices shouting ¡°Over there,


    chase them.¡±


    There were about ten pursuers; Tyrone picked up Quintessa and ran.


    After a few strides, he turned back, and stomped hard on the groins of the two men on the ground.


    ¡°Dare toy a hand on say woman


    Tyrone had left since early moming on business. He spent his days and nights in Zion City, never idle,


    and had returned only after dark


    Knowing that Quintessa was finishing up filming tonight, he waited until past 10 pm. When she did not


    show up, he went out and ran into Manny by chance.


    Without hearing the full story, Tyrone had traced his way here.


    Tyrone was on the phone while carrying Quintessa, rushing through the dark alley.


    He felt a rush, a wild thrill he hadn¡¯t felt since his youth. Over the years, life had be increasingly


    dull Without Quintessa, he could hardly feel his heartbeat.


    Indeed, with her, life was a thrill.


    Wolves were at their heels as he raced through the night, with his woman in his arms.


    Tyrone considered leaving Quintessa behind to knock everyone down. But then he thought, what if, in a


    moment of inattention, she was captured and photographed naked? She was his woman, and he


    wouldn¡¯t stand to be cuckolded.


    After about ten minutes of a frenzied run, Tyrone¡¯s backup finally arrived¨Ca formidable crew that


    comered the pursuers.


    Overpowered, the attackers were beaten to the ground, wailing, and begging for mercy.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Drenched in sweat and gasping for breath, Tyrone carried Quintessa back.


    ¡°Who sent you?¡± Tyrone demanded.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know, man. Someone told our boss to grab this chick, take somepromising photos, and


    then, you know, and record it, and we would get a lot of money.¡±


    Tyrone wiped the sweat from his brow and nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    His voice was as casual as if he were chatting with a stranger, no hint of the rage boiling inside him. He


    nced at Quintessa, who was still unconscious, looking worse for wear.


    Tyrone pinched her cheek lightly, ¡°I could have spared you, but you should not have touched my


    woman.¡°


    He turned to one of his men, ¡°Chop off a finger.¡±


    He said it so casually, as if it were just a trivial matter. The man nodded, pulling out a switchde, ¡°The


    de¡¯s a bit dull, might take a few tries. Bear with it.¡±


    Before the de fell, the man was already crying and pleading, ¡°I¡¯ll tell it. It was Ms. Roxanne Ferber,


    we were all following her orders.¡±


    Tyrone nodded, content with the answer.


    But then, in the next second, he ordered his men, ¡°Break their legs, then hand them over to the cops.

 Chapter 127

    Chapter 127


    Tyrone hoisted Quintessa into his car and sped off, only to encounter head¨Con by two police cruisers.


    He smirked dismissively.


    Tyrone caressed Quintessa¡¯s face again, ¡°See? I¡¯m more efficient than any public servant. Now, think


    about how you¡¯re going to thank


    1. me.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Quintessa was still groggy from the sedative, was motionless and obedient. Tyrone found it amusing;


    she was never this tame. Why not take advantage of the opportunity?


    He caressed her face a few more times.


    Quintessa opened her eyes to a splitting headache and total darkness. She clutched her head, letting


    out a groan of pain.


    But in the next moment, she bumped into a warm body. She froze, then remembered everything that


    happened before she passed out.


    She had been drugged and nearly kidnapped! And then Tyrone came to her rescue.


    Quintessa attempted to sit up briskly but was quickly pulled back down.


    A warm body pressed against her. ¡°Stay put. Would you rather be passed around by that group or just


    be with me?¡±


    His voice was husky, sleepy, and carried a hint of a threat.


    Hearing this voice, Quintessa felt relieved. Maybe her luck wasn¡¯t all bad.


    She chuckled, despite the pounding in her head. Her eyes sparkled in the night as she retorted, ¡°You¡¯re


    all dogs, so, being bitten by one isn¡¯t all that bad, is it?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s sleepiness faded, his hand tracing her waist. Being called a dog didn¡¯t anger him; instead, he


    laughed. He realized he wasn¡¯t as prideful as he used to be; in the past, he would have surely kicked


    her for such a remark.


    He sniffed her face and taunted, ¡°So you¡¯re choosing to be bitten by this dog, then?¡±


    Tyrone had indeed thought about taking advantage while she was out of it, but seeing the bruises on


    her legs and body, he had ultimately restrained himself.


    Tyrone truly thought to himself, how could he be so good and kind¨Chearted?


    He even regretted that Roxanne had only given Quintessa a in sedative. Why not something more


    stimting? That would make everything proceed naturally.


    Quintessa, in great pain, pushed Tyrone¡¯s face away. ¡°Have you always been this shameless since you


    were a kid?¡±


    ¡°Why do you care if I was shameless as a child? You should only care if I¡¯m adequate enough to please


    you.¡±


    Quintessa rolled her eyes. ¡°Would you thank a dog that bit you, saying it was a good bite, a pleasing


    one?¡±


    ¡°Well, it depends on the dog. If it were you, I might actually enjoy it.¡±


    I PS F I J ? 3¡ã3 ? 5 ZA ? B F IF


    Quintessa snorted.


    She suddenly leaned down and bit Tyrone¡¯s neck.


    Tyrone cursed!


    After a moment, Quintessa lifted her head, blood on her teeth. She licked the blood from the corner of


    her mouth. ¡°Does it feel good?¡±


    Tyrone winced in pain. ¡°Yeah, great.¡±


    Quintessa inwardly cursed him out.


    She didn¡¯t want to dwell on this issue with Tyrone and changed the subject. ¡°What about those


    people?¡±


    Tyrone still inhaled sharply from the pain, touching the wound on his neck. It was sticky with blood and


    Quintessa¡¯s saliva.


    He wondered what had gotten into him to put up with this humiliation. After all, he had saved her, right?


    ¡°The cops nabbed them, of course. Come sunrise, you¡¯ll have to give a statement!¡±


    Feeling somewhat aggrieved, Tyrone added, ¡°I did save you, Quintessa. Shouldn¡¯t you at least thank


    me?¡±

 Chapter 128

    Chapter 128


    Quintessa scoffed offhandedly. ¡°Oh, thanks¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s 11?¡±


    With a click, Quintessa switched on the bedside wallmp.


    The dim light wasforting, but Quintessa¡¯s eyes were piercing. She said, ¡°What else do you want


    then? to get in bed?¡±


    Her tongue was full of bite wounds, and when she first woke up, all she felt was a headache.


    Now, as her mind was bing clearer, the pain from the wounds on her tongue began throbbed with


    each word, especially she spoke, her teeth grazing the tender spots made it even more painful.


    Tyrone was at a loss for words, exasperated, ¡°Quintessa, do you even know what gratitude is?¡±


    He was a normal man, and indeed he did want to sleep with Quintessa, but, when she threw it out


    there so nonchntly, he found himself unable to say them out loud, feeling like it was the ultimate


    insult to a man.


    Quintessa mocked, ¡°Oh look at you, Mr. York, you¡¯re still ying the saint? If you¡¯re looking for a goody


    two shoes, you¡¯ve got the wrong girl. I¡¯m infamous for my ingratitude andck of appreciation.¡±


    She indeed appreciated Tyrone saving her, but that didn¡¯t mean everything before could be forgiven.


    Tyrone was fuming, ready to explode, but seeing Quintessa¡¯s weary face, bloodshot eyes, and that


    mocking twist of her lips, he swallowed his anger, unable to let it out.


    He nodded, ¡°Fine, you¡¯re no goody two¨Cshoes, and I¡¯m fucking innocent, okay? Let¡¯s just sleep,¡±


    He turned over andy down, pulling up the nket and turning his back, clearly done with the


    conversation.


    Quintessa rolled her eyes and nced at the clock it was past 4 am.


    Shey down, unable to sleep, her mind reying the most dangerous moment of the day.


    Sure, theoretically, she should thank Tyrone.


    But she couldn¡¯t say it out. It wasn¡¯t petnce; it was the resentment she harbored for this man in her


    heart, the humiliation that day she couldn¡¯t forget.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Quintessa and Tyroney back¨Cto¨Cback, just like that day at Tyrone¡¯s residence ¨C divided by a wide


    chasm of unsaid words and unresolved tensions.


    Quintessa closed her eyes, thinking of Roxanne, how should she take revenge on that woman?


    If she didn¡¯t deal with her properly, wouldn¡¯t all her efforts have gone to waste? She was plotting


    various method; she couldn¡¯t swallow this resentment without acting on it.


    Suddenly, a weight settled on her waist ¨C Tyrone¡¯s arm pressing over her again.


    Damn it!


    ¡°Did you said you¡¯re innocent? Then have the guts to not stick close.¡±


    Tyrone grunted, ¡°What¡¯s more innocent than chatting under aforter? Let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Quintessa snorted, then suddenly turned over, her hand directly attacking Tyrone¡¯s lower half.


    Tyrone inhaled sharply, his breath growing increasingly heavy in the dark.


    She drawled, ¡°Go on, keep up with your innocence.¡±


    Tyrone clenched his jaw, veins bulging on his forehead, ¡°Damn it.¡±


    The woman was right there in his arms, a temptress with curves that haunted his dreams for too many


    nights.


    But now, it was like a dieter who had starved for days, was suddenly presented with a sizzling te of


    barbecue ribs ced right before them. Do you eat it or not?


    To indulge would be to throw away all previous efforts, and you¡¯ll be looked

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129


    At this moment, Tyrone was a tangled mess of emotions, wrestling with the all¨Cconsuming question: to


    eat or not to eat?


    Tyrone endured extreme agony. Suddenly, he wondered, why he should he suffer this much? He had


    saved Quintessa, and that incident from before was now water under the bridge. She had been flirting


    outrageously, and if he didn¡¯t assert himself now, could he even call himself a man?


    Besides, why should a man like him demean himself for a woman like this?


    C D ¦Á o Fu


    After realizing this, Tyrone suddenly leaned over and pinned Quintessa beneath him, his hands tearing


    at her clothes.


    Quintessaughed, releasing her grip. Herugh was full of disdain and mockery, as if to say: I knew it,


    you¡¯re no saint.


    Thatugh instantly evaporated all of Tyrone¡¯s desires. He abruptly let go of Quintessa, rolled off the


    bed, grabbed his clothes and shoes, and left the room without looking back.


    With a bang, the door closed, and the room fell into a deep silence. The stillness was so profound that


    Quintessa could scarcely hear her own breath.


    As her body rxed and slumped onto the bed, Quintessa¡¯s feelings wereplex. She knew Tyrone


    had been restraining himself, and her repeated provocations had only one purpose: to see how far he


    could endure her.


    To capture a man¡¯s heart, she had to breach all his boundaries.


    After a moment, Quintessaughed, a somewhat joyousugh, as if she had guessed something.


    Tyrone, sooner orter, would bepletely in her grasp. It was just a matter of time.


    However, it was precisely at this moment that she must not rx her stance. She had to constantly


    remind Tyrone of her indifference, to fuel his frustration at not having her.


    Frustration breeds obsession, and with time, obsession can transform into something else entirely.


    Quintessa¡¯s face ached, so was her tongue, the palms of her hands, and her feet. Unable to sleep, she


    rose to take a shower.


    Only under the shower did Quintessa notice that she had various abrasions on her body, which Tyrone


    had already treated with ointment. She paused for a moment before turning on the tap. The hot water


    that flowed over her wounds was painful.


    But Quintessa¡¯s expression was indifferent; such wounds were all too familiar, and they were barely a


    cause for concern.


    Dawn broke, and Quintessa dressed herself. ncing at her poorplexion, she decided it was


    passable¨Cit was time to go to the police station.


    When she opened the door, she froze.


    Tyrone was leaning against the wall opposite her door, surrounded by a pile of cigarette butts. He lifted


    his weary eyes to meet hers, his expression nk, but his bloodshot eyes conveyed a clear message:


    You¡¯re damn heartless.


    Quintessa hadn¡¯t expected this. She thought that under those circumstances, enraged as Tyrone was,


    he would have left immediately and not stopped. Yet here he was, waiting outside her door all night.


    Her emotions were a blend of surprise and confusion.


    Tyrone stood up straight and strode towards her with a scowl. Expecting he intended to hit her,


    Quintessa braced for a fight, only for Tyrone to snort coldly, ¡°Move aside.¡±


    She paused, wondering if he was asking her to step aside so he could enter her room.


    Quintessa extended her hand to block him, ¡°This is my room, why should I let you in?¡±


    Tyrone shot back, ¡°I¡¯ve been through you, let alone your room.¡±


    Quintessa clenched her teeth. Can¡¯t this man be any less infuriating?


    ¡°What do you want this early in the morning? Looking for a beating?¡± ¡°Looking for screwing you.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°Get lost, fast.¡±


    With a swift tuo Tyrone pulled Quinto¡®

 Chapter 130

    Chapter 130


    Quentessa chuckled ¡°Tyrone, howe I never realized how despicable you could be before


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    it? Tyrone changed his clothes, ¡°Yeah I wasn¡¯t like this before. Honestly, it¡¯s all your fault when you


    think about it As Tyrone was changing his clothes unabashedly, Quintessa watched on unfazed. ¡°If


    you¡¯re acting cheeky, what does it have to do with


    Bunoning up his shirt Tyrone shot back with a smirk, ¡°Well, because you¡¯re the cheeky one, and I¡¯ve


    caught it from you. So you need to take responsibility?¡±


    ¡°Take responsibility? Hell no.¡±


    Tyrone grabbed his jacket, ¡°Come on, I¡¯ll take you to the police station, darling.¡±


    I can go by myself, thank you very much.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve said it yourself: I¡¯m cheeky, right? The more you don¡¯t want me to, the more I have to go with


    you¡±


    Rubbing her temples, thinking Tyrone¡¯s current behavior was bing increasingly alien from the man


    she once knew. He was going off track.


    Remembering her goal to make Tyrone fall hopelessly in love with her, Quintessa nodded, ¡°Fine, Mr.


    York, since you¡¯re in such a charitable mood, lead the way.¡±


    Tyrone put on his sunsses, wrapped an arm around Quintessa¡¯s waist, and guided her forward.


    Last night, after stepping out, Tyrone regretted his action. It wasn¡¯t his fault; why should he leave? He


    decided stubbornly not to leave. Several times he thought about knocking on the door, but the thought


    of how embarrassing it would be to return after storming out stopped him. Anyway, it was nearly dawn.


    He didn¡¯t believe Quintessa wouldn¡¯t open the door.


    Sure enough, Quintessa opened the door early in the morning.


    Their hotel was practically fully booked by their film crew, and as Quintessa and Tyrone made their way


    through the lobby, many eyes were on them, confirming the circting rumors about Quintessa¡¯s room


    always entertaining a man.


    The mystery man was now officially out in the open.


    Tyrone opened the car door for Quintessa and then slid into the driver¡¯s seat.


    As soon as they reached the police station, Quintessa encountered Roxanne, who with swollen, teary


    eyes, was crying her eyes out and full of grievances. The police officer sitting across from her seemed


    resigned.


    ¡°I might have some issues with Quinn, but I would never stoop so low, even if I were the devil


    incarnate,¡± Roxanne sobbed. ¡°I¡¯m just a minor actress, and Quinn just entered the industry. What deep


    hatred could we possibly have? Even if I wanted revenge, I wouldn¡¯t take such a drastic action.¡±


    The officer said, ¡°The suspects we caughtst night all pointed to you.¡±


    Tears streamed down Roxanne¡¯s face as she protested, ¡°They¡¯re ndering me! I¡¯ve never met them


    before. Please, officer, don¡¯t be deceived by the wicked. They imed it was me, then let them present


    evidence. Mere words shouldn¡¯t count as testimony. Otherwise, our country would be overrun with


    miscarriages of justice.¡±


    The officer mmed the table, ¡°Don¡¯t bring up other matters. You¡¯re a suspect now.¡±


    Roxanne wailed even louder, ¡°But I swear I¡¯m innocent! The whole crew can vouch for me. I was filming


    all night long. I really didn¡¯t do it.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile. Indeed a performer, Roxanne¡¯s acting was fully unleashed now.


    Yet, with Roxanne being so definite, it seemed she was truly confident the police wouldn¡¯t find anything.


    In that case, Quintessa decided to take matters into her own hands,


    With a n forming in her mind, she spoke up, ¡°Officer, I also believe Ms. Ferber is innocent. With her


    intelligence, she probably couldn¡¯te up with such a scheme.¡±


    Chapter 130


    Quintessa chuckled ¡°Tyrone, howe I never realized how despicable you could be before?


    Tyrone changed his clothes, ¡°Yeah, I wasn¡¯t like this before. Honestly, it¡¯s all your fault when you think


    about it**


    As Tyrone was changing his clothes unabashedly, Quintessa watched on unfazed. ¡°If you¡¯re acting


    cheeky, what does it have to do with


    Buttoning up his shirt, Tyrone shot back with a smirk, ¡°Well, because you¡¯re the cheeky one, and I¡¯ve


    caught it from you. So you need to take responsibility!


    Take responsibility? Hell no.¡±


    Tyrone grabbed his jacket. ¡°Come on, I¡¯ll take you to the police station, daC


    Quentessa chuckled ¡°Tyrone, howe I never realized how despicable you could be before


    it? Tyrone changed his clothes, ¡°Yeah I wasn¡¯t like this before. Honestly, it¡¯s all your fault when you


    think about it As Tyrone was changing his clothes unabashedly, Quintessa watched on unfazed. ¡°If


    you¡¯re acting cheeky, what does it have to do with


    Bunoning up his shirt Tyrone shot back with a smirk, ¡°Well, because you¡¯re the cheeky one, and I¡¯ve


    caught it from you. So you need to take responsibility?¡±


    ¡°Take responsibility? Hell no.¡±


    Tyrone grabbed his jacket, ¡°Come on, I¡¯ll take you to the police station, darling.¡±


    I can go by myself, thank you very much.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve said it yourself: I¡¯m cheeky, right? The more you don¡¯t want me to, the more I have to go with


    you¡±


    Rubbing her temples, thinking Tyrone¡¯s current behavior was bing increasingly alien from the man


    she once knew. He was going off track.


    Remembering her goal to make Tyrone fall hopelessly in love with her, Quintessa nodded, ¡°Fine, Mr.


    York, since you¡¯re in such a charitable mood, lead the way.¡±


    Tyrone put on his sunsses, wrapped an arm around Quintessa¡¯s waist, and guided her forward.


    Last night, after stepping out, Tyrone regretted his action. It wasn¡¯t his fault; why should he leave? He


    decided stubbornly not to leave. Several times he thought about knocking on the door, but the thought


    of how embarrassing it would be to return after storming out stopped him. Anyway, it was nearly dawn.


    He didn¡¯t believe Quintessa wouldn¡¯t open the door.


    Sure enough, Quintessa opened the door early in the morning.


    Their hotel was practically fully booked by their film crew, and as Quintessa and Tyrone made their way


    through the lobby, many eyes were on them, confirming the circting rumors about Quintessa¡¯s room


    always entertaining a man.


    The mystery man was now officially out in the open.


    Tyrone opened the car door for Quintessa and then slid into the driver¡¯s seat.


    As soon as they reached the police station, Quintessa encountered Roxanne, who with swollen, teary


    eyes, was crying her eyes out and full of grievances. The police officer sitting across from her seemed


    resigned.


    ¡°I might have some issues with Quinn, but I would never stoop so low, even if I were the devil


    incarnate,¡± Roxanne sobbed. ¡°I¡¯m just a minor actress, and Quinn just entered the industry. What deep


    hatred could we possibly have? Even if I wanted revenge, I wouldn¡¯t take such a drastic action.¡±


    The officer said, ¡°The suspects we caughtst night all pointed to you.¡±


    Tears streamed down Roxanne¡¯s face as she protested, ¡°They¡¯re ndering me! I¡¯ve never met them


    before. Please, officer, don¡¯t be deceived by the wicked. They imed it was me, then let them present


    evidence. Mere words shouldn¡¯t count as testimony. Otherwise, our country would be overrun with


    miscarriages of justice.¡±


    The officer mmed the table, ¡°Don¡¯t bring up other matters. You¡¯re a suspect now.¡±


    Roxanne wailed even louder, ¡°But I swear I¡¯m innocent! The whole crew can vouch for me. I was filming


    all night long. I really didn¡¯t do it.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile. Indeed a performer, Roxanne¡¯s acting was fully unleashed now.


    Yet, with Roxanne being so definite, it seemed she was truly confident the police wouldn¡¯t find anything.


    In that case, Quintessa decided to take matters into her own hands,


    With a n forming in her mind, she spoke up, ¡°Officer, I also believe Ms. Ferber is innocent. With her


    intelligence, she probably couldn¡¯te up with such a scheme.¡±


    rling,¡±


    ¡°I can go by myself, thank you very much.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve said it yourself: I¡¯m cheeky, right? The more you don¡¯t want me to, the more I have to go with


    you¡±


    Rubbing her temples, thinking Tyrone¡¯s current behavior was bing increasingly alien from the man


    she once knew. He was going off track.


    Remembering her goal to make Tyrone fall hopelessly in love with her, Quintessa nodded, ¡°Fine, Mr.


    York, since you¡¯re in such a charitable mood, lead the way.¡±


    Tyrone put on his sunsses, wrapped an arm around Quintessa¡¯s waist, and guided her forward.


    Last night, after stepping out, Tyrone regretted his action. It wasn¡¯t his fault; why should he leave? He


    decided stubbornly not to leave.


    Several times he thought about knocking on the door, but the thought of how embarrassing it would be


    to return after storming out stopped him. Anyway, it was nearly dawn.


    He didn¡¯t believe Quintessa wouldn¡¯t open the door.


    Sure enough, Quintessa opened the door early in the morning.


    Their hotel was practically fully booked by their film crew, and as Quintessa and Tyrone made their way


    through the lobby, many eyes were on them, confirming the circting rumors about Quintessa¡¯s room


    always entertaining a man.


    The mystery man was now officially out in the open.


    Tyrone opened the car door for Quintessa and then slid into the driver¡¯s seat.


    As soon as they reached the police station, Quintessa encountered Roxanne, who with swollen, teary


    eyes, was crying ber eyes out and full of grievances. The police officer sitting across from her seemed


    resigned.


    ¡°I might have some issues with Quinn, but I would never stoop so low, even if I were the devil


    incarnate,¡± Roxanne sobbed. ¡°I¡¯m just a minor actress, and Quinn just entered the industry. What deep


    hatred could we possibly have? Even if I wanted revenge, I wouldn¡¯t take


    such a drastic action.¡±


    The officer said, ¡°The suspects we caughtst night all pointed to you.¡±


    Tears streamed down Roxanne¡¯s face as she protested, ¡°They¡¯re ndering me! I¡¯ve never met them


    before. Please, officer, don¡¯t be deceived by the wicked. They imed it was me, then let them present


    evidence. Mere words shouldn¡¯t count as testimony. Otherwise, our country would be overrun with


    miscarriages of justice.¡±


    23 783 2 283 28


    The officer mmed the table, ¡°Don¡¯t bring up other matters. You¡¯re a suspect now.¡±


    Roxanne wailed even louder, ¡°But I swear I¡¯m innocent! The whole crew can vouch for me. I was filming


    all night long. I really didn¡¯t do


    it.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile. Indeed a performer, Roxanne¡¯s acting was fully unleashed now.


    Yet, with Roxanne being so definite, it seemed she was truly confident the police wouldn¡¯t find anything.


    In that case, Quintessa decided to take matters into her own hands,


    With a n forming in her mind, she spoke up, ¡°Officer, I also believe Ms. Ferber is innocent. With her


    intelligence, she probably couldn¡¯te up with such a scheme.¡±

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131


    stone was astonished Holy smokos, has thisdy been switched? Is she really this kind? Shouldn¡¯t she


    be plotting to kill Roxanna?


    he was in the midst of a sobbing fit when she heard Quintessa¡¯s voice, shivering instinctively. The fear


    Quintessa instilled in her was genuinely frightening.


    Ignoring Quintessa¡¯s insinuation of her being brainless, Roxanne turned and walled even louder,


    ¡°Quinn, you¡¯ve gotta believe me.


    Quintessa strolled over, a yful smirk on her lips, ¡°Of course, I believe you. You¡¯re definitely not that


    kind of lowlife, right?¡±


    Roxanne¡¯s lips twitched, ¡°Right, I¡¯m not, of course not.¡±


    Internally, Roxanne mulled over the situation. Quintessa was surely not kind¨Chearted to help her. What


    in the world was she scheming?


    After giving her statement at the police station, with no evidence of Roxanne¡¯s involvement in


    Quintessa¡¯s supposed kidnapping, the police officer had no choice but to release her, both women


    leaving together.


    Stepping outside, Roxanne¡¯s expression changed instantaneously, her gaze towards Quintessa


    became a smug triumph.


    Quintessa chuckled, ¡°Enjoy your moment, but just you wait, you¡¯ll get yours.¡±


    With no direct evidence from the police and uncertain how long future investigations might take,


    Quintessa couldn¡¯t afford to wait.


    Roxanne, you¡¯re dead!


    Roxanne shivered, aware of Quintessa¡¯s cutthroat reputation, but she had powerful backers behind her


    and was far from intimidated.


    Puffing up her chest like a proud peacock, Roxanne strutted to her car.


    Quintessa watched her retreat and shook her head, ¡°After so many years, just a change of person but


    the same old tricks. No originality.


    Three years ago, Rachel had drugged her and sent thugs her way.


    Now Roxanne was ying the same game, but without involving the press ¨C she wasn¡¯t quite as


    ruthless as Rachel.


    Tyrone wrapped an arm around Quintessa¡¯s waist, leaning heavily on her, ¡°You¡¯re right. It was me who


    had rescued you back then, and it¡¯s still me this time. You¡¯re destined to be mine.¡±


    Since they¡¯d entered the police station, Tyrone had been silent, curious to see what Quintessa was up


    to.


    Quintessa justughed.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Bit by the same dog then, and now once more.¡±


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, ¡°Now that¡¯s what I call fate.¡±


    Used to beingpared to a dog, Tyrone was immune. He asked, ¡°You¡¯re not going to let this go


    easily, are you? What¡¯s your n?¡±


    ¡°Want to know?¡±


    Tyrone nodded.


    M


    Quintessa patted Tyrone¡¯s cheek, ¡°Back then Rachel plotted against me, and I ended up with you. Now


    it¡¯s Roxanne¡¯s turn, I¡¯ll go find her.¡±


    Before Quintessa could finish, her mouth was sealed.


    Outside the station entrance, Tyrone pinned Quintessa against the car, kissing her passionately.


    Passersby and officers turned away, feeling a touch embarrassed at the sight.


    When Tyrone let go, he scoffed at her, ¡°Her man is a 70¨Cyear¨Cold geezer. You think you can stomach


    that?¡±


    Quintessa smirked coldly, ¡°You¡¯ll see in a couple of days.¡±


    Two dayster, Quintessa was ready.


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Tyrone got a front¨Crow seat to Quintessa¡¯s ruthless maneuvering, which was impressively vicious.


    Having wrapped up her business, Quintessa didn¡¯t return home immediately. She checked out of her


    hotel but quickly checked into another, sending Manny back to Emberbrook to fetch something for her.


    That night, where the moon hid and the winds howled, Quintessa, armed with her item, donned a wig


    and disguised as a man, reentered the hotel she had stayed in before.


    Chapter 132

 Chapter 132

    Chapter 132


    Chapter 132


    Tyrone naturally followed Quintessa; he wanted to see how Quintessa would act. She had been staying at the hotel long enough


    to know all the blind spots to the ever¡ªwatchful eyes of surveince.


    Arriving outside Roxanne¡¯s room, Quintessa took a key card and swiped it to enter.


    Tyrone¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°When did you get that?¡±


    Quintessa cast him a disdainful nce, not wanting to respond to such a foolish question.


    Roxanne was out shooting a night scene and wouldn''t be back untilte; the room was empty.


    Quintessa quickly took out a small vial from her pocket. Tyrone asked her, ¡°What''s this?¡±


    Without answering, Quintessa moved into the bathroom and found Roxanne¡¯s toothbrush. She squeezed two drops from the vial,


    which was no bigger than an eye drop bottle, onto the bristles. With a sinister smile, she said, ¡°A little concoction that tums a


    eunuch into a virile man, and frigid women intoscivious ones. Want some?¡±


    Dropping the concoction into water, Roxanne might not drink it, but the toothbrush was different-she would definitely brush her


    teeth.


    Tyrone frowned, wondering where Quintessa got such devious things.


    He wrapped his arms around her waist. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s take a bit for ourselves.¡±


    Quintessa pushed him away. ¡°You want to have a quickie in Roxanne¡¯s room? I¡¯m not up to it.¡±


    Quintessa peeked through the door, checked that no one was outside, and then quickly slipped out.


    Once they were outside the hotel, Quintessa turned to Tyrone. ¡°Do me a favor, will you?¡±


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh, you''re actually asking me for a favor? What¡¯s it?¡±


    He had been trailing Quintessa for these past days, waiting for her to ask for help in dealing with Roxanne, which would be a


    piece of cake for him.


    But Quintessa had been silent until now.


    Quintessa pulled out a stack of about twenty small cards from her pocket, each printed with pictures of scantily d women, with


    a ¡°For a good time, call XXXXXX.¡±


    ¡°Go, find a spot crowded with guys and hand these out,¡± Quintessa instructed.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone¡¯s face was a mix of bemusement and disbelief.


    Cards! She wanted him to distribute all these kinds of *** call cards! How hrious!


    Quintessa watched as Tyrone¡¯s facial muscles twitched. ¡°Not up for it? Never mind, | knew it-you¡¯re useless, |''ll do it myself.¡±


    Right after she finished, Tyrone snatched the cards from her.


    Grinding his teeth, he said, ¡°I''ll do it.¡±


    Who was he?


    The president from the York Financial Group, on a vacation yet not taking it easy, seeking trouble instead, and now he was


    distributing call cards. It was his first time being called useless by a woman. Hrious!


    While he should be enjoying his days off, he was here, up to no good with her, and now handing out call cards. He was insane!


    How much did he owe this woman in his past life?


    Feeling like he was losing his mind,


    Tyrone put onam anda ratiaind


    clench his eH he v


    i eck s he went to


    distribute the cards. The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Following Quintessa had him doing all sorts of things he¡¯d never imagined.


    Distributing call cards, those ***


    cards... he was Ty. ape themresid¨¦nt


    of YerkiRirfaniat roup! The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    If anyone found out, would he still have any face left?


    The ancestors of the York family would probably rise from their graves to take him down.


    Despite his internalplex, Tyrone


    ran directly to a bar, exe stand |


    ere agrowd ah tras¡ªmostly


    ale-gathered. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone mustered his courage, did several mental preparations, and bravely walked over

 Chapter 133

    Chapter 133


    Tyrone steeled himself as he approached the task at hand, telling himself not to think of them as


    people, but rather as skewers¨Csomething impersonal, and to avoid looking at them.


    Tyrone moved swiftly, tossing out a card at each table without a second nce.


    With each flick of the wrist, he felt as though it wasn¡¯t just a card he was throwing away, but pieces of


    his dignity.


    Once he¡¯d distributed thest of the cards, he didn¡¯t bother to look back to see if anyone was following.


    He just bolted, disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    Back at the hotel, Quintessa was gearing up for n B. Call cards alone might not be enough.


    She took out her smartphone,unched WhatsApp to register a new ount with a risqu¨¦ photo she


    found online. She then searched for a standard escort¡¯s pseudonym ¨C ¡°Naughty Annie¡± ¨C changed the


    username and got ready to start shaking her phone!


    Sure enough, in no time, several nearby users started adding her, inquiring about her rates.


    Quintessa replied to each one: prices were negotiable, services could be checked first, and the


    rendezvous was at the Season Hotel, Room 619, after 10 p.m.


    Once done, Quintessa logged out, cleared her phone¡¯s cache, and erased all traces of her logging into


    that ount.


    When Tyrone came back, he found Quintessa in her pajamas, sprawled on the bed, making a call.


    ¡°Hey, Violet, pull some strings and notify the paparazzi in Zion City. Tell them Roxanne¡¯s been caught


    prostituting? The address is the Season Hotel, Room 619.¡±


    On the other end, Violet was bbergasted: ¡°Good heavens, what are you up to?¡±


    Quintessa nced at Tyrone ¨C his face a mask of irritation as he approached her.


    She sat up and replied, ¡°What am I up to? Revenge, of course. You know me; I¡¯m not the type to stay


    silent after being ndered. I have to seek revenge.¡±


    Violet was anxious, but she knew she couldn¡¯t stop Quintessa, ¡°Make sure you don¡¯t get caught.¡±


    Tyrone sat down, wrapped his arms around Quintessa¡¯s waist, and yfully nibbled on her ear.


    Quintessa caught his face with one hand and gave it a twist, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. As long as no one finds out


    the leak came from you, we¡¯re golden.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me twice. I¡¯ve been in the business for many years. If I didn¡¯t have a few tricks


    up my sleeve, I¡¯d have been finished long ago.¡± Suddenly, Violet heard a strange noise over the phone,


    sounding like someone smacking their lips as they ate.


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Perplexed, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s the sound?¡±


    Quintessa pushed Tyrone¡¯s head away, ¡°Oh, just a wild man I¡¯ve taken in.¡±


    Tyrone had learned to tune it out; being called a wild man was just fine by him. After all, he was the


    only one being so called.


    Violet¡¯s expression on the other end of the line was beyond description.


    After a moment of twitching in disbelief, she asked, ¡°So, are you?*


    Quintessa nced at Tyrone, ¡°Yep, he sticks to me like glue. I can¡¯t shake him off.¡±


    Violet decided it was time to end the conversation, ¡°Heh, well, wrap it up and get back soon. There¡¯s


    still work to be done here.¡±


    ¡°Got it,¡± Quintessa responded.


    After hanging up. Tyrone yfully tackled Quintessa onto the bed.


    ¡°Stuck to you, huh? Can¡¯t shake me off?¡±


    Quintessa didn¡¯t move, just rolled her eyes, ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡±


    Tyrone looked at her for a moment, his stem expression breaking into augh, ¡°Damn, you¡¯re always


    right.¡±


    He bit her lip gently. ¡°What sins did Imit in my past life to meet you, huh?¡±


    Quintessa let out a bemused chuckle.


    Just as Tyrone moved closer, Quintessa pushed him away with a firm kick.

 Chapter 134

    Chapter 134


    Chapter 134


    ¡°Listen, I¡¯ve got serious business tonight. Don¡¯t drag me down.¡±


    Sprawled out with a heavy heart, Tyronemented, ¡°What serious business? Isn''t it just dealing with Roxanne? Don¡¯t you think


    hooking up with me and maybe having a kid couldnd you into the Yorks? Now that¡¯s what | call serious business.¡±


    Quintessa looked down at him with disdain. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, my goal is to be your stepmom!¡±


    Tyrone was speechless.


    Noticing the time, Quintessa swapped her SIM card for a cheap burner she''d picked up from a street vendor and dialed 911.


    Putting her throat, Quintessa said in a fake ent, ¡°Hello, 911? I¡¯ve discovered someone engaging in illegal activities. Yes, at the


    Season Hotel, Room 619! There are frequently different strange men entering and leaving.¡±


    After hanging up, she kicked Tyrone, ¡°Get up, drive me to the entrance of the Season Hotel.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°To watch the show.¡±


    Tyrone sighed. He wasn¡¯t any CEO; he was just an underling, ackey.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The hotel was close by. In a few minutes, they parked across the street from the Season Hotel, turning off the lights so no one


    would suspect they were inside.


    Soon, several cars pulled up and there are frequently distrange men entering and leaving.


    A few minutester, a police car arrived, and several officers got out and rushed into the building.


    The police got a room card from the front desk, swiped open the door, and all rushed in, with reporters following behind.


    The scene inside was scandalous! Roxanne¡¯s tastes appeared to be quite eclectic.


    Even the police, no strangers to vice, found the sight unbearable to look at directly. It was downright filthy.


    The journalists, invigorated as if on some kind of high, captured every sordid detail of naked Roxanne-full shots, close-ups, you


    name


    1. it.


    It was news that would rock the entertainment industry to its core.


    Themotion drew out other hotel guests and cast members, crowding the hallway until it was impassable.


    The police tried to get Roxanne dressed, but she remained on the bed, refusing to get up, her consciousness blurred. Clinging to


    a man giggling-it was an unbearable spectacle.


    Losing patience, the police found a female attendant in the hotel to throw some clothes on Roxanne, then handcuffed and took


    her


    away.


    With many witnesses to the scene,


    people whipped ou hei phonesito


    Ss piptures afd i mediately


    tweeted the debacle. The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Quintessa and Tyrone, disguised in


    different clothes a hats, blend¨¦d


    into theygrowe. @leves were on


    Roxanne, none on them. The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    As Roxanne was led to the police car, Quintessa¡¯s smile was both satisfied and malicious.


    Even if the police found out Roxanne was framed, her acting career was effectively over.


    The media had all the footage, and so many people witnessing the entire process. How could she ever recover?


    Back in the car, Tyrone didn¡¯t start


    the engine right aw. ys gaze Was


    c lexashe ok qd at Quintessa,


    ¡°Are you satisfied?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Quintessa looked out the window at the departing police car, smiling gleefully, ¡°Of course | am.¡±

 Chapter 135

    Chapter 135


    Quintessa nced over at Tyrone, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do you think I was too harsh? Do you think, just


    because I wasn¡¯t really hurt that night, there was no need to be so vicious and leave no way out for


    others?¡±


    Nope


    Tyrone¡¯s response was crisp, without a moment¡¯s hesitation.


    He wasn¡¯t exactly a naive person, and he knew all too well that the entertainment industry was a shark


    tank. If you get yed, and you wanted revenge, you either go big or go home. You should make sure


    they never get a chance to rise again.


    Quintessa¡¯s move eamed Tyrone¡¯s appreciation¨Cher actions were decisive and without hesitation.


    If he were in her shoes, he¡¯d have done the same.


    All Quintessa did was merely return to Roxanne what she had intended to do to her. Life¡¯s like that ¨C tit


    for tat, and no one¡¯s in a position to judge.


    Quintessa was fiercely independent, with a cunning and ruthless streak, and shecked nothing. Every


    inch of her was thorny, yet utterly captivating.


    When she was schemed against or bullied, she never thought about seeking help from anyone, not


    even him. She didn¡¯t lean on him, and she orchestrated her entire revenge wlessly on her own.


    Watching her self¨Creliance, Tyrone felt an odd pang in his ches


    But he admired Quintessa immensely. Who would thinContent bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    toce a toothbrush with drugs? Even if the police wanted to collect evidence and suspected the


    toothbrush, after being used, it would be cleaned thoroughly. What evidence could there possibly be


    left?


    Tyrone watched Quintessa silently, this woman who was terrifyingly lethal, yet irresistibly addictive.


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze was odd, making Quintessa bristle, ¡°Nope? Then what are you thinking about?¡±


    Tyrone scratched his nose, ¡°I¡¯m just thinking, man, I better not offend you, in case one day you decide


    to poison my toothbrush.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled, ¡°But you already have.¡±


    Tyrone said, ¡°Mercy, please.¡±


    Her smile deepened, ¡°Do you think I will?¡±


    In the dim light of the car, they both looked into each other¡¯s eyes.


    Tyrone was the first to look away, ¡°After all thiste¨Cnight fuss, let¡¯s just go back and get some sleep.¡±


    But Tyrone hadn¡¯t anticipated upon returning to the hotel, Quintessa would pick up her suitcase, ready


    to bolt.


    Her things were all packed, ready for a swift exit post¨Crevenge. Now that the matter was resolved,


    staying here could lead to unwanted suspicion.


    Upon hearing Quintessa intended to leave, Tyrone eximed, ¡°Damn, it¡¯s the middle of the night!


    Where the heck do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    Leave? At 11 PM?


    She had him wait around for two days, even roped him into distributing those racy call cards for her,


    and now she was ditching him?


    This woman, truly, flipped faster than a pancake, burned bridges quicker than a wildfire, and was more


    infuriating than a politician¡¯s promise.


    Quintessa nced around the room to ensure nothing was left behind, ¡°I¡¯m heading back to


    Emberbrook.¡±


    Tyrone was grinding his teeth, ¡°Thiste, do you have a ne ticket? How are you nning to train it


    back alone? Quintessa, are you ying me for a fool?¡±


    With an amused look, Quintessa replied, ¡°How am I going back? You¡¯re driving, of course. What, you


    don¡¯t want to? If not, then forget it-¡±


    Before she could finish, Tyrone was at her side in a sh and grabbed her suitcase, ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips twitched, marveling at how quickly he changed his mind.

 Chapter 136

    Chapter 136


    At midnight in Zion City Roxanne finally came to her senses in the


    Quintessa nced over at Tyrone, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do you think I was too harsh? Do you think, just


    because I wasn¡¯t really hurt that night, there was no need to be so vicious and leave no way out for


    others?¡±


    Nope


    Tyrone¡¯s response was crisp, without a moment¡¯s hesitation.


    He wasn¡¯t exactly a naive person, and he knew all too well that the entertainment industry was a shark


    tank. If you get yed, and you wanted revenge, you either go big or go home. You should make sure


    they never get a chance to rise again.


    Quintessa¡¯s move eamed Tyrone¡¯s appreciation¨Cher actions were decisive and without hesitation.


    If he were in her shoes, he¡¯d have done the same.


    All Quintessa did was merely return to Roxanne what she had intended to do to her. Life¡¯s like that ¨C tit


    for tat, and no one¡¯s in a position to judge.


    Quintessa was fiercely independent, with a cunning and ruthless streak, and shecked nothing. Every


    inch of her was thorny, yet utterly captivating.


    When she was schemed against or bullied, she never thought about seeking help from anyone, not


    even him. She didn¡¯t lean on him, and she orchestrated her entire revenge wlessly on her own.


    Watching her self¨Creliance, Tyrone felt an odd pang in his ches


    But he admired Quintessa immensely. Who would thin


    toce a toothbrush with drugs? Even if the police wanted to collect evidence and suspected the


    toothbrush, after being used, it would be cleaned thoroughly. What evidence could there possibly be


    left?


    Tyrone watched Quintessa silently, this woman who was terrifyingly lethal, yet irresistibly addictive.


    Tyrone¡¯s gaze was odd, making Quintessa bristle, ¡°Nope? Then what are you thinking about?¡±


    Tyrone scratched his nose, ¡°I¡¯m just thinking, man, I better not offend you, in case one day you decide


    to poison my toothbrush.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled, ¡°But you already have.¡±


    Tyrone said, ¡°Mercy, please.¡±


    Her smile deepened, ¡°Do you think I will?¡±


    In the dim light of the car, they both looked into each other¡¯s eyes.


    Tyrone was the first to look away, ¡°After all thiste¨Cnight fuss, let¡¯s just go back and get some sleep.¡±


    But Tyrone hadn¡¯t anticipated upon returning to the hotel, Quintessa would pick up her suitcase, ready


    to bolt.


    Her things were all packed, ready for a swift exit post¨Crevenge. Now that the matter was resolved,


    staying here could lead to unwanted suspicion.


    Upon hearing Quintessa intended to leave, Tyrone eximed, ¡°Damn, it¡¯s the middle of the night!


    Where the heck do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    Leave? At 11 PM?


    She had him wait around for two days, even roped him into distributing those racy call cards for her,


    and now she was ditching him?


    This woman, truly, flipped faster than a pancake, burned bridges quicker than a wildfire, and was more


    infuriating than a politician¡¯s promise.


    Quintessa nced around the room to ensure nothing was left behind, ¡°I¡¯m heading back to


    Emberbrook.¡±


    Tyrone was grinding his teeth, ¡°Thiste, do you have a ne ticket? How are you nning to train it


    back alone? Quintessa, are you ying me for a fool?¡±


    With an amused look, Quintessa replied, ¡°How am I going back? You¡¯re driving, of course. What, you


    don¡¯t want to? If not, then forget it-¡±


    Before she could finish, Tyrone was at her side in a sh and grabbed her suitcase, ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±


    Quintessa¡¯s lips twitched, marveling at how quickly he changed his mind.


    confines of the local police station.


    The situation was quite unsavory. Rosmane was a well¨Cknown actress, and this incident was a major


    blow to the reputation of Zion City¡¯s film and television base. Therefore, the officers decided to


    interrogate her right away to get to the bottom of things.


    Roxanne was still flushed. She appeared confused and couldn¡¯t quite grasp what was happening as


    she nkly stared at the two


    ficers sitting across from her a man and a woman.


    Both officer looked serious. Then, the female officer broke the silence. ¡°Your name, please¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Confused, Roxanne asked, ¡°why am I here?¡±


    Her mind was a muddled mess. She felt ufortable all over, particrly down below. She had no


    idea what had happened or why there were two police officers in front of her, and why was she in


    handcuffs.


    Roxanne tried to piece together the events, but the memories were hazy and unclear. She was no


    innocent woman, and given her physical state, she had a guess at what might have happened, but the


    details eluded her. Why couldn¡¯t she remember?


    She had been vited, but why couldn¡¯t she remember?


    The female officer mmed her hand on the table, ¡°Name!¡±


    Roxanne flinched. ¡°Roxanne.¡±


    The male officerpared a driver¡¯s license to Roxanne¡¯s face. ¡°Is this yours?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Yes, yes, it is!¡±


    He turned to his partner. ¡°Note it down, her real name¡¯s Cici Ferber.¡±


    Roxanne¡¯s cheeks burned with embarrassment. She was born Cici Ferber, but who could use such a


    in name in the entertainment industry? Her agent had given her a stage name, and she¡¯d been too


    busy and lived too far from her hometown to update her official documents.


    The female officer cut in, ¡°If your name is Cici, stick to that. We are the police, not the tabloids.¡±


    Then she asked, ¡°Age?¡±


    Roxanne, panicked, said, ¡°24. Officer, may I ask what crime have Imitted?¡±


    The female officer replied sarcastically, ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡±


    Roxanne shook her head; she truly had no clue.


    The officer recited out a number. ¡°137xxxxxxx, is this your phone number?¡±


    Roxanne nodded, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s mine.¡±


    The female officer held up a lurid call card with Roxanne¡¯s number on it. ¡°Then there¡¯s no mistake.


    You¡¯re suspected of prostitution and were caught in the act.¡±


    Roxanne went pale and screamed, ¡°Prostitution? I¨CI didn¡¯t! I¡¯m an actress, a celebrity! How could I


    possibly be involved in such a thing? I¡¯m well¨Cknown; am I out of my mind?¡±


    The female officer just smirked without a word. They knew all too well how messy the entertainment


    industry could be. Were there few celebrities caught in Zion City for solicitation, drug use, or gambling?


    The female officer continued, ¡°It¡¯s not the fall that¡¯s scary; it¡¯s the refusal to repent. Better to quickly


    exin yourself and seek leniency.¡±


    Roxanne, desperate, tried to rise several times but was held down by the handcuffs. She was frantic,


    yelling, ¡°I¡¯m innocent! What do you want me to confess? I don¡¯t know anything. There¡¯s been a mistake;


    you¡¯ve got the wrong person.¡±

 Chapter 137

    Chapter 137


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    The word ¡°prostitution¡± once linked to a woman, bes a stain she can¡¯t wash off for life. Everyone


    would look at her with judgment


    and


    Her acting career would be over, and no man would ever want to marry her in the future.


    Who would want someonebeled a prostitute!


    Roxanne was inplete panic, the current situation had her at her wit¡¯s end.


    Just before 10 PM, she had been shooting on set, and life had been much easier after wrapping up


    Quintessa¡¯s scenes. She was happy, gled to no longer face Quintessa. But why, in the blink of an eye,


    was she sitting in a police station?


    The female officer said angrily, ¡°You can doubt us, but our body cam have clearly caught everything in


    high definition. We caught you in the act of the transaction with them. The evidence is right here, so cut


    the excuses.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it, I won¡¯t believe anything you say, it¡¯s impossible.¡± Roxanne was on the verge of


    breakdown, she couldn¡¯t ept it. She was an actress with a bright future ahead, and she had her


    whole life ahead of her. What if this prostitution scandal turned real?


    Then she was done for, her life would be over!


    The female officer didn¡¯t argue with Roxanne, and simply showed her the full recording.


    The body cam had captured the whole process of Roxanne¡¯s arrest, including the sordid scene in the


    hotel room.


    Upon seeing it, Roxanne let out a howl andpletely broke down.


    Those images burned into her eyes drove Roxanne insane. room¨Cdrinking water, washing up, and


    putting on a face


    Roxanne broke down in tears, ¡°I¡¯ve been framed, I must have be I felt odd after drinking it. And


    Quintessa, it was Quintessa, sh


    memory only retained what happened after returning to her


    and


    then she felt feverish, someone knocked on the door.


    The water, there was something wrong with the hotel water;


    did this


    1. me. She¡¯s behind this!¡±


    Having been in entertainment industry for a few years, Roxanne wasn¡¯t naive. Even in her distraught


    state, she immediately guessed that someone must be framing her.


    And the only person with the means and the malice to do this was Quintessa.


    Two days ago, she had tried to get back at Quintessa and failed. Given her nature, Quintessa wouldn¡¯t


    let it go. It had to be her.


    She had been careless and fallen into Quintessa¡¯s trap.


    The male police said coldly, ¡°Whether someone set you up or not, we¡¯ll find out. But Quintessa you


    mentioned left Zion City two days ago. During her kidnapping case, you were the prime suspect, and


    she didn¡¯t say a word against you. I suggest you think carefully before you speak, or you might face a


    defamationwsuit.¡±


    Two days ago, when Quintessa was kidnapped, it was their precinct that handled the case, so they


    were all too familiar with the details.


    In the eyes of the public, Roxanne was already a fallen woman, and her words held little credibility.


    And Quintessa had even spoken up for Roxanne at the precinct, which just showed how decent she


    was.


    Roxanne was in a state of frenzy, screaming hysterically, ¡°It was her, it has to be her, give me a phone,


    I need to make a call. I have connections, I know people, I don¡¯t want to stay here. Quintessa, I¡¯ll make


    sure she pays, just give me the phone, the phone!¡±


    The two policemen shook their heads. How could they interrogate Roxanne in this state?¡±


    ¡°Let it be,¡± one said to the other. ¡°Her criminal facts are very clear. Even if she does not confess, the


    evidence is undeniable.¡±

 Chapter 138

    Chapter 138


    The female officer nodded, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do it that way.¡±


    No matter how Roxanne screamed, she was still taken away


    Since Roxanne imed she had been drugged, the officers at the station took the matter seriously and


    tested all the drinkware she had touched in the hotel


    But the results was, ¡°No traces of any drugs, everything looks normal. Roxanne¡¯s im of being


    drugged seems like an excuse, probably to atigate the charges.¡±


    If that¡¯s the case, then there¡¯s no need to investigate further.¡±


    Meanwhile, the car left Zion City and stopped halfway at a gas station to refuel.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa was curled up in the passenger seat, sleeping under a nket.


    Tyrone asked, ¡°Why did you decide to ride back with me? Do you think I¡¯m more reliable, more


    trustworthy?¡±


    With her eyes closed and a look of exhaustion, Quintessa drawled, ¡°It saves money andes with a


    free driver. Why wouldn¡¯t I take advantage?¡±


    ¡°Fine, 1 deserve it!¡±


    Suddenly, Quintessa remembered something. She sat up abruptly and immediately checked Twitter on


    her phone.


    She had almost forgotten about it, the buzz around Roxanne getting busted for prostitution was surely


    stirring up a storm online.


    Sure enough, she wasn¡¯t disappointed when she opened Twitter.


    In this era of flourishing social media, the speed at which news, especially scandals, spread was


    astonishing. The initial tweets came from onlookers who snapped photos. Soon after, the hashtag


    #RoxanneArrested quickly made it to the trending list.


    Roxanne¡¯s agency immediately responded, iming the incident never happened and that it was all


    malicious nder. They insisted Roxanne was filming a night scene and they would not ignore the


    rumors, vowing to protect their artist through legal means.


    Moreover, Roxanne had amassed a considerable fanbase, who immediately organized and attacked


    anyone sharing the news. They firmly believed the pictures were edited, insisting it was an attempt to


    nder their Princess Anne and demanded the original posters delete the photos and apologize.


    But with so many posting about it, and each assured that it was indeed Roxanne without a doubt, they


    refused to delete their posts regardless of the bacsh.


    While#RoxanneArrested trended, most people were skeptical.


    That¡¯s until half an hourter when major entertainment media ounts spoke up in unison: Famous


    actress Roxanne was arrested on April 10th at 10:45 PM in a hotel for engaging in prostitution in Zion


    City. The police caught her on the spot along with four men in a sordid and chaotic raid, the so¨Ccalled


    puredy was in fact a prostitute.


    With so many verified ounts posting about it, it couldn¡¯t be an unfounded rumor. Thus, Roxanne¡¯s


    arrest for prostitution shot to the number one spot on Twitter¡¯s hot search list.


    Roxanne¡¯s fans panicked as the pictures posted by the influential ounts were too clear, a pixeled


    Roxanne¡¯s face was unmistakably visible.


    Yet some of her die¨Chard fans still refused to believe it, insisting that it couldn¡¯t be their Princess Anne!


    But it wasn¡¯t long before the third wave hit, and this time it wasn¡¯t from ordinary media outlets. It was


    the official Twitter of ¡°Peaceful Zion,¡± posting a sinct official statement: ¡°Ms. Ferber, female, actress,


    was arrested on suspicion of prostitution around 10:22 PM on April 10th.¡±


    Quintessa looked at the official tweet, her smile beguiling.


    See, that¡¯s what you get for trying to plot against me.

 Chapter 139

    Chapter 139


    in just over an hour, all the ¡°Yumors¡± became reality, and Roxanne¡¯s agency and her fans were pped


    across the face.


    When the press tried to reach out to Roxanne¡¯s agent and the agency forments, the unanimously


    response was a stonewalled ¡°No


    Comment


    Of course, there was nothing they could say; the situation had spiraled beyond the reach of any PR


    salvage.


    As for Roxanne¡¯s connections, her agent was on the phone pleading for assistance.


    The reply was brief. ¡°I paid good money thinking I was sponsoring a rose, not realizing it was a thorn


    bush. I haven¡¯t cut her off, isn¡¯t that enough? And now you want me to bail her out?¡±


    All this was part of Quintessa¡¯s scheme. Wealthy benefactors showered starlets with money for the


    novelty, the beauty, and the bragging rights.


    But once a starlet¡¯s shine was dulled by scandal, especially of this sordid nature, who would want to


    associate with her?


    Quintessa scrolled through her feed. Roxanne had monopolized the top five trendi her indecent photos.


    spots on Twitter. The Inte was stered with


    spots


    quick to distance themselves, iming they barely knew her,


    Celebrities who had previously shown affable ties with Roxanne now quick an


    lest they be dragged into the quagmire.


    Such explosive news didn¡¯t need any push; it naturally blew up on it


    Satisfied with the buzz, Quintessa could rest easy. Her night¡¯s work had paid off.


    With a full tank, Tyrone got back on the road. ¡°Does ruining someone re


    really make you feel this good?¡±


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, ¡°Of course, I seeded. I have every reason to feel good. My joy is built


    on her misery.¡±


    Tyrone smirked and drove on in silence.


    Twitter was in an uproar, the entertainment industry shaken, while Quintessa dozed offfortably in


    Tyrone¡¯s car.


    As dawn broke, Tyrone, having driven through the night, finally entered Emberbrook


    It was April, and the morning sun in Emberbrook was particrly inviting. Quintessa opened her eyes


    to the hustle and bustle of the city


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    traffic.


    The city had flourished even more since she left three years ago, with more cars and taller buildings.


    But to Quintessa, it felt more barren than ever.


    Her heart was cold; she could no longer feel the warmth of the city.


    Suddenly, Tyrone pulled over to the curb, ¡°I¡¯m starving. I¡¯m going to grab something to eat.¡±


    Quintessa responded indifferently, not looking at him.


    Tyrone got out of the car with a pout. There was a breakfast shop not far, with a queue of people, the


    aroma wafting from afar.


    Tyrone walked over, frowning at the long line of about a dozen people; he had never queued in his life.


    So, Tyrone yed his wealthy card and said to those ahead. ¡°Tell the folks up front I¡¯ll give each person


    100 bucks to let me cut in line.¡± The next second, the path was cleared.


    Tyrone asked the breakfast shop attendant, ¡°Got any oatmeal? Or something stomach¨Cfriendly?¡±


    The attendant immediately replied, ¡°Sure. Our oatmeal is great for digestion. We¡¯ve got all the


    ingredients that are good for the stomach.¡±


    ¡°Give me two servings,¡± Tyrone said.


    ¡°And how about some sandwiches or muffins? They¡¯re a local specialty,¡± the attendant suggested.


    uffing


    Tyrone ordered a few, paid for the food, and without counting, pulled out a wad of cash, handing it to


    someone at the front of the line. ¡°Divide this among yourselves.¡±


    Without another word, he grabbed his food and left.


    Someone in the queue snapped a picture of Tyrone¡¯s retreating figure, posting it on Twitter with the


    caption: ¡°Ran into a high roller this morning, and boy, was he handsome


    Chapter

 Chapter 140

    Chapter 140


    Crossing the street, Tyrone made it to the car still three or four meters away, when he heard someone


    call out, ¡°Hey, Tyrone¡±


    Tyrone turned around and saw Alexander.


    Alexander was dressed formally today, in a ck suit and a striped tie, standing on the sidewalk like a


    modern¨Cday Adonis, his handsome face lit up with a surprised smile.


    wone, carrying a bag of sandwiches, muffins and oatmeal, was dressed down in just a shirt with the


    sleeves rolled up to reveal his toned forearms. His hair was tousled, and his fine features wore a hint of


    fatigue, giving him an irresistibly brooding charm.


    Together, they were a sight to behold under the bright sun, outshining even the daylight and drawing


    second nces from passersby.


    Tyrone was surprised; he hadn¡¯t expected to run into Alexander on the streets of Emberbrook so early


    in the morning.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Subconsciously, Tyrone nced back at his car, feeling inexplicably a bit nervous though he couldn¡¯t


    quite pinpoint why.


    Inside the car, Quintessa was sitting in the passenger seat, wrapped in a nket, her face unseen, with


    only her scattered long hair


    visible.


    A bit relieved, Tyrone turned around and asked with a smile, ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    Alexander approached Tyrone, a smirk on his lips, ¡°That¡¯s what I should be asking you. I haven¡¯t been


    able to find youtely. Look at you, haven¡¯t slept all night, have you? Where have you been? You didn¡¯t


    do something bad, did you?¡±


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, ¡°Is it that obvious? That you can tell I did something bad?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know what your eyes look like now? Like you¡¯ve got conjunctivitis.¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t want Alexander to know what he¡¯d been up to the previous night and covered it up,


    ¡°Ahem, just didn¡¯t sleep well. Oh, are you going on a blind date, dressed like that?¡±


    Alexander didn¡¯t expose Tyrone¡¯s lie and replied, ¡°No, I¡¯ve picked a ce I want to buy to open aw


    firm. I¡¯m here to negotiate a price today.¡±


    Tyrone gave Alexander a once¨Cover, ¡°Tsk, you¡¯re ditching your international firm to start over here? Are


    you seriously not nning on going back?¡±


    Alexander nced at Tyrone¡¯s car and said, ¡°For the short term, I can¡¯t find the person I¡¯m looking for,


    so going back isn¡¯t an option. Might as well get the firm up and running, recruit some sharpwyers.


    After all,wyers have more channels of information than the average person, which could help in


    finding people.¡±


    Tyrone nodded, ¡°This ce is nice, and the price seems fair. Just don¡¯t get swindled.¡±


    Alexander chuckled, ¡°Come on, who do you think I am? Can awyer get swindled? But you, actually


    lining up at a street vendor for breakfast; is this the Tyrone I know?¡±


    He gestured to Tyrone¡¯s car, ¡°Did you buy that for yourdy there? Haven¡¯t seen you in a few days, and


    you¡¯ve learned to be tender¨Chearted? I can hardly believe it. Aren¡¯t you going to introduce us?¡±


    Tyrone scoffed, ¡°I was hungry, that¡¯s all. Just a woman; she doesn¡¯t deserve what I buy. There¡¯s no


    need to introduce her to you; she¡¯s definitely not my future wife, no introduction necessary.¡±


    Deep down, Tyrone didn¡¯t want Quintessa to meet Alexander.


    Alexander raised an eyebrow, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll believe you for now.¡±


    Feeling his oatmeal cooling by the second, Tyrone said, ¡°I have other things to do, I better go back,


    catch youter.¡±


    ¡°Come out for a drink tonight if you have time.¡± Alexander suggested.


    ¡°Tonight? We¡¯ll see,¡± Tyrone waved off the invitation and got into his car.

 Chapter 141

    Chapter 141


    Chapter 141


    Alexander watched Tyrone casually toss a muffin to the woman beside him. Despite his curiosity about the woman in Tyrone¡¯s


    car, he suddenly felt ridiculous for his interest.


    Why was he so intrigued by Tyrone¡¯s female passenger? Tyrone himself had said it was just a woman, not a future wife or


    anything.


    Still, she must be special to Tyrone, right?


    It was only natural for him to be a bit curious about the women for whom Tyrone could go out of his way to grab breakfast.


    Shaking his head with a chuckle, Alexander tumed away.


    As the car started, Quintessa finally pulled off the nket that was draped over her: ¡°Took you long enough to get breakfast,


    huh?¡±


    Tyrone answered nonchntly. ¡°Ran into a friend. Just had a quick chat.¡±


    He thought Quintessa had been asleep, but clearly, she was now wide awake. Why hadn''t she looked out to see him returning


    with breakfast?Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa asked, ¡°Which friend?¡±


    ¡°You wanna meet my friends now?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s smile had a teasing edge- usually, when a woman wants to meet a man¡¯s friends, it meant she¡¯s looking to get more


    involved in his life and to be his girlfriend.


    Quintessa rolled her eyes and took a bite of her muffin, ncing out the window just in time to catch a fleeting glimpse of a figure


    passing by.


    Alexander turned and saw Tyrone¡¯s car drive past him.


    He frowned, watching the car disappear into the distance, while having a nagging feeling that something was off lingering in his


    mind.


    Quintessa sipped her oatmeal, asking Tyrone, ¡°Did you get breakfast just for me?¡±


    Gripping the steering wheel tighter, heughed sarcastically, ¡°Who do you think you are? | got it for myself because | was hungry,


    not for you.¡±


    Ook ally


    Yeah, right.¡± Quintessa shot him a disdainful look.


    ¡°The oatmeal is good for the stomach. You got stomach issues?¡±


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, ¡°You''re the one with issues. Ever heard of wellness? That¡¯s what I¡¯m about.¡±


    Quintessa smirked, biting off arge piece of her muffin.


    Tyrone¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile as he slowed the car around a bend. He reached for a muffin, only to realize Quintessa


    had nearly finished them all, ¡°Leave some for me, would you? Why does a woman like you need to eat so much? | bought


    those.¡±


    ¡°| like eating alone; can¡¯t help it. If you can, try taking it from my mouth.¡±


    After saying that, Quintessa stuffed thest bit of muffin into her mouth. Unexpectedly, Tyrone, while driving, leaned over and


    kissed her lips, stealing the bite right out of her mouth.


    Quintessa was bbergasted!


    ¡°Tyrone, have you no shame?¡±


    Tyrone straightened the car and


    swallowed the stolen bite, Como,


    it''s just ys dersnditdwabout


    shale: neither of us has any. What''s


    the point?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    He nced at Quintessa, ¡°Besides,


    you''re the one who t dyn totake it


    fr MmyaNy mou. just following


    orders.¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Quintessa scoffed. Shame was indeed out of the equation.


    For the first time, she found herself thinking: He¡¯s making sense, and | can¡¯t even argue.


    Tyrone asked her, ¡°Where to now?¡±


    Quintessa replied, ¡°Back to my ce.¡±


    Tyrone smirked, ¡°Is that an invitation to your ce?¡±


    Quintessa pulled out a mirror to


    check her face. Aside trom heying,


    some finegsanddoking a bit


    tiked,/she looked fine. ¡°Just drive me


    home?¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!

 Chapter 142

    Chapter 142


    Chapter 142


    dholi dh


    What he had on his mind was indeed that particr matter, but somehow, he had missed all the chancesid out before him.


    Sure, he could shrug off most things, but a man¡¯s pride wasn¡¯t something he could just dismiss on a whim.


    What Tyrone sought was Quintessa¡¯s wholehearted consent, not coercion. He craved a conquest of both body and spirit.


    But it seemed to be a bit of a challenge.


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the truth.¡±


    In some ways, she truly did understand Tyrone, just as he understood her.


    Arriving at Harmony Retreat, Tyrone followed Quintessa upstairs.


    He had driven all night with little rest, but aside from some redness in his eyes, he looked surprisingly chipper.


    He was excited. Quintessa was inviting him into her home. Maybe, just maybe, he''d be crossing that threshold sooner than he


    thought.


    His time in Zion City hadn¡¯t been wasted, and those business cards weren''t handed out for nothing.


    Taming Quintessa seemed just around theer.


    But then-


    As she snatched her luggage from Tyrone and tossed it inside, she said, ¡°I¡¯m beat. Need to catch some Z¡¯s. Got a ton to do when


    | wake up, super busy. If you can¡¯t handle it, take care of yourself. After all, you¡¯ve got hands, right?¡±


    Tyrone was taken aback, then he gritted his teeth, ¡°Quintessa!¡±


    Quintessa cut him off, ¡°Thanks for bringing up my bags.¡±


    m went the door.


    Left outside, Tyrone stood there like a fool. Had he been reduced to just a porter?


    After a moment, he cursed, ¡°Damn it, Quintessa.¡±


    Just as he finished, the door swung open again. Tyrone thought Quintessa had finally realized how awful she


    invite him in.


    top was and was ready toContent bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Instead, she fished around in her pocket and handed him a few coins, ¡°Here, your tip. Go grab yourself a muffin.¡±


    Then, the door mmed shut once more.


    Quintessa kicked off her shoes, copsed onto the bed, and with a clear conscience, fell asleep in less than three seconds.


    Tyrone stood outside for ten minutes, but the door remained shut. He finally had to


    He pulled out a cigarette and mped it between his lips.


    What was this all about?


    face the facts. ¡°You''re really


    He got it now; Quintessa had treated


    him like nothing more chara aiVer¡ªa


    pure untae¡¯ driver. The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Watch all of opening up, huh?¡±


    He had thought that Quintessa


    regarded him as someone


    trustworthy, but now it dawned


    him that an ID was Webdedtor taking


    n¨¦s Mins, dammit. After pulling


    that stunt, Quintessa needed to cover


    her tracks. If the cops checked and


    found out she left Zion City the day


    Roxanne had trouble, she¡¯d be a


    prime suspect. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    But driving back wouldn''t raise


    gs¡ªno one checkec(IDs ortthe !


    open\rdad The Content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    This woman was crafty, indeed.


    Tyrone felt like aplete idiot for only realizing the obvious now.


    Clutching the coins, he nearly ground his teeth to dust.


    ¡°| drove all night, and this is what | get? A couple of lousy coins?¡±

 Chapter 143

    Chapter 143


    Chapter 143


    ¡°Those breakfast muffins | got you cost more than this chump change, Quintessa. Can you be any cheaper?¡±


    Tyrone pinched the two coins in his hand, wishing he could just crush them.


    The door remained silent. Quintessa was making it clear-she wasn¡¯t going to open up.


    ¡°You just wait,¡± Tyrone growled. ¡°Those muffins weren''t cheap. Make sure you pay me back next time.¡±


    With a furious huff, he turned on his heel.


    As he passed the trash bin, he was tempted to chuck the coins into it-forget the tip, did he look like a man who needed spare


    change?


    But he threw them with too much force. Instead ofnding in the bin, the coins ricocheted out, clinking loudly on the pavement


    and rolling several feet away.


    Tyrone snorted in disdain. Who needs ¡®em, anyway?


    He walked into the elevator, and just as the doors were nearly closed, a hand reached out.


    The doors slid open automatically and Tyrone, with a scowl stered on his face, stepped out.


    He picked up the coins from the ground and pocketed them. As a decent citizen, you don¡¯t just throw away currency-that¡¯s just


    not right.


    Tyrone couldn¡¯t help but wonder why he was subjecting himself to such misery. He must have been cursed these days, and have


    been bewitched by Quintessa, that little enchantress.


    Fuming, Tyrone made his way home and ran into his mother, who just returned from shopping.


    ¡°Oh my, son! What on earth happened to you? When¡¯s thest time you slept? You look like a ghost,¡± Cecilia eximed.


    In no mood for chit-chat, Tyrone snapped, ¡°I got used and kicked to the curb, that¡¯s what happened.¡±


    Cecilia gasped. ¡°You? Got used and kicked? Good heavens!¡±


    The news was shocking to her. She knew her son well; he was no pushover, and to hear he¡¯d been taken for a ride, it was almost


    unbelievable.


    Tyrone asked sarcastically, ¡°What, you¡¯re happy about it?¡±


    Cecilia quickly cleared her throat, ¡°Ahem, of course not. Are you okay, dear?¡±


    ¡°I''m fine, just yed for a fool, that¡¯s all.¡±


    Tyrone felt like an idiot. He knew Quintessa couldn''t stand him, and she probably despised him from the bottom of her heart, yet


    he¡¯d confidently charged forward like a moth to a me.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Cecilia whispered, ¡°Well, at least you''ve still got your dignity son.¡±


    Tyrone: ¡°Mom.¡±


    He would have dly sacrificed his dignity, but the opportunity never came.


    His pent-up frustration was half


    desire! He couldn¡¯ evemadentbittt


    wastodernbeirrassing. The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Cecilia quickly waved it off, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll stop. Go upstairs and get some rest.¡±


    As Tyrone ascended the stairs, he


    suddenly turned bac KING ltis\¨¦yes


    O Cecitia¡¯ sick. ¡°Youre still in touch


    ith Rachel.¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    His eyes were red, and his whole


    demeanor was off, giving an aura of


    menace about him. He stared at


    Cecilia, who instinctive coverrelthe


    pearl n ce at hot oat: ¡°No, no


    c¨¦ntact: | swear. After ourst talk, |


    cut her off. | just ran into her while


    shopping; she insisted that this


    ne looked good on me, and


    bought it for me right there with


    everyone watching. It was awkward


    to refuse, and besides, it¡¯s not like it¡¯s


    worth much.¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone¡¯s voice was icy, brooking no argument: ¡°Take it off.¡±

 Chapter 144

    Chapter 144


    He knew Cecilia wasn¡¯t one for pearls; emeralds were more her style. These days, with pearls being


    farmed left and right, they hardly seemed special enough for her to wear. It meant that this particr


    ne couldn¡¯t have been her purchase.


    Among her acquaintances, those who¡¯d dare gift her jewelry were few, and even then, she¡¯d only


    ept pieces that resonated with her


    taste.


    This pearl ne had Rachel written all over it. That woman always aimed to be unconventional.


    The thing was, it wasn¡¯t worth much¨Ca mere trinket. Just enough to make it awkward for Cecilia to


    decline.


    Cecilia whispered, ¡°I do like it. The craftsmanship is quite exquisite and it¡¯s just a bit of fun to wear,


    that¡¯s all.¡±


    Tyrone squinted his eyes at her, ¡°Take it off. Toss it. Don¡¯t dawdle.¡±


    When Tyrone got heated, family ties meant zip for him. It didn¡¯t matter if she was his mother.


    Cecilia couldn¡¯t stand up to him. Through clenched teeth, she retorted, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll toss it. Humph.¡±


    With a huff, she ripped off the ne and flung it to the floor. ¡°Wilma, take it, get it out of the young


    master¡¯s sight.¡±


    Wilma hurried over, scooped up the ne, and bolted outside.


    Cecilia called out, ¡°Throw it far!¡±


    ¡°Sure thing, ma¡¯am,¡± Wilma replied.


    Tyrone¡¯s voice was icy, ¡°Mom, remember what I said. Keep your distance from her.


    gou¡¯re just a


    n in her game.¡±


    Cecilia huffed and sat down, ¡°I¡¯m just bored, okay? You¡¯re never home, and I¡¯ve got no one,


    ¡°You could go abroad and live with dad,¡± he suggested.


    Cecilia¡¯s face turned to ice. ¡°Unless he¡¯s dead, don¡¯t you dare mention him. I want to hear nothing


    about him, save for his funeral notice.¡± Tyrone nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    He never meddled in his parents¡® affairs. They had always been this way, and nothing was going to


    change that.


    Cecilia changed the subject, ¡°By the way, when I yed cards yesterday, Mrs. Harrington asked about


    her daughter¡¯s uing 18th birthday bash. She wants you there.¡±


    Tyrone rubbed his forehead, ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    Cecilia stopped him again, ¡°Wait, about that ne you¡¯re tossing, you owe me a new one. I want


    the best.¡±


    Tyrone, blowing out a breath of irritation, fished out a couple of quarters Quintessa had given him and


    tossed them to Cecilia, ¡°Go buy


    then.¡±


    Suddenly, Cecilia felt like shoving the coins back down his throat.


    A couple of quarters for jewelry?


    Watching Tyrone¡¯s retreating back, she mmed her hand on the table and stood up in fury, ¡°Get back


    here!¡±


    To her surprise, Tyrone actually turned around. He wasn¡¯t usually this obedient.


    He strode back and snatched the coins from her hand, ¡°Don¡¯t bother counting, give them back.¡±


    ?? ?? ?? ? ? ? ?? ? ?? ? ?? ?? ????


    What sins had shemitted to raise such a rebellious son? How could he give her a couple of coins


    and then snatch them back?


    No, that wasn¡¯t right. Her son never carried such change on him.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Cecilia followed, questioning, ¡°Ty, you weren¡¯t conned, were you? Someone palming off their petty cash


    on you?¡±


    Tyrone spun around abruptly, ¡°Mom, you still haven¡¯t paid for that emerald set you had your eye on,


    have you?¡±


    She coughed awkwardly, ¡°Oh. It just


    Cecilia made a beeline for the door.


    Ccurred to me that Vivian invited me for cards. I need to go.¡°.


    Tyrone went upstairs and made a call, ¡°James, buy me a suite at the Harmony Retreat. Don¡¯t worry


    about the cost¨Cbury them with my money.¡±

 Chapter 145

    Chapter 145


    Quintessa was roused from her slumber by the gnawing pangs of hunger. She squinted at the clock; it


    was already nudging 1 PM.


    She grabbed her phone and noticed two missed calls, both from Violet.


    She quickly dialed her back.


    The call got connected almost immediately, and Quintessa yawned, ¡°Hey Violet, what¡¯s up? Just woke


    up.¡±


    Violet¡¯s voice was tinged with excitement, ¡°For the love of God, Quintessa, with the whole Roxanne


    scandal blowing up, how can you still be sleeping?¡±


    Quintessa raked her fingers through her hair, ¡°The bigger the mess is, the better I sleep. If things were


    quiet, then I¡¯d be worried.¡±


    Violet lowered her voice, almost conspiratorially, ¡°I¡¯ve got some insider info. Roxanne¡¯s iming that


    someone spiked her drink, saying she¡¯s been set up. The cops are on it, but so far, they haven¡¯t dug up


    much. Looks like they¡¯re treating it as a regr solicitation case.¡±


    Quintessa snorted, ¡°Let them dig. Roxanne¡¯s backers will drop her like a hot potato now that she¡¯s


    damaged goods. she¡¯s nothing but a small¨Ctime actress, and with the cops grasping at straws, it¡¯s likely


    to stay a minor incident.¡±


    Violet couldn¡¯t hide her thrill, ¡°Roxanne¡¯s been strutting around the scene for years, and you just


    yanked the rug out from under her. I swear, you¡¯re holding all the aces.¡±


    ¡°nished hers


    cenes. The schedule¡¯s tight; what¡¯s the n?¡±


    bi fan. With her out of the picture, he¡¯s probably relieved.


    She continued, ¡°But what about the production, huh? Roxanne hadn¡¯t


    ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it,¡± Quintessa reassured her. ¡°Director Fitch was You can bet he¡¯s figuring out a


    workaround. No producer¡¯s gonna let their investment tank. Plus, with Roxanne¡¯s scenes cut, mine will


    likely bulk up.¡±


    Violet teased, ¡°Jeez, you¨Cl love you so much¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Quintessa got up, ¡°I¡¯m not into cougars.¡±


    ¡°Buzz off. Manny¡¯s picking you up at 4 pm to head to the set. Laura¡¯s been waiting you


    ¡°Got it!¡±


    for days.¡±


    Quintessa flicked through Twitter, scanning the barrage of updates. Roxanne¡¯s dirtyundry aired for all


    to see: school thefts, sugar daddies, bullying co¨Cstars, scene¨Cstealing.


    After browsing with a smug smile, Quintessa¡¯s eyesnded on a familiar name in the top ten trends:


    #Snow#


    She clicked on Snow¡¯s personal Twitter and found a post from 10 AM¨Ca single, striking image.


    She was in a red dress, standing barefoot on a beat¨Cup car, with her head thrown back and her body


    turned away; with the wind lifting the hem of her dress in a semnce of flight, the shadow of her figure


    was elongated; the intery of light and dark above made her presence powerful and evocative..


    It was unmistakably her, Quintessa.


    She grinned. Snow was kicking off the promotions.


    In just over two hours, the tweet had rocketed to 40,000ments and was closing in on 100,000


    likes.


    Amidst Roxanne¡¯s scandal dominating the trends, Snow¡¯s entry was a testament to his fans¡® fervent


    support.


    Quintessa scrolled through the spections beneath the post.


    A fair number were asking, [Is this a rtionship reveal?]

 Chapter 146

    Chapter 146


    It had been a few days since Tyronest saw Quintessa, and in avoiding her, he felt like he¡¯d finally


    regained hisposure.


    Having shaken off the bizarre notion that Quintessa had somehow cast a spell on him with her


    womanly wiles, he was back to normal.


    But now, in the silence, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was missing.


    James lingered outside the door before knocking and entering.


    ¡°Mr. York,¡± he began hesitantly, ¡°there¡¯s something I¡¯m not sure whether I should mention.¡±


    Tyrone cut him off, ¡°If it shouldn¡¯t be said, then get out.¡±


    James flinched, quickly blurting out, ¡°Well, it¡¯s like this¨Ctheunch party for ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡® is


    nned for this Friday.¡±


    Tyrone frowned, ¡°Get out.¡±


    He wanted to hear nothing about Quintessa right now.


    But James, being jittery, hurried to finish, ¡°But, the organizers don¡¯t seem to have any ns to invite


    Ms. Quintessa Young. Considering that ourpany has invested a good chunk of change for her to


    star, it seems like a slight if she¡¯s not at theunch party.¡±


    Tyrone, who had been ready to hurl the documents on his desk at the messenger, set them down


    instead. ¡°Invite the producer and the director for drinks at Luxe Haven Club tonight.¡±


    James nodded eagerly, ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    Mr. York was about toy down thew.


    How dare they not invite Ms. Quintessa Young!


    Mr. York was fiercely loyal to his own; he might step on his people, but heaven forbid anyone else did.


    That night at Luxe Haven Club, the producer and director of ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡®, along with the lead.


    actor, Quennel Sampson, were present. Kevin was hosting while Tyrone was conspicuously absent.


    From 9 PM to midnight, they drowned themselves in a sea of booze, but Tyrone was nowhere to be


    seen.


    Quennel turned to Kevin, ¡°Kevin, it¡¯s gettingte, and we have things to do tomorrow.¡±


    Kevin interrupted, ¡°Don¡¯t rush. Mr. York will be here any minute.¡±


    They waited reluctantly¨Cwho would dare leave when the patron hadn¡¯t yet appeared?


    Another hour passed before Tyrone finally made his grand entrance.


    As he walked in, everyone stood up, ¡°Mr. York.¡±


    Tyrone gave them a cursory nce, ¡°d to see everyone arrived. Sit down. Tonight, I¡¯m your host.


    Drink up, no one leaves sober.¡±


    The very thought was bitter to them; more drinking!


    Under normal circumstances, theter would have to down three penalty shots, but with Tyrone,


    1/2


    15:03


    Chapter 146


    they didn¡¯t dare.


    As soon as he sat down, he had the waitresses pour a lethal mix of hard liquor for everyone, ¡°I drove


    here tonight, so I can¡¯t drink. Gentlemen, please drink on my behalf.¡±


    The statement sent a chill through the room; it was a clear challenge. What had they done to incur the


    wrath of this financial deity?


    Keeping their thoughts to themselves and having grim determination, they drank the fiery blend; upon


    finishing the drink, they felt it scorch a path from their throats to their bellies.


    Attempting to lighten the mood, Director Zachary Gardner said with augh, ¡°If it wasn¡¯t presumptuous,


    I¡¯d invite Mr. York to star in the film. Your looks and presence are simply too exceptional.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    It wasn¡¯t mere ttery; every time Zachary saw Tyrone, he felt it a shame that such a man wasn¡¯t


    gracing the screen.


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, ¡°I prefer to ssh the cash and watch others perform for


    my entertainment.¡±

 Chapter 147

    Chapter 147


    Chapter 147


    The room fell silent, as people around choked on their responses. The conversation had taken a nosedive, but what could they


    do? The guy was loaded, so he could y by his own rules!


    Kevin chimed in, ¡°By the way, did the lead for ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡® get recast?¡±


    The producer was quick to respond, ¡°Of course not, it¡¯s still Quintessa Young.¡±


    Tyrone drawledzily, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s still Quintessa, huh? Thought she might''ve been reced.¡±


    The producer hastened to assure him, ¡°Not a chance. Mr. York personally requested Ms. Young; we


    wouldn''t dare make a switch.¡±


    Asmirk curled at the corner of Tyrone¡¯s lips, ¡°Really? Didn¡¯t dare, you say? Then why the hell isn¡¯t Quintessa¡¯s name on the


    launch party invites?¡±


    The creative team got the picture in a sh. No wonder Mr. Tyrone York had called them out for drinks ¡ª this was an inquisition.


    And here they were, thinking they were just waiting around for a casual chat. Turns out, he was here to stir up trouble.


    What puzzled them was how the tycoon had gotten wind of the situation so quickly.


    The producer was in a panic, but as a showbiz veteran, he could think on his feet. He quickly ¡®offered, ¡°Well, you see, Ms.


    Young¡¯s a neer. Announcing her too early might not sit well with the public. We figured we¡¯d not bring her into the spotlight


    till the movie¡¯s in full swing, better to keep a bit of mystery


    around her.¡±


    Tyrone scoffed. As a businessman, he''d seen it all. These folks clearly wanted to snag a hefty sponsorship without the stigma of


    selling out. They feared the press would sniff out a deal behind casting a greenhorn, which might tarnish the film¡¯s reputation.


    Basically, they wanted to have their cake and eat it too, but life doesn¡¯t work that way.


    Tyrone cut to the chase, ¡°Don¡¯t y me for a fool. I¡¯m putting my money on Quintessa. You treat her like she¡¯s invisible, like I¡¯m


    invisible. What, you think I¡¯m dead or something?¡±


    The producer and director went pale, while Quennel kept quiet, nursing his drink.


    Trying to keep his dignity, the producer exined, ¡°Mr. York, perhaps you¡¯ve misunderstood. We''re aiming to safeguard the film''s


    prestige and box office sess. This strategy is also for a more effective marketing pushter on.¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s lips curled into a sneer, and Kevin let out a dryugh, ¡°I think you''ve got it twisted. The York Financial Group is just


    having a bit of fun with this investment. We don¡¯t give a damn about box office numbers. What matters to us is that you take our


    rmendations seriously. If your attitude stinks, we don¡¯t need to waste any more time with your production.¡±


    Kevin wasying out Tyrone¡¯s cards on the table.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Put simply: Money''s no object for me.


    There''s plenty of fish in the m


    film-making sea. INdwdort y


    pay with bointessa, | can pull my


    funding and go elsewhere. I¡¯m rich


    enough to do as | please. The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Those words tightened the


    producer''s gut. They might have


    looked coin on enemies


    she wa ust gome de ss making it


    big bifa guy''s back. But no matter


    what, they couldn''t afford to lose the


    York Financial Group¡¯s support, not


    when filming was about to


    commence. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    15:03


    Chapter 147


    The producer quickly backtracked,


    ¡°Our bad, we didn''t think it rough.


    Rest a redwelll ha sure Ms.


    Y6uhly makes a stunning appearance


    at the press even The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!

 Chapter 148

    Chapter 148


    Tyrone smirked inwardly, thinking how much simpler it would be if they just did what was needed


    without him having to prod them along.


    He gave a casual flick of his wrist, and a waiter promptly approached, filling everyone¡¯s sses to the


    brim with top¨Cshelf whiskey.


    ¡°Cheers to a smooth start to your project,¡± Tyrone toasted, his voice dripping with a patronizing tone.


    The producer and director felt the sting of humiliation. They had already agreed to his terms, and now


    they were being coerced into drinking to it.


    Lifting their sses reluctantly, they muttered, ¡°Thanks, Mr. York.¡±


    They gulped down the whiskey while Tyrone didn¡¯t even touch his drink. It was a clear message that


    they had irked him, and he was here to put them in their ce.


    Director Gardner, his face flushed from the alcohol, blurted out, ¡°Speaking of the movie, we¡¯re in a bit of


    a bind. That¡¯s about the post¨Cproduction special effects. We¡¯re considering an overseas team, but we


    can¡¯t seem to seal the deal. Could we ask for Mr. York¡¯s help?¡±


    Gardner¡¯s voice wavered; though he did not state the obvious issue, everyone knew it was a matter of


    price.


    Tyrone lounged back, feigning nonchnce. ¡°Is that all? As far as I¡¯m concerned, if money can solve it,


    it¡¯s not a problem.¡±


    The arrogance in his words made them want to p the smugness right off his face.


    Yes, he had money, and yes, he was unting it.


    Gardner managed to say, ¡°Thank-¡±


    But Tyrone cut him off, ¡°Don¡¯t thank me just yet. Money isn¡¯t the issue, but I want value for it. Don¡¯t y


    games with me. Don¡¯t say one thing to my face and then pull something behind my back. If you mess


    with my interests, you¡¯ll answer to me.¡±


    Tyrone was issuing a warning, making it clear that any underhanded moves against Quintessa would


    not be tolerated.


    He thought to himself how foolish it was to splurge so carelessly. All the York family¡¯s fortune could be


    squandered if he wasn¡¯t careful.


    Yet, he couldn¡¯t help his impulse tovish Quintessa with luxuries.


    The producer hastily reassured him, ¡°You can count on us, sir.¡±


    After a few more drinks, the creative team behind ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡± was sweating bullets. They


    had thought Quintessa was just some starlet under York¡¯s patronage, but they never imagined that he


    would put such high stakes on her.


    They had contemted giving her a hard time during filming, but they quickly abandoned the idea.


    After all, they were at the mercy of their benefactor, and without funds, they were nothing. Tyrone¡¯s


    attitude was clear: I am rich and powerful, and if you couldn¡¯t keep up, then just shut up.


    15:04


    Chapter 148


    The entertainment industry might look morous from the outside, but only those within it knew how


    tough it was without a bigwig¡¯s support.


    Satisfied with their responses, Tyrone had them sent off, slightly worse for wear from the alcohol.


    Once alone, he felt his mood lifted. The room quieted down, and Kevin, his assistant, tried to lighten


    the


    mood.


    ¡°Boss, can we call it a night?¡±


    Tyrone loosened his tie. ¡°Get out of here.¡±


    At the door, Kevin turned back, ¡°Boss, about that coin in your desk from Ms. Young¡¯s tip. Are we going


    overboard here?¡±


    With a swift motion, Tyrone hurled an empty ss at him.


    Dodging with a practiced move, Kevin shouted from the hallway, ¡°Man, you¡¯ve spent money and yed


    the fool; don¡¯t you feel the pinch?¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 149

    Chapter 149


    Tyrone snapped back, his voiceced with a frustrated edge, ¡°I¡¯m the one who¡¯s gotta live with it. Now


    get your ass back here!¡±


    Kevin hollered from outside once more, ¡°Man, it was all James spilling the beans. That guy can¡¯t keep


    his mouth shut to save his life. Go take it up with him, why don¡¯t ya?¡±


    Back home, James sneezed so hard that it felt like his soul was trying to escape his body.


    Once Kevin had stormed off, Tyrone slumped down in the private booth, letting time slip by. These


    days, he¡¯d be a pro at zoning out; life seemed like a stale rerun of some old TV show.


    He never used to think his days were dull, but now, especially during those sleepless nights, an aching


    sense of boredom and loneliness gnawed at him.


    His hand, moving on its own ord, fished a coin out of his pocket.


    Folks usually need a fat wallet to fling around phrases like ¡°I¡¯ll bury you in cash,¡± but Quintessa was


    broke as a joke and still had a knack for throwing money at him.


    Why did she act all high and mighty? What did she have to be so proud of anyway?


    He remembered well; she¡¯d ¡®hit¡® him with her cash twice. The first time was a measly quarter, and the


    second was a whole three¨Cquarters; she was pinching pennies like there was no tomorrow.


    Tyrone had tossed the rest of the change on his office desk, but for some bizarre reason, he¡¯d


    pocketed that one coin.


    Those four quarters represented the measly profit from a gamble of millions. It was a damn joke.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone had to admit that Kevin had one thing right: losing money¡¯s one thing, but losing face? That¡¯s a


    whole different ballgame.


    He felt like a world¨Css sucker.


    How in the world did he, a businessman, end up making such a boneheaded investment?


    For over an hour, Tyrone wracked his brain. How could he turn the tide? Make it all back in one go?.


    Then, a lightbulb moment urred. He came up with an idea, which was so bright that it could¡¯ve lit up


    the Vegas strip.


    Yeah, this could work. This just might be his ticket to breaking even.


    The buzz on Twitter was dominated by two juicy tidbits: Roxanne¡¯s scandal and Snow¡¯s rumored


    romance. Roxanne¡¯s PR team, despite throwing cash around like confetti, couldn¡¯t quite shake the


    narrative. They insisted that she was framed and drugged, and pointed fingers at a female co¨Cstar


    without naming names. If you knew Quintessa, you knew who they were targeting at.


    But this smear campaign didn¡¯t catch fire. Roxanne¡¯s die¨Chard fans bombarded Peaceful Zion¡¯s Twitter,


    demanding the truth. The police had to step in, debunking the drug ims. They¡¯d tested everything¨C


    utensils, blood¨Cand found zilch. Roxanne had been the architect of her own downfall. Meanwhile, Snow


    teased the public. For two straight days, at precisely the same time, he posted a photo of a woman¡¯s


    silhouette. No face was shown, but it can be told that they were unmistakably the photos of


    15:04


    Chapter 149


    the same person.


    The rumor mill went into overdrive; people spected that Snow was about to go public with a


    rtionship.


    Quintessa, catching a breather on set, scrolled through Twitter and smirked at the wild theorizing. It


    was just a still from a music video, nothing more. A solo shot, at that. How did anyone get ¡®romance¡®


    from


    that?


    She dug through Snow¡¯s past tweets. He rarely posted pictures, and when he did, it wasndscapes or


    his dog¨Cnever a woman. His sudden change in pattern was indeed curious.


    Quintessa narrowed her eyes. Was Snow trying to cook up some gossip, and heat up her name in the


    press without her asking?


    Should she be sending a thank you card to the Great Snow Jackson?


    But if Snow was kicking off the promo, it meant one thing¨Cher face and her name were about to hit the


    big time.

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    Chapter 150


    She hadn¡¯t changed her name or gone under the knife. The incidents from her past weren¡¯t a secret,


    and she knew that once she stepped into the limelight, those skeletons would tumble out of the closet


    and be used against her. She had to brace herself for the inevitable.


    As the filming of ¡°Shadows of the Past¡± was wrapping up, it was time to start the buzz. Quintessa


    realized that hiding was no longer an option, And it was about time for the Youngs to know that she


    was back in


    town.


    Reuben Laurier leaned in and caught a glimpse of Quintessa¡¯s phone screen, where she was scrolling


    through Snow¡¯s Twitter feed.


    ¡°Quinn, you¡¯re into Great Snow Jackson too?¡± he asked.


    She nodded, ¡°Yeah, I really enjoy his music.¡±


    ¡°Me too. The social media¡¯s been buzzing about him having a girlfriendtely.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I saw that.¡±


    ¡°Hey, this photo. Why does it look so familiar?¡±


    Director Cooper called out from a distance, ¡°Quinn, Reuben, get ready for a re¨Cshoot!¡±


    With their conversation cut short, they both stood up and hurried over.


    Quinn was looking for the right moment to tell the Youngs and everyone else that she was back. And


    that moment presented itself just two dayster at the grandunch of the movie ¡°Whispers in the


    Wind.¡± It was a live¨Cstreamed event with a massive setup, involving the director, producer, and all the


    lead actors.


    Originally, Marian Higgins was set to be the female lead, but after Tyrone intervened, Quinn took her


    ce. She was now the star actress, and Violet had made sure she was prepared.


    Quinn had usurped Marian¡¯s role, but she didn¡¯t feel guilty. That¡¯s just how the industry worked. If you


    had the chops, you¡¯d take back what was yours.


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡± was a period epic focusing on the turmoil of a nation and family feuds¨Ca film


    with a positive moralpass. Female roles were scarce, and though Quinn¡¯s screen time was limited,


    she was still the leadingdy¨Cthe single vibrant bloom in a field of green. At the press conference, she


    was the highlight.


    Besides, the event was a significant promotional push. The male actors, representing different


    generations, were the hottest names in showbiz: box¨Coffice stars, acting powerhouses, and


    heartthrobs, each with a massive fan following that could circle the globe twice over.


    Quinn and Violet agreed that this was the best chance to reintroduce Quintessa to the public eye.


    For this, Violet pulled out all the stops to craft a stunning dress for Quintessa to make a spectacr


    impression.


    Tyrone seemed genuinely vexed these past few days and hadn¡¯t contacted Quinn. It¡¯s not like she had


    the time to bother with him; she was too busy with filming and preparing for theunch.


    Tyrone¡¯s life had been painfully mundely: work, drinks at the Luxe Haven Club, rinse and repeat.


    Utterly bored, he was the epitome of ennui.


    Chapter 150


    No one knew what he was plotting, but James sensed his secretive aura, and got curious about what


    he


    was up to.


    Outside, spring was in full bloom. Tyrone, listening to James¡® voice, was lost in thought; his mind was a


    whirl of ideas, all revolving around one name¨CQuintessa.


    Suddenly, Tyrone let out a sardonicugh, which startled James into silence.


    With a wicked smirk, Tyrone muttered to himself, ¡°I¡¯ll let you enjoy a few more days of peace.¡±


    Chapter 151

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    Chapter 151


    James felt like he was on the verge of tears. He knew Tyrone had been in a foul moodtely, ever since


    Ms. Quintessa Young came back from overseas. His boss hadn¡¯t been in good spirits at all.


    But what did Tyrone mean by giving him a few more days of peace? Was he nning on giving him the


    Franklin treatment?


    Oh, no. He hadn¡¯t done anything wrong.


    All he did was vent a little with Kevin. That couldn¡¯t count as bad¨Cmouthing, could it?


    James quickly tried to make amends. ¡°Mr. York, I¡¯m sorry, man. I was wrong. I won¡¯t speak ill of you


    again, I swear. Honestly, I didn¡¯t even want to say those things¨Cit was all Kevin, who pushed me to talk


    because he¡¯s so curious about Ms. Quintessa Young.¡±


    Tyrone snapped back to the present, and gave James a cold, piercing stare. ¡°You know, I haven¡¯t even


    settled the score with you on that matter.¡±


    James froze. What did he mean? Wasn¡¯t Tyrone talking about him just now?


    He suddenly didn¡¯t dare to say another word, fearing it would only make things worse,


    Tyrone pointed at James, not uttering a word, but his expression said it all¨C¡®you just wait.


    Suddenly, Tyrone asked, ¡°The premiere press conference for ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡® is today?¡±


    James nodded vigorously, eager to contribute. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s today. It starts at 2 PM and it¡¯s going to be live¨C


    streamed everywhere.¡±


    James had been on top of the details. He knew there was no way Tyrone would miss this event.


    Was he pretending to be nonchnt when he clearly wanted to attend? Yeah, right.


    Tyrone nced at the clock; it was nearly ten past two.


    He flipped open hisptop on the desk, tapped a few times on the touchscreen keyboard, andunched


    a video streaming website. As soon as the site loaded, a huge pop¨Cup window took over the screen.


    The poster featured the main cast and the director, along with a woman whose face was reced by a


    question mark. Below her, in ring, shy letters, read: ¡°Tune in live, the mysterious lead actress


    revealed.¡±


    Tyrone scoffed at the poster. A mysterious lead actress? Please!


    ¡°Keep talking,¡± he said distractedly, while his mind was fixated on what kind of spectacle Quintessa


    would put on today.


    He clicked on the live stream, and the online viewer count rocketed up at a staggering pace.


    The venue for the press conference was decked out impressively, clearly not skimping on expenses.


    The media crowd was a sea of darkness below the stage, and their camera shutters were clicking non¨C


    stop.


    The male actors and the producer had already made their appearance, and the host had done a bit of a


    warm¨Cup routine.


    Tyrone frowned. What was taking Quintessa so long?¨C


    Just then, the host, ying his part perfectly, said, ¡°We all know Director Gardner has a very discerning


    eye


    1/2


    15:04


    Chapter 151


    for talent. From the very beginning of casting, there was a lot of spection about who would make up


    the cast. Now, we¡¯ve revealed all the key male roles, except for our leadingdy. Are you all as eager


    as I am to find out?¡±


    The reporters yed along too, as they were truly curious about who the leadingdy would be.


    The ¡®Whispers in the Wind¡® team had kept a tight lid on


    her, there wouldn¡¯t be any need for such


    secrec


    on


    1. gs. Rumors had pointed to Marian, but if it were


    The male lead, Quennel, shed a light smile and said, ¡°Don¡¯t just talk about you¨CI mean, even we¡¯re


    dying to find out who the leadingdy is.¡±


    The host immediately put on an exaggerated,ical expression of shock. ¡°Really? It¡¯s that much of a


    secret? This is just too exciting.¡±


    Tyrone was unimpressed. What was there to expect? It was just some woman, someone he¡¯d already


    shared a bed with, someone he knew all too well.


    Chapter 152Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152


    Backstage, Violet was a bundle of nerves as she tried to soothe Quintessa. ¡°Don¡¯t be jittery, Quinn.


    Once you¡¯re out there, just sh that gorgeous smile of yours. Be confident in your looks; you¡¯re


    stunning. I¡¯ve briefed you on the possible questions the press might ask, just stick to our script.¡±


    Quintessa nced at her reflection, her red lips curling into a smile. ¡°What¡¯s there to be nervous about?


    I¡¯ve waited so long for this moment, and it¡¯s finally here. I¡¯m more excited than anything. You, on the


    other


    hand, might want to dab that sweat off your forehead


    With a start, Violet touched her forehead and found it drenched. ¡°I guess I¡¯m just sweating bullets for


    you. You¡¯ve never faced the press formally before, and here you are, about to dive into the deep end.


    And I can¡¯t be up there with you.¡±


    Quintessa gave her a serious look. ¡°When have you ever known me to be scared?¡±


    Violet shook her head; having known Quinn for two years, she¡¯de to realize that there was a


    vitality in her, an indomitable spirit that seemed to rise even stronger when faced with adversity.


    There was a knock at the door and an urgent voice followed: ¡°Ms. Young, it¡¯s showtime.¡±


    Quintessa stood up, and with a nod to Violet, she said, ¡°Here goes nothing.¡±


    Violet swallowed hard, ¡°I should be the one saying that to you.¡±


    Manny piped up quickly, ¡°Go get ¡®em, Quinn. You¡¯re gonna kill it.¡±


    With a smile and a lift of her elegant dress, Quintessa stepped out.


    With her head held high, and chest puffed out, Quinn walked onto what was to be her battlefield.


    Her journey was truly beginning at this moment.


    Out front, the host was working the crowd like a pro, turning the media frenzy into something


    resembling a fan meet¨Cand¨Cgreet; the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement.


    ¡°Who will our leadingdy be? The reveal is just moments away.¡±


    The crowd was abuzz with anticipation when suddenly, the stage darkened and the lights danced


    mysteriously. Quintessa was seated on a throne¨Clike chair, suspended by steel wires, which gently


    descended to the stage.


    With her back to the media the whole time, the chair touched down amidst gasps of awe. Then, as if on


    cue, Director Cooper and the leading man Quennel approached her with gentlemanly grace, each


    extending a hand.


    Quinn ced her hands lightly in theirs and stood up slowly.


    As she turned, every light and camera in the ce zeroed in on her.


    It was like unveiling a masterpiece, and in that instant, Quinn shone brightly.


    An audible wave of astonishment swept through the crowd; many of them were so captivated that they


    even forgot to snap pictures.


    Quinn¡¯s smile was wless. She was dressed in a simple yet elegant ck dress with just a hint of


    shoulder; with her fair skin glowing and her wavy hair cascading down, her figure was simply


    mesmerizing. Her beauty, as Director Cooper had once remarked, was aggressive, impossible to


    ignore.


    7/0


    15:04


    Chapter 152


    Violet had prepared several outfits for Quinn, but she chose the simplest one. The less flesh and


    avant¨Cgarde fashion, the better. Too muchplexity in her attire would only detract from her natural


    allure.


    Quinn¡¯s beauty was enough on its own; the simpler the dress, the more itplemented her.


    The shbulbs popped incessantly as the director introduced her to the audience. ¡°Ladies and


    gentlemen, meet our leadingdy, Ms. Quintessa Young.¡±


    Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Quintessa greeted the crowd with a warm smile, ¡°Hello, everyone. I¡¯m Quintessa.

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153


    Chapter 153


    Quintessa stood before them; her face was a perfect canvas that needed no touch-ups to grace the cover of a magazine. With


    every angle being wless, her face was a natural work of art.


    Her presence wasmanding, not at all like a rookie actress stepping onto the scene for the first time. There was no hint of


    nerves or stage fright about her.


    With a poised smile and an even-tempered voice, she exuded a sense of depth and timelessness. Standing there, she owned


    the stage, and every male actor seemed merely a backdrop to her spotlight.


    Though the reporters in the audience had always been keen on thetest buzz, they hadn¡¯t heard of Quintessa before. Yet here


    she was, ying the lead in Director Gardner¡¯s newest film, making a grand entrance with the esteemed Movie Star Quennel at


    her side. It was almost as if they were rolling out the red carpet just for her.


    Every seasoned journalist in the room was wondering what kind of powerful connections had parachuted this woman into the


    limelight.


    Tyrone watched Quintessa, momentarily stunned.


    This was the first time he¡¯d seen her so dressed up. He¡¯d always known she had a captivating face, but now, watching her


    adorned in her finery, he realized just how casually she¡¯d been ying it before.


    Shaking himself out of his daze, Tyrone scoffed. Dressed to the nines, she really looked the part, he had to


    admit.


    But a nce at her bare arms brought a sneer to his face. He found them distasteful.


    The host had concocted a couple of yful games that had the male actors fawning over Quintessa, which quickly heated up the


    atmosphere on set.


    After the games, it was time for the Q&A.


    The first few questions were directed at the male lead and the supporting actors, but then, a male reporter stood up and asked,


    ¡°Excuse me, Ms. Young, there¡¯s been a rumor that Marian was initially cast for the lead role, and she had even mentioned that


    she''d be in the film. Now, it¡¯s you. Is there an issue here? Was there a role¡ªsnatching situation?¡±


    Role-snatching was not umon in the entertainment industry, but bringing it up so publicly, especially at this moment, was


    particrly sensitive.


    Having anticipated this question, Quintessa remained even moreposed than the host.


    With a poised smile, she answered gracefully, ¡°Who ys the lead is a question for the director and producer. They choose


    whoever is best suited for the role. As a neer, all | know is that my agent. received a personal invitation from Director


    Gardner asking me to y this character. | trust his judgment.¡±


    Her response was slick, not mentioning Marian and focusing solely on the fact that she was personally invited by the director. It


    was an answer that effectively dodged the question.


    Director Gardner quickly nodded and added, ¡°There have been many rumors online, but the truth is, Quinn was our first choice


    from the start. We never made an official announcement due to confidentiality reasons. Today, you are seeing our true and final


    cast.¡±


    15:04


    Chapter 153


    With that, the director had wrapped


    up all the loose ends. If ou heath


    Marian as,thedeadhs ry, that was


    nver confirmed-it was a rumor. Our


    silence was for secrecy. The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    His stance was clear; he intended to protect Quintessa.


    Even Quintessa herself was surprised


    by ill overt support. fomeisnie


    obvious. pewenticre if Tyrone had


    akytHing to do with this. Could he


    have arranged it? The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Quintessa looked gorgeous and


    enchanting SEO geN?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ? ferencenhere y move was


    ature and calcted. The content


    is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Meanwhile, Tyrone, with his eyes glued to theputer screen, wore a persistent sneer of disdain.

 Chapter 154

    Chapter 154


    It was clear that the reporter had been set up deliberately to make things difficult for Quintessa.


    Tyrone wondered who was so foolish.


    Suddenly, Alexander¡¯s voice rang out overhead, ¡°Hey, Tyrone, what are you looking at so intently?¡±


    Snap¨CTyrone mmed hisptop shut and looked up to find Alexander, who had appeared out of


    nowhere, standing right in front of him.


    Tyrone cleared his throat. ¡°Man, you could¡¯ve given me a heads up before dropping by.¡±


    Annoyed at himself, Tyrone had been so engrossed that he hadn¡¯t even noticed Alexander¡¯s arrival.


    Alexander chuckled, ¡°Come on, buddy, what¡¯s there to fear as long as you¡¯re not hiding a woman?


    What were you so deep into just now?¡±


    Tyrone brushed its off, ¡°Nothing. What brings you here?¡±


    Alexander sat down across from him. ¡°My little sis ising of age. You¡¯reing to the celebration,


    right? After all, she¡¯s someone we¡¯ve both watched grow up, and aing¨Cof¨Cage celebration


    happens only once in a lifetime.¡±


    Tyrone, somewhat absent¨Cminded today, replied, ¡°Sure, I¡¯lle if I¡¯m free.¡±


    ¡°Do you have something on your mind?¡± Alexander probed.


    ¡°Not at all, you came all this way just to invite me?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Tyrone was getting antsy, wanting to hasten Alexander¡¯s departure. However, Alexander continued to


    find topics to talk about, showing minimal interest in leaving.


    It wasn¡¯t until Shirley knocked and reminded them of a senior management meeting in 10 minutes, that


    Alexander finally took his leave.


    After seeing Alexander off, Tyrone immediately flipped hisptop open again.


    The start¨Cup press conference was nearing its end, and the host was throwing different questions at


    each of the creative leads.


    When it was Quintessa¡¯s turn, the host asked, ¡°We¡¯ve heard that Ms. Young is a true Emberbrook


    native. This is your first big production right in your hometown. How are you feeling, any words you¡¯d


    like to share?¡±


    Quintessa smiled, ¡°Truth be told, being here today, what I really want to say is a few words to my


    family. It¡¯s been over three years since Ist saw them, and I miss them a lot. Today, I¡¯m fortunate


    enough to have this tform to tell them¨CI¡¯m back!¡±


    The Young family, I¡¯ve returned.


    Three years ago, I said I would reim what you owe me.


    I¡¯m ready now. How about you?


    15:04


    Chapter 154


    Tilting her chin up, Quintessa looked straight into the camera. Her eyes shone bright, her smile radiant.


    Even the cameraman, knowing she wasn¡¯t looking at him, felt his heart race.


    This camera couldn¡¯t encapste her beauty.


    At the Young family, Miranda Young suddenly let out a piercing S


    Lilian was startled, ¡°Miranda, what on earth are you screaming about?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Miranda¡¯s hands shook as she held her phone, her face pale as a ghost. ¡°Mom, Mom! Come look at


    this, quick!¡±


    Lilian frowned and walked over, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Miranda handed over her phone, ¡°Quintessa! Mom, it¡¯s that bitch Quintessa. It¡¯s her.¡±


    As soon as Lilian heard the name Quintessa, her expression instantly changed. She grabbed the


    phone, . exactly at the moment Quintessa was saying: I¡¯m fortunate enough to have this tform to tell


    them¨CI¡¯m


    back!


    Lilian¡¯s hands trembled. When she saw Quintessa¡¯s stunning face in the video, aside from shock, her


    spiteful eyes were filled with murderous intent.


    Miranda, clutching her hair and screamed hysterically, ¡°How did that bitch get on TV? How did she


    be a star? Mom, what do we do?¡±


    Quinn: I¡¯m back. It¡¯s time to tremble, you wretched snakes!

 Chapter 155

    Chapter 155


    For Miranda, Quintessa was a ticking time bomb. The three years since Quintessa¡¯s absence had been


    the best times she had lived through.


    She had thought thisfort wouldst forever, but Quintessa burst back onto the scene without any


    warning, making a high¨Cprofileeback. There she was, standing on a grand stage, the center of


    everyone¡¯s attention; she looked dazzlingly beautiful, as if no one could dim her radiance.


    This sharply pricked at Miranda, stirring up memories of past days that were filled with Quintessa¡¯s


    presence.


    Quintessa¡¯s sudden reappearance was even more shocking to Miranda than the time when Jerome


    had said he wanted to break up with her.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Although Lilian was shocked as well, she quickly calmed down. ¡°Easy now. I¡¯ll call your dad, have him


    come back ASAP. This little wrench is looking for trouble. I was just wondering where to find her.¡±


    Lilian¡¯s hatred for Quintessa was no less intense than Miranda¡¯s.


    Her greatest regret now was not having dealt with Quintessa and her despicable mother once and for


    all in the past.


    Letting Quintessa live had disturbed the entire Young household.


    The young family was in utter chaos, but Lilian¡¯s attempts to call Sean were all unsessful.


    At that moment, Sean was busy house¨Chunting with Ynda Temple. While signing the down payment


    contract, his phone rang. Seeing it was Lilian, he promptly switched his phone to airne mode.


    After finalizing the house purchase, Sean wrapped his arm around Ynda and said, ¡°Take good care


    of yourself and the baby. Don¡¯t worry about anything else.¡±


    Ynda nodded, ¡°Okay, I understand.¡±


    She was pregnant, just one month along.


    Had it been any earlier, Sean would have insisted on termination. But now he desperately needed a


    son, especially with the doctors having confirmed that Matthew would likely never wake up, and Lilian


    unable to have more children.


    Ynda¡¯s pregnancy came as a miraculous lifeline for Sean.


    Moreover, preferring Ynda¡¯s gentleness and affection to Lilian¡¯s sternness, Sean had the house


    registered in Ynda¡¯s name.


    Sean said, ¡°Give me a healthy baby boy.¡±


    Ynda blushed modestly, lowering her head, ¡°That¡¯s not really up to me.¡±


    ¡°It will be. I have a feeling it will be a boy.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope so. How are things at thepany? You seem quite stressedtely.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve got a n.¡±


    Ynda tenderly touched her t belly, the picture of a caring mother¨Cto¨Cbe, though only she knew the


    coldness and resolve in her gaze.


    Chapter 155


    Quintessa¡¯s name soared to the top of the trending charts before the press conference for ¡°Whispers in


    the Wind¡± had even concluded. Images of her on stage went viral across social media. In a society


    where beauty reigns supreme, Quintessa¡¯s wless visage was a ma for adoration.


    The Inte was abuzz withments:


    #CryingWithBeauty, where did the director find her?#


    1


    #I could stare at my screen for a year now. Seeing you, I finally know what a God looks like#


    Apart from those dazzled by Quintessa¡¯s beauty, some onlookers spected that she must have a


    strong backing and hoped she wasn¡¯t just another pretty face.


    Online discussions about Quintessa were split into two camps: positioning her either as a God or a


    mer¨¦


    decorative vase.


    Quintessa scrolled through thements and discovered no hate as of yet, attributing the current


    peace to the brewing period such discussions require. But she knew that the onught of acrimony


    was imminent; it was bound to erupt by tonight or, at thetest, by tomorrow.


    Quintessa smirked to herself: Bring it on, and make it fierce.

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156


    Don¡¯t let her down; if it¡¯s going to be a fight, make it savage.


    They are so insignificant; she can¡¯t even be bothered to lift a finger.


    Quintessa browsed around and saw #Snow trending again. She checked his Twitter, only to find he had


    posted yet another update, but this time, the picture was of two people embracing.


    Against the strong light, they became silhouettes, the colors of the picture were intense and striking.


    Thements under Snow¡¯s tweet had exploded:


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Everyone is crying: My beloved hubby really went public with his rtionship, should I cry, or should I


    die?


    But Snow¡¯s fans were fiercely protective of their idol.


    After their initial wails, they lined up in thements to show their support, all replying: [I¡¯ve cried my


    eyes out and paced my balcony, but in the end, I¡¯ve calmed down. God Snow, just be happy.]


    Quintessa couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. Snow had stirred the pot with such mystery, staying silent amidst


    the swirling rumors.


    After browsing for a bit more, she headed back to the set of ¡°Requiem.¡± She knew that once this shoot


    wrapped up, ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡± would be next on her schedule.


    Quintessa thought about her high¨Cprofile return today and how it must¡¯ve shaken up the Young family.


    She wondered how Sean was handling it all.


    She switched to another SIM card and called Ynda.


    The call connected immediately, and before Quintessa could speak, Ynda blurted out, ¡°Thank


    goodness you called. I didn¡¯t know how to reach you. There¡¯s something I need to tell you.¡±


    Quintessa could hear the urgency in her voice. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m pregnant. Sean¡¯s ecstatic. He bought me a house today, in my name, and told me to take good


    care of myself.¡±


    Quintessa was taken aback. ¡°And you? What do you think?¡±


    Ynda¡¯s voice was pained. ¡°I don¡¯t want this baby. I don¡¯t want it at all. What should I do?¡±


    Quintessa looked at the ceiling. ¡°You have to ask yourself this question. If keeping it would make you


    extremely unhappy, to the point you can¡¯t bear it, then maybe it¡¯s best to let go before the feelings grow


    too deep. But if you can¡¯t bear to do that, then keep it. Once it¡¯s all over, find a ce where no one


    knows you and live a good life with your child.¡±


    A child was something nobody expected.


    After a long silence, Ynda asked, ¡°What would you do if you were me? Would you keep it?¡±


    Quintessa considered for a moment. ¡°If it were me, I think I¡¯d keep the child.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Quintessa shared, ¡°I¡¯d want my child to taste the happiness I never had.¡±


    The only warmth Quintessa had known came from her mother. To her, ¡°Mom¡± was a sacred word. No


    one


    1/2


    14:23


    Chapter 156


    would probably believe she wanted to be a mother herself.


    Ynda¡¯s crying voice came though the phone. ¡°I want to, but I can¡¯t keep this child. I would kill his


    father.


    I can¡¯t let my child grow up knowing their mother is a murderer, that their father killed their mother¡¯s


    own sister. This child shouldn¡¯t be born; there¡¯s too much sin involved.¡±


    Ynda was torn, but she was right.


    This child should not be born.


    Quintessa didn¡¯t offer muchfort, ¡°Alright, but since you¡¯ve made this decision, use it wisely. Follow


    my lead, and we¡¯ll make sure Sean¡¯s household burns brighter than ever.¡±

 Chapter 157

    Chapter 157


    Chapter 157


    Ynda nodded. ¡°Okay, I''ll follow your lead.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t do anything rash. Wait for my signal. I''ll n everything, and you just do as | say.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡±


    After hanging up, Quintessa suddenly felt uneasy.


    That evening, Sean and Rachel had both returned home.


    The news of Quintessa¡¯s return had Rachel leaping to her feet, ¡°What? Quintessa is back?¡±


    She leapt so fast that she knocked her knee against the coffee table with a loud thud. The sound echoed, but the shock of


    Quintessa¡¯s return numbed any pain.


    Her mind was entirely consumed with the thought ¡ª Quintessa was back!


    Miranda, fuming, smashed another coffee cup in frustration. ¡°Yes, not only has she returned, but she¡¯s alsoe back in glory.


    Quintessa¡¯s trending online, for heaven¡¯s sake. She¡¯s be a celebrity,nded a movie role, and now she¡¯s poised to be


    the center of attention. And to top it off, she¡¯s challenging us, like she¡¯s determined to make our lives miserable.¡±


    Miranda was itching to tear Quintessa apart. For the past three years, she''d imagined Quintessa living at the bottom of society,


    perhaps even forced into prostitution.


    What she hadn''t anticipated was Quintessa reappearing so abruptly, living so well and so morously. Landing a lead role in a


    blockbuster right from the start-why was she blessed with such good fortune?


    The thought of Quintessa once again rising above her filled Miranda with a bitter, venomous hatred.


    Rachel''s face was ashen as she watched Quintessa radiate allure and beauty in the video.


    Three years had passed, and she had grown even more seductive, more enchanting, and more beguiling On stage, among male


    celebrities ustomed to beauty, all eyes were on her.


    Rachel''s grip on her phone tightened. She, like Miranda, was caught off guard by Quintessa¡¯s sudden reappearance, which


    might throw their lives into disarray.


    For Rachel, the hatred ran deeper because three years ago, Quintessa had slept with her man.


    Her eyes were filled with a venomous loathing, like a serpent fixating on its prey.


    ¡°She actually came back, she really dide back.¡± Rachel whispered hoarsely.


    Miranda, beside herself with anger, kicked the coffee table repeatedly, cursing. ¡°Quintessa should be living like a rat in the gutter


    and be despised by everyone. What right does she have to live so well? Mom, Dad, do something! | can¡¯t stand to see her


    thriving. | want her gone.¡±


    Lilian was almost sick with rage. Turning to Sean, who had remained silent, she implored, ¡°Well? Think of something! Her


    audacity in announcing her return is a direct challenge to us. Don¡¯t forget how she threatened you three years ago. If that bitch


    doesn¡¯t go down, none of us will have peace.¡±


    Sean, his head ached from the constantmotion. Business troubles in hispany were incessant, and there was no peace


    at home either. He felt increasingly overwhelmed.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa¡¯s sudden return startled him


    but his current concernsy with thepany and the baby on the


    1/2


    14:23


    Chapter 157


    way with Ynda. So, his wariness


    towards SUNS Ee, asGnierise


    ag before. @he Content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    ¡°What''s the use of panicking now


    Sean said. ¡°Let''s first foe ct who''s


    . ay C ;


    backing¡¯ ¡± The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    While Sean, too, wanted Quintessa


    out of the picture, he wasn''t that,


    impulsive. Quintessx¡¯ihnrhediate


    aec¨¦ss Stich prime opportunities


    upon her return hinted at a powerful


    patron. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    It was not the time for reckless action.

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158


    Lilian yelled at Sean,¡°This is all your fault! I told you years ago that we should have gotten rid of her


    and her good¨Cfor¨Cnothing mother. Then we wouldn¡¯t have all these issues now.¡±


    Things had been going south for Liliantely. Her son wasid up in the hospital, not getting any better,


    and she didn¡¯t want to trouble her daughter. So, she took out her frustrations on Sean, day in and day


    out.


    Sean was growing weary of the constant nagging.


    Rachel, with a clouded and inscrutable expression, said, ¡°Lilian, Sean, I¡¯m going upstairs first.¡±


    She got up and made a phone call.


    ¡°Kris, I need a favor. I need you to dig up some dirt on a woman named Quintessa Young. She¡¯s


    recently returned to the country. I want to know exactly when she got back, who she¡¯s been seeing, and


    especially if she¡¯s had any contact with Tyrone, the heir to the York family. Just find out and name your


    price.¡±


    After the call, Rachel¡¯s hands were shaking uncontrobly.


    Sometimes a woman¡¯s intuition is eerily urate. The moment Rachel heard Quintessa was back, she


    immediately thought of Tyrone.


    Tyrone had ignored her in the past, but a month ago, he¡¯d suddenly turned downright hostile to her.


    Rachel couldn¡¯t help but link the two together.


    If Quintessa had managed to ensnare Tyrone again, what would she do? How would she ever marry


    into the York family?


    Panic, fear, and hatred churned in Rachel¡¯s heart. She had to do something, anything, to destroy


    Quintessa.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    She shakily created several burner Twitter ounts, leaving posts everywhere.


    All of them smeared Quintessa:


    [I know Quintessa; she used to be my ssmate. She¡¯s the illegitimate daughter of the Young family.


    She is a seductress, just like her Mom, a notorious homewrecker. She¡¯s gone after friends¡® boyfriends,


    sisters¡® fianc¨¦s, I even heard she made a move on her cousin¡¯s guy. A woman like that, no telling how


    many men she¡¯s slept with tond that role.]


    After posting, Rachel knew it wasn¡¯t enough; herments were like pebbles tossed into a river.


    Doing it alone wasn¡¯t working; she needed to hire an online brigade.


    She was determined to tarnish Quintessa¡¯s reputation beyond repair, making it impossible for her to


    find a foothold back home.


    The pressunch for ¡°Whispers in the Wind¡± went smoothly. Tyrone had developed a habit of scrolling


    through Twitter.


    Because Quintessa had joined Twitter. She had a few hundred thousand followers¨Cnot a lot, but not


    few either.


    Quintessa¡¯s first tweet was a selfie on set with her crew, and thements below were filled with


    adoration.


    1/2


    14:23


    Chapter 158


    Tyrone sneered inside: Goddess? She¡¯s more like a sly vixen.


    With a grunt, he clicked on the picture and hit ¡°Save.¡±


    Scrolling through thements, he saw the attacks on Quintessa, calling her a man¨Cstealer,


    shameless, iming any guy could have her.


    Tyrone¡¯s eyes narrowed, and he let out a coldugh. The smear campaign had begun, and it was


    gaining momentum. Quintessa was being maligned even before she became popr.


    Yet, it seemed Quintessa didn¡¯t care. She kept updat


    her posts and appeared to be in high spirits.


    Tyrone checked the trending topics and spotted #SnowRevealsRomance# that had been on the charts


    for days. And he clicked on it.


    Upon opening it, Tyrone became instantly agitated.


    He rapidly scrolled through Snow¡¯s Twitter, growing increasingly furious with each photo.


    Don¡¯t think he couldn¡¯t recognize that little demon just because there are no full¨Cface shots.

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159


    Tyrone grabbed thendline on the desk. ¡°Get in here.¡±


    Jimmy¡¯s heart skipped a beat at themand. He scurried into the boss¡¯s office, only to a dead


    cellphone lying on the ground, its screen dark and shattered.


    Tyrone was standing by the window, his back to Jimmy, his tie discarded carelessly on the ground.


    Without turning around, he said, ¡°Get me a new phone.¡±


    Jimmy felt a chill go down his spine. The big man was on the warpath again.


    ¡°Sure, sure.¡± he stammered.


    ¡°Did you sort out that house at Harmony Retreat like I asked?¡±


    Jimmy nodded vigorously,¡±All set.¡±


    ¡°The keys.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll have them tomorrow.¡±


    Tyrone turned slowly, ¡°I want them, now.¡±


    The cold and stern look in Tyrone¡¯s eyes nearly brought Jimmy to his knees.


    ging


    Despite Tyrone¡¯sposed exterior, those who knew him well understood the storm that was raging


    inside.


    ¡°Right away,¡± Jimmy quickly said. ¡°I¡¯ll bring them to you, right away.¡±


    Once outside, Jimmy took a deep breath. Working for the boss was like waiting for a volcano to erupt,


    especially recently. It was like dealing with a relentless force of nature that refused to let up


    Half an hourter, drenched in sweat, Jimmy handed the keys over to Tyrone.


    ¡°Get a renovation crew. I need them to start immediately,¡± Tyrone took the keys and demanded


    Jimmy just nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know what Tyrone was nning, but he did know better than to ask questions.


    The film crew had no scenes involving Quintessa for the entire day, and after rushing for several days,


    she was exhausted and nned to go home to rest for a day.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    As Quintessa reached her apartment building, she let Manny go ahead while she carried her luggage


    upstairs alone.


    However, stepping out of the elevator, she was met with the relentless drone of a power drill. The noise


    was so grating, it felt like it was boring straight into her forehead.


    She thought the noise wasing from the Snows¡® ce, but after a few steps, she realized that


    something was off.


    She hurriedly approached her door, only to find it ajar, with the buzzing sound of the electric drill indeed


    coming from her apartment.


    Quintessa: Son of a¨CBurrs?


    Chapter 159


    Dropping her luggage, she kicked the door wide open and charged in.


    With a loud bang, the door swing open, and everyone inside stopped to look towards the entrance.


    Quintessa scanned the room, which was a chaos of disarray, and saw half a dozen workers who


    looked more like workers than thieves.


    Her jaw clenched. ¡°This is my ce. Who let you in? Get out!¡±


    The workers exchanged nces, confused.


    ¡°Miss, we¡¯re just here to work,¡± one of them said. ¡°Someone hired us to renovate, and that person is the


    homeowner who has the keys.¡±


    Quintessa frowned, thinking Violet had paid the rent for a year, and it had only been a month. Even if


    she was to be evicted, a prior notice would have been required, something was definitely wrong here.


    She demanded coldly, ¡°Homeowner? Who is it, have him talk to me.¡±


    Suddenly, a voice came from behind her. ¡°It¡¯s me!¡±


    Quintessa spun around, only to find a person standing behind her¨Cand damn, it was someone she


    knew. With that arrogant face, who else could it be but that bastard Tyrone?


    One of the workers behind her said, ¡°Miss, this man is the homeowner. We¡¯re all working for him.¡±


    Quintessa red coldly at Tyrone. ¡°Get out, or I¡¯m calling the cops.¡±

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160


    With a cold expression, Tyro. nced at Quintessa from the corner of his eye as he walked past her


    into the room and said to the workers, ¡°Continue. If the work is not done by noon tomorrow, I¡¯ll dock half


    of


    your pay.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the workers hurried back to work. No one dared ck off now.


    ork redal ches


    Quintessa¡¯s face twisted with anger, and through gritted teeth, she spat, ¡°Tyrone, take your people and


    get out of my ce. Now.¡±


    Tyrone sneered in response. He towered over Quintessa, looking down at her with cold, disdainful eyes


    as if to say: I won¡¯t leave, what can you do about it?


    His poised and aloof appearance really made him seem like a rare, untouchable orchid.


    But Quintessa knew, at his core, he was nothing but a shameless jerk.


    Without hesitation, Quintessa whipped out her phone to call the property management crew. ¡°Hello, is


    that the property management? I¡¯ve got intruders. I need help right now.¡±


    Soon enough, the property management and security arrived, but upon seeing Tyrone, they all but


    bowed.


    ¡°They¡¯ve barged into my ce; I want them out and I wantpensation for any damages,¡± Quintessa


    demanded.


    The property manager said with difficulty, ¡°Ms. Young, this gentleman is the owner. The property now


    belongs to Mr. York.¡±


    Owner?


    Quintessa whipped her head around to lock eyes with Tyrone.


    Tyrone¡¯s lips curled into a smirk, that infuriatingly handsome face of his exuding arrogance. Let me


    remind you now, you should call mendlord!¡±


    Then, he turned to the workers, ¡°Wrap up ahead of schedule and I¡¯ll double your pay.¡±


    His message to Quintessa was clear: This is my house, I do as I please, and you have no say in it..


    Quintessa finally understood what was happening. This bastard Tyrone had gone behind their backs


    and cut a deal with the previous owner, who hadn¡¯t even bothered to notify them before selling the


    ce. And she wouldn¡¯t put it past Tyrone to have had a hand in this underhanded move.


    She knew it, Tyrone had been quiet for so many days, surely plotting something bad.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    So all these days, he was up to this.


    Quintessa nodded, seething. ¡°Fine, you have the money, you have the clout. Where are my things?¡±


    She was exhausted from days of shooting and just wanted to rest, have a drink of water, and sleep.


    She didn¡¯t have the energy to tangle with Tyrone now.


    Tyrone tilted his chin up. ¡°The ce is mine, and everything in it is mine by extension.¡±


    Quintessa once again witnessed Tyrone¡¯s brazenness in broad daylight. She had half a mind to slip off


    her shoe and smack him with it.


    Quintessaughed, baring her white teeth. ¡°Alright, it¡¯s all yours. Why don¡¯t you just im that I¡¯m yours


    14:23


    Chapter 160


    too?¡±


    Her voice rose to a shout by the end of her sentence.


    Unexpectedly, Tyrone replied with shameless audacity, ¡°You¡¯re quite perceptive. Of


    ourse, you¡¯re mine.¡±


    unwilling to be


    The property staff and security guards sensed the tension and made themselves scarce, caught in the


    crossfire. If the house gets demolished, that was their problem.


    Quintessa was so angry she felt stomach pain. ¡°Ha, you¡¯re reallymitted to being


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow. ¡°You tter me. This is all thanks to your teachings.¡±


    ¡°Tyrone, just you wait.¡±


    Quintessa hissed through clenched teeth, grabbed her luggage, and stormed out.


    total disgrace.¡±


    She didn¡¯t have the energy to deal with Tyrone today. Once she had rested well, she¡¯d see how she


    could deal with him and make sure he regretted it.

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161


    Chapter 161


    Before reaching the elevator, the doors opened and Snow, wrapped up tightly, stepped out. Upon seeing Quintessa, he said.


    ¡°What a coincidence to see you here. | wanted to discuss something about the promotion with you.¡±


    Quintessa cut him off, ¡°I¡¯m beat. | don¡¯t want to talk about anything else. Just get your keys out and let me crash on your couch


    for a bit.


    Quintessa didn¡¯t want to move an inch at the moment. The constant drilling noise had her head on the brink of explosion. She


    was seriously concerned that any second now, she might just grab a suitcase and hurl it at Tyrone. That bastard, it would be


    unjustifiable to heavens if he weren''t dead.


    Snow was stunned for a moment, then delight filled his heart. Was Quintessa suggesting...


    But his joysted only a second before a chilly voice yanked him from his daydream: ¡°I¡¯m fucking still here, and you¡¯re ready to


    sneak into to another man¡¯s ce? You really think I¡¯m invisible?¡±


    Snow turned in shock to see Tyrone striding toward them. If this were some fantasy novel, Tyrone seemed to be enveloped in a


    scary, dark aura.


    Having seen Tyrone before when thepany was acquired, Snow, being one of the shareholders, knew who Tyrone was. But


    to find someone of Tyrone¡¯s stature in this average apartment building was shocking.


    What shocked him most, though, was that Quintessa and Tyrone knew each other!


    Quintessa turned to face Tyrone with a sneer, ¡°Are you even human?¡±


    The next second, Tyroneughed, ¡°Nope, I¡¯m the dog that bit you.¡±


    Before Quintessa could respond with a curse, he continued, ¡°Since I¡¯m not a human, how could | possibly be rational like one?¡±


    After saying that, with a sweep of his arm, he hooked Quintessa into his embrace, lifted her up, and went to press the elevator


    button.


    Having been cursed already, if he didn¡¯t do something outrageously irrational, how could he live up to his own reputation?


    Upon hearing this, Quintessa was so infuriated that she almost burst, yelling, ¡°Put me down! If you dare, put me down! | swear,


    I''ll poison you.¡±


    While the elevator ascended, Tyrone held Quintessa tightly, preventing her from moving, and teased by pinching her chin, ¡°Oh, |


    believe you. You¡¯d poison me and then skin me alive, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    Snow came to his senses, removed his mask, and approached, ¡°Mr. York, forcing someone like this doesn¡¯t seem quite right.¡±


    Tyrone nced down at Snow with a lofty disdain that made his usual haughty arrogance all the more evident.


    ¡°This is between me and my woman. Stay out of it.¡±


    Feeling dizzy, Quintessa protested, ¡°Who the hell is your woman?¡±


    Smack, Tyrone pped Quintessa¡¯s buttocks, his voice cold as ice, ¡°Shut it. You¡¯ve even miscarried our child, how can you say


    you''re


    not?¡±


    Quintessa felt like she was about to vomit blood, damn his talk of miscarriage.


    In her life, she truly understood what


    it meant to shoot herself in the foot.


    Originally pohina cies Pytdne,


    she endedUp disgusting herself.


    What she didn¡¯t expect was for


    Tyrone to bring this matter up. What


    about his pride? The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Snow looked at Quintessa in


    astonishment, seei r rageand


    a ned shaw¨¦es mbarrassed into


    anger. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    A man like Tyrone, would absolutely


    not reveal such a Kacy ual¨¦ed it!


    wasindee@tiud: he content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Were Quintessa and Tyrone really in that kind of rtionship?


    Suddenly, Snow was ovee with an indescribable feeling.

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162


    it all seemed at though certain things had barely begun before they wereing to an end.


    Quintessa clenched her teeth in frustration. ¡°Tyrone, since you¡¯re a man, can¡¯t you act like one?¡±


    Tyrone nced at her, a thunderous look on his face, and retorted with shameless candor, ¡°You¡¯re


    right, I¡¯ll take you back and show you


    Just what a man does.¡±


    Quintessa, ¡°Get lost.¡±


    The elevator dinged open, and Tyrone ushered her inside. ¡°We¡¯ll get lost together.¡±


    Show spoke up. ¡°Quinn¡±


    Quintessa said to him, ¡°T¡¯ll talk to you when I get back.¡±


    Inside the elevator Tyrone gave Snow a chilling stare, ¡°This is the first time, let there not be a second.


    And keep the rumor mill to a


    minimum.¡±


    The elevator doors slid shut, obscuring Tyrone and Quintessa from Snow¡¯s view.


    Suddenly. Show understood why his music video was abruptly halted and couldn¡¯t be filmed, and why


    hispany was unexpectedly being acquired.


    Before, he couldn¡¯t figure it out. But now everything was crystal clear now¨Cit was all because of


    Quintessa.


    Quintessa was Tyrone¡¯s woman.


    Snow chuckled ruefully to himself. No wonder, the CEO of Spark Entertainment had had hesitated to


    speak to him before. Quintessa was no ordinary woman.


    He had thought she was just some C¨Clist celebrity, but she had some serious clout behind her.


    Remembering how Quintessa had just addressed Tyrone, Snow couldn¡¯t help but smirk, ¡°You like her


    that much, and coincidentally, so do 1. I¡¯m not one to back down, so let¡¯s see who¡¯s more capable.¡±


    Did Snow resent Tyrone for what had happened with hispany?


    It wasn¡¯t resentment, but disdain was definitely on the menu. His meticulously nned new album had


    been dyed until now because of a word from Tyrone, and hispany had been bought out. All


    these were enough reasons for Snow to resent Tyrone.


    If Tyrone¡¯s girl ended up with him, it would be the sweetest form of revenge.


    ?? ?? ???? ? ?? ? ??? ? ? ? ? ? ?


    Besides, Snow had already taken a liking to Quintessa, and even without Tyrone¡¯s interference, he had


    nned to pursue her. Tyrone¡¯s presence only solidified his resolve.


    Snow turned and walked towards his own ce, passing by Quintessa¡¯s apartment where workers


    were busy inside.


    ¡°Excuse me, try to keep it down.¡±


    ¡°Sure thing, we¡¯ll try our best,¡± they replied.


    Being thrown into the car, Quintessa gave up struggling and red at Tyrone, ¡°What¡¯s your deal? Are


    you just hell¨Cbent on being a jerk?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face was expressionless, ¡°You¡¯d be wise to shut up now. I¡¯m not in the mood to talk.¡±


    Quintessaughed angrily, ¡°Not in the mood to talk, then why the hell are you forcing your way into my


    ce?¡±


    ¡°Your ce?¡±


    Quintessa gritted her teeth in frustration; of course, now it was Tyrone¡¯s ce. He was loaded, after


    all¨Ca rich guy who could bury you with a flick of his wallet.


    Tyrone nced at Quintessa, ¡°But if you want to call it ¡®our ce, I¡¯m not opposed.¡±


    Quintessa bit back, ¡°Oh, I¡¯m so thankful.¡±


    ¡°You go to all this trouble, not buying a mansion but a shabby one¨Cbedroom apartment in this ce.


    What¡¯s your game? Got more money than sense?¡±


    Tyrone smirked, ¡°What am I up to? Isn¡¯t it obvious?¡±


    Quintessa scoffed, ¡°Don¡¯t make rne think you¡¯re too sordid.¡±¡°


    Tyrone made a turn and said without a hint of indecency, ¡°I¡¯m not sordid, just aiming for something


    grand.¡±


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    Curious, Quintessa asked, ¡°What¡¯s the aim?¡±


    Tyrone parked the car and turned to her with a serious gaze, ¡°To sleep with you until waking up


    naturally.¡±

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163


    The next moment, a wail emanated from inside the car, and Quintessa¡¯s shoe flew out of the window.


    At that moment, all Quintessa could think was: Why the hell did I ever open my mouth to ask him?


    She knew damn well that nothing good ever came out of Tyrone¡¯s mouth.


    -To sleep with her until waking up naturally?


    Ha! She¡¯d like to punch him awake every single day.


    Tyrone pushed his hair back, narrowly avoiding the flying shoe. He checked his reflection in the


    rearview mirror, smoothing his hair back into ce with a look of disgust for Quintessa, ¡°What, haven¡¯t


    washed your feet in days? They stink!¡±


    Quintessa, with one bare foot propped up on the dashboard, shot back, ¡°Had I known I¡¯d be using my


    shoe to hit you today, I wouldn¡¯t have washed my feet for a week.¡±


    Tyrone nced at her bare foot, then at the abandoned shoe outside.


    ¡°I was trying to keep a low profile, keep my grand ns under wraps. It is you that have asked me, and


    I just told the truth. How can you me me? Though the goal isn¡¯t easy to achieve, one must always


    dream, and you can¡¯t stop me from dreaming beautifully!¡±


    Rolling her eyes, Quintessa snarked, ¡°Fine, you¡¯re a jerk, you win. Now, would you be a dear and fetch


    my shoe?¡±


    Previously, Quintessa felt that her words could make Tyrone turn red and get furious. But these days, it


    was bing a Herculean task. It wasn¡¯t that she was losing her touch; it was that Tyrone¡¯s skin had


    grown irritatingly thick.


    Tyrone grabbed Quintessa¡¯s ankle, dropping it, ¡°You think I¡¯m an idiot, to pick it up for you just to let you


    hit me with the shoe again?¡±


    Quintessa kicked out, ¡°You think I need a shoe to hit you?¡±


    He caught her leg, giving it a squeeze, ¡°Easy, save some of that energy forter. Didn¡¯t you say I


    should be doing more manly things? I¡¯m all prepared for that.¡±


    Quintessa wanted to curse.


    Suddenly, the sound of honking came from behind; Tyrone¡¯s car was blocking the way, and the driver


    behind was losing patience.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The driver behind stuck his head out the window, ¡°Are you moving or what? Take your couple¡¯s quarrel


    home and stop blocking the way!¡± Quintessa¡¯s face darkened instantly. Who the hell was a couple with


    this guy?


    Tyrone leaned out the window and shouted back, ¡°Who said we¡¯re quarreling? This is us being


    affectionate, get it?¡±


    Quintessa firmly kicked him again.


    Tyrone, in a surprisingly good mood, started the car, ¡°I¡¯m driving here, don¡¯t keep hitting me. What if I


    lose my cool and crash the car head¨Con, huh?¡±


    She withdrew her foot, ¡°What then? Drag you down with me¡±


    She truly felt the urge to drag Tyrone down with her; he was driving her insane.


    She wondered, where the hell did that cold, aloof man before disappear to?


    Suddenly, Tyrone caressed her face with a smirk, ¡°Tsk, I never imagined your feelings for me were so


    deep, ready to join me in the afterlife and all.¡±


    She really wanted to strangle him!


    Closing her eyes, Quintessa decided she couldn¡¯t talk to Tyrone anymore; she might actually die of


    rage beforehand. This shameless, insufferable man had lost all the elegance he once had; she must


    have been blind.


    Tyrone stole a nce at Quintessa, noting her silence with a small victorious smile.


    Back then, he was too naive and too easily riled by her. Now, well.


    Quintessa thought, I have all the time in the world to deal with you.


    A


    1/1

 Chapter 164

    Chapter 164


    Tyrone once again led Quintessa to the private residence they had visited before. Quintessa refused


    Tyrone¡¯s offer of a fireman¡¯s carry. With uneven steps, she yfully stumbled into the elevator under his


    teasing gaze.


    Quintessa wasn¡¯t worried about Tyrone trying anything on her; she had a myriad of ways to shut him


    down if he ever tried.


    Exiting the elevator, Tyrone entered the password, and the door opened.


    The first thing that hit Quintessa was the tantalizing aroma wafting from the room. Her stomach had


    been growling for a while, and the smell was enough to make her mouth water.


    Tyrone caught the scent too and frowned as he stepped inside, calling out, ¡°Mom!¡±


    Sure enough, the only other person who¡¯d be there besides him was his mother.


    But why, oh why, did this little olddy always seem to show up whenever he brought Quintessa


    around? Could it be any more coincidental?


    Tyrone was a bit disheartened. With his mom around, the things he wanted to do just couldn¡¯t be done,


    could they?


    As expected, Cecilia appeared from the kitchen, apron¨Cd, and said, ¡°Honey, you¡¯re back! You


    haven¡¯t been home for da thought I¡¯d¡­ I¡­


    and I


    Her words trailed off as she caught sight of Quintessa trailing behind Tyrone, and she became a bit


    flustered.


    Upon seeing Cecilia, Quintessa also paused. They had met twice before, and this was the third time,


    with each encounter being unpleasant. Especially considering thest one involved a ¡°miscarriage¡°!


    This made Cecilia feel uneasy and guilty every time she saw Quintessa, after all, it was her son who


    was at fault.


    Incide


    Quintessa waved at Cecilia, ¡°What a coincidence meeting you here again.¡±


    Seeing Cecilia, Quintessa¡¯s mind started racing,ing up with one mischievous idea after another.


    Cecilia cleared her throat awkwardly, ¡°Ahem. Well, the food in the kitchen is almost ready¡±


    With that, she hurried back to the kitchen.


    Quintessa¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile. ¡°Tsk, your mom and I really are fated, aren¡¯t we? Doesn¡¯t this


    mean I¡¯m one step closer to my goal of bing your stepmom?¡±


    Tyrone nced at her belly and snorted, ¡°Yeah, fated.¡±


    2 1?? ¡À 3 5 7 2 83328 52 2 3 3 2 2 2 2 5 8 3 2 5 2


    After a while, Cecilia reemerged, having regained herposure and poise. Despite her inner turmoil,


    she couldn¡¯t let this temptress see her flustered; it would only encourage the girl to worm her way


    further into their lives.


    Noticing Quintessa with one bare foot, Cecilia asked, ¡°Where¡¯s your shoe?¡±Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Quintessa tilted her chin up, ¡°Ask your son.¡±


    Cecilia turned to Tyrone with a questioning look.


    Tyrone, who was grumpily sipping water, remained silent. Quintessa sighed dramatically, ¡°Oh, the poor


    boy couldn¡¯t help himself, insisting on a little car fun, and I couldn¡¯t stop him, so there went my shoe.¡±


    Tyrone choked on his water, spraying it out in a sudden coughing fit as he turned to stare at Quintessa


    in shock.


    He finally understood how his mom felt every time she faced Quintessa. This woman, once she opened


    her mouth, wouldn¡¯t stop until she shocked everyone.


    Cecilia, who had just managed to reim her dignified air, stood gaping at Quintessa, unable to believe


    her ears.


    With one foot bare, her clothes in disarray, and her hair tousled, Quintessa looked every bit the part of


    post¨Cmischief. Cecilia¡¯s face flushed crimson with indignation.


    She ground her teeth and rounded on Tyrone, ¡°What have you been up to? It hasn¡¯t even been a


    month since her miscarriage!¡± Tyrone¡¯s protest was drowned out by his mother¡¯s fury, ¡°Mom, I,¡±

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165


    Cecilia gritted her teeth as she nced at Quintessa, then spun around and bellowed at Tyrone, ¡°You?


    Shut up and get over here, now!¡±


    She yanked her son into the bedroom and mmed the door behind them with a bang..


    Quintessa arched an eyebrow, thinking to herself, let mother and son hash it out themselves.


    Inside the bedroom, Cecilia glowered at Tyrone with a look of utter disappointment, ¡°I¡¯ve always known


    you were no saint, but you¡¯re my son, and I¡¯ve held my tongue. But we can¡¯t be acting like savages!¡±


    Tyrone massaged his temples, thinking, great, now I¡¯m a savage?


    Quintessa had really done a number on his reputation with his own mother.


    Tyrone tried to defend himself, ¡°Mom, what if I told you I didn¡¯t do it, would you believe me?¡±


    Cecilia eyed him skeptically, ¡°I believe you? Yeah, when pigs fly.¡±


    Tyrone was at a loss for words.


    Why did his mom take Quintessa¡¯s words over his?


    Had his standing in his mother¡¯s heart always been this low?


    Cecilia pointed out the door and said sternly, ¡°That temptress was out there, I can¡¯t stand her. But she¡¯s


    still a young woman; you can¡¯t just go around treating people like dirt.¡±


    Tyrone clenched his jaw, ¡°Mom!¡±


    Cecilia cut him off with a p on the wrist, ¡°Enough. You better break it off with her. She¡¯s no good, and


    neither are you. Find yourself a nice girl to settle down with; that¡¯s the proper way.¡±


    Tyrone didn¡¯t bother defending himself anymore; it was futile. He drawled, ¡°What if she clings to me and


    refuses to break it off?¡±


    Cecilia replied, ¡°Pay her off. That kind of girl usually goes away for money.¡±


    A slight smile curled on Tyrone¡¯s lips, ¡°Mom, if you think I¡¯m such a bad person, why should I go and


    ruin some nice girl¡¯s life? Maybe I should just stick with the one out there. After all, we¡¯re cut from the


    same cloth, right?¡±


    If Quintessa could be swayed by money, he would have seeded long ago. Why would he go


    through all this trouble up until now?


    Cecilia¡¯s expression suddenly changed, ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    Tyrone¡¯s face broke into a sly grin, ¡°Serious about what?¡±


    Cecilia scrutinized him for a moment, ¡°Never mind, but let me make myself clear, my disdain for that


    little witch won¡¯t change. But you can¡¯t treat people like they¡¯re nothing. Let there not be a repeat of


    today¡¯s events, or else I,¡±


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What will you do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll wallop you!¡±


    Eventually, the two came from the bedroom to find Quintessa unapologetically sipping on a bowl of


    chicken soup. She looked up at them and said, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, I was just so hungry I couldn¡¯t help


    myself.¡±


    Cecilia had prepared a warning on the tip of her tongue, but upon seeing Quintessa, she hesitated and


    remained silent.


    Moreover, seeing how deliciously Quintessa was enjoying the soup made Cecilia suddenly feel that, at


    least this little witch had a pte and could appreciate her cooking.


    Quintessa took another sip of the soup and said, ¡°By the way, madam, your phone has been ringing


    non¨Cstop just now.¡±


    Cecilia hurried over to grab her cell phone from the table and saw the missed calls from Rachel.


    Cecilia¡¯s first instinct was to hide it from her son to avoid another showdown.


    But as she was about to stash the phone away, it rang again.


    Quintessa, with a smirk, stuck a piece of chicken into her mouth, ¡°You might as well answer it. Rachel¡¯s


    been calling so much; it could be something urgent, don¡¯t you think?¡±

 Chapter 166

    Upon hearing Rachel''s name, Tyrone sharply turned to Cecilia, his dark eyes seeming to bore into her


    very soul, sending shivers down her spine.


    With a sheepish look on her face, Cecilia shot a re at Quintessa and hurriedly exined to Tyrone,


    "Well, I don''t know either. I didn''t answer it. Who knows why she called me - I''ve blocked her number."


    Just a moment ago, Cecilia was scolding her son, but now she was cowed under the pressure of a


    mere phone call.


    The phone was still buzzing insistently when Quintessa stopped Cecilia in her tracks, "Hey, hold up,


    don''t block her just yet. If she''s calling back-to-back like this, it must be something urgent. Let''s hear


    her out first."


    Then, turning to Tyrone with a smirk, Quintessa cooed, "Don''t you agree, darling?"


    Her "darling" was so syrupy sweet it sent shivers down Cecilia''s spine, and she shot Quintessa a


    venomous look that screamed "Vixen."


    Despite knowing Quintessa was up to no good, Tyrone felt a sudden urge to indulge her. "Mom, just


    take the call, see what she wants, okay? And I better not find out that you''ve been in touch with her


    behind my back again."


    Feeling cornered by her son''s stern words, Cecilia begrudgingly held the phone to her ear. "Hello,


    Rachel, what is it?"


    Rachel''s voice was filled with a desperate edge, "Auntie, I''m so sorry to bother you, but there''s


    something urgent I need to ask you about, it''s about Tyrone."


    Before Rachel could continue, Cecilia cut her off, "Enough, don''t call me again. I''m with Tyrone right


    now, and he won''t be pleased. I''m hanging up."


    Just as Cecilia was about to end the call, Quintessa, who had been eyeing the phone like a hawk,


    suddenly snatched it away.


    Cecilia gasped in shock.


    She tried to grab the phone back, but Tyrone stopped her. He was curious to see what Quintessa


    would say to Rachel.


    Quintessa put the call on speakerphone, a wicked smile ying at the corners of her mouth, "Hey


    there, dear auntie Rachel, how are you?"


    A burst of static came through before Rachel''s trembling voice responded, "Who is this?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Quintessa flicked her hair nonchntly, "Ohe on, it''s only been three years. Have you already


    forgotten my voice? Seems like I didn''t leave as much of an impression as I thought."


    "Quintessa!" The anger and frustration were palpable in Rachel''s voice, even through the phone.


    Quintessa nced at Cecilia, whose face was turning crimson, and smiled, "Yes, it''s me."


    "Where''s Mrs. Cecilia York?" Rachel, on the other end of the line, was almost using all her restraint not


    to curse out loud because she knew Cecilia and Tyrone were there. She had worked hard to leave a


    good impression on Cecilia and could not afford to ruin it now.


    Having Quintessa on Cecilia''s phone almost drove Rachel to despair.


    Quintessa smirked, "Mrs. Cecilia York? I thought after three years, you''d be calling her ''Mom'' by now.


    But here we are. Come on, at 30, you should stop deluding yourself."


    Rachel''s scream pierced the air, "Quintessa, don''t you dare go too far! I let go of what happened three


    years ago; that was me being more than generous. What exactly do you want?"


    Quintessa looked at Tyrone, "What I want to say is-sorry, my dear auntie, I''ve got an eye on your man!"

 Chapter 167

    Quintessa''s deration was brazen and roguish.


    Tyrone and Cecilia were both frozen in ce as if under a spell, staring straight at Quintessa.


    Quintessa was the very siren who had cast the spell.


    From the other end of the phone, Rachel''s breaths came quick and heavy, charged with a fury close to


    combustion.


    "Quintessa, do you have no shame? I''m your aunt, and Tyrone is my boyfriend. If you had any


    decency, you wouldn''t stoop to such lows. Are you really setting out to follow in your mother''s


    footsteps? Does stealing someone else''s man give you a sense of achievement?"


    Rachel''s spiritual fortitude wasmendable. Had it been Miranda in her shoes, she would have lost


    herposure andshed out in a blind rage.


    But Rachel kept her cool, her voice tinged with sorrow, sending Cecilia a clear message: Quintessa


    was nothing but trash, a home-wrecker just like her mother, rotten to the core.


    Rachel was not about to let Quintessa off the hook.


    As expected, Cecilia''splexion changed instantly, her gaze towards Quintessa turned icy.


    Quintessa''s smile didn''t wavered, still as charming as ever. She looked at Tyrone, raising her chin:


    "You''re right. Taking your man does give me a peculiar sense of achievement, especially when I think


    about your man sleeping with me every night, it brings me with immense joy. If you''re that capable, why


    don''t you take him back?"


    Rachel shrieked: "Quintessa. Stop it right there, aren''t you afraid of karma?"


    Quintessa chuckled: "I''m not afraid of karma; I''m just worrying it might note enough."


    Locking eyes with Tyrone, Quintessa taunted, "Rachel, you keep saying Tyrone is your boyfriend, but


    does he acknowledge that? He personally told me that seeing an old, ugly, and pretentious woman like


    you makes him sick."


    Then Quintessa changed her tone to one of feigned sweetness and cooed, "Am I right, darling?"


    Tyrone suppressed his smile. Quintessa''s lies came as naturally as breathing, no rehearsal needed.


    However, he indeed found Rachel quite repulsive.


    Clearing his throat, he yed along with Quintessa: "Absolutely."


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa shot Tyrone a look that said, "good, smart move."


    "Auntie, you heard him. I''d advise you to stop struggling and start preparing a generous wedding gift for


    me and Tyrone. Your husband bes your nephew-inw; either way, we''re still all family." Rachel


    ground her teeth: "I don''t believe it, Quintessa, that''s enough!"


    Quintessa shrugged: "Believe it or not, your man''s not yours anymore. I can''t help that I''m irresistible.


    How else do you think I made myself at home here? Even Mrs. Cecilia York can''t help but like me, she


    even personally made soup for me just now. Come on, at your age, just save your energy. What can


    you possibly offer topete with me?"


    Cecilia opened her mouth to speak but was stopped by Tyrone: "Mom, sit down and take a break."


    Cecilia was livid, the little temptress was shameless, and her son-he was actually enjoying it?


    Pointing at him, Cecilia hissed, "You and her, you''re in cahoots!"


    Rachel clenched her fists tight: "Quintessa, I''m warning you, don''t push me too far, or I won''t let you off


    easy."


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow: "The same goes for you. Now that I''m back, your man is no longer


    yours."

 Chapter 168

    Quintessa''s smile slowly faded. "Auntie, cherish these few good days you have left. It''s time for us to


    settle our score."


    With Quintessa''s return, the Youngs'' halcyon days were numbered.


    It was time for the Young family to repay what they owed her and her mother over the years.


    Before Rachel could utter a word, Quintessa ended the call and blocked her number. Handing the


    phone back to Cecilia, she said, "Take good care of this, Auntie."


    Cecilia snatched the phone from Quintessa''s grasp, her eyes zing with anger. "You''re the Quintessa


    that Rachel warned me about."


    Just by hearing this, Quintessa knew Rachel must have bad-mouthed her to Cecilia well in advance.


    But it didn''t matter to her; she had never intended to enter the York family anyway. With a nod,


    Quintessa admitted, "Yep, that''s me. The daughter of ''that home wrecker, the uncontroble flirt who


    supposedly seduces men left and right. Spot on, don''t you think?"


    Cecilia gaped at Quintessa, shocked at her brazen self-assessment.


    Pointing a finger, Cecilia spat out, "You shameless woman."


    Quintessa shrugged. "Tsk, tsk. Everyone says I''m shameless. You''re neither the first nor thest."


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Cecilia huffed, "My son would never fall for someone like you. You better keep your distance and stop


    hounding him."


    Quintessa nced at Tyrone. "Ha! You really think your son is loved by all? If it wasn''t for him crying


    and pleading, clinging onto me desperately, do you think I would spare him a nce?" Tyrone, caught


    off guard, touched his nose and cleared his throat, feeling utterly sidelined in the verbal sparring


    between his mother and Quintessa.


    Cecilia mmed the table. "What''s not to like about my son? He''s rich and handsome."


    No matter her ownints, Cecilia wouldn''t stand for anyone else disparaging her son.


    Quintessa smirked dismissively. "I''ve got plenty of rich and handsome men at my beck and call. I''m not


    limited to your son. With my looks and my figure, I can lure any man I want." Tyrone interjected coldly,


    "Say that again, Quintessa. I dare you."


    Quintessa gave him a sidelong nce. "Did I say something wrong?"


    She yawned, "I''m off to bed. Don''t disturb me."


    She went straight into Tyrone''s bedroom, leaving Cecilia sputtering in her wake. "As long as I live, you


    will never be a part of the York family."


    Quintessa shook her head, turned around and said to Cecilia. "Oh dear, calling you old isn''t wrong.


    What use is there in being a part of your York family? As you know, I like to seduce other people''s men.


    As long as I have your son wrapped around my finger, I have ess to the houses, cars, and money.


    Is a title really that important?"


    With that, she blew Tyrone a flirtatious wink and mmed the door shut.


    Cecilia was left gasping in fury. "You''re still not breaking it off with her? That little vixen! And she''s


    Rachel''s niece! Tyrone, how am I supposed to speak well of you?"


    Tyrone massaged his temples. "Mom, please. Just leave this business to me."


    "So, are you breaking it off with her or not?"


    "Not a chance," Tyrone replied without hesitation.

 Chapter 169

    Cecilia was so furious she turned almost green, clutching her chest as she moaned, "Oh, my chest


    hurts, I can''t breathe."


    Tyrone remained unmoved, "Mom, stop pretending in front of me."


    Cecilia shot back, "How can you talk to your mother like that, you ungrateful child?"


    Tyrone nced at the bedroom door and said, "Mom, you should head back. That little vixen in there,


    you''re no match for her."


    Quintessa, what league is she in? And what league is his mom? Quintessa could irritate and obliterate


    her in a matter of seconds, leaving nothing behind.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Even so, Tyrone felt Quintessa was holding back, probably thinking his mom was too easy to target,


    and didn''t use her full strength.


    Cecilia pleaded earnestly, "Yes, yes, I''m no match, but you think you are? Rachel is a far better catch


    than that little vixen. You could at least y along with Rachel. How can you be with her?"


    At the mention of Rachel''s name, Tyrone felt nauseous, "What''s Rachel but a downgrade? I''ve told you


    before, stop bothering with her, she''ll betray you."


    Cecilia huffed, "And being with her niece doesn''t downgrade you?"


    Tyrone, dead serious, "Nope, it doesn''t. I like her niece."


    "How can you be as shameless as that little vixen?" Cecilia, teeth clenched with anger,mented, "I


    can''t handle you anymore."


    Tyrone, nudging Cecilia towards the door, said, "Mom, I don''t meddle in your business, so don''t meddle


    in mine. When I''m tired of ying around, when it''s time to marry or have children, I''ll take care of it


    myself. You said you can''t handle me, and I won''t listen anyway, so don''t worry about it."


    "Ah, don''t push. You better keep your word."


    "Of course!"


    Cecilia, still not convinced, turned back, "That little vixen, you''re just letting her be so cocky with you?"


    Tyrone chuckled and replied, "That little vixen is your son''s woman. If she''s getting cocky, it''s because I


    let her. Ande on, do you really not know me by now? No matter how cocky someone is, can they


    outdo me? Just go back home."


    Cecilia did believe this; her son was a little devil capable of taming anyone.


    Hesitantly, she advised, "Just be careful, okay? Don''t let make someone pregnant again, especially


    after that miscarriage. Be mindful."


    Tyrone couldn''t help but roll his eyes, "As if I can."


    "What did you say?"


    "Nothing, Mom, you better go."


    Finally pushed out the door, Cecilia left, still unwilling and worried.


    Tyrone closed the door and sighed in relief. Listening to two women argue was a headache.


    Pushing open the bedroom door, Tyrone saw Quintessa already fast asleep in bed, one shoe still on,


    completely at ease in someone else''s house.


    Tyrone felt like he''d walked into the wrong ce, as if this was Quintessa''s own home.


    This carefree woman, using him as a pawn, had dered war on Rachel right in front of him, nearly


    driving his mother to a stroke, and she just couldn''t care less. Did she have no fear of him siding with


    his mom?


    No, she wasn''t afraid at all. What did Quintessa ever fear?


    The thing was, he knew full well that her deration of "I''ve got my eyes on your man!" was just to rile


    up Rachel, but hearing it still made his heart skip a beat.


    And now, thinking about it, he couldn''t help but feel oddly pleased.


    Even the recent scandal involving Snow didn''t seem to irritate him as much anymore.

 Chapter 170

    Tyrone closed the bedroom door and dialed up James. "Do me a solid, man. Warn Rachel to stay in


    line and stop ying her tricks. If she dares to touch Quintessa, I''ll make sure she''s toast in


    Emberbrook." After hanging up, Tyrone switched off his phone, stripped down, and slipped into bed. He


    pulled back the covers, peeled off one of Quintessa''s shoes with a look of distaste, pulling her into his


    arms to sleep. After all, when he said he''d sleep in every day with her, he meant it.


    The better Quintessa slept, the more Rachel seethed.


    At the moment, Rachel was on the verge of losing itpletely - her eyes bloodshot and her office a


    battleground of shattered office supplies. Theputer, her cellphone, coffee mugs, and documents all


    over the floor.


    Rachel, holding a knife, shed a stuffed toy given to her by a subordinate, leaving not a single part of


    it untouched; its stuffing spilled out.


    She muttered, "I knew it. I knew Quintessa wouldn''t let me off, that b**** "


    ¡°B****, b****, b****. Why does she have to steal my man? Why couldn''t she have died with her mother?"


    "I won''t let you get away with this, Quintessa. Nobody can take away what''s mine now. You won''t ruin


    my good days. Tyrone is mine!"


    Trembling, Rachel picked up her phone, only to remember it was broken beyond repair. She grabbed


    thendline and dialed a number. "Hey, Kris, help me track Quintessa''s recent whereabouts. Yeah, I


    need exact times. Name your price."


    After mming the receiver down, Rachel''s face twisted grotesquely.


    As long as Quintessa breathes, I will never have peace.


    If you''re looking for death, Quintessa, don''t me me for being ruthless.


    Quintessa was so exhausted that she slept like the dead until 3 pm, awakened only by hunger.


    Quintessa got up, holding her stomach, not caring whether Tyrone was there, and staggered straight to


    the kitchen.


    In the kitchen, the soup and dishes Cecilia had made were still there; they just needed reheating.


    Leaning against the stove, Quintessa fixed her gaze on the pot, wishing she could turn up the heat and


    make the soup boil immediately.


    Finally, the pot steamed, the aroma of the soup spread, and Quintessa eagerlydled out arge bowl.


    Turning off the heat and turning around, bowl in arms, she saw Tyrone leaning against the door frame,


    gazing at her with a deep look. Quintessa immediately held the bowl closer. "If you want some, get it


    yourself."


    Tyrone followed her to the couch. "Serve me some."


    "Why don''t you just ask me to feed you?"


    He nodded. "That''s exactly what I was thinking. How about you feed me?"


    She scoffed. "Yeah, right. Dream on. Don''t keep me from my meal."


    He moved closer. "Then I''ll feed you."


    The soup suddenly tasted nd to Quintessa at his words. "Does your mom know you''re this


    shameless?"Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone squeezed next to Quintessa on the single-seater sofa. "Of course she does. After all, it''s my


    mom who made it for me. Let me have a sip."


    Quintessa suddenly ced a hand on Tyrone''s stomach. "No, this wasn''t made for you. This was for


    the child that you heartlessly killed!"

 Chapter 171

    Tyrone felt screwed over.


    Quintessa had spun a lie in front of his mom, and the olddy bought it hook, line, and sinker.


    He knew his mom like the back of his hand. When she saw Quintessa today, the olddy was clearly


    feeling guilty because she thought her son was up to no good!


    But truly, Tyrone was wronged.


    Well, he wanted to result Quintessa in pregnancy, but did this vixen ever give him a chance?


    Grinding his teeth, Tyrone spat out, "You''ve got the nerve to say that, only my mom would fall for your


    crap."


    Quintessa took a bite of her chicken, and she had to admit, Cecilia could cook up a storm.


    Spitting out a bone, Quintessa scoffed, "Don''t me your mom''s smarts, me your own lousy


    reputation. You built it yourself. You gotta be some piece of work for your own mom to doubt you over a


    little temptress."


    Tyrone was left speechless.


    Indeed, he''d been pondering how much of a lowlife he had to be for his mom to take the word of a little


    devil over her own flesh and blood.


    Leaning back, Tyrone casually wrapped an arm around Quintessa''s waist, "Mom said today, since


    we''re both no good, we might as well stick together and not ruin anyone else. I told her, if that''s the


    case, why bother messing with others? We''re cut from the same cloth, might as well settle, what do you


    think?"


    Quintessa tensed up a bit. Tyrone''s words sounded like he was considering a long-term future with her.


    Sipping her soup, Quintessa chuckled, "Oh, really? You''re all about not harming others, but I''m not that


    kind-hearted. I''m looking for a good guy to torment for a lifetime."


    Tyrone''s rxed face clouded over as he red at Quintessa, "Someone like Snow?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Eye to eye, Quintessa deliberately teased, "It''s hard to say, it could be someone like Jonathan, who


    knows? I''m kinda looking forward to you calling me ''auntie.""


    Suddenly, Tyrone flipped her underneath him and silenced her with a kiss.


    Quintessa''s mouth tasted of soup.


    He let her go after a brief moment, his face dark, "Your strength is no match to mine; can''t you keep


    those snide remarks to yourself? Does it kill you not to mention other guys?" He hated hearing other


    men''s names from Quintessa''s mouth.


    Quintessa shot back, "No, I can''t!"


    She grabbed some napkins to wipe her mouth, then went back to her soup.


    Even in that heated moment, she hadn''t spilled a drop.


    Tyrone''s lips twitched. To Quintessa, a kiss from him was apparently less important than her soup.


    What was his worth in her heart, really?


    Snorting, Tyrone tossed out, "Mom would be thrilled to know you like her soup so much."


    "Don''t you dare tell her," Quintessa warned.


    "Why not?"


    Emptying her bowl, Quintessa set it down, threw Tyrone a coquettish look, "What if your mom takes a


    shine to me and insists I marry you?"


    His heart skipped a beat, but before he could say a word, Quintessa stood up, "I gotta go. Where''s my


    stuff?"


    Slumped on the couch, Tyrone yed dumb, "What stuff?"


    Quintessa kicked him, "Don''t y dumb. My clothes, my luggage, where are they? If you tossed it, I''ll


    make your life hell!"

 Chapter 172

    Tyrone had his legs propped up on the table, with a taunting grin, "Kiss me then, give me a kiss and I''ll


    tell you."


    The next moment, everything went ck, and Tyrone was already pressing down on him.


    Pressed beneath her, Tyrone reached up to embrace her, only to receive a sharp bite on his lip.


    Quintessa warned in passing, "Behave yourself!"


    It took a minute before Quintessa pushed off of him and stood up, "Speak!"


    Rubbing his swollen lip, Tyrone felt extremely frustrated, "Why do I feel like we''ve got our roles


    reversed?"


    He was resolute in taming Quintessa and ascend to the pinnacle of life.


    But why did he always feel like something was off track?


    Quintessa tilted his chin up with a finger, her smile wicked.


    Without a word, she let go, "I''m leaving."


    "With just you like that, how are you going to leave?"


    "How I leave is my business, none of yours," Quintessa picked up her bag, preparing to leave barefoot.


    Tyrone clenched his teeth, "Considering you''re mine, I''ll give you a lift this one time."


    Tyrone felt like it could take like forever to lead to Quintessa''s pregnancy-as his mother had said. He


    initially had physical interest in Quintessa and now, it had already be unclear.


    At least now, when he saw Quintessa again, what he thought about wasn''t just pinning her down and


    having her.


    His long-term goal was to sleep with her until naturally woke up! That required some nning.


    He nced at her feet, "You''re not wearing that shoe anymore?"


    Quintessa waved it off, "Nope. Consider it a thank-you for your mom''s soup, a gift for you." Tyrone:


    Damn it!


    "Can''t you be generous for once, Quintessa? You don''t even give me a nickel this time, just one shoe?"


    What the hell is the use of just one shoe?


    Quintessa sneered, "Be grateful. For what you''ve done, I could have killed you. Consider yourself


    lucky."


    She''d been robbed of her home and belongings, and still expected to thank him? Ha!


    Quintessa opened the door and walked out barefoot. Tyrone gritted his teeth, picked up his car keys


    and wallet, and chased after her.


    The hallway floor was polished marble, chilly to the touch. Quintessa walked on it, her steps steady as


    if she felt nothing at all.


    Suddenly, Tyrone thought of the photo, where Quintessa was alone and thinly dressed, walking on the


    dark streets at night.


    He cursed inwardly: Damn, I must owe you one.


    He walked over and hoisted Quintessa up without regard for her protests, carrying her down to the car


    park and stuffing her into his vehicle. When they left the apartment, it was already dusk. Passing by a


    shoe store, Tyrone pulled over.


    "Wait here."


    With those two words, he stepped out.


    Quintessa watched his retreating figure as he strode into the store.


    Momentster, Tyrone returned with a shoebox. He opened the car door and casually tossed the


    shoebox to Quintessa, "Put them on."


    Quintessa''s heart skipped. She opened the box and took a look, her lips twitching.


    ck round-toe ts, with a big ck flower on the front, clearly the kind worn by women in their fifties


    or sixties.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    "These are ugly. Do you know these are for olddies?"


    Tyrone stood outside the car, his expression cold, "Yeah, I asked the salesperson. If they were for old


    ladies, I wouldn''t have bought them for you. You''re already bewitching enough; you might as well not


    wear high heels anymore, unting yourself and causing trouble."

 Chapter 173

    Tyrone actually went out of his way to ask the salesperson for a pair of shoes that were both ugly and


    comfortable. Without hesitation, the clerk pointed him toward the clunkiest pair on the shelf. Quintessa


    was speechless with annoyance.


    Tyrone kept a straight face. "Take it or leave it."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, deciding to wear them-she had no other choice, given she was currently


    barefoot.


    She stepped into the unsightly shoes.


    Now, Quintessa''s feelings were somewhat delicate because, no matter what, Tyrone was the first man


    to ever buy her shoes.


    Getting flowers from men was nothing new or special, but shoes... it seemed he was the only one!


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow smugly. "Tsk, isn''t this pretty good?"


    Quintessa''s feet were a size 7-not too big, not too small, and the shoes Tyrone bought fit just right.


    She was puzzled. How on earth did Tyrone know her shoe size?


    She gritted her teeth. "They''re so stylish. Why don''t you get a pair for yourself?"


    Tyrone lifted his chin defiantly. "Of course not. I''m way too handsome to downgrade my look with


    those."


    He wasn''t like Quintessa, flirting left and right. He hadn''t even won her over yet. If he dressed down,


    nope, he''d have even less of a chance.


    Quintessa chuckled. How she wanted to kick him right now!


    Suddenly, she spotted a car behind them, and someone''s head sneakily popped out from a window.


    Quintessa paused, then narrowed her eyes and muttered, "What a coincidence, huh?" Tyrone asked,


    "What?"


    Without giving him time to react, Quintessa suddenly looked up at Tyrone with a mischievous smile and


    darted out of the car, throwing her arms around his neck and nting a kiss on him. It was so


    unexpected that Tyrone froze, but his arms instinctively wrapped around her.


    As they kissed, Tyrone thought smugly to himself: Ah, women are such enigmas. One second she''s


    comining about the shoes, and the next, she''s thanking me with a kiss in the middle of the street,


    shamelessly unbothered by onlookers.


    While basking in his pride, he held her even tighter.


    After a moment, Quintessa''s cheeks were flushed, her lips slightly swollen, her eyes glistening-she


    looked even more enchanting. She let go of Tyrone''s neck and cooed, "Honey, let''s get going."


    Tyrone felt himself melt with her words; Quintessa had never been so affectionately coquettish with him


    before it was unprecedented. Used to being mistreated, he felt somewhat unustomed to this sudder


    change.


    Abnormality is a sign of trouble; he couldn''t believe Quintessa, this woman, could be so docile.


    Tyrone cleared his throat, embracing Quintessa''s waist, and asked, "Alright, spill it. What do you want


    to do?"


    Quintessa rolled her eyes and yfully tapped his lips with her finger. "Nothing, just my way of thanking


    you. Don''t you want it? Or would you prefer a kick or two instead?"


    Tyrone leaned closer, whispering in her ear. "Of course I want it, but I don''t think it''s enough. How


    about we check into a hotel tonight?"


    Quintessa pinched Tyrone''s waist and scoffed. "Ha, dreaming of sleeping together over a pair of ugly


    shoes? Dream on. Do your employees know how stingy you are?"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    The pinch was fierce, and Tyrone couldn''t help but wince.


    Quintessa nced at the car behind them and smirked, her patience evidently at its end.


    She tilted Tyrone''s chin and said, "Let''s go, Mr. Cheapskate CEO. I''ve got to make a living to support


    this household. Otherwise, you won''t even get two bucks in change for a tip next time."


    Please bookmark the FindNovel website to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 174

    Tyrone gritted his teeth, feeling as if she was painting him as some kind of gold-digger.


    He, the dignified Mr. Tyrone York became nothing more than her kept man in her words.


    With a scowl, Tyrone retorted, "Hey, Quintessa, you can''t be serious?"


    Quintessa tilted her head, a yful smile ying on her lips as she leaned into him, "Don''t want


    money? Fine then, you get nothing."


    After a moment, Tyrone blurted out two words: "Get in."


    He almost shoved Quintessa into the car, closed the door, started the engine to move forward, but was


    halted by Quintessa''s grip, "Back up a little."


    Tyrone paused, giving her a suspicious nce, then he sharply turned his head and saw a car parked


    behind them.


    His gaze gradually frosted over. He realized that whenever he was with Quintessa, his intelligence


    seemed to be wandering outside because his attention was always on this woman.


    And this woman, her attention would never fully belong to just him.


    Tyrone gave Quintessa a cold stare, "Heh, using me as a pawn."


    Quintessa flipped her hair and met his gaze, "It''s not the first time, is it? You''ll get used to it. You don''t


    have to do it. Go tell her I''m just using you to make her jealous." Before Quintessa could finish, Tyrone


    suddenly reversed the car.


    You could tell how good a driver someone was by how they handled a car in reverse. Though Tyrone


    had long since given up street racing, his skills were still sharp.


    Quintessa hadn''t fastened her seatbelt, and her body jerked as the car reversed, her head nearly


    hitting the door.


    In an instant, Tyrone''s car was parallel to the one behind them, the windows rolling down.


    Tyrone looked at Quintessa indifferently.


    Quintessa smiled and took out a powderpact from her bag, raising her hand to smash the window


    of the adjacent car.


    With a loud bang, there was no reaction from inside the car.


    Quintessa snorted, really, they could take a hit.


    She grabbed a figurine from the car and was about to smash again when the window next to her slowly


    rolled down, revealing Rachel''s pale face.


    Quintessa put the figurine down, shing Rachel a sweet smile, "What a coincidence, Auntie. We just


    finished talking on the phone this morning, and now, here we are, meeting again. Fate works in


    mysterious ways, doesn''t it, dear?"


    Rachel''s eyes were red with rage, wishing she could tear Quintessa apart. How could there be such a


    despicable person in this world?


    Trembling with fury, Rachel hissed, "Quintessa, you''ll get what''sing to you."


    Quintessa arched an eyebrow, "Yet, your man seems to have a thing for me."


    She turned to Tyrone, whose face was a mask of ice, "Isn''t that right?"


    Her voice wasced with melodious charm, as if weaving an intricate spell.


    Tyrone''s expression darkened further, his deep-set eyes piercing with a bone-chilling cold.


    Just when Quintessa thought Tyrone wouldn''t y along, he suddenly pulled her into his arms and


    kissed her fiercely.


    It was a kiss of pure venting, devoid of any tenderness.


    Quintessa could feel his rage, as if he wanted to devour her, grind her to pieces, and make her unable


    to cause any more trouble.


    Her lips burned with the intensity of his kiss, yet she yed her part with fullmitment.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Finally, Tyrone released Quintessa, gripping her chin, "Are you satisfied now, you little vixen?"


    Quintessa nodded, "Satisfied, absolutely."

 Chapter 175

    No matter what, Tyrone yed along, and Quintessa''s heart settled back into ce.


    Her daring behavior was actually due to her belief that Tyrone was now more interested in her, and


    moreover, he disliked Rachel even more.


    Quintessa knew Tyrone was in a foul mood, and if she pushed too hard, he might really turn on her.


    Turning to Rachel, Quintessa said with feigned regret, "Oh, what a pity, I''ve got a scene to shoot


    tonight, so I can''t chat with you, Auntie. But no worries, we''ll have plenty of time to catch upter, we''ll


    have a ''good'' talk."


    Quintessa snuggled up to Tyrone''s arm. "Honey, let''s go."


    A chill flickered in Tyrone''s eyes as he started the car.


    Rachel was seething. From start to finish, Tyrone''s eyes had been locked on Quintessa, not sparing


    her a single nce, ignoring how Quintessa was bullying her.


    Rachel was burning with hate.


    Suddenly, she shouted, "Tyrone, see clearly! Quintessa is using you, she just wants to get back at me


    through you. She doesn''t really like you, she''s using you as a pawn. Don''t let her fool you, I''m the one


    who truly loves you!"


    The car had already started. Quintessa popped her head out and taunted Rachel, "Sorry, sweetheart,


    your man is just too handy. I''m keeping him."


    The next second, Quintessa was yanked back forcefully, the car window slowly rolled up and locked.


    Rachel''s hands clenched the steering wheel, her eyes fixed on the departing car like a venomous


    snake.


    She repeated under her breath, "Quintessa, Quintessa, Quintessa..."


    Damn her, that sly vixen!


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    She dared to be so arrogant right in front of her, even more hateful and detestable than she was three


    years ago.


    If Tyrone hadn''t been in that car, she would''ve floored the gas and crashed into it at full speed. As long


    as Quintessa lived, she was Rachel''s torment.


    Rachel was nearly at her breaking point.


    She had schemed for over three years, being extremely cautious to earn Cecilia''s approval. She


    thought that, whether Tyrone liked her or not, he would marry her for Cecilia''s sake.


    She was beautiful, educated, graceful, virtuous-no one was more suited to be the youngdy of the


    York family.


    But Quintessa returned. Having seduced Tyrone three years ago, and unexpectedly, upon her return


    three yearster, she so easily became involved with Tyrone again.


    Quintessa was doing it all to spite her, to see her suffer.


    Rachel closed her eyes, teeth grinding in anger.


    Quintessa, one day you''ll regret this. I''ll make sure you have no life left topete with me.


    The atmosphere in the car was awkwardly quiet.


    Quintessa watched the darkening skies outside, noticing the streetmps would soon light up the


    evening.


    As the lights started glowing, Tyrone asked, "Am I handy for you?"


    His voice was cool, not overtly angry, but frosty nheless.


    Quintessa turned to him, "Yeah, pretty handy indeed."


    The best way to get back at Rachel was through Tyrone. All she needed to do was cozy up to him in


    front of Rachel and it would send her into a rage. Tyrone smirked, "So you really believe I''d y


    along?"


    Quintessa shook her head, "I don''t, which is why I''m betting-betting that if you still want me, you''ll y


    along."


    Tyrone''sugh was scornful. "You''ve won your bet."

 Chapter 176

    Quintessa: "Obviously."


    A silence fell between them once again.


    Quintessa stole a nce at Tyrone. When he was quiet andposed, he really appeared stunningly


    aloof and profoundly inessible.


    Tyrone was a man of many facets, each appearing as real as it was illusory.


    He''d shown remarkable patience for her sake, and yet, Quintessa couldn''t help but wonder-was this


    affection, or was it all just a means to an end? After experiencing and being schemed against so much,


    one can''t help but instinctively think the worst of everything and everyone.


    It was a sad state of affairs, to always expect the worst.


    "Do you believe her arrival was just coincidence?" Quintessa asked.


    Tyrone: "Hmph."


    How could it be a coincidence?


    Being with Quintessa, he''d been so fixated on her that he''d neglected his surroundings.


    Rachel, cunning as she was, but such people were, ironically, easier for Tyrone to predict, likely having


    made moves to investigate after speaking with Quintessa on the phone that morning. Having


    discovered Quintessa was at his private apartment, she followed.


    Unfortunately for Rachel, she was outmaneuvered by Quintessa. When it came to schemes, the two


    women were evenly matched, but in shamelessness, Rachel could not measure up to Quintessa.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The journey passed in silence until Tyrone dropped Quintessa off at Harmony Retreat. Manny''s car


    was already waiting downstairs, pacing anxiously for Quintessa''s arrival.


    "What''s with your ce? Why the sudden renovation?" Manny queried, perplexed.


    Quintessa pointed at Tyrone. "Ask thendlord."


    At the sight of Tyrone, Manny visibly flinched.


    "Where are my things?" Quintessa inquired.


    Tyrone gave her a frosty look and strode into the building.


    "Wait here for me," Quintessa told Manny, and followed Tyrone inside.


    Tyrone was in a mood, ignoring Quintessa as they ascended. The elevator halted on the fifteenth floor;


    he stepped out, and Quintessa, frowning, trailed behind.


    Quintessa watched as Tyrone unlocked the door to apartment 1501. She felt like cursing out loud.


    "Talk about being ostentatious, buying not one but two apartments in this dump."


    Tyrone replied coolly, "You''re right. I''m considering picking up a third."


    Quintessa thought he was joking and brushed it off, but as she entered, she found her luggage piled up


    in the empty room.


    Without any regard for Tyrone, Quintessa began unpacking her suitcase and boxes, casually pulling


    out her intimates and pajamas.


    Tyrone approached and nudged a box with his foot. "About that music video you''re shooting with Snow,


    I''ll let it slide this time. But there better not be a next time, or I can''t promise what I''ll do."


    Quintessa turned, resting her hands on Tyrone''s shoulders, her smile wilting into mischief. "And what


    might you do? You''ve already taken my home and set such a grand goal-to sleep until I wake up


    naturally. Oh, the capabilities."


    Tyrone stood still. "But have I seeded yet? How about giving me a chance?"


    Quintessaughed. "I could give you the chance to sleep with me, but if it causes any serious trouble,


    I''ll have to officially step into the picture. If you still want the York family to have peaceful days, it''s


    better to stay away from me. Your mother wouldn''t want to see me around."

 Chapter 177

    Tyrone watched Quintessa with a frosty gaze. "But you''ve already provoked me."


    Quintessa didn''t argue. It was useless now to say who provoked whom. Anyway, they were already


    entangled.


    Her smirked. "Is it toote to back off?"


    His eyes held a ruthless glint. "It''s toote."


    Back off? That was a joke. Nothing she said would make a difference now.


    There was no way he was going to let Quintessa go and live her life carefree.


    Quintessa shrugged, said nothing more, and pushed Tyrone away. "I''m leaving."


    Tyrone grabbed her arm. "Don''t go messing with the Young family anymore. Otherwise, you''ll end up in


    trouble sooner orter. Whatever you do, I can help you." Tyrone had seen Quintessa''s two attempts


    on the Young family before, finding it amusing at the time, messing around with her.


    But things had changed. He didn''t want her involved in that mess anymore.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    There are no secrets that time does not reveal, nor is there endless luck without misstep.


    Now that everything wasid bare, could Quintessa still make a stealthy move? The people from the


    Young family were probably thinking of how to deal with her now. Quintessa slowly pulled her hand


    free. "The Young family is my business, not yours. You can''t handle it."


    Tyrone pulled her back. "Don''t you get how dangerous this is?"


    She looked up, locking eyes with him. "Danger? Then tell me, what''s safe? I''ve never known safety in


    my life."


    "I can give you." Tyrone insisted.


    "What?"


    "I can guarantee your safety."


    Quintessa chuckled. "But I don''t need it."


    Their interactions were either tearing each other apart or teasing, rarely serious.


    Tyrone admired Quintessa''s fierce and decisive nature, her attitude of avenging wrongs.


    But he didn''t want her to drag herself down in pursuit of revenge.


    Quintessa reached up, touching Tyrone''s face. "If you want to woo me, shower me with money, cars,


    houses, and jewels. In time, I might just fall into your bed. But my business? That''s off-limits to you."


    His face turned as dark as ink. Quintessa had made it clear: sharing her bed might be possible, but


    meddling in her affairs was not.


    Quintessa got into her car and drove to the studio with Manny. Tyrone watched from the window above,


    her luggage making his brows knit tight.


    It seemed like they were caught in a dead loop between them.


    It was difficult to break out of this dead loop.


    Tyrone stood up abruptly. Why the hell couldn''t he get involved? He''d decided he was going to,


    whatever it would take.


    He grabbed his car keys and stormed out.


    Quintessa returned to the set to continue filming, but the very next day, Twitter was exploded with


    rumors. It was suspected that the rising star Quintessa was caught kissing a mysterious man on the


    street, and it even made it to the trending topics.


    The apanying image showed Quintessa embracing and kissing Tyrone passionately on the street


    yesterday. The picture was blurry and only captured their profiles, but it vaguely resembled Quintessa.


    Tyrone''s car obscured the license te, but the unmistakable Land Rover logo was visible.


    Netizens started specting. No wonder shended the lead role in Director Gardner''s new movie so


    soon after her debut she had connections.

 Chapter 178

    Marian also stepped forward this time, insinuating that Quintessa had stolen her role. Her agent even


    bluntly suggested there had to be some under-the-table deal. How else could the director choose a


    newbie over Marian, the A-lister?


    Then, Twitter exploded with so-called insiders iming that a certain neer with ast name


    starting with Y had climbed thedder by sleeping her way to the top, edging out an established actress


    for the lead in a major production. Rumors swirled that this Ms. Y had powerful connections.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Though Quintessa''s name wasn''t explicitly mentioned, paired with Marian''sments, everyone put


    two and two together: it was Quintessa, that little troublemaker!


    Soon, an army of trolls iming to be Quintessa''s former ssmates surfaced, alleging that since


    middle school, she''d been seducing her friends'' boyfriends, had an abortion in ninth grade, and by high


    school her promiscuity led to multiple terminations. They painted her as the epitome of scandal.


    Three years ago, after she flirted with her cousin''s boyfriend and incurred the wrath of her father, she


    was sent abroad to "reflect herself.". But instead, she resurfaced as the rising star of showbiz.


    usations flew, as if these people had personally witnessed Quintessa''s every alleged tryst and


    termination.


    Violet was livid, clutching her phone as she told Quintessa, ¡°They''ve started a smear campaign against


    you. Just you wait, once this blows up, that Y-surnamed actress will be synonymous with your


    name. Whoever is behind this is going down; I''m initiating damage control."


    Quintessa smirked, unaffected, "Haters gonna hate. Help me take a photo; I''m going to tweet it."


    "You''re in the mood for a photo shoot? You''re being dragged through the mud!" Violet eximed.


    "Exactly," Quintessa replied, standing up. "Getting angry won''t help. I''ve been called worse. Now, snap


    a picture of me looking down on all this nonsense."


    Violet crouched and took an upward shot.


    Quintessa''s gaze was icy, disdainful, her lips curled in a contemptuous smile.


    The photo was posted on Twitter without a caption.


    To Quintessa''s surprise, the scandal didn''t cost her followers; they skyrocketed instead.


    What shocked her even more was that soon after posting the picture, Snow liked it and followed her.


    Quintessa realized Snow was promoting a music video and reciprocated the follow.


    Their simple online interaction caused a sensation, especially since Great Snow Jackson, which was


    Snow, rarely followed anyone on Twitter. What was so special about Quintessa?


    Their interaction pushed the scandal out of the spotlight, trending on social media.


    Tyrone frowned as he scrolled through the negative press about Quintessa, his mood darkening with


    each swipe. His phone rang; it was Alexander.


    Before Tyrone could even greet him, Alexander''s anxious voice burst through, "Tyrone, I just saw it on


    Twitter. Quintessa, the woman I''ve been searching for-it''s her. You have an entertainmentpany,


    don'' you? Do you know her? Please, I need information, and fast."


    Alexander''s urgency and barely contained excitement transmitted through the call.


    Tyrone''s grip on his phone tightened as he calmly lied, "I don''t know her. But I''ll have someone look


    into it for you."

 Chapter 179

    Tyrone''s voice was unusually calm, as indifferent as a cup of cooled white water. His expression was


    as in as his tone, but the veins bulging on the back of his hand betrayed the storm of emotions


    within


    him.


    Quintessa!


    Alexander!


    The two names echoed rapidly in Tyrone''s mind, repeatedly assaulting his nerves.


    Even what Alexander said again, he didn''t have the mind to listen.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Snapping back to the moment, Tyrone said casually, "I''m sorry, what? Bad connection, I didn''t catch it."


    Alexander repeated his question, "Tyrone, you really don''t know her?"


    Suspicionced Alexander''s voice, but Tyrone smiled, "Of course not. Why would I pay attention to


    some minor celeb? If I''m going to notice anyone, she would have to be an A-list star. Who is she


    anyway?" Tyrone''s words seemed genuine; even Alexander, a shrewdwyer skilled at reading people,


    couldn''t detect the lie.


    Desperation crept into Alexander''s voice as he pressed, "Then can you look her up for me? Her


    agency, her address, please."


    Tyrone''s hand was almost squeezing the phone to pieces, but his response was casual, "Sure, no


    problem."


    In the next breath, Tyrone''s tone turned nonchnt, "This Quintessa, is she the one you fell for at first


    sight?"


    A sigh traveled through the line as Alexander confessed, "It''s her."


    Over the phone, Tyrone sensed a lot of emotions, nostalgia, joy, infatuation, from Alexander''s brief


    sentence.


    Narrowing his eyes, Tyrone prodded, "But from the photo, she doesn''t look that great? Just an ordinary


    woman with a bit of looks."


    Alexander insisted, "No, you don''t understand her. If you never mind, Tyrone, I need this favor.


    Consider it a debt I owe you. Help me with this, and I''ll do anything you need in return."


    Tyrone''s hand was making cracking noises as he squeezed the phone, he said, "Alright, no problem."


    Alexander inquired about the noise, "What''s with the noise on your end?"


    "Oh, just a bad signal. By the way, I just checked online, it says that woman is involved in scandals like


    escorting, hidden rules, abortion, being a third party, her reputation isn''t good, right? Is she really worth


    al this trouble?"


    Tyrone didn''t expect Alexander''s unwavering defense, "That''s not true. I believe her. That stuff is just


    typical online smear tactics, all bots, I know her. She couldn''t possibly do those things. And even if she


    did, I''d believe she had no choice. You don''t know her."


    Aplex expression crossed Tyrone''s face, anger flickering in his eyes. He scoffed internally: Oh, I


    don''t know her? Does Alexander think he knows Quintessa better than I do?


    "You really are hopelessly devoted," Tyrone said, his voice betraying a slight tremor.


    If Alexander could see him now, he''d realize how dangerous Tyrone was in this moment.


    Alexander spoke softly, "I may only truly love this one woman in my lifetime, Tyrone, you might not


    understand that feeling."


    Tyrone was silent for a few seconds.


    "Alright, I don''t get it. Let''s leave it at that for now, we''ll talkter."


    "Thank you, I''m counting on you to find her."


    "Mhm."

 Chapter 180

    Tyrone hung up the phone, his face a study in calmness.


    During the call, he thought he''d smash his cell to bits and burst into mes of rage once he was done.


    Alexander''s sudden call had thrown a wrench into all his meticulous ns. Yet now, nothing happened.


    A fire was raging in his chest, but Tyrone was eerilyposed.


    The woman Alexander was in love with was Quintessa. They had met back in Serenitia.


    Tyrone had lied to his best friend. He said he didn''t know Quintessa.


    He was aware it wasn''t right.


    But why should he tell Alexander about it?


    To let him swoop in and steal Quintessa away?


    Ridiculous! Such stupidity was not in his ybook.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone was indeed arrogant, domineering, and unscrupulous. The ruffian he became around Quintessa


    was reserved only for her.


    But with others, even friends, he yed his cards close to the vest, never missing a trick.


    He had to clench what he wanted in his fist, and no one else even had a chance.


    In some ways, he and Quintessa were alike¡ªwhat''s mine is mine, and don''t you dare challenge that.


    His rule of thumb was clear: I know it''s wrong to deceive you, but I won''t feel a speck of guilt because


    when ites to love, to yield is to surrender.


    There''s only one Quintessa. You want her, but so do I. There''s no reason I should let you have her,


    even if you are my friend!


    Now, the stark reality he faced was that his best friend was about to be his rival in love.


    Tyrone''s eyes glinted coldly, "Quintessa, what is it about you that even Alexander is drawn into your


    orbit?"


    He picked up the office phone, "Come in."


    James entered promptly, and as soon as he stepped in, he felt the tension.


    Though Tyrone appeared normal, the vibe was off. James felt even his hairs standing on end, and he


    sensed danger.


    Standing to attention, James greeted, "Mr. York."


    Tyrone slowly lifted a thick dossier and mmed it onto James: "I tasked you with digging up


    Quintessa''s history in Serenitia for the past three years. Why didn''t you find out she knew Alexander?"


    James shuddered; he felt his heart skip a beat, and his knees nearly buckled.


    With the boss in a foul mood, he knew better than to argue, "I-I''m sorry, Mr. York. My oversight, we


    didn''t cover all the bases. Ms. Quintessa Young often changed locations, and her movements were


    unpredictable; she was too elusive. We didn''t uncover it. My apologies, Mr. York."


    James was aware that Alexander had been looking for someone; it was a task Tyrone had previously


    assigned to him.


    But he never imagined that the person Alexander was searching for would be the same individual


    whom his boss was after.


    Tyrone''s gaze bore into James, who was now drenched in sweat.


    Tyrone finally spoke, "James."


    Swallowing hard, James responded, "Yes, sir?"


    With his eyes locked onto James'', Tyrone delivered his ultimatum, "If you can''t get to the bottom of this,


    you might as well bring Franklin back in your ce."

 Chapter 181

    James didn''t even need to think before he blurted out, "Yes, yes. I''ll get to the bottom of it. I''ll find out


    everything about how Ms. Quintessa Young and Mr. Harrington met, with every single detail." Thest


    thing he wanted was to be sent to the hignds to rece Mr. Franklin. He would rather endure the


    daily grind under the big boss than set foot in that ce.


    Tyrone nced at his phone and said, "Set up a meeting with Violet. I need to talk to her."


    James nodded frantically, "Right away. Should I keep it from Ms. Quintessa Young?"


    Tyrone looked up sharply. "What do you think?"


    That look sent James scurrying like a frightened rat.


    "Understood clearly," James stammered as he dashed out the door, fighting the urge to burst into tears.


    Shirley, walking up with some documents, saw James'' pale face and asked, "What''s up?"


    James wiped the sweat from his brow and nced at Shirley''s papers, giving her a friendly warning,


    "Shirley, you might want to think twice about going in there."


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Shirley chuckled, "No worries. The boss is always in a mood. Reminds me of my mom during her


    menopause."


    James shook his head, "Shirley, this is different. You won''t be able to handle it. I''ve said my piece. If


    you insist on going in, I won''t stop you, but I''ll be there to pick up the pieces of you." After imparting his


    grim prophecy, James staggered away, his steps unsteady.


    Shirley looked at the documents in her hand, then back at James, and finally at the CEO''s office door


    before deciding to make a swift exit.


    Violet was utterly puzzled. Why on earth did Mr. Tyrone York suddenly want to see her, and why was it


    so important that Quinn didn''t find out?


    She instructed Manny to keep an eye on Quintessa on set and to report back immediately if she made


    any unexpected moves. They couldn''t afford any more slip-ups at this point.


    As for the photos of Quintessa in a passionate embrace with the mystery man, which had been


    circting online, Violet had her PR team squash the rumors t. They imed that Quintessa had


    been on set all day, with the whole crew as her alibi, and certainly not out locking lips with some guy on


    the street.


    They had gathered evidence tobat the nder and had reported it to the authorities, determined to


    pursue those responsible for defamation to the fullest extent.


    And with Snow''s involvement, the buzz around Quintessa and Snow''s mutual social media following


    had eclipsed the negative press. People were now specting about the timing of Snow''s support on


    the very day Quintessa was targeted. Was Snow standing up for her, or was there something more


    between them?


    The curiousizensbed through Snow''s Twitter and, after someparison, suggested that the


    silhouetted figure in several of Snow''s tweets bore a striking resemnce to Quintessa.


    The new hot topic online was now "God Snow''s Mysterious Lover Revealed, Suspected to be


    Quintessa!"


    Snow''s fans were in turmoil, with bystanders joining in the frenzy, flooding both Snow''s and Quintessa''s


    Twitter feeds withments, which caused the nder to lose steam.


    Violet finally breathed a sigh of relief. Compared to the nder, a romantic gossip with Snow was as


    wee as a gift in the middle of a snowstorm, as it helped Quintessa dodge a bullet. It was only with


    this reassurance that Violet dared to meet with Tyrone.


    Feeling anxious, Violet met Tyrone; upon seeing him, she mused to herself that only a siren like Quinn


    could handle such a prime specimen of a man.


    Just look at those legs, that face, that noble and aloof demeanor, that aura that seemed to keep others


    at bay. Who else but Quinn could get close to him? But what exactly was the status between Quinn and


    this princely Tyrone?

 Chapter 182

    Violet took a deep breath and said, "Good morning, Mr. York."


    Tyrone gestured towards a chair, signaling Violet to take a seat.


    Once seated, Violet asked, "May I inquire why you''ve invited me here today?"


    Tyrone nced at James, who promptly stepped forward and ced a check in front of Violet.


    Tyrone said, "Fill it out with any amount."


    Violet was stunned. "What do you mean, Mr. York?"


    Tyrone responded indifferently, "I want your studio."


    His voice was soft, yet his tone was cool and detached as if he was simply passing on a message to a


    subordinate-leaving no room for doubt or refusal.


    Shock registered on Violet''s round and plump face.


    After a moment, Violet finally gathered her wits. "But Mr. York, I know you''re not short on cash, yet my


    studio is quite modest. It hardly seems worth your while. Besides, when I left my previouspany, I


    did so because I wanted..."


    Tyrone cut her off, "This isn''t a negotiation."


    With that single sentence, he silenced all of Violet''s prepared arguments. When you have money, you


    can afford to be imperious.


    Tyrone''s message was clear: I''m not asking for your permission; I''m telling you what I want. Take the


    money, or don''t-either way, I will have what I seek.


    In her heart, Violet thought bitterly-He''s no better than a bandit!


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    Wasn''t this just like a bandit''s way? unting wealth to bully others?


    An inner voice whispered to Violet: Yes, he has the money, and yes, he can bully you because of it.


    James smiled at Violet, saying, "Ms. Sullivan, I understand your concerns. You must worry that the


    corporate control would make your studio lose creative freedom in managing your artists. We can offer


    youplete autonomy. What the York Financial Group wants is your studio, firmly in our grasp. Name


    your price, because no matter what, the oue will be the same. Of course, you can refuse." James''


    reminder was subtle, but the message was clear: Sell it, and you''d profit. If not, you''d lose everything


    either way. It''s your choice-celebratory champagne or penalty shots?


    Violet regained herposure, yet she regretted not having let Quinn know this was nothing short of a


    setup.


    No wonder James had warned her to avoid Quinn. Their ultimate goal in acquiring her studio was to


    gain leverage over Quinn.


    Violet nodded, "So, if I understand it correctly, whether I sign this document or not doesn''t really make a


    difference, does it?"


    James nodded back, "That''s one way to put it. We''re here to hear your opinion, Ms. Sullivan. We want


    to ensure that whatever you decide, it''s done freely and willingly. Take your time. We have all day." The


    message between the lines was clear: You won''t be leaving without signing.


    Violet took a sip of the coffee in front of her, half-expecting that she might end up throwing it in


    someone''s face.


    Now she understood why Quinn spoke of Tyrone with such venom. To the world, he appeared noble


    and distant, but beneath that fa?adey his shameless pride.


    Suppressing her anger, Violet asked, "So, Mr. York, your real interest is in Quinn, isn''t it?"


    Tyrone confirmed, "Exactly."

 Chapter 183

    Tyrone looked at Violet with an unyielding gaze that seemed to press down on her, leaving her feeling


    as though she couldn''t stand tall. His brazenness was almost tangible.


    With crystal rity, he conveyed his intentions toward Violet''s protege, as if to say, "I have designs on


    your talent, and what can you possibly do about it?"


    Violet felt a painful tightness in her chest, "Mr. York, aren''t you concerned that Quinn might get angry


    with you if she learns about your actions?"


    Tyrone''s response almost made Violet see red, because he nonchntly said, "Let her be angry.


    What''s that to me?"


    Once he became her boss, what could she do? Quarrel with him?


    Tyrone''s approach was simple and brutal. While Alexander was still in the dark, Tyrone intended to


    secure Quinn''s ''contract of servitude'' firmly in his grasp. With that leverage, everything else would be


    easy. Having navigated the business world for years, Tyrone knew exactly how to work a situation to


    his advantage. Before anyone could react, he nned to pull the rug out from under them. Even if


    Quinn kicked up a fusster, it would be toote, and in the end, she would still be in the palm of his


    hand.


    Violet gritted her teeth, "Clever move, Mr. York."


    James slid a contract across the table to Violet, "Ms. Sullivan, please review the terms. If you find them


    agreeable, we can seal the deal."


    Violet skimmed the contract quickly. The uses were clear, and the benefits to her were significant.


    Tyrone was afterplete control, but he wouldn''t meddle in the day-to-day operations. He''d only take


    a symbolic 3% of the profits and offered unlimited financial backing.


    From a purely business standpoint, the deal Tyroneid out before her was as tempting as a perfectly


    roasted turkey, utterly irresistible.


    But whether Violet signed the contract or not seemed irrelevant; Tyrone always had a way of getting


    what he wanted.


    Violet felt her heart heavy, "Quinn and I are more than just artist and agent. We''re friends. By signing


    this contract, am I essentially selling her to you?"


    James was quick to reassure, "Not at all. With the support of York Financial Group, we can n a


    better future for Ms. Quintessa Young. Any troubles, we''ll handle them. You just need to focus on


    elevating her to greater heights. We''ll take care of the rest."


    James was eager to impress Tyrone, hoping to avoid any unfavorable assignments.


    In truth, James was right. Setting aside Tyrone''s ulterior motives, there was no better support in


    Emberbrook than York Financial Group.


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    Violet had high hopes for Quintessa. She knew the young woman had ambition. But ambition alone


    wasn''t enough in the cutthroat entertainment industry, and Violet knew itsplexities better than


    anyone. Just starting out, Quintessa had already been systematically sabotaged. With countless


    unseen foes ready to kick her while she was down, the future of her was uncertain.


    Without a strong backer, it would be a steep, nearly impossible journey for her to climb thedder.


    As an experienced manager, Violet knew how to market Quintessa, but what shecked was the


    backing of a powerful patron.


    And now, Tyrone was extending his leg, offering himself as that patron, and it was a substantial offer.


    Violet hesitated over the document, wrestling with her conscience.


    Finally, she looked up, meeting Tyrone''s inscrutable eyes, "If I sign this contract, I hope you won''t force


    her into anything."


    Tyrone replied coolly, "Of course, I won''t force her into anything."

 Chapter 184

    Violet''s heart waged a final battle as she stared at the contract sprawled across the oak table. James


    stepped forward, with a pen in hand, and extended it towards her with both hands. "Ms. Sullivan,


    please. By signing this, you could secure ample resources for Ms. Quintessa Young. No one will dare


    snatch her roles anymore. In the entertainment world, she''ll be untouchable."


    His words pierced through Violet''s resolve. There would be no more stolen roles for Quintessa.


    Ever since Quintessa returned, the past two months had been anything but peaceful for her. Every role


    was a struggle, a battlefield of auditions and politics.


    Quintessa had invested too much, constantly scheming to secure parts.


    Violet recalled Quintessa''s ambition to stand at the pinnacle, and to crush those who had belittled and


    humiliated them under her heel.


    This was their shared dream. Violet''s grip on the pen loosened.


    Watching her finally sign, James breathed a sigh of relief. Thank goodness, it was done.


    Otherwise, he''d be back to doing the dirty work, which, as a man with a conscience, he found


    repulsive.


    With the contract signed, James quickly snatched it up and slid a check across the table to Violet. "Mr.


    York says fill in whatever amount you like."


    Violet''s gaze was a tangle of emotions as she considered the check. After a moment''s struggle, she


    scribbled a figure and pushed it back to Tyrone.


    "Mr. York, I''m signing this under duress and for the sake of giving Quinn a better environment. But


    anyway, doing this behind her back is a betrayal. I can''t ept your money."


    Tyrone nced at the check. There, in bold, was a single ''1''.


    Violet had filled in just $1.


    She stood and bowed respectfully to Tyrone. "Quinn isn''t a toy to be trifled with. If Mr. York truly cares


    for her, please don''t hurt her. No matter what happens, I hope for an amicable parting. Good day."


    Tyrone''s expression iced over. Amicable parting?


    He hadn''t even started, and she was already talking about ending things?


    It seemed she had no faith in them, as if she was convinced that they were doomed from the start.


    But the next second, Tyrone''s lips curled into a smile. He hadn''t considered the end himself, so why


    should he care about others'' expectations?


    Exiting the room and sliding into the driver''s seat, Violet let out a scream and pounded the steering


    wheel. "I''ve never been so damn principled in my life! Quintessa, you better take this rogue down a


    notch. Make him pay, or we''re the ones who lose out."


    Tyrone looked at the $1 check. "Seems that she''s been influenced by Quintessa. Keep it."


    James pocketed the check. "And this dor?"


    Tyrone stood up. "Give it to her."


    "Turns out, her manager ends up saving me the money I''ve spent on Quintessa."


    To Tyrone, the amount of money didn''t matter. His goal was met. Quintessa was now under the wing of


    York Financial Group.


    More precisely, she was Tyrone''s.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 185

    James rolled his eyes. Could he be any more shameless?


    Just 1 dor, both Quintessa and her cronies seemed to think you could dismiss someone with pocket


    change.


    As they walked, Tyrone said, "Keep a close eye on Rachel."


    Rachel wasn''t someone Tyrone respected. Everyone knew her true colors, yet she still yed the part


    of the ice queen, all grace and virtue. Who knows how she might try to get back at Quintessa. "Got it,"


    James replied.


    After a moment''s hesitation, he asked, "Mr. York, what about Mr. Harrington''s response?"


    Tyrone''s stride faltered for a second. "Stall him."


    James couldn''t help but say, "But, Mr. York, it''s only a matter of time before he finds out."


    "So let them find out," Tyrone said nonchntly.


    Sometimes, in certain situations, ''brotherhood'' is just another word for a trap.


    Tyrone didn''t care about the rest; as long as Quintessa''s crew was under his control, it was all a game


    of timing against Alexander.


    As they were walking, Tyrone suddenly stopped.


    "Mr. York, what''s wrong?"


    Tyrone''s expression was icy. "Did the contract fail to include a use that prevented Quintessa from


    stirring up scandals?"


    James shook his head. "It seems we didn''t cover that."


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Add it. I don''t want to hear about any scandals like the one with Snow again."


    James was worried. "But the contract''s already signed. We can''t just change it without noticing the


    other party"


    Tyrone gave him a cold re. "What if I insist?"


    Buckling under the pressure, James conceded, "Alright. I''ll figure something out."


    "What are you doing here?" Quintessa was surprised to see the guy sitting in her chair, leisurely


    munching on the fruit tter Manny had prepared for her. Removing his sunsses, Snow said,


    "Thought we''d kick our scandal up a notch."


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow. "Speaking of which, I owe you one for the assist. Otherwise, the smear


    campaign could have drowned me."


    Surveying Quintessa all over, Snow said, "Don''t joke. Nobody could drown you. Your photo''s been


    memed to death. I might as well call you ''Your Majesty'' now."


    Manny brought over a chair and ced it next to Snow. Quintessa sat down.


    The disdainful picture she posted yesterday had be a meme with captions like "Scorn," "Aloof,"


    and all other sorts of funny text. Combined with the rumors swirling around her and Snow, they had


    sessfully deflected the negative press. Her Twitter ount was now bombarded with requests for


    the meme.


    It seemed that this premeditated smear campaign hadn''t brought Quintessa down after all.


    Quintessa took a sip of water. "Getting ready to promote your new album?"


    "Yeah, it drops next month. Actually, I kinda rode the wave of your scandal for some free publicity."


    "C''mon, Snow, as if God Snow needs to ride on my coattails? Everyone knows you''ve never needed to


    use another celeb for publicity in all your years."


    Proud and talented, Snow had built his career on raw skill and charisma alone.


    He disdained cheap publicity stunts, and this time, it seemed he genuinely wanted to help her out.


    "Thanks," Quintessa said to Snow.


    Snow suddenly speared a piece of fruit with his fork and held it to Quintessa''s lips, "If you really want to


    thank me, how about honoring me by eating this piece of fruit?"

 Chapter 186

    Quintessa gazed at the array of fruits before her and quipped, "Looks like you''re aiming to stir up a


    storm."


    Feeding someone is an intimate gesture, which is reserved only for those closest to you. Yet,


    Quintessa didn''t feel that close to Snow. They were barely friends, let alone besties. Snow held his


    pose, with his gaze locked onto Quintessa''s eyes. "No, why don''t you consider that maybe I want to


    turn this act into something real?"


    Quintessa smirked, "The inte''s buzzing with rumors that I''m a gold digger, a mistress, that I had a


    teenage pregnancy. You sure you want to get real with me?" Snow shed Quintessa a grin, "The


    inte once had me pegged as gay, a gigolo, the darling of wealthy women. Makes us quite a pair,


    don''t you think?"


    His experiences served as a reminder to Quintessa that every celebrity had their days of being dragged


    through the mud.


    Suddenly, Quintessaughed, "Just from hearing that, it seems we might be a match. But,"


    Snow kept fixing his eyes on her, "But what? My arm''s getting sore here, and we''ve got an audience.


    Give me some face, will ya?" Instead of taking a bite, Quintessa grabbed the fork and took over, "But I


    see you as a brother. Don''t get any ideas about hitting on me." Snow roared withughter, "You got it


    all wrong. I''ve got plenty of bros. What I''mcking now is a girlfriend. Interested?"


    "Mr. Snow Jackson? What brings you here?" Violet''s voice suddenly cut through the tension, which


    eased Quintessa''s awkwardness.


    Letting out a silent sigh of relief, Quintessa looked up to see Violet jogging over, "Where''d you run off


    to, Violet?"


    "Just had to handle something. I''ll fill you inter." Violet smiled warmly at Snow, "Sir, we owe you big


    time for helping Quinn dodge the bullet with those rumors. Thank you so much." Snow felt a pang of


    regret. He had mustered the courage to ask, only to be interrupted.


    He stood up, all politeness, "No thanks needed. I have my own agenda."


    He nced meaningfully at Quintessa, adding, "I''ve been here a while and have other matters to


    attend to. I''ll take my leave now, but I''lle by again when I have time." "Hey, Great Snow Jackson,


    let''s have dinner sometime."


    "Sure, we''ll touch baseter. Goodbye."


    Once Snow was out of earshot, Violet prodded, "What did he say?"


    Quintessa put the fork back in the lunchbox, "He mentioned he''scking a girlfriend and wondered if I


    was interested. Think I should say yes?"


    Violet blurted out instantly, "Of course not. You''re now..."


    "Now what?"


    "Ahem. Never mind!"


    Violet couldn''t say it: I''ve sold you out. You''re Tyrone''s now, and that''s why you can''t be anyone else''s


    girlfriend.


    That night, a photo on Twitter caused an uproar. It showed Snow tenderly offering fruit to Quintessa, his


    gaze soft and focused.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The photo nearly ''confirmed'' the scandal brewing between Quintessa and Snow.


    The caption read: "God Snow taking time from his busy schedule to visit the set, sweetly feeding her,


    making all the singles jealous."


    As Quintessa was busy filming, she barely paid any attention to the fuss.


    Tyrone saw the post the next morning during a meeting. Bored, he scrolled through his phone and his


    expression darkened at the sight of the photo. "Meeting''s on hold," he announced in a cold tone.


    James quickly asked, "Mr. York, where are you off to?"


    Tyrone strode out, "To meet my new employee."

 Chapter 187

    James was dumbstruck.


    New employee?


    The HR manager quickly grabbed James by the shoulder, "James, what''s gotten into Mr. York to


    suddenly take an interest in ourpany''s new hires? We''ve brought in a bunch this quarter. Should


    we round them up now?"


    James chuckled, "No need."


    Their boss wasn''t that considerate to check on new staff. He was probably just being jealous or


    something.


    James said promptly, "Let''s put a pin in this meeting. It''s a good chance for everyone to polish up any


    unfinished business. Trust me, you do not want to be on the Boss''s bad side when he''s ticked off."


    "Alright, we''ll head back then."


    With that, the meeting dispersed quickly, and James hurried after the others.


    Kevin, trailing behind, caught up to James, "Where are you off to now?"


    James shook his head, "The boss is on the warpath. Can''t stop him, might as well join him on this


    kamikaze run."


    James couldn''t believe it. If Quintessa found out she''d been sold out, she''d go ballistic on the boss.


    Kevin''s eyes sparkled with mischief, "I''ming too."


    James hastily replied, "No way, man. Don''t you go looking for trouble."


    Leaving Kevin behind, James hurried to catch up.


    After wrapping up a rain scene, Manny quickly handed Quintessa a dry towel, "Quinn, go change into


    something dry." Quintessa asked Director Cooper, "Director, was that take okay?"


    Director Cooper nodded, "OK, it''s a wrap. Go change and rest up in the makeup room. We''ll resume in


    an hour."


    Manny followed Quintessa to the makeup room.


    After changing, Manny was blow-drying Quintessa''s hair while she scrolled through her Twitter feed.


    Her rumored fling with Snow had stirred up a media storm. Thements section under Quintessa''s


    posts was already overflowing, half from Snow''s fans, a quarter from neutral onlookers, and a handful


    from her own growing fanbase.


    The majority were hatements, but many couldn''t help admiring the couple''s looks, grudgingly


    acknowledging that they were the entertainment industry''s top dream team.


    Quintessa flipped through Snow''s Twitter and noticed that he''d liked not one, but two tweets praising


    their match.


    One could be an ident, but two? That was a statement.


    Clearly, Snow was signaling to his Snowkes: "Your idol is in love."


    That set off a howl of despair among his fanbase, and their romance nearly broke Twitter''s trending


    charts.


    This buzz benefited Quintessa the most. Her works hadn''t caught fire yet, but the scandal sure did,


    earning her a quick shot to fame, with her follower count skyrocketing by a hundred thousand in a day,


    and still climbing.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    For a neer who was practically a nobody in this industry, it was like winning the lottery.


    Quintessa wasn''t exactly thrilled, but she wasn''t upset either.


    The rumors were useful for now, but in the future, there would always be some people who''d say she


    used Snow to climb thedder.


    Besides, Snow seemed to be ying for keeps, which irked Quintessa a bit.


    Manny, feeling indignant, said, "This photo leak had to be from someone on set. I swear, if I find out


    who it is, I''m going to give them a piece of my mind."


    Quintessa just smiled, "Let it be. This is part of the job. Look at the bright side; it''s working out for me,


    isn''t it?"

 Chapter 188

    Manny said, "But Quinn, honestly, I feel thatpared to that Mr. York, Snow seems a tad bit nicer,


    you know?" "Really?"


    After a while, Manny fell silent, and his hand holding the hairdryer froze in ce, aimlessly blowing hot


    air at her left temple. Quintessa asked, "Why the silence?" Manny''s voice trembled, "I-I..."


    Quintessa, feeling suspicious, lifted her head to nce at Manny and saw him pale as a ghost, his


    expression crumbled, with a vacant stare fixed toward the doorway; his hand holding the hairdryer


    shook uncontrobly.


    Quintessa turned to look at the doorway, and upon seeing the figure at the door, she immediately


    understood it.


    She sighed; mourning for Manny in her heart, she reached out to take the hairdryer from his hand,


    "Step outside for a bit."


    Manny instinctively tried to bolt, but the person at the door blocked him, "What''s the rush?"


    He strolled in, "I''m not as good as Snow? Come on, spill it. What''s he got that I don''t? I want to hear


    this."


    Quintessa picked up ab, "What brings you here?"


    Tyrone snatched theb from Quintessa''s hand, "Don''t change the subject. Clear up what you just


    said."


    Manny was on the verge of tears, "I-I was just bbering, Mr. York, please don''t take it personally."


    Quintessa nced at Tyrone, "He didn''t say anything wrong, did he?"


    Tyrone''s face darkened, "Got the guts? Repeat it."


    Quintessa smiled, "Can you sing? Can you dance? Can you write songs? You can''t do any of those, of


    course, except for being loaded." Tyrone, "No, you missed one thing."


    "What''s that?"


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone lifted his chin proudly, "I''m better looking than him. And-buddy, I''ve got money. I can make it rain


    so hard that he won''t be able to sing or dance. Then we''ll see whopares." Tyrone had his gaze


    locked onto Quintessa, and his handsome face unmasked his ruthlessness.


    Quintessa waved Manny away, who was shivering in fright.


    She said, "Bravo, thug life suits you."


    "Yeah, proud of it. Who does he think he is, hitting on my girl? If I don''t do something about it, does he


    think I''m dead or what?"


    Quintessa came to know that he was here because of the rumors about her and Snow.


    The gears in her mind were spinning fast. Tyrone was obviously jealous.


    Was it possible that this man was truly in love with her?


    Quintessa''s eyes flirtatiously met his, "Since when am I your girl?"


    Her look was yful and petnt, making Tyrone itch with desire.


    Suddenly, Tyrone wrapped an arm around Quintessa, pulling her close, and lifted her chin, "Of course,


    you''re mine. And legally so!"


    Quintessa pushed against his chest, with her lips curling, "Legally? Like living together legally, sharing


    a bed, having a normal man-woman rtionship, having kids that aren''t bastards? If not, stop wasting


    my time, I''m not free to fool around."


    Her scent wafted into Tyrone''s nostrils, tempting him to bite Quintessa''s earlobe and whisper, "If you''re


    thinking of making a life, we could start trying right now. I forgot to mention that I''m also well-endowed,


    just never had the chance to prove it. How about giving me a chance?"

 Chapter 189

    Quintessa''s lips curled into a yful smile, and her eyes twinkled with mischief as she said coolly,


    "Looking for an opportunity? Sure, why not."


    In the next instant, Tyrone''s hand swiftly snaked under the hem of Quintessa''s blouse, his fingers


    tracing the contours of her waist.


    Just as Tyrone was about to speak, Quintessa ced a finger on his lips; her gaze was sultry as she


    whispered with a raspy seduction, "You''ve got ten minutes. Quick and decisive, don''t hold up my


    shooting schedule."


    Tyrone, initially brimming with enthusiasm, instantly scowled; his mood turned as dark as the bottom of


    a burnt pan. Through clenched teeth, he retorted, "Ten minutes? Might as well give me one second."


    With her finger slowly outlining Tyrone''s lips, Quintessa teased, "After all, it''s been three years since


    you''ve had the chance. You''re not getting any younger. Perhaps you''ve joined the one-second club by


    now? Ten minutes is generous, really. But it''s your call-take it or leave it."


    Tyrone gave her a chilling look, his eyes concealing a dangerous edge, "ying games with me?"


    Wrapping her arms around his neck and tilting her head, Quintessa feigned innocence, "Not at all. I''m


    beingpletely serious. If you can''t handle it, no pressure. I won''tugh at you. Just don''t interfere


    with my work, okay?"


    Tyrone pinched her waist and bit down hard on her lip; his intensity almost drew blood immediately.


    The vibrant red of her now fuller lips seemed all the more enticing, which was a wicked temptation to


    him. He licked the wound with the tip of his tongue, and said with an icy voice, "Interfere with your


    work? I am the investor of this film. You belong to me. If I take you right here, let''s see who dares to


    object. I''ll show you how many ''seconds'' I''ve got."


    Quintessa was unfazed by the pain; her blood-stained lips resembled dew-kissed roses in the morning


    light, exuding an irresistible allure.


    Leaning back, she challenged, "Fine, since you put it that way, let''s get on with it. What are you waiting


    for? I''ve never really had much say in the presence of Mr. York, have I? Whenever you feel like ying,


    I''m at your disposal."


    Inside Tyrone, a proud and domineering streak of him refused to be subdued. A man like him was born


    to stand above the rest. The fact that he had entertained her this long was nothing short of a miracle.


    Yet, hearing his words, Quintessa couldn''t help but sneer internally. She was waiting for the day when


    Tyrone would fall hard for her.


    Waiting for the day she could crush him under her heel.


    Tyrone''s face, which was stunning and coldly beautiful, remained unbothered. "Your provocations have


    grown old; they won''t work this time, Quintessa. Let me tell you, if I hear one more rumor about you


    and Snow, I''ll show you who your man really is."


    Quintessaughed mockingly, "Quite the choice of location, a makeup room on set. No need for a hotel


    room, no room fees to pay. Talk about being thrifty."


    Unashamed, Tyrone retorted, "I''m broke, darling. You couldn''t even give me enough change to buy a


    bun, let alone a hotel room."


    Tyrone was determined to have Quintessa today. He was immune to her sarcastic jibes, and numb to


    any blow to his masculine pride. What mattered was having her in the end, and everything else was


    pointless chatter.


    He truly regretted wasting so much time chasing after Quintessa and ying her games.


    Bowing his head, Tyrone pressed his lips to the exposed curve of Quintessa''s corbone, leaving a trail


    of marks.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.

 Chapter 190

    Quintessa couldn''t deny it-Tyrone was drop-dead gorgeous. Among all the men she knew, none could


    hold a candle to him. And she certainly didn''t mind his kisses.


    Even as Tyrone''s lips met hers, Quintessa felt a shiver of desire ripple through her body.


    But this was just a game of adult attraction, a dance of hormones. Quintessa''s mind was sharper than


    anyone''s rationality.


    She wasn''t about to let Tyrone im her body so hastily. She knew he probably wouldn''t cherish her if


    things went down this way. Quintessa hadn''t expected to walk away from their encounters unscathed


    every time, but she certainly didn''t want it to happen in such a reckless manner.


    She had her own ns. If she were to give in, it would be on her terms.


    If she were to surrender, she wanted to be unforgettable to Tyrone, and to be the only woman he''d ever


    think of again, not just another notch on his bedpost.


    Tyrone had rolled up her tee to her neck, but Quintessa didn''t struggle. Instead, she watched him


    coolly; in her mind, she was racing for a way out, but it seemed every escape was blocked.


    With his hands moving to her back, ready to unsp her bra, she felt despair creep in, but just then,


    the door burst open.


    "Quinn, honey, I heard Mr. York was here to-oh!"


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Violet, with her imposing figure, stood frozen at the doorway, her words stuck in her throat like a


    fishbone. As she witnessed the scene before her, her face was a mix of shock and regret; she wished


    someone woulde and tten her out right there.


    James stood behind Violet, his hand outstretched in a futile attempt to stop her. She had barged in


    without knocking.


    The next second, James turned his back, "Uh. Mr. York, my apologies, I couldn''t stop her."


    He wished he could vanish on the spot.


    Violet felt like crying. Who would''ve thought these two would dare to get frisky in broad daylight, in the


    dressing room of all ces?


    Remembering Tyrone was her big boss, Violet felt her heart sink. She had just interrupted the man''s


    private affairs. She was in for it now.


    She wanted to run, but meeting Quintessa''s gaze, Violet found herself rooted to the spot.


    After all, Quintessa was her girl.


    Clearing her throat, Violet mustered her courage and stammered, "I''m sorry, I-I just heard Mr. York was


    here and I wanted to see you for a moment. I didn''t expect to see you with Quinn." Compared to


    Tyrone''s icy, murderous re, Quintessa almost whistled. Violet was indeed her angel, she thought.


    Quintessa slowly pulled her tee back down, "Tsk, what a pity. You missed out on a lot of juicy


    moments."


    Tyrone wrapped his arms around Quintessa, trying to keep her from getting up. "No pity needed. Let


    them get out, and we''ll continue."


    Quintessa nced at the clock, "Time''s up, ten minutes are over. I need to get back to work.


    Otherwise, who''s going to tip you next time? Sweetheart, don''t hold up my hustle."


    Tyrone gazed at her deeply. Blood still stained her lip where he had bitten it, and her smile was that of


    a siren who had just devoured a sailor.


    As their eyes locked, silence lingered; it was a silent battle of wills.


    It was as if a silent agreement had been reached, and Tyrone let go of Quintessa.


    She stood up and straightened her clothes and hair.


    Tyrone stood behind her, watching her reflection in the mirror, with a dangerous smirk ying on his


    lips. "Quintessa, I''ve given you plenty of time."

 Chapter 191

    Tyrone had indulged Quintessa time and again, sharing his bed with her for countless nights without


    ever forcing her hand. It was a level of restraint that was unprecedented for him. He''d broken his own


    rules for Quintessa too many times, and had patiently waited for her to lie down willingly.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But Tyrone was done waiting.


    With guys like Snow and Alexander circling like predators, he had to im Quintessa before it became


    even more challenging.


    He could feel the crisis looming ever closer.


    He knew all too well how alluring Quintessa could be. People often said that one should marry a


    virtuous woman, but the ones who truly captivated men''s hearts were enchantresses like her.


    Alexander''s affection for Quintessa ran deep; he''d defied his family, abandoned the thriving empire of


    Serenitia, ande running back just to find her. That wasmitment. Snow, a music icon who''d


    managed to avoid scandals for a decade, had suddenly expressed an interest in creating a buzz with


    Quintessa. That was definitely out of the ordinary! Tyrone felt a sense of urgency; he was grateful he


    had made his move quickly. Otherwise, Quintessa, that sly fox, would have been snatched up by


    someone else.


    Quintessa understood what Tyrone meant; his patience had run out.


    Violet had told her in no uncertain terms that stringing someone along without giving in would


    eventually lead to trouble.


    Quintessa was aware she couldn''t keep this up much longer.


    She picked up a brush from the table and began tob her hair, saying, "We''ve already waited this


    long; what''s the rush? Surely, Mr. York, you''re notcking confidence in yourself?" "It''s not that Ick


    confidence in myself; it''s that I have none in you."


    Tyrone knew better than anyone how ruthless and cold Quintessa could be. With a single turn, she


    could forget you, and trying to win her back would be as tough as climbing to the heavens. Quintessa


    raised an eyebrow, "You have no confidence in me? I had no idea I held such sway in your mind."


    Tyrone twirled a lock of Quintessa''s hair, "Quintessa, by not letting me have my way, you''re really


    testing my patience. You''ll regret thister."


    With a slight smile, Quintessa called out, "James, does your boss ever make you regret following him?"


    Caught off guard by the sudden mention of his name, James instinctively answered from outside the


    door, "Uh, no, I don''t regret it!"


    Tyrone scowled while Quintessa turned around, "I need to change for the next scene. Are you leaving,


    or do you want to watch me change?"


    Tyrone leaned in, pressing her against the vanity, "Of course, I''ll watch. I can even help you."


    He expected her tosh out, but instead, she said, "Sure,e help me get dressed."


    Violet and James stood by the door, exchanging nces. In this high-stakes game, they felt like mere


    fish in a pond. The question was, should they stay or go?


    Watching Quintessa boldly invite Tyrone to help her change, even Violet, a woman herself, felt she


    couldn''t handle the tension.


    "Quinn, I''ll just close the door. Hurry up, the director is waiting," Violet said before quickly shutting the


    door.


    Outside, James gave Violet an awkward smile, "Tough job."


    Violet returned the smile, "Indeed."


    Quintessa took a full fifteen minutes to change. When she emerged, her cheeks were flushed, and her


    lips were swollen, with a particrly noticeable bite mark on her lower lip. To any observant onlooker, it


    was clear what had just transpired - they had indisputably engaged in a moment of passion.

 Chapter 192

    Tyrone was scowling, trailing behind Quintessa like a dark cloud.


    Whenever Quintessa was on set, he''d plop down in her designated resting spot, with his eyes glued to


    the set.


    The sight of the fruit tter Manny had prepared for Quintessa instantly reminded him of that photo-


    Snow feeding her fruit.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    After a scene, Quintessa came off set for a break, only to find Tyrone crunching away on her fruit sd;


    his gaze was locked on her as if he were biting into her flesh instead, which sent shivers down her


    spine


    The crew seemed to have sensed the tension, as not a soul dared to approach. Manny hurriedly


    fetched a chair for Quintessa, and as she sat, she asked, "Why are you still here? Did youe just to


    watch me act?"


    Tyrone took a bite of an apple, "Yeah, I''m here to inspect the workce, and to see how my new


    employee''s acting chops are. Why don''t we have any dragon fruit today?"


    Quintessa had her mouth twitched, ignoring hisst remark, "New employee? Who''s your new


    employee?"


    Violet was pale as a ghost on the side, knowing the truth was about toe out. Would Quinn kill her?


    With a mischievous grin, Tyrone said, "Of course it''s you!"


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "What are you babbling about? From your woman to your employee, just


    like that?"


    In a faint whisper, Violet mumbled, "Quinn, you see, it''s Mr. York, he-he bought our studio."


    Her voice was almost inaudible by the end.


    Quintessa froze for a second, then whipped around, "You sold out?"


    Tyrone, flipping a fork between his fingers with an annoying swagger, proimed, "Now you not only


    have to call mendlord but also boss."


    No sooner had he finished than Quintessa snapped, "Shut your mouth."


    She fixed her gaze on Violet, "Violet, tell me."


    Quintessa''s face was expressionless, and she stared at Violet with her piercing eyes, which made


    Violet shudder. Violet grimaced, "Well, I-I had no choice, I wouldn''t have made it out alive to see you if I


    didn''t sign."


    Her voice was cold enough to frost, "How much did you sell it for?"


    Violet held up a finger.


    "A million?"


    Violet shook her head.


    Quintessa cursed, "Damn, don''t tell me you sold it for a hundred grand?"


    Violet kept shaking her head.


    Quintessa bellowed, "Are you out of your mind? Ten grand?"


    The head shaking continued.


    Quintessa, clenching her fists in rage, demanded, "Just tell me how much, and it better not be a


    number that makes me want to punch you."


    Violet backed away before confessing, "One dor."


    Quintessaughed, gesturing Violet over with a crooked finger, "Come here, I didn''t catch that. Get


    closer and tell me."


    "One dor. I-I was trying to show some dignity, I didn''t want to sell you out. I just remembered I have


    something else to do, I''m gonna go now, hope you have a good chat with Mr. York, since he''s our boss


    now," Violet said; truly frightened of Quintessa''s reaction, she fled before finishing her sentence.


    Quintessa slowly turned around, and Tyrone cleared his throat, "Anything you want to say to your new


    boss?"


    Quintessa replied, "Plenty, actually."


    In the next second, Quintessa lunged forward, reaching for Tyrone.


    He was momentarily taken aback, then quipped, "What are you doing? It''s broad daylight, and I''m not


    that kind of guy."


    Quintessa roared, "The check, hand it over, now! Don''t make me get rough."

 Chapter 193

    Tyrone and James were dumbstruck; all eyes in the vicinity shifted their way. Manny hurried to


    Quintessa''s side, trying to defuse the situation. "Quinn, cool it, will ya? You''re a starlet, for heaven''s


    sake. The whole crew''s watching. What if someone snaps a pic and it goes viral? That ain''t good for


    your rep."


    Quintessa shook off Manny''s grip. "I can''t care about that right now."


    There was fire zed in her eyes, which could literally incinerate Tyrone on the spot. "The check. Hand


    it over. Now." Suppressing a smirk, Tyrone nced at James, who quickly fumbled a checkbook out of


    his pocket, his hands trembling. Quintessa snatched it away. "A pen."


    James, ever the amodating assistant, produced a pen and thoughtfully removed the cap before


    handing it to her.


    Quintessa scribbled a string of zeros on the check without bothering to count them, tore it out, and


    thrust it into Manny''s hands. "Hold this for me."


    Manny nearly had his eyes popped out at the sight of all those zeros. This was a lot.


    Quintessa tossed the remaining nk checks at Tyrone. "You think I''m some kind of chump, and you


    can sell me off for a one dor? Why don''t you go rob a bank if you''re gonna be so cheap?" Tyrone


    yed the innocent. "It''s not like you paid me much more. You let me go for twenty cents."


    Quintessa couldn''t help butugh. "You think you canpare with me? I gave you twenty, which was


    double what you offered, you tightwad."


    Tyrone was speechless.


    James intervened quickly. "Ms. Quintessa Young, you can''t me Mr. York for this. Yesterday, he gave


    the check to Ms. Sullivan and let her write in the amount. She only put down one dor."


    Quintessa was livid. "That clueless woman. In times like these, what good is her pride? Even if her


    studio isn''t worth much, I sure am. I, Quintessa, have the looks, the body, and the talent. And she sells


    me for one dor? How am I supposed to show my face in this town again?"


    Tyrone tossed the nk check back to James and straightened his clothes, which had been ruffled by


    Quintessa. "With the way you set your own price, you don''t sound like a new employee. You''re acting


    more like the boss."


    Quintessa shot him a look. "Even the boss would be a bargain for you. With an employee like me, you


    should just go to bed and count yourself lucky."


    With a thought crossing Quintessa''s mind, she sized up Tyrone. "Though the position of the boss''s


    lady, I could be somewhat interested."


    Tyrone tilted her chin up. "Then work hard for it! It''s not impossible to go from employee to boss''sdy."


    Quintessa knocked his hand away. "I''ve got something to tell you. Come with me."


    They moved to a quieter spot, and Quintessa''s expression turned dead serious. "Since you''re my boss,


    I might as well make use of you. I need you to look someone up for me."


    "Who?"


    "I''ll text you the details after we wrap up the shoot."


    "All this mystery?"


    Quintessa stepped closer, nearly pressing against Tyrone. "Don''t ask why, and don''t ask what I n to


    do. Just find out where he is now, that''s all. As for the rest, mind your own business. I won''t be telling


    you anything."


    Tyrone leaned in, enveloping her in his presence. "You think I can''t find out on my own?"


    Quintessa scoffed. "Be my guest. But just remember, curiosity killed the cat."


    Tyrone had his gaze linger on her eyes, and finally set on her lips, which were still marked with a small


    wound. His mood suddenly lifted. "Consider it done. Let''s call it a wee gift for the new employee."Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 194

    Quintessa patted Tyrone on the chest, "Wait till you get me that info, then I''ll thank you, boss."


    "You better make that thank-you special."


    Her gaze was shadowy, and her smile was loaded with suggestion, "No problem. You scratch my back,


    I''ll scratch yours."


    Tyrone felt a tingle of anticipation, "Deal, but you''ve gotta promise me there''ll be no more gossip linking


    you with any male celebs."


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "I can''t control the rumors, Tyrone. I won''t stir the pot, but if the tabloids or someone else wants to use


    my name, I can''t guarantee they won''t."


    Tyrone wrapped an arm around Quintessa''s waist, "Don''t worry about that. Had anyone tried to mess


    with your name, I''ll make sure they regret it." Quintessa rolled her eyes, "Big talk from the guy with the


    big bucks."


    "Snow fed you some fruit yesterday."


    "Oh? You wanna feed me now?"


    "Yeah, I got a truckload of pitaya parked outside."


    After Tyrone left, Quintessa called Violet and gave her an earful. Yet, amidst her fury, she also felt a


    touch of warmth.


    Violet chipped in one dor because she didn''t want to betray Quintessa emotionally, and that was the


    only solution she could think of at the time.


    The lengths Violet would go for Quintessa was something truly precious.


    Later that evening, when they met, Quintessa handed Violet a check.


    Violet grinned like an idiot for half an hour, with her drool nearly dribbling down her chin, but then she


    set the check down, "Quinn, I can''t take this. Don''t rush me, just listen. If I wanted the money, I''d have


    filled in the amount yesterday. But doing so would''ve been aplete betrayal of you. If there''s a first


    time, there''s a second. What if someone more powerful than Tyrone appears and offers more than him


    next time? I''d bepromised."


    Quintessa felt a pang, "But I got this for you."


    "I know, but I still can''t take it. I''m an agent; I need to maintain integrity. I asked for one dor, and that''s


    my price. This is yours, not mine. Even though I only wanted one dor, I haven''t lost out. With York


    Financial Group backing us, we can strut across the entertainment world. Endorsements wille


    rolling in. It''s like owning a goose thatys golden eggs."


    "Violet, thank you." Selling the studio to York Financial Group didn''t upset Quintessa too much,


    because they both knew that sess in showbiz often meant having a powerful patron, and York


    Financial Group was undoubtedly the best choice.


    But for Violet to go to such lengths was something Quintessa had never dared to dream of.


    In this bizarre, profit-driven society, staying loyal was like a fairy tale.


    Violet sighed heavily, "Ah, it hurts to turn down all that cash. So, Quinn, you''ve gotta make sure to wrap


    that bandit Tyrone around your finger. Make him utterly devoted to you. You''ve got to get back at him


    for me."


    "Doubting me? He''s as good as caught."


    "I believe in you, my siren. Go get ''em!"


    After seeing Violet off, Quintessa quickly changed clothes and left.


    The days had been packed with shooting, and her ns for Ynda had already been dyed. She


    couldn''t put it off any longer.


    She intended to use the unborn child in Ynda''s womb to stir up a storm of blood and fury within the


    Young family.


    The Youngs had enjoyed their good days for far too long.

 Chapter 195

    Tyrone stumbled home that evening, still feeling heavy with the day''s toll.


    Upon seeing him, Cecilia hurried over with a concerned look. "Son, have you been keeping busy


    lately?"


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He shrugged off his coat and tossed it to the family''s faithful housekeeper, Wilma. "Same old, same


    old. What''s up?"


    Cecilia pulled him over to the couch, her voiceced with gossip. "Did you hear about that little vixen


    Quintessa taking a shot at stardom? Ring any bells?"


    Loosening his tie, Tyrone asked nonchntly, "What about her?"


    Cecilia''s voice was a mix of worry and disdain. "Well, she''s gone and got herself tangled up with some


    singer. Seriously, what was she thinking? He''s nothingpared to my boy. And the inte is just


    buzzing with her scandals - affairs, abortion rumors, sugar daddies - it''s all quite sordid."


    Tyrone''s face darkened. "That''s all bogus. Don''t buy into that nonsense. Every celebrity gets dragged


    through the mud. You''re educated, Mom. You should know better than to believe every little thing you


    hear."


    "And how do you know it''s not true? There''s evidence out there. And why are you defending her so


    strongly? Don''t tell me you''ve been messing around with her?"


    He stood up, feeling his patience waning. "Yeah, just got back from a tryst with her."


    Cecilia''s voice turned sharp with worry. "You better cut ties with that girl. Forget her character; just her


    involvement with the Young family is like an unending bad debt. We don''t need a Rachel in our lives,


    and we most certainly can''t have a Quintessa."


    Shaking his head, Tyrone tried to ease Cecilia''s fears. "Mom, I''ve told you, my business is my own. You


    can''t control it, so why stress yourself out?"


    "Is that the way to speak to your mother?"


    With a sigh, he began unbuttoning his cuffs. "I''ve always talked to you like this. You should be used to it


    by now. I know what I''m doing with Quintessa. If those rumors were true, she''d be history. Nobody gets


    one over on your son. I''m beat. I''m heading upstairs."


    With a wave of his hand, he left Cecilia, who was standing there, with worry etched on her face.


    Once in his room, Tyrone pulled out his phone and dialed Quintessa''s number. The call got connected


    but was abruptly cut off.


    Staring at his phone, he was frustrated enough to wish her number would blossom into a flower just


    from his re.


    How dare she hang up on her boss? Did she not care about her career anymore?


    He quickly rang James, his right-hand man, instructing him to check if Quintessa had work that


    evening.


    James reported back swiftly. "Mr. York, I''ve spoken with Director Cooper. Ms. Quintessa Young isn''t


    scheduled for any scenes tonight."


    "Got it."


    Tyrone felt uneasy. If Quintessa wasn''t working, why wasn''t she picking up her phone?


    What could she possibly be up to at this ungodly hour?


    Seeing another man? Or worse.


    In the shadows of the night, Quintessa ended Tyrone''s call without a second thought. She turned to


    Ynda with a serious voice, "I''ll ask you onest time - are you sure you don''t want this child?"


    Ynda nodded, denoting that her resolve was clear. "I''m sure."


    "Alright, then we''ll proceed as nned. The day after tomorrow, we y our hand. No mistakes."


    "Don''t worry, I won''t mess up. I''ll seize this chance. Thank you."


    "We''re in this together. No thanks needed."


    After parting ways with Ynda, Quintessa checked her phone - four missed calls from Tyrone.


    A sly smile crept under her mask. Oh Tyrone, she thought, let''s see how you y this game.


    Quintessa could almost be certain now; Tyrone''s interest in her had moved beyond mere curiosity.


    When a man starts to get jealous, love can''t be too far off, can it?

 Chapter 196

    Quinn was certain that even if she didn''t call back, it wouldn''t be long before Tyrone buzzed her phone


    again. Sure enough, a short whileter, Tyrone''s call came through.


    Quinn waited a good fifteen seconds before answering, and her first words were a blunt, "What''s up?"


    "What have you been up to?"


    Even though it was a mild June night in Emberbrook, Quinn could feel the chill in Tyrone''s voice


    through the phone.


    Quinn smirked, "What do you think? At this hour, I''m obviously out starting trouble or lighting bonfires."


    With that response, Tyrone felt a wave of certainty that Quinn wasn''t out with another guy; she was off


    plotting her revenge once again.


    Sometimes Tyrone felt an overwhelming urge to pull Quinn back from the edge. The recklessness she


    exhibited often terrified and yet strangely excited him.


    Initially, he''d found her ruthless vengeance thrilling.


    But now, he wanted her to stop more than anything.


    "Quit it, Quinn. Don''t go it alone. I''ll take down the Young Group for you. Just step back," Tyrone said.


    Quinn paused mid-step, suddenly finding it ludicrous for a man to have the notion of offering revenge


    on her behalf.


    She lifted her head defiantly, with a coldugh escaping her lips, "But there''s no turning back for me


    now. My hands haven''t been clean for a long time."


    Tyrone felt a surge of panic. It always seemed like he couldn''t quite hold onto Quinn, and that she


    might slip away at any moment.


    "Quinn," Tyrone said sternly, "I''ve told you before, I can give you anything you want."


    Walking against the night breeze on the main street, Quinn countered, "I''ll take what I want myself."


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    How could she let someone else fight those battles of her vendetta and her mother''s vendetta?


    Some things had to be done personally, no matter the oue, no matter if it dragged her down too.


    She just wanted the Young family-gone.


    Tyrone''s frustration was palpable, "Where are you?"


    Quinn hung up and turned off her phone.


    She was ustomed to struggling in despair, to others'' indifference, to their malice. She could easily


    detect danger, but she couldn''t fathom warmth when it''s offered, because she didn''t know how to


    ept it. The next day, after wrapping up a day''s shoot, Violet gathered Quinn and Reuben to go over


    the schedule following thepletion of "Requiem."


    Once Violet finished speaking, Quinn said, "Violet, I need to take a day off tomorrow."


    Violet frowned, "What''s going on?"


    With a smile, Quinn exined, "The Lotts are throwing a big anniversary bash for theirpanies


    tomorrow."


    Quinn trailed off, but Violet instantly got the message.


    "You''re going to?"


    Quinn yed innocent, "Don''t worry, I''m not stirring up trouble. It''s just that if I skip out on an event like


    that, it would be such a shame."


    Violet knew she couldn''t stop Quinn, "Alright, but please, be careful."


    Reuben suddenly chimed in, "Quinn, you''re going to the Lott''s party?"


    "Are you going too?"


    Reuben gave a shy, toothy grin, "My family got an invite. I wasn''t nning on going, but if you are, I''d


    like to tag along."


    Quinn nodded, "Sure, I could use a date. You''re up for it."


    The Youngs wouldn''t show in the Lott family''s bash?


    It was about time that she, a member of the Young family, made a grand appearance.


    After three years, it was time for that long-lost family bond to ignite once more.

 Chapter 197

    Violet was a bundle of nerves, and tomorrow night seemed like an eternity away to her. She knew all


    too well what Quintessa had in mind, and the mere thought of the uing events sent shivers down


    her spine.


    Taking a deep breath, she turned to Reuben, her voiceced with urgency. "Reuben, Quintessa is your


    responsibility tomorrow. Make sure you take good care of her and bring her back safe and sound."


    Reuben, puzzled by Violet''s anxiety, nodded. "Don''t worry, Violet. I''ll make sure Quinn is alright."


    Violet emphasized each word with grave intensity, "You must bring her back unharmed."


    Reuben, a bit taken aback, acknowledged with a firm nod, "Yeah, I''ll protect Quinn, no matter what."


    At 8 pm the next evening, Reuben pulled up in his car to pick up Quintessa.


    Quintessa eyed his ride and thought to herself, "Thisd''s got some serious cash!"


    She hadn''t paid much attention to Reuben before, but now that she did, she realized that despite his


    shyness, he was well-mannered and humble - the product of good upbringing and, no doubt, a well-off


    family.


    As Quintessa didn''t have an invite to the Lott family''s grand soir¨¦e, she had nned to sneak in, but


    now, with Reuben by her side, she could waltz in with her head held high.


    To her, Reuben was a godsend.


    When Reuben saw Quintessa, his cheeks flushed with color. "Quinn, you look stunning!"


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa was dressed to kill in a strapless ck gown, with a thigh-high slit revealing her graceful


    legs that seemed to shimmer as she moved.


    Flipping her hair, Quintessa teased, "Well, that''s because I''ve always been this gorgeous."


    Reuben chuckled and hurried to open the car door for her.


    On the drive, Quintessa probed Reuben, "With your family background, why choose acting?"


    Reuben spoke earnestly, "I love acting, but my family''s against it. After college, my dad made it clear: If


    I pursue acting, I''d be on my own, and I can''t count on using the family name. Being young and defiant,


    I told him I''d make it without their help."


    Listening to Reuben''s tale, Quintessa envied him. Even in opposition, his parents still cared about him.


    He''d grown up in a warm, loving home - he probably didn''t know how cruel the world could be. "You''ll


    make it," she said.


    "Thanks for believing in me, Quinn. I''ll keep pushing."


    Arriving at the hotel, Reuben was the picture of chivalry as he opened the car door and helped


    Quintessa out.


    As they entered the g, she instructed him, "Reuben, no matter what happens tonight, stay out of it.


    Don''t ask questions."


    Reuben was confused, "Quinn?"


    He looked at Quintessa''s face and felt a pang of concern.


    Inside, the scene was one of opulence - a frilly and frivolous atmosphere filled with chitchat and the


    scent of perfume.


    Quintessa scanned the crowd and locked onto a target, with her lips curling into a sly smile.


    "Find a ce to chill, and we''ll head out together after the party," she said.


    Just as Reuben started to protest, he was cut off by Quintessa as she released his arm and glided


    away, her presencemanding like a warrior on the battlefield. Jerome wasworking with


    executives when a seductive voice pierced the air, "Jerome."


    His name was drawn out, so sweet and alluring that it sent a shiver through Jerome''s spine. His hand


    holding the champagne ss trembled - that voice was his siren''s call.

 Chapter 198

    Jerome and the two executives turned to see Quintessa, and at that moment Jerome felt a sharp


    scratch in his heart.


    In Jerome''s eyes, there were only two words-femme fatale!


    The other two executives'' eyes lit up: "And who is this?"


    Jerome immediately grabbed Quintessa''s arm and said to them, "An old friend, sorry gents, I must


    excuse us for a moment."


    Pulling Quintessa aside, he frowned and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    Wherever Quintessa went, trouble followed. This was the Lott family''s g, and of course, Jerome


    didn''t want her causing a scene.


    Quintessa reached out and plucked the petals from the rose pinned to Jerome''s chest, pouting, "Why


    can''t I be here? It''s been so long-don''t you miss me, brother-inw?"


    Jerome''s smile wasced with sarcasm: "What''s the use of missing you if it''s just another one of your


    schemes?"


    Quintessa feigned hurt: "Oh, that''s so sad, you don''t miss me, but I''ve missed you so much."-thinking


    about how to outwit you to the end.


    "Since you''ve already snagged wealthy Rich Tyrone and have a king in your grasp, do you really need


    another man?"


    Lately, York Financial Group had been making aggressive moves against the Lott family, which costed


    them several major deals.


    Nathan Lott was hoping to use this g towork with Emberbrook''s high society in an effort to stem


    the Lott family''s recent downturn.


    Quintessa tilted her head coyly, her fox-like eyes hooking Jerome in, her lips pouting, "Of course, I''m


    missing something I''m missing a brother-inw." Jerome felt the itch. Faced with such a siren, what


    man wouldn''t be tempted?


    But he knew better. This enchantress was all thorns and poison, and in such a setting, even if he was


    tempted, he had to restrain himself.


    Jerome scoffed, "Quintessa, don''t confuse maniption with seduction. I''ve orchestrated this entire


    g, and if you dare mess it up, I won''t let you off easily." Quintessa pouted, "Look at how you talk


    about me as if I''m some kind of monster. I''m just a small-time actress, nothing more."


    Jerome sneered, "You''re far more dangerous than any monster. The Young family will be here today,


    and I advise you to leave now."


    Quintessa reached for Jerome''s tie, smiling, "Oh, is that so? How wonderful. It''s been three years since


    our family got together-today we''d finally meet." Jerome, looking at the hand on his chest, warned,


    "Quintessa, put away your tricks. If you ruin this for me, I won''t go easy on you."


    "Tsks, my dear brother-inw, don''t scare me like that, I might get frightened."


    Jerome grabbed Quintessa''s hand, "Come with me; I''ll have someone escort you out."


    Otherwise, once Quintessa encountered the Young family, who knew what chaos would ensue.


    Quintessa leaned into him, "Too bad, it''s toote now."


    Jerome looked down to see a mischievous smile on Quintessa''s face, and following her gaze, he saw


    that the Young family trio had already arrived.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Jerome had a sinking feeling-Quintessa was up to no good.


    Quintessa cooed, "Jerome, will you y a little game with me?"


    Jerome clenched his teeth, "No. I know what you''re up to, but don''t ruin this for me."


    A cold sh crossed Quintessa''s eyes, "Don''t be such a spoilsport. You loathe Miranda, don''t you? I''m


    helping you out!"


    The next second, Quintessa raised her hand and called out, "Miranda, over here!"


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 199

    Quintessa''s crisp and melodious voice cut through the chatter of the room, leading people all around to


    turn their heads, including those of the Young family.


    Upon entering, Miranda had her eyes dart around in search of Jerome, but shuddered by Quintessa''s


    voice, she whirled around almost reflexively.


    All Miranda could see was Quintessa standing close to Jerome, looking the picture of grace and


    femininity. She had her smile bloom like spring flowers as she clung to Jerome''s arm, as if she was his


    bona fide girlfriend, while Jerome did not, did not, push her away.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    As Mirandaid eyes on Quintessa in that moment, it felt like the world went silent, leaving behind a


    void filled only with rising anger and spite. She felt a visceral urge to tear Quintessa''s face to shreds


    and to erase her from existence forever.


    Miranda''s hatred for Quintessa ran deep, too deep to be uprooted.


    She cherished Jerome so much that she had once tried to end her own life for him; the scar on her


    wrist was a permanent reminder of her despair.


    And now here was Quintessa, brazenly holding onto the man Miranda loved. In an instant, she felt


    rational thought abandon her, leaving only a burning hatred.


    Miranda''s eyes were red with fury as she muttered under her breath, "Homewrecker, bitch, tramp, I''ll kill


    you, I swear I''ll kill you."


    Her mind went nk, save for a single thought: Quintessa must die, die, die.


    Lilian and Sean also noticed Quintessa''s arrival, and after their initial shock, they understood all too


    well: Quintessa meant trouble.


    She had vowed three years ago to return and disrupt their peace, and now it seemed she was ready to


    make good on that promise.


    Although they both yearned to destroy Quintessa on the spot, they knew they had to keep up


    appearances of family harmony and warmth in front of others, especially at this kind of social event.


    They quickly grabbed Miranda, who was on the verge of lunging at Quintessa.


    "Miranda, keep your cool, we''re at the Lott family''s reception!" Sean hissed.


    "Mom, I can''t be calm, I just can''t." Miranda pleaded.


    "I know, darling, I know. Mom''s here, and I''ll help you deal with that little tart, but not now, not here."


    The Youngs were barely clinging to their status; theirpany, just a shell of its former self, survived in


    name only as it had not yet dered bankruptcy. They depended on the goodwill of the Lotts and


    couldn'' afford to cause a scene at their event, lest they alienate their benefactors entirely.


    "But I can''t stand it." Miranda''s twin obsessions, her love for Jerome and her hatred for Quintessa,


    were tearing at her soul. How could she bear to see the woman she loathed holding the man she


    loved? Gone was Miranda''sposed demeanor; her beautifully made-up face was now twisted with


    hatred and jealousy. She charged forward like a mad dog, "Quintessa, you slut, why do you always


    have topete with me?"


    Miranda hadn''t even reached her when she raised her hand to strike, but Quintessa, being all ready,


    caught Miranda''s wrist in a firm grip.


    Miranda, pampered and delicate, was no match for Quintessa, who had spent the past three years


    working hard jobs. All of Miranda''s rage and loathing amounted to nothing more than a paper tiger in


    Quintessa''s presence.


    "Let go of me, you whore." Miranda snarled.


    Quintessa replied with a smile, "Sis, temper, temper. Look, your future inws are watching. If you ruin


    this reception, you can kiss your chances with the Lotts goodbye. Consider this a friendly warning!"

 Chapter 200

    Quinn''sment hit Miranda like an ice-cold bucket of water. All Miranda wanted was to marry


    Jerome. But Jerome had grown weary of her long ago. The threads that had been holding their


    rtionship together were nothing but her desperate attempts at winning over Jerome''s mother, Fiona


    Lott, and her staged suicide..


    Causing a scene here would ruin her chances with Jerome forever.


    Miranda''s eyes brimmed with tears as she turned to Jerome and pleaded, "Jerome, we''ve loved each


    other for so many years. Don''t you know what kind of person Quinn is? She crawled out of Tyrone''s


    bed three years ago, and you saw it with your own eyes. She''s nothing but a shameless flirt, don''t let


    her use you."


    Quinn suddenly shoved Miranda, causing her to stumble backward. Off-bnce, Miranda, with her foot


    twisted, fell to the ground and felt a sharp pain shooting through her ankle.


    Quinn''s smile was as sweet as pie, "Oh sis, you really need to watch your step. Did you hurt yourself?


    Here, let me help you up."


    Miranda roared, "Get away from me."


    Quinn raised her index finger to her lips, "Shh, keep it down. Everyone''s watching. Look, your future


    mother-inw ising over!" Miranda nced around and realized that they already became the


    center of attention. Jerome''s father''s expression was particrly grim.


    She had to endure, she told herself, clenching her teeth.


    Despite wanting to w Quinn''s face off, Miranda hissed, "Quinn, just you wait. I''ll make you regret


    this."


    Quinn smirked, "Bring it on! But before that, I think I need a little heart-to-heart with my dear brother-in-


    law. I''m sure you won''t mind being the generous sister that you are!"


    Quinn knew Miranda''s Achilles'' heel was Jerome. By holding him, she could torture Miranda, not


    physically but psychologically; it was enough to drive her insane.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Jerome watched the drama unfold with a cold indifference. Miranda''s foolishness was her downfall,


    while Quinn''s cunning nature gave her the upper hand.


    If he had to choose between the two women from the start, he would have picked Quinn. But he''d met


    Miranda first and missed his chance with Quinn, which was something he still regretted. Jerome didn''t


    intervene as the spat didn''t seem too serious. He wanted to see Quinn put Miranda in her ce.


    He was tired of Miranda, but now that the crowd had gathered, and Miranda was still officially his


    girlfriend, he couldn''t just stand by while shey on the ground.


    Roughly, Jerome pulled Miranda to her feet, his voice low and threatening, "Enough. I don''t care about


    the Young family drama, but I warn you, don''t make a scene at my family''s party. Otherwise, I won''t be


    nice. Miranda, this is yourst chance."


    Tears welled up in Miranda''s eyes from the humiliation. She wanted to tear Quinn apart, but she was


    powerless.


    "Quinn, if you want revenge,e at me directly. All you know is to seduce men by using such dirty


    tricks."


    Quinn rolled her eyes, "Who cares if my tricks are dirty if they work on you? Besides, it''s not my fault


    you chose such an irresistible man. Jerome is so tempting; I just want to borrow him for a bit. Why be


    so stingy? You''re already fuming, and I haven''t even slept with him yet. If I did spend the night, you''d


    probably lose your mind."

 Chapter 201

    Quintessa couldn''t stand Miranda''s partner.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But when it came to using him against Miranda, Quintessa wouldn''t hesitate to y hard.


    Miranda was on the brink of madness. Anyone who was subjected to Quintessa''s relentless


    provocations would lose their cool eventually, and Miranda, always a ticking time bomb, was no


    exception. Just as she was about to unleash a torrent of screams and curses, Sean jumped in,


    "Jerome, sorry for the scene. Both my daughters can be a bit too headstrong."


    Sean had been observing from the sidelines, trying to figure out Quintessa''s angle. But seeing Miranda


    backing down and being on the verge of losing control, he and Lilian hurried over.


    Jerome, with a cold expression, didn''t mince words, "d you''re aware. If your family drama ruins


    tonight''s party, the Youngs can pack up and leave Emberbrook tomorrow."


    Quintessa''s hand crawled up Jerome''s arm, "Jerome, why so harsh? I''m here because I missed you."


    Jerome''s hand trembled slightly. He knew this woman was all an act, harboring malicious intentions,


    speaking lies with every breath, and calcting at every turn. Yet, hearing her words, he couldn''t help


    but feel a stir.


    Jerome gritted his teeth, "Enough, shut it."


    Quintessa smirked, "Feeling protective? Fine, if you think my sister is better than me, so be it. I won''t


    bother you anymore."


    Seeing Miranda turning pale with eyes filled with loathing, like a rabid dog losing its sanity, ready to


    lash out any moment, Sean immediately said, "Quinn, enough is enough."


    Only then did Quintessa turn to face Sean, and then she nced at Lilian, who was stern-faced, with


    an innocent look, "Dad, aren''t you happy to see me? It''s been three years. During these years, I''ve


    missed you every single day, wishing I could return to your side, to take care of you in your old age.


    Don''t you miss me, your obedient, sensible, and lovely daughter?"


    Quintessa emphasized "take care of you in your old age" clearly, sending a chilling shiver down the


    Young family''s spine.


    Quintessa, with her devilishly charming smile, captivated many, and she hid her dark heart under a


    facade of beauty.


    Lilian spoke up, "Quinn, we''ll let those shameful actions of yours slide, but you gotta have some


    shame. Now that you''re back, remember things here are different from abroad. Don''t y yourself to


    death." Lilian, being an old fox, was all but subtly threatening Quintessa. They were warning her that


    this was their turf, and if they wanted, erasing Quintessa would be a piece of cake.


    Quintessa''s smile was enchanting, "Don''t worry. I''ve always been tough to kill. Besides I''ve got my


    brother-inw, and even without him, there''s Tyrone."


    With a flirtatious gaze, she added, "But, even if I y myself to death, I won''t go down alone.


    Remember what I said when I left three years ago? I''de back eventually. And look, here I am, our


    family finally reunited!"

 Chapter 202

    Sean and his wife were boiling with rage. "How on earth can there be such a shameless person?" they


    wondered. It''s no wonder she had the audacity to show up so brazenly after returning to the country-


    she had Tyrone in her corner, and even Jerome was treating her differently now.


    If Quintessa really had Tyrone backing her, then they couldn''ty a finger on her.


    Lilian''s face wrinkled even more with anger. "Jerome is your sister''s boyfriend, and Mr. Tyrone is


    supposed to be Rachel''s man. Quintessa, do you have no shame? If you stoop so low, then don''t


    expect any man to respect you."


    The angrier the Young family got, the happier Quintessa became. She leaned on Jerome''s shoulder,


    cooing, "But I just can''t help it. Besides, I think my brother-inw here has a soft spot for me, right? My


    sister isn''t as pretty as me, or does she have my figure. How could shepete with me, right,


    Jerome?"


    Jerome lifted Quintessa''s chin with a smirk. "You''re quite confident, aren''t you?"


    Quintessa blinked yfully. "All thanks to you, Jerome."


    Miranda, fuming and cursing under her breath, struggled in Lilian''s grip. She was on the verge of


    madness.


    Lilian and Sean quickly held her back. "Miranda, calm down."


    Then, as the music started, Quintessa looked up at Jerome. "Aren''t you going to ask me for a dance,


    Jerome?" Jerome stared at her silently.


    Lilian quickly interjected, "Jerome, think about Miranda. She''s your girlfriend."


    Tears rolled down Miranda''s cheeks. "Jerome, you''re mine. You''re my boyfriend. How could you leave


    me for her?"


    But Jerome didn''t even nce at her. Instead, he reached out to Quintessa. "Let''s dance."


    Quintessa took his hand and they glided into the dance floor. As they turned, she shot a defiant look at


    the Young family, her eyes gleaming with malice.


    Did you think I came here just to exchange words? Don''t be naive.


    Whates next will truly disturb your peace.


    As Jerome and Quintessa danced gracefully, he teased, "So, do I make a good weapon in your


    hands?"


    Quintessa''s smile was sweet. "Wouldn''t you like to know?"


    Jerome sometimes wished he could strangle this siren.


    "Am I the one who handles you best, or is it Tyrone?" Quintessa''s lips curled into a smirk. "Guess!"


    As the dance ended, Quintessa spotted Ynda who had just


    arrived As their eyes met acros


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    the


    room, they understood each other without words instantly. S


    Quintessa let go of Jerome. "I''m off to freshen up. Don''t let any other siren lure you away, okay?"


    Jerome scoffed. "As if anyone could outdo you."


    "True."


    Quintessa winked at him and gracefully walked away.


    Heading straight for Lilian, Quintessa warmly linked arms with her. "Aunt Lilian, let''s go freshen up


    together. I''ve missed you so much, and there''s so much I want to


    yout."


    FindNovel


    IMS


    tell


    She then turned to Miranda. "Sis, I''m giving you a chance to talk to your man alone."


    Lilian was intent on giving her a


    piece of her mind. Once in the


    restroom, she had her dem


    changed. "Quintessa, get lost. Stay away from Jerome, or you regret it?"


    Quintessa giggled. "As long as I want, your daughter''s man is in the palm of my hand."

 Chapter 203

    Lilian wished that she had a knife in her hand at that very moment. Anyone could see Quintessa''s


    intentions from a mile away. She was out for revenge against Miranda. Everyone knew how much


    Jerome meant to Miranda. Quintessa, that cunning fox, always knew where to strike where it hurt the


    most.


    Miranda was practically defenseless against her, always being crushed under Quintessa''s heel.


    Lilian was filled with regret. Back in the day, all for the sake of pride, she didn''t take Quintessa down


    with her. Now, she found herself constantly on the back foot, practically having this little witch riding her


    back.


    Lilian''s face twisted with malice as she threatened, "Quintessa, I know what you''re up to. You just want


    to avenge yourte mother, huh. I could take your mom down back then, and I can easily do the same


    to you now. In my eyes, you''ve always been nothing but the spawn of a nobody. Squashing you would


    be like squashing an ant."


    Quintessa''s eyes shed with venom as she scoffed; then she stepped up to the mirror to touch up her


    makeup.


    "You say you''re past your prime, but that''s giving you too much credit. How has your brain turned to


    mush too? You could easily take down my mom back then because she was kind-hearted. But I''m not


    like her. Any goodness in me was devoured by you vultures long ago. I''vee back to face you all,


    fully prepared. Do you really think I''m the same little Quintessa? Tsk, tsk. How foolish you''ve been;


    having not seeded in three years, you''re acting all high and mighty in front of me now. I''ve got


    people backing me now, so just try touching me and see."


    Lilian''s anger boiled over, "You think you''re all that, huh? Think Tyrone would actually fall for someone


    like you? Cut the act."


    Quintessa nodded, "Well, you got that right. Tyrone does like me. Not just like, he''s head over heels.


    You think I could have made it this far in the entertainment industry without him?"


    Lilian red at Quintessa, "What exactly do you want?"


    Quintessa turned around, smiling, "Revenge, of course. I''ve said it before, as long as I''m alive, you''ll


    never live in peace."


    Quintessa''s smile might have been beautiful, but all Lilian could feel was a chilling dread creeping up


    from her feet.


    Their family had been facing troubles for the past couple of months, and Lilian was convinced


    Quintessa had a hand in it.


    This woman was even more troublesome than she was three years ago.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    el


    Suddenly, Quintessa asked, "Oh, how''s your precious son, by the way? Couldn''t bear to bring him


    along? We haven''t seen each other for so long, I bet he misses me."


    If Jerome was Miranda''s Achilles'' heel, then Matthew was Lilian''s biggest vulnerability.


    Matthew had been lying in the


    hospital, practicallyatose, like a


    living dead. This was a wound in


    Lilian''s heart that couldn''t be


    l


    touched. Her eyes widened with


    rage as she yelled, "You witch, don''t


    you dare utter my son''s name."


    "Oh, I touched a nerve, did I? What, did karma finally catch up to him? He didn''t die, did he?"


    "You witch, shut your mouth!" Lilian lunged at her.


    Quintessa sidestepped, and Lilian, unable to stop herself, lost her bnce and went flying forward. Her


    head smacked into the sink with a loud thud, giving out a soundthat screamed pain.


    Quintessa shook her head, sighing, "Auntie, you really should be more careful! At your age, why such


    impulsiveness?"

 Chapter 204

    Quintessa whipped out a tiny bottle of refreshing facial mist, seizing the moment while Lilian was dazed


    from the bump to spritz her face twice, "Cooling off that temper, sweetheart. No need to thank me."


    Lilian caught a whiff of a fresh scent, which was reminiscent of chamomile, and just as she wanted to


    lash out at Quintessa, her phone suddenly went off.


    Quintessa tucked the spray back into her purse, all smiles as she teased, "Auntie, your phone''s ringing.


    Aren''t you gonna check it?"


    Steadying herself against the wall, Lilian stood up, feeling her anger ring even more at the sight of


    Quintessa, and her headache intensifying. It felt like her mind was a ticking time bomb.


    Clutching the throbbing bump on her head, Lilian gritted her teeth, "Quintessa, just you wait. Don''t you


    darey a finger on my daughter, I''ll make sure you meet your no-good mother sooner than you think."


    Quintessa simply shrugged, "Bring it on, you old hag. Let''s see what you''ve got."


    Lilian''s phone kept ringing. She fumbled for it, "Just you wait."


    After unlocking it, Lilian saw that the message was filled with pictures.


    After she opened the first one, her hand trembled, and she felt her dizziness intensifying; her


    complexion turned ashen, and her lips were quivering. Ignoring Quintessa, she hastily opened the


    remaining messages, flipping through each picture.


    Quintessa''s voice, dripping with schadenfreude, filled the air, "Oh, looks like my dad''s having an affair,


    huh? Typical. He''s had the patience of a saint putting up with you for years, with your sagging, bby


    self. I wonder, do you even satisfy him in bed anymore?"


    "Shut up, get lost."


    Lilian felt murderous towards


    Quintessa, but the photos fueled her rage towards the mistress. How dare Sean cheat on her? Without


    her, Sean wouldn''t have anything he has today.


    Quintessa smirked, "Poor thing, getting mad at me for what? Go find Sean and that mistress of his. But


    honestly,bet my dad can''t even, stand touching you now. Going for a girl, that''s understandable, oh look


    at


    a


    ??


    her ne, must be how


    f¨¦rtune, right? Dad really knows how to treat his women!" Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    With her eyes zed with fury, Lilian pushed Quintessa aside, "Get out of my way."


    She staggered out of the restroom, seething with anger.


    Quintessa chuckled behind her; this was just the prelude, and the real drama was yet to unfold.


    She took out the spray again,


    unscrewed the cap, and poured the liquid down the sink, rinsing the


    bottle under the tap; then she refilled


    it with tap water, wiped it down, and put it back in her purse. Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    The liquid was a stimnt, capable of making anyone who breathed it in rapidly reach a state of


    excitement, lose control over their emotions and be prone to rage.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    By deliberately provoking Lilian, non-stop, Quintessa aimed to make her lose her sanity and act out


    irrationally.


    Quintessa adjusted her hair as her phone buzzed in her purse. It was Tyrone. She answered, "Hello?"


    "Where are you?" Tyrone''s voice was stern.


    Quintessa flipped her hair, and said with a wicked smile, "I''m out flirting with men behind your back!"

 Chapter 205

    Being in a devilishly good mood, Quintessa was itching to push Tyrone''s buttons.


    The phone went dead silent, but even through the screen, Quintessa could feel the rage radiating off


    Tyrone.


    "Where the hell are you?" Tyrone''s voice was icy, and his grip on the phone was so tight that he was


    nearly crushing it.


    Peering the reflection of herself in the mirror, Quintessa had a wicked smile, "Like I''d tell you. How else


    am I supposed to enjoy my night with the new guy I''ve hooked up with?"


    Just imagining Tyrone fuming made Quintessa''s mood even better.


    Tyrone let out a coldugh, "Fine, you just wait. You better hope he''s tough enough to keep you safe."


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Waiting for you? What for, to watch me and another guy getting cozy?


    Dream on."


    "Yeah, right. I''m noting to watch. I''ming to end you both," Tyrone snapped back.


    "Be my guest. But it might be toote. It''s a perfect night for a fling," Quintessa taunted before hanging


    up.


    She shed a charming smile at her reflection, "Let the show begin."


    With her chin up, and wearing a perfect smile, Quintessa walked out, ready to witness the drama she


    had orchestrated.


    Back at the party, Quintessa scanned the crowd, but did not spot Sean and his wife. They must''ve


    found a quiet corner to stir up some fun. She decided to let them be, so they could add a bit of spice to


    the atmosphere.


    Spotting Ynda from afar, Quintessa nodded slightly, signaling that her n was in motion.


    Then, she saw Jerome wearing a cold expression, with the shy-smiling Miranda beside him, chatting


    with his parents.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa''s smile turned mischievous. Marrying into the Lott family? Not if she had anything to say


    about it.


    Why would she let her dear sister have her happily ever after?


    Gracefully, Quintessa made her way through, turning down several men trying to chat her up, until she


    reached Jerome and wrapped an arm around his. Jerome looked down in surprise, and sensed trouble.


    Nathan and Fiona frowned at Quintessa''s approach; with her face going pale and her hands trembling,


    Miranda knew that Quintessa was here to make trouble.


    "What are you doing here? This isn''t


    your ce. Leave now," Miranda- hissed, wishing she could just push Quintessa away but restrained


    herself in front of Jerome''s parents.


    Quintessa''s smile was honey-sweet, "Why leave? We''re practically sisters. And I should definitely meet


    your future inws, right?"


    Turning to Mr. and Mrs. Lott, Quintessa beamed, "You must be Nathan and Fiona. I''m Quintessa,


    Miranda''s sister. I bet she''s mentioned me."


    Fiona, her hair wlessly styled,


    looked at Quintessa with disdain et


    "Oh, you''re the Young family''s little troublemaker, who always steal other people''s boyfriends." S


    Unfazed by the direct insult, Quintessa had her smile widened "Exactly! From middle school to


    et


    college, my sister had 19 boyfriends, and I''ve snatched them all."

 Chapter 206

    Quintessa''s words dropped like a bomb, exploding in the middle and instantly changing the Lott family''s


    expressions. Jerome, with a scowl that could freeze hell over, swiftly yanked his arm away from


    Miranda''s grasp.


    Neen boyfriends? What on earth could that mean? Anyone hearing it would probably snicker to


    themselves, thinking her as Miss Collect-''em-all?


    Quintessa smirked inwardly. Wasn''t I used of stealing others'' boyfriends? Well, let me tell you just


    how many I''ve ''stolen.''


    Was the number neen or not, she could not remember exactly. But it was just a bluff, but she would


    make the Lott family believe that number was absolutely real.


    Leaning her head against Jerome''s arm, Quintessa yed her part to the hilt: "Yeah, I''m that notorious


    sister, snatching all her boyfriends. You got it right."


    Miranda turned ashen, her voice quivering, "Quintessa, shut up! When did I start dating in junior year?


    And when did I ever date neen guys? You''re ndering me! Please don''t believe her. She''s just


    trying to smear my name. You don''t know how malicious she can be. Ever since we were kids, she''s


    always been throwing dirt on me. Please, don''t believe her!"


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tears brimmed in Miranda''s eyes, her voice cracking in desperation to prove her innocence, which


    softened the Lott parents'' expressions slightly.


    But then, Quintessa dropped another bombshell: "Really? Howe I remember it then? In the ninth


    grade, you and a boy from the next ss went off to a motel, got caught by the teacher, and parents of


    both of you were called in. Oh, that memory sticks because I was the one who tipped off the teacher."


    After saying that, Quintessa teasingly winked at Miranda.


    Mention of the past and the truth behind it made Miranda tremble with anger: "It was you!"


    Quintessa shrugged, "Who else did you think? Oh, and in your junior year of high school, you shacked


    up with that basketball yer from your ss for two months until his parents kicked you out of the


    apartment. I didn''t get any of that wrong, did I? You should thank me for that one-I was the one who


    took photos of you two living together and sent them to the boy''s family. I did it for your own good. How


    could you afford to be in a rtionship with such a tight high school schedule?"


    All those past incidents were Quintessa''s doings, and with her emotions like gunpowder all night, easily


    ignited without her parents to calm her, Miranda exploded, screaming, "Quintessa, I''ll kill you!" Jerome


    held Miranda back, "Is there anything else?"


    Quintessa yed innocent: "There''s more. When my sister was a sophomore in college, she had a


    miscarriage and bled heavily. I was the one who gave her the blood transfusion. That was my blood,


    sis. You can deny everything else, but not that, right?"


    Miranda, beyond reasoning, screamed at the top of her lungs, "You''re lying, all of it is a lie!"


    Quintessa tsked, "Am I lying? But I have the hospital records right here."


    Sure enough, she produced a document, dated years back, clearly stating: Patient: Miranda, treated for


    severe bleeding due to a miscarriage.


    Nathan and Fiona, holding the diagnosis, looked incredibly grim. Quintessa, with feigned kindness,


    added, "Come on, sis, it''s a modern world. What''s wrong with having a few boyfriends? I''m sure your


    future inws won''t mind. They won''t mind."

 Chapter 207

    Miranda cried out, "Auntie, auntie, she''s ndering me. I''m innocent, I didn''t! I really didn''t!"


    Completely devastated by the usations, Miranda didn''t know what to say and could only keep


    proiming her innocence. She knew all too well that that wealthy families cared about not only a girl''s


    background but also her character. If they believed what Quintessa had said, she could forget about


    her dreams of marrying into the Lott family forever.


    No matter what how eloquently Miranda spoke now, with that diagnosis and Quintessa''s convincing


    assertions, Jerome''s parents would never trust her again.


    Fiona, looking at the medical report, was so angry her makeup seemed about to cracked. She had


    liked Miranda, considering her good family background and how she always tried to please her. Fiona


    had even stopped her son from breaking up with Miranda before.


    But now, this years-old diagnosis was a tant p in her face. She had thought Miranda was at least


    ady, if not an heiress, only to find out she had such a scandalous history.


    Nathan''s face darkened with fury as he scolded Jerome, "Look what kind of person you''ve brought into


    our family, aplete mess nearly entered the Lott family. Get rid of her now. I don''t let me see her


    again."


    Jerome smirked, "I wanted to break up, but you were the ones who stopped me."


    Hearing about Miranda''s glorious past, Jerome felt nothing but disgust, which was, ironically, a relief.


    He was finally able to get rid of this woman.


    Yet, the thought of having been in a rtionship with Miranda for three years and being her 20th-or


    possibly more-boyfriend made Jerome feel sick. Just one ce at Miranda made him feel disgusted.


    Quintessa, observing their disgusted expressions, finally felt a sense of vengeance.


    The most vulnerable member of the Young family was Miranda. By isting the Young couple, there


    was no one to support Miranda, making it easier to bring her down.


    Against the Young family, Quintessa knew better than to rush in headfirst. Picking them off one by one


    was her strategy.


    Miranda, clutching at Jerome''s


    sleeve, begged desperately,


    "Jerome, Jerome, please don''t leave. I''ve had boyfriends before, but not nearly as many as Quintessa


    ims. You know what kind of person she is, she''s a liar, she''s doing this out of you, I really


    revenge. Jerome, I loves out of


    do, please forgive me. Please."


    Quintessa''s smile was sweet as she had never seen Miranda so humble and desperate. It was truly


    satisfying.


    Jerome, without any sympathy,


    pulled away and called over two


    security guards, "Ms. Young is ill, take her to the hospital


    wheel


    immediately." It was actually just amand to hurriedly drag her away.


    He had grown to detest Miranda to the extreme.


    Miranda, her makeup running with tears, mascara and eyeliner mixing and streaming down her face,


    looked both ludicrous and pitiable as she cried out, "Jerome, Jerome."


    As the two security guards dragged Miranda away, she turned and shouted, "Quintessa, you wretch, I


    won''t let you get away with this!"


    Quintessa waved at her, "Take care, sister. Don''t worry about your hubby, I''ll take good care of him for


    you."


    Miranda, you loved Jerome I would make sure he wouldn''t love you;


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    You wanted to marry into the Lott family-I would make sure you wouldn''t get your wish.


    You enjoyed the wealth of the Young family-I would make sure the Young family went bankrupt.


    You''ve had a bright and shining life for over 20 years; it''s time for the curtain to fall, leaving you with


    darkness to savor, with much more toe.

 Chapter 208

    Themotion here caught the attention of the onlookers, leaving Mr. and Mrs. Lott with faces darker


    than storm clouds. This party was half-ruined by now, and they could only hope that nothing else would


    go wrong.


    Nathan shot Quintessa a gloomy nce as he turned to greet the guests, while Fiona looked like as if


    she wished she could tear Quintessa apart with her bare hands.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa snatched the diagnostic report from Fiona''s grip. "Madam, now that you''ve had your look,


    how about giving it back to me?"


    "The Lott family''s soir¨¦e does not wee you. Please leave immediately."


    "How can you turn your back and not recognize people? I''ve told you all of this, revealing the truth for


    the greater good, shouldn''t you be thankful? If it weren''t for me, your son might have been left holding


    the bag without even realizing."


    Jerome frowned.


    Fiona, with her nose in the air, sneered, "I know exactly what you''re plotting. A woman should never


    think of joining the Lott family. I will never consent to Jerome being with you. Our family cannot afford


    such a disgrace."


    Quintessa let out a coquettishugh. "Oh, how hrious. But what if your son likes a woman like me?


    What do you suggest I do? Should I make an effort to make him fall for me, just to drive you mad?"


    Fiona''s face turned the color of liver, and Jerome coldly said, "Enough."


    Quintessa gave him a disdainful look. "Are you putting on airs in front of your mother? As if you''re not


    dying to sleep with me. If you''re not interested, just pretend I didn''t say anything. And in the future,


    keep your distance from me."


    After dealing with Miranda, Quintessa''s attitude towards Jerome changed instantly.


    Quintessa let go of Jerome and turned to Fiona, who was gasping for air. "Be nice to me, Auntie, or


    else you''ll see firsthand how I can lure your son away."


    Fiona stammered, "How dare you?!"


    Quintessa couldn''t be bothered with someone like Fiona. With a wave of her hand, she walked toward


    the crowd.


    It was about time to shake up the Lott family''s soir¨¦epletely.


    Jerome watched Quintessa''s retreating figure, wanting to follow but was stopped by Fiona. "Stay away


    from that kind of woman. Even toying with her is beneath your status." Jerome, biting back his anger,


    said, "Mom."


    Fiona cut him off, "Enough. Think about how to appease your father instead, or his bastard child might


    just waltz in and im your inheritance."


    Jerome clenched his jaw and went to find Nathan.


    Quintessa stumbled upon the Young family couple, who were hiding in a corner arguing.


    "Sean, without me, without the Yates family, would you be where you are today? You killed Dolores


    Brooks.


    it weren''t for my dad, you''d haven


    been caught and executed by the police. And you dare cheat on me? Have you no conscience?"


    "Can you be rational? This is clearly a setup; all is fake. What more do you want to make a fuss about?


    This is the Lott family''s party. I was hoping to talk to Mr. Lott about a loan for a new investment. Why


    are you causing such a scene with me? Whatever it is, we can talk about it when we get back."


    The name Dolores was a wound Quintessa could never touch. Despite the years, even though she


    thought she had grown cold and


    heartless, that name still made it hard for her to breathe. Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Because Dolores was her mother''s name-the gentle and kind woman traded her life for Quintessa''s


    chance to live.


    A cold murderous intent shed across Quintessa''s face, her hand clutching the bag tightened. This


    vendetta, she couldn''t just let it go.


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 209

    "A setup? Your hand was practically groping her and you talk about being a setup? Do I look blind to


    you? Our family is in such a state of urgency, and you''re buying millions worth of jewelry for that little


    slut. Have you funneled all thepany''s money to her? Tell me, who is that little slut, Sean? Where is


    she? Tell me!"


    Lilian was evidently losing control of herself, raging like a madwoman, attacking Sean in a frenzy.


    "Enough already, you lunatic." Sean finally couldn''t take it anymore and with a forceful push, pushing


    Lilian forcefully to the ground.


    "You pushed me? You actually hit me? Do you really think the Yates family is easy to bully? You dare


    push me for some cheap woman?"


    "Lilian, for heaven''s sake, can you use your brain for once? Miranda is still out there. If you keep


    causing a scene now, what if Quintessa goes after Miranda? Who will help her?"


    The mention of Miranda finally brought Lilian back to her senses a bit.


    "For Miranda''s sake, I''ll hold off on dealing with you for now, Sean. But you must exin this matter to


    me."


    Sean forcefully dragged the enraged Lilian out, while Quintessa quickly slipped away.


    Lilian blended back into the crowd, and Quintessa signaled to Ynda with her eyes. Then Quintessa


    approached, linking her arm through Lilian''s affectionately, saying, "Auntie, where''ve you been?"


    Unable to find Miranda anywhere, Lilian grew anxious, teetering on the edge of breakdown. Seeing


    Quintessa only fueled her rage, leaving her with no patience to y along. "Back off."


    Quintessa chuckled. "Why so angry? Isn''t it just infidelity. All men stray. Besides," she gave Lilian a


    once-over. "looking at you now, if my dad didn''t stray, that would be the real problem. What man would


    want


    an old, ugly woman like you, and feel your b? Ha, even if my dad did sleep with you, it''d probably be


    a quick affair, solving the problem in a second."


    Quintessa''s words were sharp and venomous, each one piercing Lilian''s already frayed nerves.


    Lilian finally couldn''t bear it and pushed Quintessa away forcefully, angrily cursing, "Bitch, get away


    from me!"


    Quintessa stumbled back two steps, then "identally" bumped into someone behind her, knocking


    over the person''s ss.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The drink sshed onto Quintessa''s


    back. The person she bumped into steadied themselves, quickly


    apologizing, "Sorry, I got your ne


    clothes wet. Let me help you with that." s?novel


    The people around had already been drawn by Lilian''s earlier scream.


    Quintessa smoothed her hair, her smile elegant. "It''s fine, it was I who bumped into you."


    She lifted her head, meeting Ynda''s eyes. Her body was already trembling.


    With a wink to Ynda, Quintessa signaled the start of their act.


    Ynda returned the smile, seeming about t


    + turn away, but Quintessa


    e


    reached out to stop her. "Wait miss.


    Nook familiar!" Contenyongs


    FindNovel


    Ynda smiled. "But I don''t know you."


    Quintessa suddenly reached for Ynda''s neck, and Ynda looked "startled," "What are you doing?"


    Quintessa pinched the blue sapphire ne on her neck, "Nothing. Just felt that, miss, your ne


    looks quite nice. It looks pricey, must be worth a few thousand? Your husband must be quite


    generous."

 Chapter 210

    Ynda deliberately made a coy gesture. "Oh, it''s nothing really."


    The ne on Ynda''s neck did catch the eye, and someone nearby remarked, "Hey, Mrs. Young,


    didn''t you also unt a pretty good sapphire ne before? But it looks a bitcking inparison to


    thisdy''s jewel."


    "That costs me a mere pittance, just a trinket really. This youngdy''s must be worth millions."


    Quintessa slowly turned around, locking eyes with Lilian''s fiery gaze. "Auntie, doesn''t this ne


    look somewhat familiar to you?"


    Lilian''s eyes were glued to the ne around Ynda''s neck. The ne and the one in the photo


    shed before her eyes, ultimately settling on the woman before her. Lilian, like a woman possessed,


    began to hurl insults repeatedly, "Wench! Slut!"


    Her voice grew louder; her features contorted grotesquely, her eyes bloodshot, emanating a frightening


    frenzy of hatred that terrified onlookers.


    Suddenly, Lilian rushed forward with astonishing speed. She grabbed Ynda''s hair, kicking and hitting


    her like a madwoman.


    "You homewrecker, mistress. Bitch, you steal my man, I''ll kill you, I''ll kill you!!"


    The onlookers were shocked. The scene unfolded too quickly for them to react.


    It wasn''t until Ynda cried out in agony, "Help! Help me! Ah! Don''t hit me, I''m pregnant, please, don''t


    hit me!"


    Quintessa, watching from the side, couldn''t help but feel a pang of sorrow. This was something she and


    Ynda had nned together, but seeing it unfold like this, she felt unexpectedly heartbroken.


    Quintessa rushed forward, "Enough, stop it. Haven''t you heard she''s pregnant?¡±


    But unexpectedly, the mention of


    "pregnant only further enraged Lilian. Pregnant? Even managed to get pregnant by some bastard. I''ll


    kill you, you slut."


    The strength of a mad person was beyond ordinary, and no one could restrain it. Quintessa shouted to


    the bystanders, "What are you waiting for, help pull her away!"


    Her words finally snapped people out of their daze, and they hurried to restrain Lilian.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Meanwhile, Sean was busy buttering up Nathan, but themotion was too loud to ignore. They


    rushed over.


    Approaching the scene, Sean saw Lilian hitting Ynda like a maniac, while Ynda clutched her belly


    and moaned in pain.


    Sean was aghast, breaking out in a cold sweat at the thought of his child.


    He rushed forward, pulling Lilian away with force. Without waiting for her reaction, he delivered a harsh


    p, flipping Lilian over instantly.


    Lilian fell to the ground, her lip


    busted, teeth loosened, ears ringing. She covered her face, cursing, "Sean,


    you bastard. You actually hit me for this slut. I''ll fight you." Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Getting up from the ground, Lilian wanted to rush at Sean and grapple with him.


    But Sean''s mind was solely on the


    et


    child in Ynda''s womb. His rage towards Lilian had already overwhelmed his reason. Another p


    landed, "Get lost, you crazy witch. If you don''t settle this with me I''ll make sure to settle it with you."


    Quintessa stood amidst the crowd, watching the couple tear each other apart, a cold smile curling on


    her lips. Let them tear each other apart even more viciously.


    She thought to herself: Mom, wait and see. Sooner orter, I''ll send them down to make amends to


    you.

 Chapter 211

    The Young family couple disregarded their image, shamelessly brawling right in front of everyone,


    airing their dirtyundry for all to see. The onlookers seemed more entertained than concerned,


    watching the drama unfold with morbid fascination rather than stepping in to stop the fight.


    Even those who did step in, did so half-heartedly.


    The Lott family couple''s face turned as if they''d been sshed with ink. Their meticulously nned


    soir¨¦e now aplete disaster, first half ruined by Miranda, and now, the second half destroyed by the


    Young couple. It was clear the Young family members hade with the sole intention of causing a


    scene.


    Nathan''s face turned ashen with anger. The idea of lending money to the Youngs now was out of the


    question. By not making their situation worse, he believed he was already being merciful. Suddenly,


    someone screamed: "Oh my God, blood, so much blood."


    All eyes turned to Ynda lying on the ground. Her face ghostly pale and twisted in pain, tears


    streaming down her face. "Please, someone save my child, it hurts so much, please, save my child."


    Beneath her, a pool of blood had formed. The champagne-colored dress was now stained crimson, a


    chilling sight to behold.


    The crowd, initially there for the spectacle, now panicked.


    Quintessa clenched her fists. This disaster was all part of her n, yet witnessing it unfold was


    excruciating.


    Sean, who had entangled in a scuffle with Lilian, kicked her away and rushed to Ynda''s side. "Hang


    in there, hang on, our child..."


    Sean panicked. The child Ynda was carrying was his only hope. Deep down, Sean biased toward


    sons over daughters; he wasn''t as worried by Matthew''s troubles as he was terrified of the Young


    family''s lineage ending.


    Ynda''s pregnancy had revitalized him, thinking he would finally have a son.


    But now, Ynda trembled in pain, bleeding profusely. Sean felt like his world was crumbling around


    him. Ynda''s blood-stained hand grabbed Sean''s, trembling as she pleaded, "Mr. Young, please,


    save my child."


    Sean, overwhelmed, didn''t know what to do, "how can I save?"


    Quintessa, standing nearby, interjected coldly, "I''ve called an ambnce; they''ll be here soon."


    And then, in the next moment, she added, "I also called the police. You''re wee."


    Nathan bellowed, "You called the police?"


    Once the police were involved, more


    people would know about it. Although it had nothing to do with the Lott family, the incident urred at


    their party, and everyone knew their rtionship with the Young family. If this incident spread, it would


    tarnish the Lott family''s reputation.


    Quintessa sarcastically remarked, "If someone is beaten like this, wouldn''t you call the police? If her


    child is harmed, there''s no way to hide it."


    Quintessa''s words, "If her child is


    harmed," instantly jolted Sean. He


    et


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    rushed on Lillian, kicking her multiple times, "You wretch, if anything happens to her, I won''t spare you."


    The sound of sirens soon filled the air as police and ambnce arrived. Ynda was rushed to the


    hospital, and Sean followed.


    Quintessa wanted to go along, but Ynda gritted her teeth and shook her head at her.


    As the police began their


    investigation, taking photos of the scene and gathering eyewitness ounts, including Quintessa''s.


    The police prepared to take Lillian into custody, only then did panic set in for her. With her face swollen


    like a loaf of bread, she rambled


    frantically, "I was just dealing with a homewrecker. I''m the victim here, officers! I''m the victim. That


    woman ruined my family."


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 212

    The police didn''t care about her exnations: "Without a thorough investigation, so don''t jump to


    conclusions. Even if what you''re saying is true, you had no right to hit her that hard. You continued to


    hit her even after she dered she was pregnant. That''s intentional harm."


    The officers directly took a pale-faced Lilian, along with a few eager "eyewitnesses".


    After the drama fizzled out, the attendees of the banquet who had witnessed this spectacle didn''t leave;


    they all stayed to see what would happen next.


    Reuben Laurier came over: "Quinn, let''s go."


    Reuben had listened to Quintessa and hadn''t intervened, merely observing on the sidelines. As


    Quintessa wasn''t in danger, he chose not to step in.


    He had a pretty good idea of what had gone down by now. Now that it was over, he needed to quickly


    get Quintessa out of there: who knew what else might happen? Violet had already made five


    consecutive calls, incessantly inquiring about the situation.


    With things wrapping up, Quintessa also prepared to leave. "Alright, let''s go."


    But as they were about to leave, Nathan stopped them. "Hold on."


    Quintessa turned with a smile. "Is there something else you need, Mr. Lott?"


    Jerome looked at Quintessa withplex emotions. Moments ago, she was affectionately calling his


    father "uncle", and now, after everything, she turned distant, addressing him formally as Mr. Lott,


    widening the gap between them.


    It was the same with him; she used him, wrapping her arms around his, sweetly calling him "brother-in-


    law" while dealing with Miranda. And after dealing with Miranda, she never looked his way again.


    A surge of anger in Jerome''s heart. What made Quintessa think she could just use him like that? Plus,


    her sole purpose here seemed to be to cause a scene, which fueled Jerome''s anger towards her even


    more.


    Knowing Nathan was about to settle ounts with Quintessa, he said nothing and just stood there.


    Nathan coldly stated, "Ms. Young, the Lott family has no grievances with you, yet you decide to wreck


    our party and just walk away?"


    Being a seasoned businessman, Nathan''s gaze was sharp and imposing.


    "Mr. Lott, what you''ve said is interesting. What does this have to do with me?"


    "I have every reason to believe that all of this was orchestrated by you."


    Quintessa nced at Jerome: "Mr. Lott, you''re giving me too much credit. If were as cunning as you


    suggest, your son would have been mine along time ago, and I would have already been wreaking


    havoc in your household."


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Nathan threatened, "Ms. Young, the Lott family holds a respectable position in Emberbrook. Your


    actions have maliciously damaged our reputation. You must issue a public apology acknowledging your


    scheme, rifying that today''s events had nothing to do with the Lott family."


    Knowing the party was a disaster, the only solution was damage control. Nathan knew Quintessa was a


    public figure, and the influence of celebrities was immense; her apology might even boost the Lott


    e


    family''s reputation.


    Quintessa scoffed, "Sorry, but you''re not that significant. Reuben, let''s go."


    Nathan sternly said, "Until your agency issues a public apology, I''m afraid Ms. Young will have to stay


    here. Someone, take Ms. Young downstairs."


    "I''d like to see who dares touch her."


    A voice suddenly echoed throughout the banquet hall, making listeners'' hearts tremble. The voice


    seemed to carry an invisible forcepelling them to lower their heads. Quintessa turned to see the


    figure striding towards her. A voice in her head said: He came after all!


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 213

    In a sh, Quintessa''s mind went back to three years ago, the day she was caught red-handed by


    Rachel. Surrounded by police and journalists, it was a moment of sheer embarrassment. She had to


    brazen it out, using shamelessness as her weapon, and fought her way through.


    Quintessa knew that without Tyrone''s cooperation that day, she wouldn''t have been able to navigate


    through that ordeal safely. Her entanglement with this man had been going on for so many years.


    Quintessa watched as Tyrone advanced step by step; his gaze wasn''t on her but fixed sharply on


    Nathan, so piercing it forcefully subdued Nathan''s experienced demeanor.


    When it came to arrogance, no one could outdo Tyrone. He had the power to crush everything in his


    path.


    Nathan and Jerome''s expressions changed instantly at the sight of Tyrone, especially Jerome, who


    looked at Quintessa with aplex expression.


    Lost in thought, Quintessa was suddenly pulled into a warm and solid embrace. She lifted her head and


    saw Tyrone''s beautifully sculpted jawline. His eyes were cold, his thin lips curved into a chilling smile.


    Reuben was slightly pushed aside and wobbled before regaining his bnce. He scratched his head


    and decided to stand aside.


    Nathan immediately understood the situation. No wonder Quintessa dared to act so confidently; it


    turned out she had Tyrone backing her up. She was Tyrone''s woman.


    Nathan secretly regretted his earlier folly. The Lott family, though reputable in Emberbrook, they


    couldn''tpare to the York family.


    Nathan''s face immediately turned into a smile of benevolence and friendliness. "I didn''t expect my dear


    nephew to grace us with his presence. What a pleasant surprise."


    Nathan, adept at social niceties,


    immediately forced Tyrone''s intention into attending the Lott family''s party, calling him "dear nephew" to


    subtly remind Tyrone of their respective positions: Nathan being the elder and Tyrone the junior. The


    Lott family were trying to lower their stance, hoping Tyrone would take the hint and not


    embarrass them further. Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Normally, people would think of the future business dealings between the two families, and let bygones


    be bygones. But Tyrone wasn''t one to y by the rules.


    He tantly crushed the olive branch Nathan extended. "Mr. Lott seemed quite bold just now. Dare to


    lay a hand on my people?"


    By addressing Nathan as "Mr. Lott," Tyrone made it clear he wasn''t interested in any pretense of


    closeness.


    Whispers filled the room, and Nathan broke into a cold sweat. Everyone knew of Tyrone''s arrogance


    and audacity, but today Nathan truly realized the extent of it.


    Jerome couldn''t bear to see his


    father in distress and said, "Mr. York,


    it''s all a misunderstanding. My


    father didn''t mean to make things


    difficult for Ms. Young." Content


    belongs to FindNovel S


    Jerome originally intended to say "Quinn" but, meeting Tyrone''s cold and prating gaze, he changed


    it to "Ms. Young."


    Nathan quickly added, "Yes, yes, a misunderstanding. It''s a minor disagreement among the youth. It


    was my misunderstanding regarding Ms. Young."


    Quintessa, tightly held by Tyrone, felt almost breathless.


    With a smile, she said, "How can it be a misunderstanding? Mr. Lott just mentioned making our agency


    issue a public apology to the Lott family. Now that my boss is here, Mr. Lott, feel free to state any terms


    you have. My boss is very easy to talk to."

 Chapter 214

    Quintessa''s words sent shockwaves through the Lott family, all eyes turning to Tyrone in disbelief.


    Could her boss be Tyrone?


    As realization dawned that Quintessa''s boss was none other than Tyrone, the phrase "easy to talk to"


    suddenly took on a whole new, terrifying meaning!


    A chorus of bitterugh filled their hearts, marking it as the coldest joke heard that evening.


    Tyrone, with his hand on Quintessa''s waist, gave her a gentle squeeze and said, "Quintessa is my


    talent at York Financial Group. Mr. Lott, whether you''re looking forpensation or an apology, let''s


    not make this hard on my people. Speak directly to me, let me hear it. Whatever your demands, feel


    free to voice them."


    Of course, he wouldn''t agree to any of them.


    Though Tyrone spoke those words, the threat behind them was unmistakable to anyone listening.


    Nathan felt utterly humiliated by Tyrone in front of so many people, making him seethe with rage


    internally.


    Yet, he knew all too well that losing his temper now would only lead Tyrone to use his influence to inflict


    heavy losses on the Lott familyter.


    Swallowing his pride was a necessity. Nathan immediately adopted a contrite demeanor, lowering his


    status and offering a half-bow to Quintessa: "I''m sorry, truly, it was all a misunderstanding. On behalf of


    myself and the Lott family, I extend my apologies to Ms. Young. I hope you won''t hold this against an


    old fool like me."


    Though Nathan''s words carried a hint of ying the age card, his apology sounded genuinely sincere,


    and his attitude was remarkably humble.


    Quintessa hadn''t expected Nathan to apologize and back down so readily. In that moment, her view of


    him shifted.


    It seemed Nathan had no choice but


    to yield under Tyrone''s aggressive stance, resulting in a loss of face for the Lott family. Yet, Nathan''s


    decision to prioritize


    38


    self-preservation-even at the cost


    of his, which could make him subject to ridicule-was not something everyone could manage. Nathan


    was far moreplex than he seemed.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Tyrone snorted inwardly, cursing Nathan for being willing to shed his dignity.


    This forced him to significantly dial back his approach, forcing him to hold back his prepared tactics.


    With Nathan already lowering himself so much, any further action on his part would only make the York


    family appear to be bullies.


    Tyrone wasn''t about to make such a mistake. With a thin smile, he decided to let it go for now, but


    inwardly vowed to make the Lott family''s business suffer greatly the next day.


    Tyrone''s smile shifted subtly as he retorted sarcastically, "How can Mr. Lott be considered old when the


    young master is only five? You''re clearly still in your prime. My congrattions, Mr. Lott, for having


    a sessor to carry on met


    legacy."


    The mention of a "sessor" turned Jerome and Fiona''s faces dark with anger, while snickers spread


    through the crowd.


    Quintessa nced at Jerome, "I


    always thought the Lott family had


    just one son. Little did I know there was another young one hidden.


    1.n


    away it''s not easy having children at an advanced age, is it? Why not bring him out for us all to see?"


    Their tag-team mockery left Nathan flushed with awkwardness and humiliation, and through gritted


    teeth, he said, "Mr. York jokes. Today''s incident was our fault. We will surely visit to offer a proper


    apology another day."


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, his tone arrogant, "No need for a formal apology visit. Just remember this,


    Mr. Lott: you''re not yet in a position to touch anyone associated with me."

 Chapter 215

    Nathan, despite his ustomedposure, suddenly found himself at a loss for words. He had


    weathered many storms in his life, ustomed to others addressing him with deference as "Mr. Lott."


    He had countless admirers, all eager to please him.


    He had led a rtively charmed life, but he hadn''t anticipated encountering Tyrone, this audacious


    young man who defied all logic, publicly humiliating him over a woman. Despite boiling with rage and


    wanting to tear Tyrone a new one, Nathan knew he was outmatched. Even with his reputation dragged


    through the mud, he had no choice but to bite his tongue.


    Tyrone scanned the crowd, his tone icy, "Whoever dares to mess with Quintessa in the future, better


    think twice. You won''t stand a chance against me."


    Seizing the moment, Tyrone made it clear that Quintessa was his woman.


    Whatever schemes they had in mind, whether it was pursuing her or plotting against her, they needed


    to consider whether they had the ability to challenge him.


    Quintessa''s heart trembled slightly. Whatever the reason, Tyrone''s willingness to openly confront both


    her and the Lott family. While he was arrogant, it marked the first time someone had defended her like


    this Apart from Tyrone, no one else had ever stood up for her like this, taking her side when she faced


    trouble.


    Suddenly feeling a pinch at her waist, Quintessa was snapped back to reality by Tyrone''s gruff voice,


    "Stop daydreaming. Let''s go."


    Quintessa looked up and offered Nathan a fleeting smile, "Goodbye, Mr. Lott."


    Tyrone frowned as he thought there was no need for Quintessa to talk to the Lotts.


    With one swift motion, Tyrone dragged Quintessa away.


    He had arrived swiftly and departed just as quickly, swaggering with Quintessa in his arms, leaving the


    Lott family to face the mocking nces of the crowd.


    Once Tyrone was gone, the others quickly dispersed as well.


    Those who were somewhat acquainted with the Lott family bid farewell to Nathan before leaving, while


    some simply left without a word.


    With everyone gone, Nathan''s suppressed fury toward Tyrone directed at Jerome. Pointing at Jerome''s


    nose, he unleashed a tirade, "You worthless fool, everything is all your fault."


    Fiona immediately stepped in front


    et


    of Jerome, her patience worn thin, "How is this Jerome''s fault? Stop taking your anger out on him and


    looking for excuses to bring your illegitimate child into the Lott family. As long as I''m alive, don''t you


    even think about bringing your mistress orcher brat into the Lott family. You have no shame, don''t


    expect me to cover for you. Thepany belongs to my son, and if you dare scheme anything, I''ll


    make sure you regret it."


    Jerome remained emotionless. He uttered only one sentence, "Dad, you''re getting old. It''s time to rest."


    Outside the hotel, Reuben found himself incredibly awkward. His car and Tyrone''s car were parked


    side by side. He wanted Quintessa to get into his car, but he was hesitant due to Tyrone''s presence, so


    there was an ufortable stand-off.


    Unable to bear the awkward silence, Quintessa asked, "Why are you here?"


    Tyrone sneered, "To catch in the act!"


    Reuben immediately waved his hands in denial, "Mr. York, you''ve got it all wrong. Quinn and I-we..."


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Before he could finish, Tyrone shot him a cold nce, silencing Reuben immediately.


    Rubbing her temples. After dealing


    with the Young family, now she had to face Tyrone. Why did she feel that facing him was even more


    ve


    challenging than dealing with the


    entire Young family? Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Quintessa didn''t want to put Reuben in a difficult position, "Reuben, you head back first. Tell Violet I''m


    fine."

 Chapter 216

    Reuben hesitated, sneaking a nce at Tyrone. That guy was bad news. Will Quinn be at a


    disadvantage?


    Tyrone noticed his hesitation, "Got a problem?"


    That chilly tone sent shivers down Reuben''s spine. He quickly shook his head, "No, no. It was Violet


    told me to bring Quinn back safely."


    Tyrone replied coolly, "She also told me not to hold back, to give it my all."


    That''s when Quintessa realized, Tyrone finding them must have been Violet''s doing.


    That traitor, where was her pride?


    She gestured to Reuben, "You go back first. Tell Violet we''ll resume shooting normally tomorrow."


    Only then did Reuben leave.


    Tyrone opened the car door and roughly shoved Quintessa inside.


    He drove at breakneck speed that the buildings on either side blurring into obscurity.


    Quintessa felt Tyrone''s mood was off. She hadn''t finished her business yet and didn''t want to end up in


    a car crash.


    "Hey, can you slow down a bit?"


    Tyrone snapped back fiercely, "Don''t talk to me. You''re just annoying me right now."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa: Damn, fine!


    After a while of silence, the quietness inside the car became eerie. Quintessa rolled down the window,


    letting the chilly night air cool her mind slowly. The events of the evening shed before her eyes.


    Today was a well-executed battle, but it was just beginning.


    Lilian and Sean weren''t fools. It was because today''s events were well-orchestrated and unexpected,


    that they were caught off guard and therefore, acted out of impulse. But once they regained their


    senses, they''d probably realize it was all her doing. They''d surely find a way to retaliate. She needed to


    weaken the Young couple further before they could unite against her. Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Lost in thought, the car suddenly came to a halt, causing Quintessa to lurch forward before being


    pulled back by the seatbelt.


    "I told you not to speak. And you actually listened?" Tyrone''s sounded like it was squeezed through his


    teeth. The car was dimly lit, his face shadowed except for his eyes, shining brightly like torches.


    Content


    belongs to FindNovel S


    Quintessa adjusted her disheveled hair, rolling her eyes, "Well, didn''t you say you''re annoyed just


    seeing me?"


    Her words silenced Tyrone. His anger rose, yet he found no outlet facing Quintessa.


    "You attended this damn party behind my back, getting cozy with that pretty boy. Do you forget I''m your


    boss?"


    Quintessa, propping her chin, said seriously, "If we''reparing, you''re prettier than Reuben."


    Tyrone wanted to kick Quintessa out


    of the car


    "Reuben? Why calling him


    so affectionately? I''m your boss, and


    you''re my employee. Why aren''t you affectionate with me?" Content


    belongs to FindNovel S


    Quintessa chuckled, "How can youpete with fresh young things like him? What if I start calling you


    Ty, would you like that?" "Fine, you''re tough. I won''t ask. I''ll just knock you out."


    Tyrone floored the gas pedal, the car shooting forward. Quintessa quickly asked, "Where are you


    taking me?" Tyrone sneered, "Didn''t someone say a dark, windy night is perfect for a hookup? I''m


    taking you to hook up!"

 Chapter 217

    Quintessa felt like she was about to explode with frustration, "I freaking didn''t want to a hookup today.


    Let me go."


    Tyrone smirked coldly, his gleaming white teeth visible in the shadows, "Let you go? Ha, let you can go


    see Reuben? You think I''m an idiot?"


    Quintessa really wanted to whack him on the head. Sometimes, Tyrone just deserved it for all his talks


    about hookups!


    She had already made up her mind not to drag Tyrone along anymore.


    But when it came to her own body, she wanted to have control. With Tyrone in this mood, well,


    Quintessa wasn''t in the mood to deal with him right now.


    "Can you stop being so childish, Tyrone? You''re a grown man, can''t you control your jealousy?"


    At her words, Tyrone''s foot mmed down on the gas pedal even harder, his eyes spitting fire, ring


    on the road ahead. "Jealous? What makes you think I''m jealous? I''m in a freaking great mood, not a


    hint of jealousy for you."


    Well, he admitted, his heart was feeling sour right now. If that was being jealous, then so be it.


    He hadn''t even begun to show the extent of his jealousy yet.


    Quintessa noticed the increasing speed and clutched the seat tightly, "Tyrone, you might want to die,


    but I sure don''t."


    Tyrone''s face darkened, "Ha, I don''t want to take you down with me. Even if we were to go down


    together, it would be on the bed."


    Quintessa was livid, her throat burning with anger, "I really wish your mom could see how shameless


    you are."


    "Fine. I''ll give you that chance."


    Originally, Tyrone nned to take her to his private estate, but it was too far, and he didn''t want to


    waste time on the road. So, he made a U-turn at the next intersection, heading towards the York family


    mansion.


    Quintessa thought Tyrone was just bluffing, but when they arrived, she realized this mansion was not


    the private residence they had been tost time.


    "What is this ce?" Quintessa asked suspiciously.


    et


    Tyrone stood outside the car, opening the passenger door with a smirk, Scared? I thought you were


    fearless. No need to wonder, this will be your ''final resting ce. S


    Quintessa felt a chill seeing Tyrone''s menacing look. This man was serious.


    "I''m not getting out. If you dare, make this car my ''final resting ce.""


    Tyrone scoffed, "We''re here now. Do you even know where this is? This is my turf; you don''t have a


    say."


    He reached out, unbuckled Quintessa''s seatbelt, and hoisted her out of the car.


    Quintessa, who hadn''t eaten all evening, felt dizzy being lifted so abruptly, and her head downward.


    She grabbed a chunk of Tyrone''s back, "Put me down."


    Tyrone shamelessly replied, "Sure, but it''ll be on the bed."


    Quintessa felt like spitting blood in frustration.


    Tyrone carried Quintessa into the living


    el


    et


    on. Um, where the lights were


    on. Usually, Cecilia would be


    UM


    watching TV at this time, but not today.


    Wilma


    to see


    the noise and came out


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    a


    slu Tyrone had a was shocked. Content bn


    slung over his shoulder, and


    FindNovel


    Their young master actually brought a woman home?


    to


    He had never brought a woman home before, not even Rachel.


    How could things be so dramatic at thiste hour?

 Chapter 218

    Wilma''s heart raced as she hurried to catch up. "Master. You''re back, and thisdy is?"


    Tyrone kept walking without stopping, heading straight ahead: "My woman, don''t worry about it and go


    on down."


    Wilma caught up again: "Madam has already gone to bed, should I...?"


    "No, don''t let her disturb us."


    Right now, Tyrone didn''t want to see Cecilia. If he had to see her, it could wait till tomorrow. He didn''t


    want anything dying his "feast."


    Wilma watched as Tyrone carried Quintessa upstairs, sighing to herself. Young people were so


    passionate, burning the midnight oil like this.


    Quintessa''s head spun from being jostled, she said, "Tyrone, put me down first. Can''t we have a proper


    conversation?"


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone nodded, very seriously: "You''re right, what can''t be conversed in bed?"


    Wilma blushed at overhearing this. The young master could actually say such things. Oh, the openness


    of youth.


    Tyrone kicked open his bedroom door, carrying Quintessa inside.


    After hesitating for a good ten minute downstairs, Wilma finally decided to dash upstairs.


    She had been working for the York family for years, and it was the first time she saw the young master


    bring a woman home. Such explosive news, if she didn''t tell Madam, she''d definitely be med


    tomorrow Wilma ran to Cecilia''s bedroom door and knocked a few times. No response-she must be


    asleep, so Wilma knocked harder.


    Eventually, the door opened, revealing Cecilia, with a mask on her face, appeared before Wilma.


    Cecilia, too tired to open her eyes, said, "Wilma, dear, I''ve told you, I''m tired from shopping today and


    needed to rest early. Unless the sky''s falling, don''t wake me." Wilma cautiously said, "Madam, the


    young master just brought a girl home and went straight to his room to...you know. Will this bring


    trouble the York family?"


    "What are you saying?"


    Wilma repeated her earlier words.


    The next second, Cecilia ripped off her facial mask, "Is this boy out of his mind? Are you sure?"


    "Absolutely."


    "Who is this woman?"


    Wilma shook her head: "I don''t know. The young master carried her in. I didn''t even see her face. He


    told me not to bother you and didn''t want you disturbing her."


    Cecilia frowned. If her son was indeed "feasting," she really shouldn''t interrupt.


    But curiosity got the better of her.


    Who could have made her son bring her into the York family? Her mind briefly pictured Quintessa''s


    face, sending a a shiver down her spine." She quickly dismissed the thought: "No, no, it can''t be that


    temptress. My boy wouldn''t be so reckless."


    The more Cecilia spoke, the less confident she became. Her son could be quite reckless.


    She had intended not to disturb her


    son, but the more she dwelled on the possibility of it being Quintessa, the more worried she became.


    After pacing her bedroom, she eventually stormed out.


    vel


    On the bed, Quintessa''s evening gown was roughly torn apart and thrown to the floor, leaving her in


    just a strapless bra and ck panties. The gray bedsheet contrasted with her sprawled, enchanting


    hair and posture. All her malicious and sarcastic words were silenced by Tyrone''s kiss.


    Given a moment, Quintessa said, "Let me say one thing, just one thing."


    "Don''t you dare talk nonsense to me now. If I spare you again, damn, I''ll be damned."

 Chapter 219

    Quintessa mmed up at that moment, no longer resisting. Tyrone hadid it all out clearly, leaving no


    room for further discussion. But she felt ufortable about giving in like this tonight. Seeing


    Quintessa stop struggling, a wicked smile yed on Tyrone''s lips. He slowed down, leisurely starting to


    unbutton his shirt: "Not resisting? No more protests? Ready to throw in the towel?" Quintessa chuckled:


    "What else do you expect? Should I lie down and say, ''Mr. York, please enjoy yourself"?"


    Tyrone''s previously slow movements became rough. With a fierce tug, the remaining buttons of his


    shirt burst off, scattering across the floor. Pinning her down, his smile turned devilishly charming, utterly


    captivating. He gripped Quintessa''s chin, saying, "I like the that attitude. Since you''re so eager, I guess


    I''ll just have to oblige."


    Quintessa swore inwardly.


    She felt herself was no match to Tyrone, who was what they called the epitome of being despicable.


    Tyrone pressed his lips against Quintessa''s corbone, finding it incredibly beautiful and alluring. His


    breathing grew heavy, his long-suppressed desire nearing its breaking point.


    As Tyrone reached to tear off Quintessa''s seamless underwear, she suddenly said, "You said I''m like a


    dead fish. Can you even get in the mood?"


    Quintessa''s voice remained calm. Tyrone''s lips were hot, which made her body tremble slightly, but it


    didn''t affect her rationality.


    Tyrone looked up, his eyes slightly red, a predatory fervor within them. He roughly tore off Quintessa''s


    bra, "Hmph, even if you were canned sardines, I''d still have an appetite."


    Quintessa was speechless. Canned sardines were practically a culinary abomination, and if he wasn''t


    bothered by that, what more could she say?


    Tyrone''s kisses trailed down from


    her corbone to her chest, causing Quintessa''s body to shiver slightly She then said, "Have you ever


    considered, if you force me against my will, I''ll retaliate? I can be quite vengeful."


    Tyrone''s voice was hoarse: "Bring it on. I''m not afraid of your revenge; I''m afraid you won''t."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He parted Quintessa''s legs with one.


    knee, his right hand gliding over her t, firm belly, fingers hooking the edge of her underwear. Witha


    tug, Quintessa felt a chill down below.


    Looking up, his eyes bloodshot, Tyrone stared intently into Quintessa''s cool eyes: "Quintessa, it''s been


    three years. I''m your first man, and I''ll also be yourst."


    Quintessa almostughed at that statement.


    "To say that so soon. You might be the first, but thest, who knows? The kind of woman like me, as


    you know, is never short of men."


    Thest man?


    How far could she and Tyrone really go? What were they now? Nothing. To talk about thest man was


    utterly ridiculous.


    Tyrone gritted his teeth: "At this moment, I think you''d better shut up, damn it."


    Tyrone was ready to get down to business, only to realize he hadn''t taken off his pants yet. He cursed


    silently and immediately reached for his belt.

 Chapter 220

    All the annoying bits were stripped off, and Tyrone couldn''t wait to get back into the action.


    Quintessa closed her eyes, thinking: well, if there''s no avoiding it-this day was bound toe, what''s


    the point of being so prudish? Just let it happen.


    After all, who hasn''t seen each other before? Three years ago, they were already intimate.


    But as Quintessa had resigned herself to the moment, a sudden knock at the door echoed through the


    room.


    Cecilia''s voice came from outside: "Honey, Ty, can you open the door? I made your favorite dish today.


    And I''ve warmed it up for you. How abouting out and have some?" Everything was set, but this


    sudden interruption caught Tyrone off guard.


    His expression at that moment was so remarkable that Quintessa couldn''t find the right adjective.


    Tyrone''s face darkened terribly-he was all ready to go, and now his own mother showed up!


    Is she on a mission to embarrass her son?


    Hearing Cecilia''s voice, Quintessa''s eyes lit up, and she immediately saw her chance, blurting out, "Oh,


    here''s the opportunity. Let your mom see how shameless his own son is."


    Tyrone, with a darkened face, pushed her back, "I told you, if I don''t have you tonight, I swear I''ll take


    yourst name. Now, stay put."


    Quintessa chuckled, "But what about your mom?"


    Tyrone shouted back at the door, "Mom, I''m busy now."


    Cecilia persisted, "Son, you''ve been out busy all day. I made this dish especially for you. The least you


    could do ise out and eat. You haven''t had a meal I''ve cooked in days, and you''re losing weight. It


    breaks mom''s heart to see you like this."


    Quintessa couldn''t help butugh, teasingly touching Tyrone''s cheek and mimicking Cecilia, "Dear, eat


    up. You''re losing weight, it breaks mom''s heart to see you like this."


    Cecilia was determined to find out


    which woman was in there with her son. If wasn''t that little vixen,at might be okay, but if it was, she


    couldn''t let them continue. S


    "Son, the older you get, the less you listen to your mom. It''s breaking my heart."


    She even feigned a couple of sobs.


    Quintessa shook her head, "Tsk tsk


    Listen to how much your mom


    you. And look at you, so ungrats You''re breaking your moms heart."


    Tyrone felt like he was being ganged up on by these two women. Was this some kind of conspiracy?


    Cecilia''s interruption cooled Tyrone''s ardor considerably.


    Grinding his teeth, he got up, "Just you wait. After I feast thiste-night meal, you''re next."


    Quintessa sent him a flirty wink, "I''ll be waiting, darling." Waiting to let you take myst name.


    Tyrone, grumbling, went to open the door, "Mom, cut the act. Watching a few soap operas doesn''t


    make you an actress."


    Cecilia, a bit embarrassed, put her hands down, "Well, I might not have been crying, but I meant every


    word."


    She craned her neck to peek inside.


    Tyrone blocked her view, "Mom, what are you trying to see?"


    Quintessa suddenly popped her head out from behind Tyrone, "Of course, she''s here to see me this


    little vixen!"


    "Hi there, Auntie. Haven''t seen you in a few days. You''re looking prettier than ever."


    Cecilia touched her face and cleared


    her throat, "Don''t try to sweet-talk


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    eveline


    me. No matter how you try to


    seduce my son, I won''t let


    enter


    in the York family." Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Quintessa winked at her, "But I''ve already entered in, haven''t I? And just finished having a moment with


    your precious boy!"


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 221

    Cecilia was fuming, flushed with a mix of anger and embarrassment. It wasn''t typical for a mother to


    interrupt her son''s feast. But worry had driven her to it, fearing that the person with him was none other


    than that little vixen. And to her dismay, her suspicions were confirmed.


    She shot Quintessa a re, "You''re making things up. You just got here; it couldn''t have finished so


    fast."


    Quintessa casually draped an arm over Tyrone''s shoulder, "Oh, but why not? Your son''s always been


    quick."


    Tyrone, already short on patience, darkened at her words. Quick? He hadn''t even gotten to the good


    part yet. How could she say he was quick?


    Tyrone turned around and his face immediately darkened.


    Quintessa was wearing one of his oversized T-shirts, no one knows how she found it so quickly.


    The men''s clothes hung on her like a dress, making her look even more fragile and petite. She leaned


    forward, allowing him to look down the cor from his angle, seeing everything at a nce. Her slender


    and straight legs, as tender as newly sprouted willow branches in early spring.


    This version of Quintessa reignited the me Tyrone''s mom had momentarily doused.


    Grinding his teeth, he said, "Who are you calling quick?"


    Quintessa flicked her hair, teasing, "You, obviously. Did I say something wrong?"


    Cecilia, taken aback, began to wonder.


    Circling back to Cecilia, Quintessa chimed, "Auntie, didn''t you say you made something delicious?


    Let''s go eat."


    Snapping back to reality, Cecilia asserted, "I made it for my son, not for you."


    Quintessa was undeterred and pulled Cecilia towards the kitchen, "Oh,e on, it''s all the same."


    Cecilia tried to free herself from her arms, "Stop pulling me. The sight of you vexes me."


    Quintessaughed it off, "That''s


    unfortunate because you''re going to be seeing a lot more of me.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    son


    is quite smitten, after all,ght


    want to stock up on some aspirin."


    Cecilia was so furious that she couldn''t utter a single word.


    Every encounter with Quintessa left her at a loss for words. Her son was right; she couldn''t outy this


    sly vixen, especially when her son didn''t take her side.


    Watching the two women bicker their way downstairs, Tyrone''s face was a stormy ck.


    He angrily kicked the door, "What was I thinking? A hotel would have been better than home."


    The headache he felt was a pulsing reminder of his frustration.


    Looking down, he muttered, "We''ll make it, eventually."


    With gritted teeth, Tyrone went to the bathroom for a moment of respite.


    Downstairs, Quintessa was yfully arguing with Cecilia while enjoying the barbecue ribs she had


    prepared Despite their bickering, Quintessa found Cecilia''spany somewhat refreshing. It was


    unusual to describe a woman in her des as "simple" and "kind," but Cecilia was just that.


    V


    Cecilia''s dislike for Quintessa was genuine, a natural reaction for any mother wary of a "femme fatale"


    ensnaring her son. Yet, her kindness was unmistakable. Shecked the aloofness and entitlement


    often found in the affluent; she had treated Quintessa without disdain despite her disapproval. This set


    her apart from Fiona and Lilian.


    For families of wealth like the Yorks, having someone like Cecilia is indeed rare.


    This elderlydy is truly endearing.


    Quintessa found herself envious of Tyrone for having such a good mother.

 Chapter 222

    Cecilia watched Quintessa devour ribs one after another without pause. In a blink of an eye, half the


    te was gone, leaving a small pile of bones before her. Cecilia couldn''t help but wonder how long it


    had been since this little vixen hadst eaten.


    For every cook, there''s nothing more satisfying than watching others devour their dishes and praise


    them endlessly. It brings them a sense of aplishment. Feeling secretly pleased, Cecilia thought to


    herself how irresistible her cooking was, given how Quintessa was practically licking the te clean.


    Cecilia wrinkled her nose in disdain, "Don''t you actors need to maintain your figure, sticking to diets?


    Aren''t you afraid of losing your job if you eat so much?" Quintessa blinked at Cecilia, "Auntie, don''t


    worry. No matter how much I eat, I won''t gain weight. Besides, with your son around, there''s no way I''ll


    be out of a job."


    Cecilia scoffed, "Quit bragging. There''s no such thing as a person who can eat whatever they want and


    not gain weight."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa spat out a rib bone, "Well, that''s me. My stomach''s ruined and can''t absorb nutrients well, so


    of course, I won''t gain weight."


    Mrs. York was momentarily stunned, saying nothing. After a while, she gestured for Wilma toe


    over.


    In no time, Wilma brought Quintessa a bowl of soup, enriched various nutrients, steaming with a sweet


    scent. Quintessa paused. This soup was meant to be soothing for the stomach, and suddenly, she felt


    a bit choked up.


    She tried to sound natural, "Auntie, you''re so kind to me. Are you trying to move me so I''ll let your son


    off the hook?"


    Cecilia huffed, "It''s just leftovers. It''d go bad by tomorrow and I don''t like to waste food. You think I care


    about you? If I care about you, you need to be someone worthy of my concern."


    With that remark, Cecilia left with the same air of dignity that Tyrone often disyed.


    Just then, Tyrone happened toe downstairs. Cecilia hurried over, and as she got close, she felt a


    chill emanating from him. "Oh my, why are you so cold? Did you take a cold shower?"


    Tyrone looked coldly at her, "What else could I do? Isn''t it all your doing?"


    Cecilia, feeling awkward, touched her nose, "Well, you should go eat something."


    With that, Cecilia hurried off to watch TV, genuinely worried that Tyrone mightsh out at her.


    Tyrone sat opposite Quintessa, noticing she was sipping the soup, he kicked her under the table.


    Quintessa didn''t look up, "What? Want to discuss when we should change ourst name?" Her retort


    left Tyrone speechless.


    Once words are out, they can''t be taken back. Tyrone regretted not thinking before he spoke. When he


    was with Quintessa, all sense and intelligence seemed to have abandoned him. Tyrone angrily bit into


    a rib, ring at Quintessa as if he were devouring her flesh. Quintessa yfully touched Tyrone''s


    cheek, "Don''t be shy; that day wille eventually." Tyrone crunched a bone, "Yeah, the day I sleep-


    deprive you to death wille."


    "Ty, son." Cecilia called out several


    times from the side, but got no


    She raised her Jet


    She voice


    shouted, "Tyrone York, are you even listening to me?"


    ne


    Tyrone slowly turned, a look of utter despair on his face, "Mom, from today on, I''m not a York. I''m taking


    herst name. Please call me Tyrone Young."

 Chapter 223

    "Pfft." Quintessa couldn''t help butugh out loud, hastily setting her spoon down, afraid of choking in a


    moment.


    Tyrone lifted his chin provocatively towards Quintessa, a look of prideful arrogance on his face, as if to


    say: Yeah, that''s how badass I am, I say and I do. Cecilia was dumbfounded, "What did you just say?


    Have you lost your mind?"


    Tyrone scowled, "Lost my mind? Yeah, it''s fried, totally fried." Fried by his desire.


    Quintessa said to Cecilia, "Auntie, your son''s head is fine, it''s his virility that''s in question. You might


    want to pick up some aphrodisiacs for him."


    Tyrone''s face darkened as if a storm cloud had settled over him, "Quintessa, just so you know, I''ll


    remember what you said today."


    Quintessa took a sip of her soup, "Tsk, can''t I speak the truth? I''m just making factual inferences based


    on your performance."


    Cecilia shouted angrily, "Nonsense, my son is perfectly fine."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, she quickly turned to Tyrone, "Right, son?"


    Clearly unsure, her anxiety was palpable, her eyes filled with worry, betraying her faltering confidence.


    Tyrone felt like he was being driven insane by these two women. He just wanted to say: Mom, could


    you please just stop talking? I''m not asking for your help, just don''t tie down the legs of your son who''s


    striving for greatness,


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, "Of course not, why would you believe her nonsense?"


    Quintessa rested her chin on her hand, "How is this nonsense? Or was my miscarriage a lie? Young


    man, don''t shy away from seeking medical help. If you don''t address it now, it''ll only get worse, after all,


    you don''t have any sessors yet."


    Cecilia was anxious, indeed, her son hadn''t had children yet.


    With a worried look, she said, "Son, maybe we should go..." (to the hospital)


    Tyrone cut Cecilia off, "Mom, please, just go shopping every day, get some beauty treatments, y


    cards with your friends, and enjoy your afternoon tea. Leave the rest to me. If your intelligence can''t


    keep up, it''s best not to worry."


    Tyrone was exhausted, truly exhausted.


    His mom, his own mom, was easily fooled time and time again by Quintessa.


    Believing tales of pregnancies and miscarriages, even usations of him being quick on the draw.


    How many times had she been deceived before?


    Cecilia huffed, "Who are you saying


    can''t keep up? If I couldn''t keep up, where did you get such a clever brain from? I''m your mother, is it


    wrong for me to care?" S


    Tyrone sighed, feeling weary, "Mom, if I really had an issue, how could she have gotten pregnant?"


    Quintessa raised her hand, "That''s because I''m healthy and fertile, that''s all."


    She turned to tease Cecilia, "Auntie, how about I give you a grandson first, so that your son won''t... you


    know."


    Cecilia clenched her teeth, her lips twitching as if searching for the right words.


    Tyrone held his forehead-damn, she''s actually considering it.


    Such an unreliable statement, clearly a lie, and yet, his mom!


    Tyrone mmed on the table, startling Quintessa and Cecilia.


    He dered, ¡°Enough, both of you. If anyone brings this up again, don''t me me for losing my temper


    with you. Mom, it''s midnight, if you don''t sleep now, do you want your face to look bad tomorrow?"


    Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Cecilia immediately touched her face, "I do." but she also wanted a grandson.


    Tyrone pointed upstairs, "Go back to sleep, right now."

 Chapter 224

    Cecilia was always a bit wary of Tyrone, instinctively wanting to go upstairs. However, after taking a few


    steps, she stopped and came back, "No, I can''t go back to sleep."


    She had just managed to interrupt the little romance brewing between Quintessa and her son. If she


    left, they''d just end up back together.


    Quintessa knew what Cecilia was thinking. She gave a self-mocking smile. In everyone''s eyes, she,


    Quintessa, was a true vixen, a source of trouble. Respectable families would never approve of her. But


    Quintessa braced herself, her smile no different than usual, "Auntie, are you afraid I''ll devour your


    son?"


    Being so guarded against made Quintessa feel bitter, yet her smile only grew brighter.


    Cecilia, feeling her concerns were pinpointed, awkwardly said, "Of course, I''m notfortable with


    you, this little siren, being with my son. Tonight, you must sleep with me."


    Cecilia felt she needed to keep an eye on Quintessa. Letting her sleep alone in the guest room? No


    way, they might end up together again.


    Tyrone was a mess inside. If Cecilia wasn''t his mother, he might have lost his temper, go up and give


    her a good beat. That was the honest truth.


    Tyrone was exhausted. Being tormented by these two women in the middle of the night made him feel


    the world was full of traps.


    "Mom, what do you want then?"


    Cecilia gestured to Quintessa, "You sleep with me."


    Thus, Quintessa spent the night in the same bed as Cecilia.


    Initially, Cecilia insisted Quintessa sleep on the couch, but Quintessa justid down on the bed.


    Cecilia''s bed was soft andfy, freshly aired out and smelling of sunshine. It reminded her of the


    warmth she felt lying in her mother''s sun-dried nkets as a child, a warmth she could never forget.


    Suppressing her bitterness,


    Quintessa turned over, kicked off her


    shoes, and pulled up the nket


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    directly, "If you don''t want to sleep


    with me, you can always take the couch."


    Cecilia huffed, "I am the elder here. You should show me respect."


    Quintessa stretched, "Elder, sure. Maybe when you be my mother-inw, I''ll start respecting you."


    "You wish. That day will nevere."


    "Ah, see, why must you say something so final? Anyway, if I set my mind to joining the York family, no


    one can stop me. I haven''t met a man yet who could resist me for long. You might want to be nicer to


    me or you''ll be the one suffering When I do be part of your family."


    Cecilia didn''t dare respond further andy down in a huff, both settling on opposite sides of the bed.


    Cecilia was sulking, while Quintessa was in a rather good mood.


    "Auntie, is this like a pre-marital bonding session with my potential future mother-inw?"


    Quintessa enjoyed joking with Cecilia because it was stress-free. She knew, deep down, this olddy


    was really kind-hearted.


    Cecilia snorted, "Don''t tter yourself. I''ll never ept you, never. I''m making you sleep here because


    I''m worried."


    Quintessa cut her off, "I know, you''re worried I''ll seduce your son. Don''t worry, I won''t."


    Cecilia was surprised. Was she being kind?


    Quintessa winked at her, "Because


    it''s


    your son who''s after


    His affection for me is indescribable.


    live without me."


    belongs to FindNovel


    Content

 Chapter 225

    Cecilia rolled her eyes at Quintessa, "Oh, stop your nonsense. I know my son better than anyone. His


    interest in you is merely a fleeting infatuation. Once the novelty wears off, he won''t even remember


    you. I'' advise you to take whatever money you can from him now and leave before he grows tired of


    you and, well, let''s just say he''s not exactly the saint you think he is, you..."


    Cecilia went on a tirade, only to realize that Quintessa wasn''t listening-she had already fallen asleep.


    Cecilia scoffed and turned away.


    After Cecilia fell asleep, Quintessa opened her eyes. The room was decorated warmly, not in a pursuit


    of sheer opulence but forfort.


    Lying on such a soft bed, Quintessa found herself unable to sleep.


    The next morning, Cecilia woke up to find Quintessa gone. She thought Quintessa had snuck into her


    son''s room in the middle of the night, but when she knocked on Tyrone''s bedroom door, she found


    Quintessa was not there either.


    Both the mother and the son came to the realization that the wily girl had left on her own.


    Tyrone, with a stern face, came downstairs just as Wilma was telling Cecilia, "Ma''am, Ms. Young left a


    message that she borrowed a set of your clothes."


    Cecilia was momentarily stunned. "Who gave her the right to wear my clothes without any notice? Did


    she say anything else?"


    Wilma, with a look of difficulty, replied, "She also said ''after having miscarried for your son, wearing one


    of your dresses isn''t too much, is it?""


    That deted Cecilia instantly.


    Indeed, it wasn''t too much at all.


    Cecilia found it strange, the little vixen leaving so abruptly.


    Wilma cast a covert nce at Tyrone, who stood behind her with a dark expression, "She also said


    thanks for letting her snag such a huge bargain of a son."


    The expressions on both Tyrone and Cecilia were priceless.


    "I''ll go see about breakfast." Cecilia hastily retreated to the kitchen.


    Tyrone was about to leave when the house phone rang. Wilma answered and quickly called Tyrone


    back, "Sir, it''s your father on the line."


    Tyrone''s already sour mood soured further as he picked up the receiver, "Hello."


    "Hey Ty, can you drop by Serenitia and take care of some affairs here? I''m feeling tired and would like


    a break."


    Tyrone scoffed dismissively, "No.


    Aren''t you busy trying to give me a little brother? Keep at it; leave everything to him. I''ve got things to


    do. That''s all for now, Dad. In the future, just call my cell directly, don''t call the house phone, it upsets


    Mom."


    FindNovel


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone hung up and told Wilma, "If the phone rings and I''m not around, just hang up."


    "Understood, sir."


    As Tyrone was grabbing his car keys to leave, Cecilia emerged from the kitchen, "Son, wait a minute,


    have some breakfast before you go." "I''m not hungry, I''ve got to go."


    "Hmph, what urgent matter could


    you possibly have that you''re in such a rush for? It''s to see that little vixen, isn''t it? How many times


    have told you to stop seeing her? Why won''t you listen?"


    el.


    Tyrone paused and turned around, his expression serious for once, "Mom, I''m an adult. I know which


    woman want. And I''m clear about wanting her. This is not your business. Why keep upsetting yourself?


    Besides, she''s not as bad as you think. She''s actually pretty great, you just haven''t seen it."

 Chapter 226

    Cecilia huffed, "I just don''t see what''s so great about her."


    Tyrone tapped Cecilia''s forehead gently, "It''s okay. You have plenty of time. You''ll gradually see it.


    Honestly, Mom, you''re acting like a kid; with your seasoned wisdom, you shouldn''t judge a book by its


    cover. Rachel might seem nice to you, but behind your back, she might be wielding a knife. Don''t you


    know that?"


    Being scolded like a child by her son, Cecilia felt annoyed. She swatted Tyrone''s hand away, "Alright,


    alright, I get it. I may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but that''s okay have breakfast or not, it''s all


    up to you."


    Tyrone sighed, knowing his mom''s understanding wouldn''t change overnight.


    Cecilia grumbled, "I almost forgot something important because of you. Alex''s sister is having her


    coming-of-age party this weekend. Remember? They''ve mentioned it a bunch of times. It''d be really


    rude not to attend."


    Tyrone almost forgot about it indeed. Squinting, he seemed to be lost in thought.


    After a moment, he replied, "Yeah, of course, I''ll go."


    Cecilia gave him a sidelong nce, "What are you up to now?"


    She knew her son well enough to tell he was scheming.


    Tyrone just smiled, "Nothing at all. I''ll head out now."


    Quintessa returned to the set early in the morning, focused and undistracted by the daily scandals


    erupting online. She kept to her shooting schedule and posted updates punctually, sinking into herExclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    work. Lilian was now in the spotlight, a viral sensation online. Someone had posted the video of her


    assaulting someone.


    Initially, it followed the ssic temte of a legit wife assaulting the mistress, resulting in a miscarriage,


    and the husband publicly pping his wife.


    Opinions online were divided. Some


    el


    supported Lifan, saying the mistress got what she deserved, while others felt sorry for Ynda, arguing


    the real viin was the cheating husband. This topic garnered increasing discussion and heated


    debate.


    However, within just one day, the situation took a dramatic turn.


    An authoritative media outlet revealed that the woman who miscarried wasn''t the mistress but rather an


    employee of the Young Group. Her boyfriend had died in a work-rted ident a month prior, and


    MD Young, as the boss, had shown her special attention. When his jealous wife found out, she


    mercilessly beat the woman, resulting in the tragic miscarriage. The woman''s boyfriend was the only


    son of his family, and with this miscarriage, the family''sst hope


    was shattered.


    FindNovel


    This new narrative was a shocking reversal. Those who had condemned Ynda were now begging


    for forgiveness and turning their anger towards Lilian and even cursing out the Yates family ancestors.


    The public outcry was immense,


    with calls for justice on the local police department''s Twitter,


    demanding strict punishment for et


    Lilian, with some evenbeling her actions as premeditated murder, given the video evidence of


    Ynda''s pleas.


    Under public pressure, the police announced they would investigate the matter thoroughly.


    Quintessa was surprised at how the tables had turned, wondering who was behind this massive shift in


    public opinion. It wasn''t easy to flip the entire public opinion, let alone fabricate Ynda''s boyfriend''s


    identity. Someone was behind this.


    The first person that came to her mind was Tyrone. Hesitantly, she picked up her phone and dialed his


    number.


    The call connected quickly, and Tyrone''s voice, sounding like he deserved a good beating, came


    through, "What''s up? Miss me already?"

 Chapter 227

    Quintessa heard the voice, and all her hesitation before making the call vanished.


    Rolling her eyes, Quintessa said, "Could you be serious? About the thing online, was that your doing?"


    "What thing? When ites to you, am I not serious enough?" Clearly, he was dead serious about


    wanting her, dead serious about teasing her. Tyrone felt like he couldn''t be more serious when facing


    Quintessa.


    Tyrone left a room full of people behind, grabbed his phone, and headed out, his smile akin to one word


    - radiant, blooming like a sunflower.


    The shareholders were dumbfounded. Was this some sort of magic trick? Just moments ago, his re


    was so fierce it felt like he was about to throw them out of the window.


    And then, after who-knows-who made a call, his face lit up with a smile brighter than the sunflowers


    outside, more shocking than a quick-change act in a performance.


    Kevin, curious, followed Tyrone''s departure with his eyes.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Nudging James, Kevin whispered, "Hey, is that thedy?"


    James shot him a look, "What do you think?"


    Kevin scratched his chin, "Huh, what''s so great about her anyway? I saw on the Inte, there''s not a


    single positive news about her. Yesterday, there were even rumors about her cheating with her fellow


    student, and they were seen going in and out of hotels together."


    James turned to him, serious, "Kevin, don''t say I didn''t warn you. If you keep talking this up, death


    won''t be far."


    "I was just saying this to you."


    James shed a sly smile, "But I could report you! Also, that night, Ms. Quintessa Young attended the


    Lott family''s party with her Reubent. Ourpany quickly rified the situation. Anyone with eyes can


    see they were dressed for the asion together. Cheating? Rumers? If the big boss heard you, you''d


    be gone."


    When Quintessa and Reuben attended the Lott family event together, the paparazzi followed Quintessa


    and captured them entering the hotel. Then they spread


    rumors about Quintessa cheating on Reuben, but apart from a few


    inte trolls, no one believed it.


    Because in the photos, it was clear they were both dressed formally. An affair? Who in their right mind


    dresses like that for a secret rendezvous?


    "Ah, I was just talking. Please don''t sell me out."


    Tyrone walked outside, feeling ecstatic. This was the first call he had received from Quintessa.


    He wondered, had this little devil finally had noticed his merits?


    Quintessa sighed, realizing she couldn''t expect too much, "Don''t y dumb, it''s about Ynda''s


    sudden image cleanup from mistress to innocent. Don''t tell me that wasn''t your doing." Besides Tyrone,


    Quintessa couldn''t think of anyone capable, let alone someone who would help her.


    A bittersweet feeling washed over her. Despite her reluctance, Tyrone was the first person she thought


    of when it happened. To some extent, it meant she had begun to trust him.


    Tyrone thought Quintessa was


    upset, "Yes, it was me. Are you not


    pleased? Cleaning up Ynda''s image means Lilian faces a tougher punishment, and Ynda gains


    more sympathy. This way, she won''t be ostracized in the future. Don''t you want that?"


    Quintessa didn''t deny it, simply saying, "Yes, Tyrone, no, Tyrone Young, I think I owe you thanks."

 Chapter 228

    Quintessa wasn''t that she didn''t want to protect Ynda, but her capabilities fell short of that extent.


    Watching Ynda suffer, she felt powerless, having dragged her into this quagmire without a clear way


    out. When Tyrone stepped in to help, Quintessa could finally breathe a sigh of relief. At least, she could


    give Ynda some form of closure.


    Her thanks to Tyrone was heartfelt, devoid of any sarcasm or jest. It was sincere.


    Pushing aside everything else, Tyrone was the first to extend a helping hand to her. Quintessa thought


    to herself that, even if their paths diverged in the future, she would always remember this kindness.


    Tyrone, however, was taken aback by her words, finding the situation somewhat unusual. It made him


    overlook "Tyrone Young" presence entirely: "You, uh, don''t mention it. Consider it a gift from me, your


    boss, weing you to joining The York Financial Group. After all, you''re one of us now, and I can''t


    just stand by and watch one of our own get bullied."


    Quintessa smirked, "I have to go back to filming, gotta go."


    "Wait."


    "Yes?"


    "Are you free tonight?"


    Quintessa shot back, "I don''t have time to sleep with you."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone''s face darkened as he retorted through gritted teeth, "Do you think I''m just some guy who thinks


    about sleeping all day?"


    Her response made Quintessaugh. She cleared her throat and told Tyrone, "Your mom told me the


    other night to make the most of you while I still could, before you got tired of me and turned against me.


    After all, you''re not exactly Mr. Nice Guy."


    Tyrone was left speechless. What else could he say? The traps set by his own mother were


    everywhere.


    Through gritted teeth, he asked, "Could you two have had such deep conversations that night?"


    Originally, Tyrone thought it would be good for his mom and Quintessa to share a room and bond. Little


    did he know, it was all a setup to trap him.


    If he had known, he would have


    never let Quintessa anywhere near


    his mom. All he wanted to say was: Mom, your scheming is trulyo remarkable.


    Quintessa could almost picture Tyrone''s expression at that moment: "Yeah, it was pretty deep."


    Tyrone''s tone turned harsh, "Enough chit-chat. Just tell me, do you want to see Ynda or not?"


    Quintessa paused, then promptly responded, "Yes!"


    "Are youing out with me tonight?"


    "Yes!"


    "That''s more like it. Now, say you miss me."


    Beep, beep, beep. Tyrone heard the signal on his phone.


    He didn''t put down his phone, speaking towards the disconnected call, "So what if all I think about is


    sleeping with you? What''s wrong with that? How does it bother you? Can you do anything about it?"


    At 9 PM, after wrapping up her shoot, Quintessa changed her clothes and headed out without Manny.


    Right outside, she ran into Violet.


    Violet immediately noticed her outfit and asked, "Where are you going?"


    Quintessa gave her a wistful look, "To have a heart-to-heart talk with your boss."


    "Heh, don''t worry about the time. I''ll cover for you with Laura. Winning over Tyrone is your ticket to the


    top."


    Leaving Violet behind, Quintessa


    saw Tyrone''s car and got in. No


    sooner had she settled in than the person next to her pulled her in for a kiss, catching herpletely


    off guard.


    After the initial shock, Quintessa pushed Tyrone forcefully back against the car door.


    Lifting Tyrone''s chin, she teased, "Enjoy yourself, ''cause I''m in charge now."

 Chapter 229

    In this particr matter, Quintessa really wasn''t ustomed to letting Tyrone take the lead. She didn''t


    like feeling dominated.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone''s expression was intriguing, but the dim lighting made it hard for Quintessa to make out his


    features clearly.


    Grabbing Tyrone''s chin, Quintessa leaned down and kissed him.


    Tyrone nearly immediately embraced her. Being kissed, he thought, well, this whole role reversal thing


    wasn''t new to them; he just needed to get used to it. As long as the end result was the same, as long


    as they got to kiss, it was fine by him.


    Tyrone now thought that there really wasn''t a need to be so picky. A kiss was better than no kisses at


    all.


    Having been ustomed to a bit of mistreatment, Tyrone was content with even the smallest favor.


    If anyone knew that the esteemed Mr. York was living such a stifled situation, he''d be embarrassed


    beyond words.


    Quintessa cradled Tyrone''s face in her hands, bit his lower lip gently, and whispered, "Keep your hands


    to yourself, or else I might just chop them off."


    "I''m here to help you, for heaven''s sake. Show some manners. I am your boss, you know?" Tyrone


    rolled his eyes inwardly. His hand that had slipped inside wasn''t going toe out anytime soon; he


    could just stay still in there.


    "So this is my way of thanking you." Quintessa''s smile was seductive as she leaned in, herst words


    fading into their kiss.


    The temperature inside the car gradually rose. After a while, Quintessa pulled away from Tyrone,


    settling back into the passenger seat. She touched her lips, her eyes gleaming mischievously, "That''s


    enough for a quick thrill. Let''s go now."


    The corner of Tyrone''s mouth twitched. He felt like a damsel who had just been bullied by a ruffian,


    which was a totally bizarre feeling.


    Tyrone didn''t move, squinting as he looked at Quintessa''s slightly swollen lips. His frustration couldn''t


    be quelled; he said slyly, "You''re quite bold, aren''t you afraid I came here to abduct you?"


    Quintessa leaned in, lifting Tyrone''s chin, "What''s there to be afraid of? You''ve already changed your


    name to Tyrone Young. You''re mine, why would I be afraid?¡±


    As the unpleasant topic resurfaced,


    Tyrone''s face darkened instantly; and with a snap, he pped Quintessa''s hand away, "Sit properly.


    Stop messing around. The moment you get in the car, you start seducing me. Let me tell you, I''m not


    someone who''s loose with morals, tm a decent man, you understand?"


    Quintessa nced down, "Oh, a gentleman, really? I couldn''t tell."


    Gritting his teeth, Tyrone felt infuriated. Quintessa was a siren; and by her own admission, she was top-


    notch at teasing. Even a single nce from her could leave you. spellbound, "Just shut up for


    Don''t even open your mouet


    a''m not


    in a good mood, and right now, you need to please me. Otherwise, I


    won''t take you anywhere." Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Resting her head on her hand, Quintessa smiled seductively, "But didn''t youe looking for me?"


    Tyrone gritted his teeth so hard he thought they might break, "Fine, my bad for speaking."


    Talking with Quintessa, Tyrone always seemed to be at a disadvantage.


    Tyrone started the car and pressed the gas pedal hard. The car shot forward.


    Suddenly, Quintessa was in a good mood. Watching Tyrone''s flustered and exasperated expression


    brought her joy.


    Now, her interactions with Tyrone now felt different from before, though it was hard to say exactly how.


    It was hard to exin, hard to rify. They were entangled in a way that felt like going in circles in a


    dead-end street. But one thing Quintessa was sure of was that her initial dislike for Tyrone had


    somewhat dissipated.

 Chapter 230

    Neither of them spoke another word as Tyrone drove as if he were on a mission, the buildings and


    streetlights blurring past like phantoms.


    Quintessa''s face grew pale as she clenched her teeth, "I haven''t finished my business yet. If you dare


    drag me to death, I swear I''ll make sure you won''t be much of a man either."


    Finding a new way to torment Quintessa, Tyrone pressed the elerator harder,ughing, "If I can''t


    achieve my grand goals in this lifetime, what difference does it make whether I''m a man or not?"


    Thinking of his grand goals, Quintessa felt an urge to kick him, but realizing he was driving, she


    reluctantly withdrew her raised foot.


    Gripping the seatbelt tightly, Quintessa sneered, "Your mom was right. You never knew what a face


    was and what buttocks were since you were little, did you?"


    Tyrone felt like he was being buried by the traps his own mother set for him.


    He retorted sarcastically, "The two of you really found amon ground."


    "Yeah, your mom even told me."


    Tyrone cut her off abruptly, "Thanks, but I''d rather not know. Shut up."


    "..."


    Tyrone red at her, his eyes filled with deep resentment, "I guarantee if you say another word, I''ll pull


    over and we''ll have a roadside romp."


    They drove on in silence, finally reaching the hospital safely. Before getting out, Quintessa suddenly


    asked Tyrone, "Tyrone Young, why are you helping me?" Hearing her mentioning him as "Tyrone


    Young," Tyrone''s face darkened, "I''m a man of my word. I said I''d give you what you want, and I will."


    Quintessa paused with her hand on the car door.


    A sudden, unexpectedlyplex surge of emotions rushed through her heart.


    Tyrone kicked the passenger door, "Are you getting out or waiting for me toe up and y car


    games with you?"


    Snapping out of her thoughts,


    Quintessa red at Tyrone. It seems


    she


    thought afford a single positive


    thought about him without


    belongs to FindNovel S


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    proving himself to be a t


    Quintessa got out of the car, noticing the dent on the door that Tyrone had kicked. She sneered, "Such


    a spendthrift, not even sparing a Mercedes."


    "I''ve got the money, so I''ll kick if I want. What''s it to you?" Tyrone kicked again, raising his chin


    provocatively at Quintessa.


    She looked at him as if he was mentally deficient.


    "Keep kicking. It''s not mine anyway. It''s your business if you want to burn money but having low


    intelligence isn''t right. I''ve finally realized, you do have some resemnce to your mother."


    Leaving those words behind, Quintessa walked away.


    Tyrone stood there for a moment before it hit him. Quintessa was implying that he and his mom both


    lacked intelligences.


    Tyrone angrily caught up to her, dering his intelligence was perfectly fine, just not around Quintessa.


    Dodging nurses and doctors, Tyrone led Quintessa to Ynda''s hospital room. She was in a regr


    single room without anyone to apany her, just herself, and Sean was nowhere to be found. S


    Seeing Ynda lying there, pale, and weak, Quintessa couldn''t help but feel a pang of guilt, "I''m sorry


    for dragging you into this mess."

 Chapter 231

    Tyrone looked at Quintessa in surprise: This woman was always so kind to others; when would she


    start being a bit nicer to him?


    "No, I should be the one thanking you. If it wasn''t for you, I would never have been able to avenge my


    sister. Everything I''ve done was out of my own free will; no one forced me. Plus, it''s not a big deal now.


    The doctor said I was brought in just in time. With some rest, it won''t affect my ability to have children."


    Ynda was not only shocked to see Quintessa, but also a bit touched. After all, they rarely met or


    spoke and could hardly be called friends. They were merely allies with amon enemy.


    However, Ynda knew better than anyone that without Quintessa, she would never have discovered


    her sister''s killer, let alone seek vengeance. She would have spent her life oblivious to her sister''s fate.


    Ynda was deeply grateful to Quintessa.


    Ynda''s simple "thank you" made Quintessa feel ashamed, as initially, she had only intended to use


    Ynda as an ally, a means to an end.


    "I''m sorry."


    Ynda cut Quintessa off, "You don''t need to apologize to me. I''m doing okay. Plus, I owe you one. I


    heard about the online stuff. Thanks for covering up the fact that I was the ''other woman,'' saving me


    from public scorn."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Upon her hospital admission, everyone thought she was the "other woman." Nurses and patients


    whispered behind her back. However, once the online narrative shifted, those same people looked at


    her with a mix of guilt and sympathy, treating her much better.


    "You should really..."


    Quintessa was interrupted by Tyrone, who said, "She got you into this hospital mess, helping you out


    was the least she could do. Otherwise, she''d probably feel guilty about it forever." Quintessa looked at


    Tyrone in surprise. He didn''t let her reveal that it was actually him who had orchestrated the cover-up.


    Was he trying to make Ynda grateful to her?


    Ynda''s eyes welled up, "Thank you. I thought I''d have to spend the rest of my life drowned in


    criticism. Really, thank you."


    Quintessa didn''t know what to say. It was Tyrone''s doing, and she hadn''t really contributed anything.


    Tyrone squeezed Quintessa''s hand, silently urging her not to reveal the truth.


    For now, Ynda and she were allies, but who knew about the future?


    Regardless, they each knew the other''s secrets. Tyrone hoped Ynda''s gratitude towards Quintessa


    would be a factor in future threats, at least preventing any betrayal.


    Having navigated the cutthroat business world for years, Tyrone had be adept at understanding


    human nature, except, of course, when it came to Quintessa.


    Ynda remembered something. "Right, I have something to tell you. Be careful of Sean''s sister. She''s


    no simple character. She came to me, probing for information. She seems to suspect we''re working


    together."


    "Alright, I got it. Once you''re better, leave this ce. The farther, the better." Rachel was arguably the


    most cunning and scheming member of the Young family. Despite the family''s chaos, she had been


    silent thus far.


    She remained a lurking danger, much like a venomous snake waiting for the right moment to strike,


    known for her patience and ability to maintain herposure.

 Chapter 232

    Ynda asked, "Then, Sean."


    "Is the medicine I gave you used up?"


    "It''s all used."


    A sinister smile crept across Quintessa''s lips: "Then, there''s nothing to worry about. Feel free to leave."


    "Alright!"


    Stepping out of the hospital and getting into the car, they spotted Sean getting out of his vehicle nearby.


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow: "Sean seems to have a soft spot for Ynda. He''s been sneakily


    transferring chunks of thepany''s funds into Ynda''s ount."


    Quintessa scoffed: "It''s not about Ynda for him; he''s hoping the baby she''s carrying is a boy. Well,


    he no longer has a son now."


    Tyrone nced at Quintessa, saying, "Sean''s been making frequent visits to the detention centertely.


    I bet he''ll use Lilian''s supposed intermittent mental disorder as a reason to get her out on bail soon."


    Quintessa wasn''t surprised, "It seems this couple is about to join forces."


    They''re like a pair of cunning wolves. Realizing they''ve been outyed, they''ll definitely unite to go


    against her.


    Tyrone started the car, asking, "Need my help?"


    "How can you help?"


    "If Lilian ims she''s mentally ill, she''ll have to undergo a series of medical tests. If the results prove


    she''s perfectly sane, without any mental illness, the police won''t let her go."


    Quintessa nodded: "Right. Not only will they not let her go, but she''ll also be charged with evading


    punishment, and the prosecution will be harder on her. But how should I thank you?" Tyrone nced at


    Quintessa, "You know what I want."


    He was serious, no trace of a smile on his face.


    Quintessa met his gaze, "Okay."


    Tyrone was surprised: "You agreed so easily? That''s not like you."


    "Yeah, would you prefer a no?"


    "Ha, as if your word means anything. It''s nothing but an empty promise, a pie in the sky."


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa looked at Tyrone''s handsome profile: "What you''re giving me, I''ll give you what you want." I


    won''t owe you too much.


    She left the rest unsaid, thinking it unnecessary.


    Tyrone felt a tremor in his heart, his lips moved as if he wanted to say something but couldn''t find the


    words.


    They remained silent until they reached the hotel where Quintessa was staying.


    The car stopped, and Quintessa got out: "Thanks for tonight. I''ll go in first."


    Tyrone just saw Reubening out


    from the hotel door; he sudden


    stretched out his hand, pulled


    elne


    Quintessa into his embrace, and


    kissed her deeply. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Reuben, seeing the kissing couple, turned beet red and didn''t know whether he should stay or leave.


    Tyrone''s sudden domineering kiss


    caught Quintessa off guard. She wanted to resist, but he was


    surprisingly strong this time and et


    didn''t allow for any refusal,


    el


    overpowering her.


    Tyrone was inherently a very dominant man; it''s just that, he showed apletely different side to


    others than to Quintessa.


    Seeing Reuben dash back into the hotel, Tyrone released Quintessa, "Go back. Save your weekend for


    me."


    Quintessa caught her breath: "I don''t have time. My weekend is filled with shoots."


    Tyrone''s eyes were teasing and


    proud, "I''m your boss. If I say you have time, then you have time. You have two choices: either stay


    tonight or leave or save your weekend for me Choose for yourself."

 Chapter 233

    Quintessa looked at Tyrone coldly for a moment, raised her hand to check the time, and motioned to


    him with a chin lift. "Let''s go, follow me upstairs."


    Tyrone was suspicious, "For what?"


    Quintessa sized him up with a half-smile, "The crew has arranged rooms. You save on hotel expenses;


    my treats for the night."


    Tyrone: Damn it!!!


    He nodded, a sly grin on his face, "Well, if you''re extending such a warm invitation, how could I


    possibly refuse? Besides, after tonight, you''re still all mine for the weekend. It looks like my patience


    has finally paid off. This is an excellent proposal, and it''ll give you a chance to see just what I''m


    capable of."


    With that, Tyrone didn''t look at Quintessa, turned away from her, and headed straight for the hotel


    entrance.


    After a few steps, he looked back to see Quintessa still standing in ce. He stopped and gestured


    with his head, "Let''s go."


    Quintessa clenched her teeth. This bastard!


    She used to have the upper hand in their verbal spats. Now, not only couldn''t she have the upper hand,


    but she was also being dominated by him.


    His shamelessness knew no bounds.


    Quintessa smirked, "Sorry, boss. I just remembered something. ''Aunt Flo'' visits."


    Tyrone forced a smile, "Is that so? Then I better check thoroughly. I won''t believe a word you say."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "Must you be so ruthless?"


    Tyrone shoved his hands into his pockets, snorting. "You''ve always been ruthless. I have no choice."


    To win over Quintessa, he really wasn''t himself anymore.


    Dealing with her, the usual gentlemanly approach was useless. Being cold or aloof was a ticket to


    nowhere.


    Only being shameless and thick-skinned had a chance.


    Tyrone cursed the Young family in his heart a thousand times. He couldn''t curse Quintessa, but he


    could certainly take it out on them.


    et


    Quintessa realized Tyrone was bing increasingly difficult to handle. Where once she could easily


    provoke him, now, her tricks seemed to have no effect.


    his


    Quintessa exhaled a sigh of frustration, then walked slowly to Tyrone and ced her hand on shoulder,


    smiling sweetly at him, "You''re the boss. Your word isw. Don''t forget to pick me up this weekend."


    Thest few words, Quintessa nearly bit out. This shameless man!


    Tyrone reached out and wiped Quintessa''s face. "If you had just agreed earlier, we wouldn''t be at odds.


    You''re mine now, can an arm twists a leg?"


    Snap-Quintessa pped his hand away, turned, and walked off without a backward nce.


    Tyrone whistled at her retreating figure.


    Once Quintessa was indoors and out of sight, Tyrone finally got into his car and drove off.


    There were hardly any cars on the roadte at night. The city had already fallen asleep, quieting down,


    allowing his mind to gradually empty.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone was known in the circle for


    el


    being cold, arrogant, and aloof. He looked down on everyone, being the one who was both high above


    and highly regarded by all. S


    Yet, when facing Quintessa, he seemed like apletely different person, losing control as if he were


    possessed. He became unrecognizable even to himself.


    Sometimes, when he was alone, Tyrone pondered what he was truly after. Was he only after sleeping


    with her?


    There were countless beauties in the world, many better than Quintessa. So why was he fixated on


    her? Tyrone chuckled self-deprecatingly. What was he after, after all?

 Chapter 234

    Quintessa was heading upstairs, back to her room when she happened to see Reuben. He hurriedly


    greeted her and then dashed off.


    Quintessa wondered; this young man was usually quite enthusiastic about seeing her, what was up


    with him today?


    The next day, she mentioned to Violet that she didn''t have time over the weekend.


    Violet asked in a low voice, "Quinn, have you also been fishing for so long? Are you nning to bait the


    hook now?"


    Quintessaughed at herself, "This bait of mine, once cast, is only a matter of time."


    The calm and focus Quintessa found during filming was what she loved most. Even though it was


    exhausting, she was content dedicating herself to her work, devoid of any personal desires. This was a


    blissful thing.


    The weekend arrived quickly, and at 7 PM, Tyrone came to pick up Quintessa.


    Quintessa had thought he was ready to make a move on her, but instead, he took her straight to a


    styling studio and left her in the hands of a severaldies for makeup and to choose a dress without


    waiting for her questions.


    When she finally came out in a dress, Tyrone grimaced. He had already chosen quite an unattractive


    dress, yet she still looked stunning in it.


    He gave a reluctant nod, "This will do. You''re not getting any better than this. Let''s go."


    Quintessa looked at the dress on her and frowned, asking, "What are you up to?"


    Tyrone wrapped an arm around her shoulders, "My friend''s sister''sing-of-age party. They''ve been


    nagging me toe for a while now. You''re my plus one, to help me fend off people." Quintessa sized


    up Tyrone, "Someone trying to set you up?"


    Tyrone snorted, "Me? I''m handsome and rich, plenty of women like me, why would I need to be set


    up?"


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "If so many women like you, why drag me along? Just snap your fingers and


    you''d have a crowd."


    "But none of them will match up to you."


    Quintessa thought to herself: Those who''de running at a snap of his fingers, weren''t they much the


    same as her?


    Tyrone briefed Quintessa, "When we get there, you don''t have to speak, just smile. And if someone


    gives you trouble, don''t hold back." Quintessa just responded nomittally.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Parking the car and looking at the five-star hotel, Quintessa marveled at its extravagance. Wealthy


    people truly lived differently, who else would make such a fuss for a


    Quintessa walked arm in arm with Tyrone over the red carpetid in front of the hotel''s door. Quintessa


    nced at a beautifully erected life-size standee at the entrance, a lovely depiction of ady, with the


    name Serena Harrington. "Quite the ssy name," she thought.


    Upon entering, a melodious piano tune filled the banquet hall, and the men and women present were


    all nobility and elite.


    Some people greeted Tyrone


    immediately upon seeing him; hez


    merely nodded faintly without


    speaking a word. This could be considered rude, but everyone else appeared to find normal. S


    Quintessa thought to herself, he really did put on an act of nobility and aloofness outside.


    Many guests in the hall were secretly sizing up Quintessa; some had already recognized her as the


    actress recently scandalized online.


    A male voice sounded from behind, "Ty, you''re here. I was just asking your mom if you''de or not."


    Hearing that voice, Quintessa''s hand tightened abruptly. And Tyrone, giving her a look, forcefully turned


    around with her in his arms.

 Chapter 235

    Quintessa''s body was stiff, as that voice unearthed from her memory and, without any warning, the


    person appeared right before her.


    Time seemed to stop at that moment, and the piano and chatter around her gradually faded away,


    leaving only the figure before her toe into focus from the blur.


    The person she thought she had forgotten appeared so clearly before her, as if space and time had


    intertwined, and the moment she caught sight of those eyes, it was as if she was transported back to


    that dark, cold ce filled with sin.


    Quintessa''s grip tightened slowly, gripping Tyrone''s arm hard enough to hurt, yet neither of their faces


    showed any signs of difort.


    Tyrone felt a wave of pang, as he saw Alexanderpletely stupefied by Quintessa. Squinting his


    eyes, heughed, "Alexander, what''s wrong, you look like you''ve seen a ghost. Is my date that scary?"


    Alexander, as if he hadn''t heard Tyrone''s words, stared straight at Quintessa and eximed, "Monica."


    There was disbelief in Alexander''s eyes, a deep andplex emotion, and a tenderness he dared not


    touch.


    Tyrone squeezed Quintessa''s hand, with such force she almost thought her fingers would break.


    Quintessa came to her senses, slowly raised her head and cast an indifferent nce at Tyrone. By


    now, if she still didn''t realize why Tyrone had brought her here, she would be a fool.


    A few days ago, she had been used him as a pawn at the Lott family''s annual gathering; today, karma


    hade for her, and she couldn''t help but mock herself.


    Tyrone had yed quite well.


    Tyrone felt a sting from Quintessa''s gaze, like a thorn lodged into his flesh, impossible to pull out.


    Quintessa offered a polite yet distant smile and addressed Alexander, "Mr. Harrington, are you calling


    me? Do you know me?"


    "Monica, it really is you. I know it''s you. I can''t be mistaken," Alexander looked at Quintessa, his


    excitement, unease, and trepidation. Her denial threw him into a turmoil, unsure of what to do next.


    s?novel


    Quintessa kept her smile, "I''m afraid you''re mistaken. My name''s not Monica."


    Alexander wanted to rush forward and embrace Quintessa, yet feared being too abrupt. He kept


    exining, "Monica, don''t you recognize me? | am..."


    FindNovel


    BUMS


    Quintessa interrupted him, "No matter who you are, I don''t know you. I believe this is our first meeting."


    "Let me introduce myself, my name is Quintessa." She extended her hand.


    The momentary ecstasy Alexander felt upon seeing Quintessa suddenly cooled.


    She said she didn''t know him, yet he was certain that this actress named Quintessa was the same


    Monica he knew in Serenitia.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Alexander gradually calmed down from his excitement, and only then did he remember Tyrone.


    Seeing Tyrone, Alexander suddenly couldn''t understand him. Did Tyrone bring Quintessa as a


    provocation?


    Tyrone had known all along that the woman Alexander was looking for was Quintessa, yet now, he had


    brought Quintessa to him as a disy of defiance.


    Was Tyrone still his friend? He had trusted him so much, refraining from mobilizing his family''s power


    and asking Tyrone for help. Yet now, the woman he longed for day and night was clinging to Tyrone''s


    arm.


    From the initial ecstasy to despair, and now to anger, Alexander''s emotions were like being shackled to


    mes.


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 236

    The atmosphere among the three was eerily tense, with others nearby starting to notice something


    amiss, quietly observing the scene.


    Alexander, ever the rational one despite the whirlwind of anger and questions churning inside him,


    managed to speak, his voice rough, "Sorry, I must''ve mistaken you for someone else. Let me properly


    introduce myself, my name is Alexander."


    He reached out to shake Quintessa''s hand, but before he could touch her, Tyrone suddenly stopped


    him.


    Tyrone wrapped an arm around Alexander''s shoulder, dragging him forward, "Come on, take me to see


    Serena. Since we''re here for hering-of-age celebration, we''ve got to bring a gift."


    Alexander, however, stopped in his tracks and said coldly, "Gifts can be given at any time. Right now,


    you and I need to have a talk."


    Tyrone nced sideways into Alexander''s cool eyes. Their gazes shed like lightning strikes.


    "Alright then." Tyrone turned his head and kissed Quintessa on the cheek, "Sweetheart, find


    somewhere to sit, and don''t wander off."


    This disy of affection irked Alexander immensely, causing him to clench his fists.


    Quintessa slowly pushed Tyrone''s hand away, sparing neither man a nce as she turned to leave.


    Used and angry? Not quite. After all, Quintessa had used Tyrone more times than he had used her;


    she didn''t have the right to be angry.


    It was just she was disgusted. Tyrone knew everything but pretended to know nothing in front of her.


    Deception and use, these two are not the same.


    Tyrone nced at Quintessa''s retreating figure, frowned, and then turned to leave with Alexander.


    The two men left the banquet hall and found an isted spot at the corner of the staircase, where no


    one was around.


    Alexander was the first to throw a punch. Despite hiswyerly appearance, he had trained with a well-


    known boxer in Serenitia. Fortunately for Tyrone, he was well-prepared and swiftly dodged Alexander''s


    attack.


    He dared to bring Quintessa over, knowing well what situation he


    would face. This confrontational


    inevitable, sooner orter, they had


    to fight.


    Tyrone took off his coat and loosened his tie, and unfastened his cuffs, "I''ve been wanting to fight you


    for a while now. Let''s do this."


    Alexander threw another fast punch, grazing past Tyrone''s ear, and gritted his teeth, "You lied to me."


    "Yeah, I did," Tyrone admitted without a hint of guilt.


    "Why?"


    While dodging and countering, Tyrone said, "It''s obvious, isn''t it? Why would I willingly create a rival in


    love for myself?"


    "Didn''t you think I would find out sooner orter?"


    "Exactly, you would. So, I decided to unravel the truth myself. I wanted you to see that Quintessa is


    mine."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "You''ve known Quintessa for a long


    time, you knew she was the one I


    was looking for, yet you kept it from


    me. If you hid it, why not keep it


    el


    hidden? Why bring her into the open §Ö


    now? Alexander''s anger was


    indistinct, unable to discern Pit was


    because of his best friend''s


    concealment or Quintessa''s


    unrecognition.


    He had searched for so long, and now, the person he loved was right in front of him, yet he felt like he


    had be a joke.


    Their evenly matched brawl left them both gasping for air, neither gaining the upper hand.


    Exhausted, Tyrone leaned back, his


    chin up in


    defiance, "I''ve calcted


    it, today is an auspicious


    brought my woman for days


    I

 Chapter 237

    Tyrone nced at the furious Alexander, feeling a twisted sense of satisfaction; then he added another


    infuriatingment, "After all, you''re my friend. It''s only fair I let you meet her." Alexander was so


    angry he could barely contain himself. "Gentlemen don''t steal their friend''s love. I met Monica first.


    Tyrone, this move of yours, isn''t it a bit despicable?"


    Knowing full well that she''s his woman, yet still trying to snatch her away. Besides despicable, he


    couldn''t think of any other words.


    Tyrone''s lips curled into a mischievous smile, "I don''t know who this Monica is. I''m talking about


    Quintessa. And besides, you knew her first? That''s not necessarily true. Do you know why she went to


    Serenitia three years ago? Or what kind of men she''s been with? Well, I do. The man she was with


    three years ago was me, because she and I slept together. We were caught in the act, and the Young


    family banished her there. Otherwise, do you think you''d have met her?"


    Tyrone''s expression was unabashedly boastful, boasting that he knew Quintessa before Alexander did,


    boasting that he had a fling with Quintessa three years ago.


    His look seemed to say: I didn''t say anything about you stealing what''s mine, I''ve already given you


    face.


    "Tyrone!"


    Tyrone lifted his chin, "Doubting my word? You can ask her yourself if I was her first man. Now, who do


    you think is stealing their friend''s love?"


    The thought of Alexander and Quintessa meeting in Serenitia was a thorn in Tyrone''s heart.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    He wasn''tfortable, and he couldn''t let Alexander feelfortable either. So he was determined to


    catch him off guard today.


    "But you don''t love her." Alexander almost roared. He was usually reserved and elegant, although


    capable of sharp wit in court, he was truly aposed individual, rarely disying such emotions.


    Alexander was heartbroken. The woman he cherished-he wanted to love her dearly.


    Yet, she was taken by a wolf that appeared out of nowhere. And if the wolf had been decent, perhaps


    he could ept it, but Alexander knew Tyrone''s nature better than anyone else. How could he love


    anyone else?


    He knew Tyrone, just as Tyrone knew him.


    Alexander knew that Tyrone didn''t love Quintessa, perhaps he just wanted to possess her.


    Tyrone scoffed, "In this world, men and women don''t always need love to be together. All I know is, I


    want her, and I can''t stand seeing her with another man. Being with her is enough for me."


    Love was never something Tyrone


    thought about. He fancied Quintessa, he wanted this woman He was willing to spend money on her,


    invest time for her, and shed his dignity for her. These reasons were enough for him to desire her.


    For the first time, Alexander felt an intense urge to knock some sense into his lifelong friend, "Tyrone,


    you''ve always been like this since we kids. Why should others give you what you want? Have you ever


    thought about whether she wants it of not?"


    Tyrone remembered the look Quintessa gave him just now and smirked, "Why should I consider her?


    What I want is enough for me."


    "You''re utterly despicable and shameless!" Alexander suddenly rushed up and punched Tyrone in the


    stomach.


    Tyrone coughed in pain twice, then


    twisted Alexander''s wrist, "Alexander, if you want to make her look bad make her hit the headlines for


    another scandal tomorrow, or ruin your sister''sing-of-age party, go ahead and make a scene. I''m


    not afraid."

 Chapter 238

    Alexander couldn''t be as reckless as Tyrone; after all, it was his sister''sing-of-age party, a once-in-


    a-lifetime event. He couldn''t let it be ruined.


    With a forceful nce at Tyrone, Alexander snapped, "We''ll settle thister."


    Tyrone leisurely adjusted his clothes, "Feel free toe. Brothers settle scores openly. When ites


    to women, rity is key."


    Even if Alexander didn''te to him, Tyrone would have to seek him out to exin. They had to clear


    up the mess between them. Otherwise, this issue would never be resolved. Alexander gritted his teeth,


    "I''m not going to just hand her over to you."


    He left without another word.


    Tyrone put on his coat, adjusted his tie, and smirked, "Then let''s see if you can take her."


    Tyrone tidied up his clothes and returned to the banquet. Looking around, he didn''t see Quintessa, but


    he spotted his mother. He went over to her. "Mom."


    Mrs. York was surrounded by a group of societydies. When she saw him, she immediately pulled him


    aside, "Where have you been? And why did you bring that little vixen here?" "She''s my woman. Of


    course, I''d bring her. Where is she?"


    "Who knows where she went? No manners at all. She didn''t even greet me."


    Tyrone quickly changed the subject, "Why aren''t you wearing the jade jewelry you just bought?"


    "Vivian from FusionByte Corporation borrowed it. I couldn''t refuse when she asked."


    As they chatted, a familiar voice interrupted.


    "Ty, Auntie, long time no see."


    The mother and the son looked up to see Rachel standing before them in a light blue dress, elegant


    and poised.


    "Rachel?"


    Tyrone interrupted with a cold face.


    ne


    "Mom, go chat with your friends. You should be more discerning at yourage and not be fooled by


    appearances."


    Unfazed, Rachel warmly offered, "Auntie, let me apany you. It''s been a long time since west


    met."


    Tyrone held back Mrs. York, "Rachel, don''t you have ears? If you''re pretending not to hear, you might


    as well have them removed."


    Rachel''s face turned pale, "Ty, I


    know you didn''t want to see me.f I''d known you''d be here, I wouldn''t havee. But Ms. Harrington


    personally invited me, and I couldn''t be rude and note."


    Mrs. York whispered, "Ty, watch yournguage."


    Suddenly, someone squeezed between Mrs. York and Tyrone, grabbing their arms, "What''s the gossip?


    Fill me in."


    Rachel''s hand clenched tightly when she heard the voice, and her smile nearly cracked.


    Mrs. York, startled by Quintessa''s sudden appearance, "You scared me!"


    Quintessa affectionately said,


    "Auntie, it''s been a few days since west met. You look even more beautiful Thank you for lending me


    your clothesst time. Next time I visit could you make me your famous barbecue ribs? I''ve been


    craving them for days."


    Mrs. York pursed her lips, "Who''s going to cook for you? I cook those for my son."


    "You love your son, your son loves me, so you love me too, isn''t it the same?" Quintessa turned her


    head, "Isn''t that right, darling?" Tyrone pinched Quintessa''s cheek, "You have a point. Where did you


    disappear to?"


    Quintessa shot him a cold nce, "My heart was hurt by a bastard, so I went to find a good man to


    heal. Is there a problem with that?"T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 239

    Tyrone''s smile froze for a moment. Well, he was scolded.


    He shamelessly remarked, "Don''t worry, that bastard will apologize to you when he gets back."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "An apology? I couldn''t care less about that, unless you give me a kiss."


    Mrs. York eavesdropped on their conversation. As soon as she heard Quintessa''s words, she


    immediately said, "Hey, little troublemaker, this is Serena''sing-of-age celebration. Don''t create a


    scene here. Making a scene at home might be excusable, but not outside."


    Mrs. York had just finished speaking when her son lifted Quintessa''s chin and gave her a peck, "Be


    good, no more pouting."


    Mrs. York pointed at them, "Great, you two are ganging up to annoy me."


    Quintessa shook Mrs. York''s arm yfully, "Come on, Auntie. You should be happy seeing us this in


    love. This way, you might get to spoil your grandkids sooner rather thanter." Mrs. York snorted but


    didn''t pull her arm away.


    The three of them behaved like a close-knit family, leaving Rachel feeling like an outsider, invisible and


    ignored.


    Jealousy and anger red within her. Everything Quintessa had should have been hers.


    Tyrone was supposed to be hers, and Mrs. York was supposed to be kind to her, but Quintessa had


    stolen it all.


    Seeing Quintessa and Mrs. York


    together made Rachel realize that


    Mrs. York had always been distant


    with her, in contrast, although


    kindness towards Quintessa


    ??


    seemed disdainful, her eyes showed


    no contempt.


    Rachel felt an unprecedented threat, as if she was about to lose everything.


    She vowed to change this situation.


    Suppressing her hatred towards Quintessa, Rachel forced a smile, "Quinn, still holding a grudge


    against the family? It''s been a while since you''ve been home; everyone misses you."


    Only then did Quintessa turn to her. Her smile was mocking as she sized Rachel up, "Oh, Rachel''s


    here too. My apologies, I didn''t notice you. But then again, it''s not my fault. You''ve changed so much


    from three years ago, with those deep wrinkles, you look even older than Auntie. If we stand together,


    people who don''t know us might think we''re mother and daughter."


    Tyrone couldn''t help butugh out loud, "Mom, she''s saying you look young."


    Even Mrs. York, naive as she might be, knew that this was the Young family members bickering. She


    wanted tough but restrained herself, scolding Tyrone, "I am young, and I don''t need your


    commentary." Rachel''s face grew even paler; Mrs. York''s words clearly sided with Quintessa.


    Rachel calmed herself and spoke with a gentle smile, "Let bygones be bygones. No matter how big the


    grudge, it''s been three years. After all, we''re family, right? Please,e home tomorrow."


    Rachel seemed like a true elder, kind, and considerate, gentle and generous, as if she could forgive all


    of Quintessa''s past mistakes.


    Quintessa''s smile widened, "The past? Are you talking about when I seduced your man and got caught


    in bed with him?"


    Under Mrs. York''s astonished gaze,


    Quintessa shrugged and quipped, "If that''s the case, then yes, I did wrong. But I don''t intend to change.


    In fact, I''m just going to keep doing what I''m doing. So, Rachel, about your man-l use him every day.


    And he''s really handy."

 Chapter 240

    Quintessa looked into Rachel''s eyes, knowing she was holding back her anger and frustration, but


    dared not explode. She deliberately said, "But then again, he''s not your man anymore, is he? Or


    maybe, he was never really yours to begin with, right Rachel?"


    Rachel''s face drained of color, her body trembling slightly, eyes reddening but stubbornly holding back


    tears. Her forced "strength" was heartbreaking.


    "Quinn, does it have to be like this between us?"


    "What else did you expect?"


    Rachel bit her lip, saying, "Can''t we go back to how things were when we were kids? Why can''t we


    reconcile? I''m willing to give Ty to you, as long as you stop being so stubborn, okay?"


    Quintessa''s lips curled into a sinister smile, "Clearly, that''s a ''no.'' This is just who I am, this is just how


    despicable I can be. I told you three years ago, as long as I''m around, none of you will have peace.


    That still stands. Seeing you doing so well, Rachel, it just doesn''t sit right with me. If I''m not happy, then


    naturally, why should you be?"


    Rachel''s hand tightened around her purse. She had tried subtly to tarnish Quintessa''s reputation in


    front of Mrs. York, but Quintessa had be even more unyielding.


    Rachel knew it would be difficult to provoke Quintessa now.


    Her heart filled with anguish, she said, "Quinn, why have you be like this? If your mom knew what


    you''ve be now, it would break her heart." "Rachel,e here, it''s been so long. Let''s hug it out."


    Suddenly, Quintessa embraced Rachel, her stiletto heel pressing down hard on Rachel''s instep.


    Rachel winced in pain but bit her lip. The Young family had already fallen apart; she couldn''t ruin the


    Harrington family debutante''s ceremony.


    Quintessa''s heels were thin enough to kill, and she exerted all her strength, grinding into Rachel''s


    instep, as if her heels could pierce through to her sole. Quintessa''s hand reached up Rachel''s back,


    suddenly grabbing a handful of her hair and yanking hard, tears pricking at Rachel''s eyes from the


    pain.


    Pressing against Rachel''s ear,


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa''s voice was chilling, "Don''t


    n


    you dare mention my mom, you''re not worthy. Rachel, drop the act. Three years ago, I took your man;


    three yearster, I can take


    everything from you." Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Quintessa released Rachel, stepping back, a strand of hair in her hand.


    With a sigh, she blew the hair towards Rachel''s feet, lips curling, "Sorry, Rachel, got a bit carried away


    there. I''ve just identally plucked a few of your hairs, but you''re always so forgiving, you surely won''t


    hold it against me, right?"


    Rachel shook with pain, unable to speak. Her features twisted in agony and hatred.


    Mrs. York stood nearby, dumbfounded, while Tyrone watched Quintessa coldly.


    This woman never seemed to learn to truly rely on others; she stood alone, covered in blood, refusing


    to ask for help.


    Tyrone felt a pang, a sense of blockage in his heart.


    "If you won''t speak, then you forgave me. Have fun tonight."


    Turning around, Quintessa''s


    et


    demeanor changed instantly, pulling Mrs.


    "Darling, Auntie, let''s find a seat. My feet are killing me."


    on vork and Tyrone along, cooing,


    Quintessa dragged someone away with one hand, ncing back at Rachel with a cold smile. Rachel,


    this was just the beginning.

 Chapter 241

    Watching the backs of the three, Rachel couldn''t maintain herposure any longer. She gritted her


    teeth, her body trembling, and hissed venomously, "Quintessa, just you wait. Let''s see how long you


    can keep that smug smile."


    Quintessa had stepped on Rachel''s left foot so hard that the skin broke and bled, possibly even


    damaging the bone. Every movement was excruciatingly painful. Her hair was also tousled, making her


    look like a madwoman.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ignoring the mocking nces from those around her, Rachel hobbled towards the restroom. She


    needed to tidy up her appearance.


    She couldn''t let all her previous efforts go to waste now.


    After sitting down, Mrs. York nced at Quintessa, lips twitching as if she wanted to speak, then closed


    her mouth again.


    Quintessa could guess what was on Mrs. York''s mind. She must have unintentionally scared this


    innocent olddy. Quintessa asked, "Auntie, are you afraid of me?"


    "Don''t worry. Auntie, you''re so sweet, so good. How could I bear to harm you?"


    Mrs. York snorted and turned away, ignoring her.


    After a while, feeling the need to speak her mind, Mrs. York turned back hesitantly, "I saw Rachel didn''t


    say anything. Why did you..."


    Quintessa interrupted Mrs. York, asking, "Auntie, as a woman, how would you react if someone slept


    with your beloved man?"


    Mrs. York thought for a moment, "I''d probably want to kill her."


    Quintessa smiled, putting an arm around Mrs. York''s shoulder, "Exactly. She clearly wanted to kill me


    yet still smiled so sweetly and spoke so kindly. Isn''t that terrifying?" Mrs. York thought about it. It


    actually made some sense!


    Seeing Mrs. York''s conflicted expression, Quintessa sighed, "Auntie, you''re truly blessed."


    "What?"


    Quintessa smiled, "To be able to remain so naive, so carefree. How blessed."


    She wished she could be naive and innocent, unaware of the harshness of the world, but someone


    would have to protect that innocence.


    Mrs. York red at Quintessa and Tyrone, "I used to worry that my son would get tired of you, thinking


    someday you''d be the one in tears. Now realize, neither of you is any good. I was worrying over


    nothing. Who knows who''ll end up crying in the end."


    Tyrone sighed, "Mom, can we not say things like that?"


    Quintessaughed, "You are absolutely right. Who knows, maybe it''ll be your son crying in the end."


    Mrs. York brushed off Quintessa''s hand, "Don''t talk to me. I can''t stand seeing you."


    "Ty, Cecilia, why are you two sitting here? I''ve been looking everywhere for you." Serena''s vibrant voice


    suddenly rang out, like a lively warblering out of its nest. Even Quintessa couldn''t help but look


    over.


    She was arm in arm with Alexander,


    her smile innocent and her


    demeanor full of youthful grace. The two shared a striking resemnce. Following them were a stylish


    middle-aged couple. Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Quintessa instantly guessed that these were the Harringtons, with Serena being the center of attention


    today.


    Mrs. York stood up with a smile, taking Serena''s hand, "My dear, you look absolutely stunning today.


    You''ve grown into a fine youngdy in the blink of an eye."


    Quintessa watched them exchange


    pleasantries, her eyes on Serena. The 18-year-old girl was youthful and beautiful, her eyes pure and


    her whole demeanor exuded happiness and innocence. Her eyes were not the same as Quintessa''s,


    which reflect the worldly experience and hardships.


    No, not everyone''s eighteen could be carefree like this. At 8, Quintessa''s gaze held moreplexity


    than Serena could fathom at 18.

 Chapter 242

    Feeling theplex gaze from Alexander, Quintessa appeared as if she hadn''t noticed him at all,


    remaining calmly seated and too indifferent to move.


    Tyrone nced coldly at Alexander, then wrapped his arm around Quintessa''s waist in a possessive


    gesture, as if dering to everyone who she truly belonged to.


    When Serena caught sight of Quintessa, her face lit up with curiosity. "Ty, who''s thisdy? Oh, I


    remember now! She''s that famous actress. Wow, she looks even more beautiful in person! Could I get


    your autographter?"


    Mrs. Harrington, seeing her daughter''s excitement, gently tapped her, "Don''t make a fuss, dear. A


    youngdy should show some restraint."


    Noticing Tyrone and Quintessa''s close posture, Serena lowered her head and said, "I think I did


    something wrong." She yfully stuck out her tongue and scratched her head in embarrassment.


    "A few days ago, I ran into Rachel while shopping. She said she woulde to mying-of-age


    ceremony with Ty. I happened to have an invite on me, so I gave it to her. I didn''t expect... I''m sorry."


    Mrs. Harrington hugged her daughter tenderly, "Sweetheart, you can''t me yourself. You''re so pure-


    hearted, how could you know the cunning of some women?" "But this is kinda awkward."


    Mrs. York said with aforting smile, "It''s not your fault."


    Mrs. Harrington said, "I apologize for the scene, my Serena is just too kind-hearted. She believes


    anything anyone tells her."


    Mrs. York looked at Serena approvingly, "Kindness is good. I like kind-hearted children."


    Quintessa, resting her chin on her hand, thought to herself that she was far from kind-hearted. So, it


    made sense that Mrs. York didn''t like her.


    After exchanging pleasantries for a while, the Harringtons took their leave.


    As she was leaving, Serena turned back to Quintessa, "I''lle find youter for that autograph."


    Quintessa smiled, thinking Serena was indeed quite adorable.


    Mrs. York turned to lecture Quintessa, "Youngdies should be like that, you know?"


    Quintessa spread her hands, "I know,


    but what''s the use of that? If I were like her, I wouldn''t have been able to sleep with your son, what a


    loss that would be."


    If she were like Serena, she''d have been devoured without a trace left behind.


    The mention brought back a flood of unpleasant memories, and Quintessa suddenly felt irritable.


    "I''m going to the restroom. Care to join?"


    Mrs. York turned away, "No, thank you."


    "Then, I''ll go ahead."


    Tyrone called out, "Quinn."


    Upon hearing his voice, Quintessa stopped and said without turning back, "I don''t want to talk right


    now."


    She headed straight for the restroom, looking for someone to vent her frustrations on.


    Rachel was probably in there fixing her makeup after the mess Quintessa had made of her.


    Quintessa smirked coldly. Rachel, don''t hurry; I''ming.


    et


    As expected, Quintessa found Rachel in the restroom. Quintessa didn''t go in but leaned against the


    door of the women''s restroom,


    waiting for her toe out. Content.


    belongs to FindNovel


    After a while, after Rachel had finished fixing her hair and tended to a scrape on her leg, she came out.


    Suddenly, Quintessa stuck out a foot, causing Rachel to fall forward with a scream, ending up face-first


    on the floor.


    Quintessa''s voice rang out overhead,


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Oops, sorry there, Rachel. Weren''t you watch your steps? You


    my foot hurt!" Content be made


    FindNovel


    to

 Chapter 243

    Rachel felt every bone in her body scream as her knees and elbows collided with the sleek marble


    floor. The pain was so intense it made her tremble all over.


    Upon hearing Quintessa''s voice, she shuddered, as if caught in the same curse as Miranda''s outburst


    that night at home. Quintessa, that wretched woman, was like a curse cast over her, one she couldn''t


    shake off no matter how hard she tried.


    Despite their relentless efforts to bring her down, here she was, thriving, better off than any of them.


    Rachel was all too familiar with Miranda''s misfortunes. She knew Miranda couldn''t enter the Lott family


    anymore. The word around town was that Miranda had started sleeping with boys since junior high,


    had abortions in college, and had gone through neen boyfriends-a promiscuous woman indeed.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Trapped in her own world, Miranda seldom ventured outside. She spent her days holed up in her room.


    Abandoned by Sean, and with Lilian in detention, she was losing her mind, talking to herself, acting out


    in fits.


    But Rachel was determined not to end up like Miranda. Quintessa might be her curse too, but she


    wouldn''t be as foolish as Miranda. She''d find a way to rid herself of Quintessa, to ensure she couldn''t


    be a threat anymore.


    With a scoff, Rachel attempted to rise, but Quintessa stomped on her back, pinning her down. The pain


    elicited a muffled groan from Rachel. Gritting her teeth, she reached out to grab Quintessa''s ankle in a


    desperate attempt to topple her.


    Unfortunately, Quintessa was firmly nted, not only resisting Rachel''s tug but also stomping on her


    wrist, nearly breaking it.


    Shaking with pain, Rachel struggled a few times before tremblingly saying, "Quintessa, the things


    you''ve done with Ynda, don''t think I''m oblivious. Do you really believe you''re that clever? That


    you''ve left no trace?"


    Quintessaughed, "Trace? Oh, please. That''s hrious. What have I done? Rachel, don''t scare me.


    I''m quite timid, you know! If you find any trace, call the police to arrest me. After all, I am guilt-free."


    Of course, she felt guilt-free. What she was doing now paled inparison to what they had done to


    her mother back then. Rachel seethed, "Wretch, I won''t let you revel for long. If you think you''ve made


    my life miserable, wait till I return the favor."


    Quintessa, still stepping on Rachel''s foot, squatted down, looking at Rachel''s grimacing face and


    smiled, "Oh, Rachel, if I could keep Miranda from marrying into the Lott family; rest assured, I can do


    the same to you with the Yorks. No, no, no, not just the York family, but all the elite families. Rachel, I


    remember everything from our childhood!"


    Rachel''s expressions changed drastically on the spot, fearful unease shing in her eyes. Yet, she


    quickly regained herposure, "Want to use me of having a dozen boyfriends like Miranda, of


    having abortions after sleeping around? Quintessa, pleasee up with something new."


    Quintessa chuckled, pulling out a sharp eyebrow razor from her purse.


    "Rachel, darling, you''re not a virgin anymore, long gone are those days. Yet you still pretend to be a


    goddess all the time. Aren''t you tired? Besides, at your age, even goddesses be leftovers. With


    your looks, what can youpete with me for? Wrinkles, perhaps?"


    The sight of the sharp razor sent shivers down Rachel''s spine, "What are you nning to do?"


    Quintessa blew on the de, "Simple. If I find you repulsive, why keep you around? To disgust myself?


    It''s not like I''m out of my mind."

 Chapter 244

    "You dare? There are people everywhere. Even if you kill me, you won''t get away."


    Quintessa shrugged, "Try me, and you''ll find out. You know me. Once I go crazy, I don''t care about


    anything." Rachel felt panic-stricken. Of course, she knew Quintessa was a lunatic, a devil without a


    shred of sanity.


    Rachel thought she was truly going to die. She heard a tearing sound and felt a sudden chill on her


    chest. Looking down, she saw a long cut made by a razor de. Rachel reached to touch it, but


    Quintessa pinned her hand down tightly: "Quintessa, what are you up to?"


    Quintessa continued cutting and said, "Rachel, at your age, going bare suits your wild temperament


    better."


    Soon, Rachel''s long dress was reduced to ribbons, which Quintessa grabbed in a bunch.


    "Rachel, thanks for showing up tonight. Otherwise, who would I vent to? I hope you can endure longer


    than Miranda did, or else whom will I y with?"


    Quintessa whistled, feeling much better, and threw the cloth scraps into a trash before leaving.


    However, she hadn''t taken two steps before seeing Alexander standing at the door of the men''s


    restroom. Quintessa''s face fell, her previous good mood evaporating instantly. The smirk on her face


    faded away as she ignored him and walked on.


    "Monica."


    Quintessa heard the call from behind and quickened her pace.


    There had never been a Monica in this world!


    Upon returning to the venue, Mrs. York grabbed Quintessa: "You''ve been in the bathroom for so long.


    Why didn''t youe back?"


    Quintessa smiled and linked her arm with Mrs. York''s: "Are you worried about me?"


    Mrs. York rolled her eyes at her. "Humph, who''s worried about


    You came with my son. If you


    et


    se


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    trouble, it''s the York family''s name at to


    stake." Content belongsame at


    FindNovel


    Quintessa bit her lip, her eyes twinkling as she looked at Mrs. York.


    Mrs. York instinctively took a step back: not a man. Don''t look


    me


    e that, it won''t work. You did t


    belongs to FindNovel


    e trouble, did you?" et


    Quintessa nodded, feigning innocence: "Auntie, what if I really did cause some trouble? What should I


    do?"


    Mrs. York''s face flushed with anger: "I knew you this little demon is trouble."


    Before she could finish, she hurriedly dragged Quintessa to find Tyrone, pulling her son away from the


    business partners he was chatting with. Mrs. York whispered urgently, "Quick, before anyone notices,


    let''s get out of here."


    "What''s wrong, Mom? Why the rush?"


    Mrs. York red at Quintessa:


    "What''s wrong? Isn''t it because


    this little demon''s mischief? Sret


    caused trouble. Hurry, let''s go before we get caught."


    Quintessa felt aplex mix of emotions-bitterness, warmth, and sadness.


    Mrs. York could have just left with Tyrone, ignoring her. Whatever trouble Quintessa caused, it really


    had nothing to do with the York family.


    But Mrs. York didn''t even ask what trouble she caused. She just pulled her along to run.


    "Mom, hold on. Let''s first ask Quinn what trouble she caused. Besides, do we, the York family, really


    need to worry about getting into trouble?" "Oh yeah. What did you do?" Mrs. York suddenly


    remembered she hadn''t actually asked Quintessa what she had done.


    "Quintessa touched her nose, "I tore off Rachel''s clothes."

 Chapter 245

    Mrs. York''s legs weakened, and she grasped Tyrone''s arm, "Son, let''s quickly take this troublemaker


    away. If we don''t leave now, who knows what might happen next."


    Suppressing a smile, Tyrone supported Mrs. York, "Mom, it''s not that big of a deal. I thought she had


    committed a murder or something."


    Mrs. York red at him, "You wish she hadmitted murder? Hurry up, don''t dilly-dally. This is none


    other than the Harrington family''s debutante ball. If this blows up, it''ll look bad for both our families. And


    you and Alex are still good friends, how can you be so thoughtless?"


    After her scolding, Mrs. York turned to Quintessa and said, "And you!"


    Quintessa took Mrs. York''s hand, smiling reassuringly, "I promise to only cause trouble when you''re not


    around."


    "That''s even worse."


    Tyrone''s lips curved upwards; his mom didn''t really dislike Quintessa that much. This olddy had a


    sharp tongue but a soft heart.


    With one arm around each woman, Tyrone said, "Let''s head home."


    "Mom, don''t we need to say goodbye to anyone from the Harrington family before we leave?"


    "Why bother? If we tell them, and something happenster, both families will me us. Once we''re


    home, I''ll call Mrs. Harrington and say I''m feeling unwell."¡± "Mom, you''re truly wise. Your IQ seems to


    have increased."


    "Shut it. Just give me less headache in the future."


    Quintessa couldn''t help but smile. She wasn''t afraid of trouble or retaliation, but being protected like


    this felt warmly familiar.


    In light of Mrs. York''s presence, Quintessa thought she could be a bit more forgiving towards Tyrone''s


    deceit today.


    As they left the hotel and got into the car, Tyrone had barely started the engine when Quintessa spotted


    a figure approaching them in the rearview mirror.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa''s face cooled gradually. Two secondster, she said, "Stop the car."


    Tyrone saw it too, his face turning


    even air than Quintessa''s. He


    hadn''t intended to stop the car but Quintessa directly pulled the handbrake herself. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Quintessa pushed open the car door and said to Tyrone''s back, "You stay in here."


    After closing the door, she walked towards the figure.


    Mrs. York leaned forward, "Son, what''s going on?"


    Tyrone''s voice was chilling, "It''s nothing."


    Mrs. York nced outside, then back at Tyrone, "Oh, a rival in love, huh? This little vixen is quite good


    at seduction."


    "Mom, why are you smart at the wrong times? When you shouldn''t be smart, your brain works so well?"


    Whack, Mrs. York pped Tyrone on the forehead, "Talking as if you''re so clever. If she doesn''t let you


    come


    out, then don''t go. Why are you so obedient to her?"


    Tyrone nced at his watch, "Let''s wait. I''ll give her ten minutes to talk."


    He figured Quintessa needed to clear the air with Alexander. He could afford to be generous.


    "Oh, I''m so irritated, and you''re ying Mr. Nice Guy."


    "Mom."


    "Monica." Alexander''s voice sounded somewhat elusive in the dark.


    Quintessa regarded him with a cold stare, "I''m not Monica. I''m Quintessa."


    Facing Alexander''s gentleness, Quintessa''s coldness was like a sharp de.


    Alexander nodded, "Alright, I won''t call you Monica. Quinn, I''ve been looking for you for a long time.


    Why won''t you admit that we know each other?"


    S

 Chapter 246

    Alexander had always dreamed that if he found his ''Monica'', he''d hold her tight, shield her from the


    storms, and ensure she''d never have to live in fear or on the run, nor face a day of being hunted again.


    But what he hadn''t expected was that when they met again, she hadpletely changed; she was no


    longer the girl in his memory.


    Quintessa scoffed with irony: "Admit what? That we know each other and then tell everyone we met in


    Serenitia''s red-light district? And let everyone think I''m a woman who walked out of there selling


    herself?" Alexander responded with anger: "Things wereplicated back then. We were seeking


    refuge, and were forced to hide there. It wasn''t anything shameful. Why do you degrade yourself like


    this?" Tears nearly escaped Quintessa as sheughed: "Alexander, how can you be so naive? Once


    you''ve been to a ce like that, it doesn''t matter if you did nothing-people will see you as tainted. No


    one will believe your exnations. People only believe what they want to believe."


    Each word from Quintessa stung Alexander deeply. Her words were sharp and showed a wisdom


    beyond her years. Despite her being just a girl in her twenties, she had experienced more than many


    would in a lifetime.


    Alexander nodded: "Fine, if you don''t want to revisit those days, I won''t mention them again. Let''s start


    over, okay?"


    Quintessa remained silent. Alexander was a good man, but she, on the other hand, was not.


    Thinking it over, Quintessa decided that it was time to let go, and turned to leave.


    "Quintessa, why didn''t you tell me your real name back then?" Alexander called after her.


    Quintessa scoffed: "You didn''t tell me you were Alexander, either."


    Alexander hurried to exin: "I thought using ''Alexander'' abroad would be pointless."


    Quintessa turned back: "Likewise, when I met you, I didn''t n on being long-term friends. I never


    intended for you to really know me. Today you''ve seen just how ruthless and unscrupulous I can be.


    That''s who I am."


    "You''re not..."


    "That''s exactly who I am. How well do you think you know me?"


    Gazing into Quintessa''s eyes, Alexander said: "The Quintessa I know isn''t like this, and shouldn''t be."


    Quintessa coldly replied: "Sorry to


    disappoint, but this is who I am, Everything before was just as fake e name ''Monica''." Content


    belongs to FindNovel S


    "But I don''t believe."


    "Alexander, don''t be so naive. In this world, not everyone can remain unspoiled."


    In the car, Mrs. York nudged her somber son: "Son, if you don''t act now, you might lose her."


    "Lose her? She''d have to choose someone over me first."


    Tyrone shoved the car door open and strode toward Quintessa.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    As he walked, he carelessly


    his


    over Quintessa''s


    Shrs: "What''s taking so l Quintessa? Are you done yet?"


    1


    Suddenly, Quintessa wrapped her arms around Tyrone''s neck and tiptoed to kiss him.


    Tyrone immediately responded, embracing Quintessa in a passionate kiss. Alexander''s face turned


    pale in an instant.

 Chapter 247

    From the moment Alexanderid eyes on Quintessa earlier today, only a little over an hour has passed.


    Yet, for him, it felt like seasons hade and gone. Deep down, he harbored a hope that what


    transpired between Quintessa and Tyrone was merely one-sided, from Tyrone''s end. He clung to the


    belief that Quintessa was unwilling.


    But now, Quintessa had driven a dagger straight through his heart with her actions.


    Tyrone was well aware that Quintessa was using him as a pawn, but in this scenario, he was willing. If


    being a pawn meant fending off a strong rival for her affection, he was more than ready. Even if


    Quintessa hadn''t made a move, Tyrone harbored this intention, determined to make Alexander back off


    for good.


    After releasing Tyrone, Quintessa turned to Alexander and said, "I want fame; I want to be the hottest


    actress in the country, who could stand on the highest award tforms. Obviously you can''t give me


    what I want,, but he can. Don''t try to find me or understand me anymore. We can''t be friends." "Let


    alone lovers." she added silently to herself.


    Tyrone wrapped his arm around Quintessa''s waist and said to Alexander, "We''ll be taking off. See ya.


    Tell Uncle and Aunt I said goodbye; since my mom''s feeling under the weather, we''re heading out."


    As Tyrone and Quintessa turned to leave, Alexander called out, "Quintessa."


    But Quintessa simply said, "Go back to Serenitia."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Watching Tyrone lead Quintessa away, both dressed in matching ck outfits, they seemed so in sync,


    like a couple made for each other.


    A pang of pain grew in Alexander''s heart. To the fading figures in the night, he whispered, "But I was


    willing to wait for you."


    He knew that Tyrone might not offer her love or happiness, but he could.


    Quietly approaching Alexander, Rachel said, "Thanks for today, Mr. Harrington, I''ll never forget your


    kindness."


    Alexander just walked away without a word, as if he didn''t hear her.


    Rachel clutched the fabric of her cleaning uniform, gritting her teeth.


    The car ride was eerily quiet, with Mrs. York''s eyes darting between the two young people, her gaze


    alight with the mes of gossip.


    Mrs. York remarked, "So, you''re not


    satisfied with snagging my son, and


    are now entangling with a


    Harrington kid too. You real too


    much."


    Quintessa smirked, "Like I told you, I''m attractive and skilled at drawing men in if I want, no man is out


    of reach. You''ve only seen Alexander. Give it time, and I''ll show you more."


    Mrs. York''s face flushed with indignation, "You''re shameless!"


    Laughing, Quintessa replied, "Exactly, or how else would I end up with your son?"


    "You two... Humph, birds of a feather," Mrs. York snorted, and turned her head away.


    Quintessa''s smile slowly faded.


    Tyrone, who had been focused on driving, didn''t engage in their bickering. He was calm, almost like he


    was part of the backdrop.


    Upon reaching the York residence, Tyrone opened the door, letting Mrs. York out first, then extended


    the same courtesy to Quintessa, "Your stop."


    As she stepped out, Quintessa


    caught Tyrone''s arm, and turned to


    Mrs. York, "Auntie, I''m borrowing your son for the night. I''ll return him by tomorrow."


    Mrs. York looked on guard, "What are you nning?"


    Quintessa smiled, "Don''t worry, I won''t bite."

 Chapter 248

    Tyrone rolled his eyes, "Stop harping on about it. If you''re so bold, why don''t you take a shot? Bet you


    wouldn''t dare. I''ll strip down and get ready right this minute if you do."


    He then turned to Mrs. York, "Mom, you should head inside. Weren''t you saying you felt under the


    weather? Go rest up."


    Mrs. York, ncing at Quintessa, still looked visibly worried. She grabbed Tyrone''s arm tightly, "No


    way. How about, you lend her to me for the night then?"


    Quintessa found Mrs. York''s innocence endearing; rarely had she seen someone of her age maintain


    such purity. She chuckled, shaking her head at Mrs. York, "Auntie, I''m afraid that won''t work. Well, two


    women can''t exactly manage some things"


    Mrs. York''s face flushed red.


    Struggling to hold back hisughter, Tyrone patted Mrs. York''s arm, "Mom, go inside. If anyone''s


    eating, it''s your son here!"


    Mrs. York harbored some doubts, "Can you even handle it?"


    Well aware of how tough Quintessa could be and doubting her son''s capabilities, she pondered if she


    should whip up some energy-boosting soup for him.


    Tyrone frowned, "Mom, please, just go."


    Mrs. York hesitated, shooting nces between Quintessa and Tyrone.


    "Rest assured, Auntie. I promise your son wille back in one piece."


    Mrs. York was conflicted, "Just don''t be too harsh, okay?"


    Quintessa waved her off, "Don''t worry, Auntie."


    Tyrone called out in a cool tone, "Mom."


    "Fine, I''m going. Hmph." Mrs. York huffed, leaving the two and stepping inside.


    Quintessa turned and got into the car, which slowly drove away from the Young family''s residence.


    Tyrone asked, "Where to?"


    Quintessa scoffed, "Getting a room? Hope you''ve got the cash."


    Tyrone chuckled, "I''ve got all sorts of money, just not for that. I like it when you''re the one treating. So,


    what do you say?"


    Quintessa rested her head on her hand, "Is my ce done up yet?"


    "It''s ready, but remember, it''s my ce. I''m yourndlord."


    Quintessa brushed Tyrone''s face with her hand, "Let''s go then. At your ce, my treat."


    That seemed to carry


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    n underlying


    message, which made Tyrone unexpectedly blush. Having been around Quintessa for so long, he''d


    long since lost any sense of shame.


    et


    After a moment of silence, Tyrone couldn''t help but ask with a hint of sourness, "You''re really heartless


    towards Alexander, aren''t you? Don''t you feel sorry for him?" S


    "Why drag him into a mess?" Quintessa mused.


    "And what about me?" Tyrone probed.


    Quintessa gave him a look, "What do you think?"


    Tyrone felt a tightness in his chest. His mom really had a lot to answer for.


    He floored the gas pedal, and the car sped into the night.


    Pulling into Harmony Retreat, Quintessa felt as if it had been ages since shest returned.


    Stepping into the elevator, she pressed the button for the 16th floor, and they began their ascent.


    Tyrone was burning with questions.


    Quintessa suddenly ced a finger on Tyrone''s lips, tiptoed, and kissed him, whispering, "Shh, save it


    for the bed."


    Tyrone''s mind went nk; this sudden turn of events felt too good to be true for him, "You better not


    back out now. No turning back."


    Ding, the elevator doors opened, and


    Tyrone, with Quintessa in his arms, passionately kissed all the way to their room. He punched in the


    door code, swung open the door, and as it shut Quintessa caught a glimpse of Snow through Tyrone''s


    shoulder.

 Chapter 249

    Snow stood in shock as the door to Quintessa''s apartment closed with a soft click, leaving him on the


    outside; he was suddenly forgetful of why he hade back here tonight. Quintessa burst into


    laughter, a sound that seemed to say, "Life is full of unexpected reunions!"


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    There was a time when Snow had caught her in a fiery exchange on a balcony with someone else, and


    now, here she was, catching nces of Quintessa and Tyrone, unable to tear away from each other.


    Was this what they called karma?


    Tyrone took a bite of Quintessa before asking, "Why are youughing at a time like this?"


    Quintessa yfully twirled a strand of Tyrone''s hair, "I was just thinking that, it seems like a pretty good


    choice to spend this beautiful night with a handsome guy like you.''


    With a swift motion, Tyrone scooped Quintessa into his arms, "You should''ve made that choice a long


    time ago. Think of all those wonderful nights we''ve wasted." Quintessa''sughter filled the room, "So,


    tonight, I''m borrowing you, and not your mom."


    "


    As Tyrone found the light switch on the wall, the room was suddenly bathed in light. The once simple


    one-bedroom apartment resembled a luxurious presidential suite, with no scent but that of fresh paint.


    Quintessa, looking around at the unfamiliar room, couldn''t quite identify the emotion brewing inside her.


    This ce used to be her only refuge, and now it felt like she had lost even that.


    Caught in her thoughts, she barely noticed it when Tyroneid her down on the bed.


    Tyrone, hovering over her, pressed, "Quintessa, you could at least pretend to notice me more. You''re


    always lost in thought; what''s that about?"


    Quintessa wrapped her arms around Tyrone''s neck, "Just thinking about what position might be best."


    Tyrone chuckled, "Sure, like I''d believe that. I must be out of my mind."


    He yfully lifted the hem of Quintessa''s dress, "Anyway, I''ve been waiting for so long, I can wait a bit


    longer. Tell me, what was the deal with you and Alexander in Serenitia?" Quintessa raised an eyebrow,


    sensing Tyrone''s impatience with the question.


    Looking into Tyrone''s deep eyes, she exined, "Isn''t it normal for two young people to find sce in


    each other''spany amidst danger and sin, and develop a fondness for each other?"


    But that fondness hadn''t had the chance to evolve into something more before reality shattered it into


    pieces.


    Once the crisis was over, he returned to his high society life, and she returned to her battlefield.


    Perhaps it would''ve been better if they had never met.


    Tyrone felt a sourness bubbling up inside him, a bitterness that seemed to spread all the way to his


    mouth.


    Quintessa''s casual remark left


    Tyrone feeling blocked, stabbed, and sour. She and Alexander had shared the hardest times together,


    while he had been lost in a life of excess back home: Tyrone wanted to be angry, but he realized he


    had no right to be.


    It was almostughable that Tyrone, of all people, found himself without the right to be upset.


    But he could provide what Alexander couldn''t provide to her. Tyrone looked into Quintessa''s eyes, "You


    want fame, and you want to be a star; I can give you all of that."


    Quintessa silenced Tyrone with a gentle touch, her breath warm and inviting, "Right now, talking isn''t


    what you''re best at."


    Her hands found their way under Tyrone''s shirt, and her fingertips, which had been roughened by use,


    created a tingling sensation on his skin.


    Tyrone''s breathing grew heavy as he roughly tore away Quintessa''s dress.


    But suddenly, Quintessa flipped their positions, pinning Tyrone down with


    a confident move, and ced a finger on his lips, "I told you, tonight, I''m the one making the requests."

 Chapter 250

    With their clothes strewn across the floor, the ck satin shimmered coldly under the light. Despite the


    temperature in the room climbing, it did nothing to warm the chill off the fabric. There was no


    awkwardness, no shyness-everything just fell into ce. Memories flooded back, as vivid as if it were


    happening right in front of her.


    Three years ago, their entanglement in that hotel room was so clear in her mind.


    There was no intimacy closer than what they shared at that moment.


    Quintessa held Tyrone close; her nails were perfectly manicured and painted a deep, enchanting ck,


    so beautiful yet so dangerous. As she ran her fingers down Tyrone''s back, her sharp nails and


    undeniable strength left trails of red on his body, drawing lines that soon welled with blood.


    Quintessa gazed up at the crystal chandelier above them. The ceiling wasn''t high, but right now, it


    seemed so far away.


    Sweat dripped from Tyrone''s forehead, and soaked into the sheets. He''d craved this moment for so


    long, and the taste was as delicious as he''d imagined. Yet, strangely, he felt it wasn''t enough. What


    was he still missing?


    Pushing Tyrone gently, Quintessa sat at the head of the bed, and pulled out a pack of cigarettes from


    the drawer. As she lighted one, the tip glowed in the dim room, with smoke swirling around her. Her


    cheeks flushed, and her allure was barely concealed within the smoke, like a siren.


    After finishing her cigarette in silence, Quintessa spoke, "I owe you a lot, Tyrone. I''ve used you more


    times than I can count. Thanks for not holding it against me. Since I got back, it had been your support


    that''s helped me find my footing in the entertainment industry. Thank you."


    Her voice was raspy and calm as a stillke, yet very serious and sincere. But Tyrone couldn''t help


    feeling uneasy.


    Suppressing his difort, Tyrone chuckled, "What, have a change of heart?"


    Quintessa smiled, "Yeah, you could say that."


    She stubbed out her cigarette and headed to the shower.


    Tyrone thought about following her but remained seated. He needed to ponder over her words. Why


    did they feel off?


    As the water washed away the fatigue and traces of their encounter, Quintessa cleaned herself up,


    changed into fresh clothes, and returned with damp hair.


    Putting on her shoes under the light, she said, "From now on, we''re just employer and employee."


    Tyrone''s expression darkened, "rify what you mean."


    Anxiety crept into Tyrone''s heart, like he was holding sand in his palmehe was desperate to grasp it


    tighter, yet felt powerless as it slipped through his fingers.


    "You got what you wanted. Let''s consider we''re even now."


    Quintessa''s newly formed trust in Tyrone shattered the moment she saw Alexander. It confirmed her


    belief that no man was trustworthy, and the only person she could trust was herself.


    She wasn''t angry at Tyrone, just being incredibly calm, feeling there was no need to continue their


    endless entanglement.


    Tyrone''s gaze hardened, "You wish, Quintessa. Even? You think you can just walk away?"


    Quintessa opened the door, and


    et


    turned to Tyrone with a faint smile,


    f you want an adult conversation, I''m here. But if it''s about ying with emotions, count me out." S


    And with that, she stepped out into the night, leaving a tangled web of emotions and unanswered


    questions behind.Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.

 Chapter 251

    With the door closed, the room, still simmering with passion moments ago, suddenly felt cold. It was as


    if we''d leapt from the scorching equator straight into the icy embrace of Antarctica.


    Life has this dramatic ir, and it always exceeded your expectations. You deploy every trick in the


    book, thinking you''ve finally won, only to lose it all in the blink of an eye.


    No, he never really had her. Quintessa was never truly his, not even in their moments of intimacy. That


    was her inviting him.


    Tyrone thought he''d be furious, but he wasn''t. Instead, he found himselfughing, which was a


    testament to his mother''s naivety that clearly ran in the family.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    He knew Quintessa wasn''t the type to give in so easily. It was like a pie falling from the sky for him to


    getting such benefits from her after she ran into Alexander; it stunned him into forgetting her true


    nature.


    There he was, lying alone on the massive bed, feeling like there was a thorn stuck in his throat. He


    couldn''t swallow it, nor could he spit it out. It just sat there, hurting.


    A boss and an employee. Have you ever seen a boss go to such lengths for an employee? Spending


    money like water, betraying friends, and now, even losing his dignity? Quintessa, she truly did a


    number on him.


    Tyrone nodded with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes, which remained dark and cold.


    "Physical intimacy, huh? Fine, it''s all good. After all this, why the hell should I be polite?"


    Tyrone reminded himself not to be angry. What was there to be angry about? But damn, he felt used!


    Quintessa pulled out her sunsses from her bag and stepped into the elevator, hitting the button for


    the ground floor. Just as the doors were about to close, a hand stopped them.


    Lifting her head, Quintessa saw Snow, who also sported sunsses in the middle of the night as if to


    out-cool each other.


    "Good evening," Quintessa greeted with a slight smile.


    "Good evening," Snow replied, stepping in.


    As the elevator doors finally shut, Snow leaned to the side, eyeing Quintessa and spotting the hickey


    on her neck. Feeling an


    indescribable frustration, he said, "I thought I''d have to wait until dawn, but it seems this guy was


    nothing special. Want to try me?"


    Quintessa''s expression remained unchanged, her lips curved in a faint smile. "Thanks, but no thanks.


    You''re not my type."


    Snow suddenly pulled Quintessa into an embrace. "But you''re my type. What do I do?"


    He sounded so serious, with his lips pursed.


    Seeing Snow''s handsome face through her sunsses, Quintessa replied lightly, "Then you''ll have to


    endure."


    "Not into me, but Mr. York is more your taste?"


    Quintessa shook her head, "It''s


    different with him. He''s Mr. Tyrone York. With him by my side, what resources can''t I have? With him,


    it''s not about liking or eating; it''s different."


    Snow removed Quintessa''s sunsses. "I can offer you things too."


    Quintessa did the same, looking straight into Snow''s eyes, unyielding. "But can what you offerpare


    to Mr. York?"


    Snowughed and let go of Quintessa. "I thought you weren''t like this."


    "Sorry to disappoint. This is who I am."


    Snow reverted to his carefree demeanor. "How about mixing the big fish with the small fries?"


    As they reached the ground floor,


    Quintessa left him with onest


    remark Sure, once I''m tired of feasting on the big catch and ready for a change of taste, I''lle


    looking for you."

 Chapter 252

    Snow chuckled mockingly to himself; it was a rare experience for him. Usually, it was the female


    celebrities clinging to him, but now he was the one being rejected. How low had he sunk? Quintessa


    stood at the entrance of her apartmentplex, dialing Manny toe pick her up.


    But Manny didn''t answer his phone. A car rolled out from theplex, and Quintessa stepped towards


    the curb.


    The car stopped beside her, and the window rolled down to reveal Snow''s face: "Need a ride?"


    "No, thanks." Quintessa was wary of Snow''s intentions, feeling it was best to keep her distance from


    him.


    Snow suddenly felt like a failure. He shrugged, "Come on. I''m not about to force a woman who''s turned


    me down. Besides, I wanted to chat about my new song promo."


    After a moment''s hesitation, Quintessa got into the car.


    Arriving at the hotel where her film crew was staying, Quintessa got out, "Thanks, see you around."


    Snow called out to her, "Quintessa, are you sure you won''t consider me?"


    Quintessa gave him a smile, "I''m not the right kind of woman for you. I shouldn''t let you treat me with


    the standards of a good man. I''d rather be a trouble to someone like Tyrone. Thanks anyway." Feeling


    dejected, Snow pondered why he kept hitting a wall with Quintessa.


    He pulled out his phone, switched to night mode, took a selfie, and posted it on Twitter with the caption,


    "Looking roughtely?"


    It was past midnight, and Snow''s Twitter lit up withments and likes.


    Fans eximed, #InsomniacRewards, oh my God, Snow, too hot to handle#


    Snow smirked at the phone. What good was being handsome if she wasn''t interested in him.


    Back in her room, Quintessa got a


    et


    call from Violet, who bomber


    with chatter until Quintessa dropped the bomb, "I slept with Tyrone."


    Violet shrieked, "What?"


    "That''s it. I''m exhausted. We''ll talk in the morning." Quintessa hung up; she was too tired to care about


    anything else but sleep.


    The next morning, her door was being pounded on. Manny stood there, drenched in sweat, "Sis, check


    your phone, you''re trending again."


    "What now?" Quintessa grabbed her phone to see the headline: #SnowQuintessa DatingConfirmed#.


    The article imed: God Snow was


    seen leaving a residentialplex with a woman, identified as


    Quintessa, with whom he had been rumored to be involved. They drove to a hotel together, hinting at a


    , §Ö live in rtionship. A blurry figure in the background of Snow''ste-night selfie was identified as


    Quintessa, solidifying their rtionship status.


    Living together?!Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Meanwhile, at the York residence, Mrs. York was furious, tossing her phone aside, "What nonsense is


    this?" "What''s wrong, ma''am?"


    Mrs. York fumed, "These gossip rags


    always made up stories. She was with my sonst night, sharing his food I refuse to believe she''d be


    with anyone else. Absolute rubbish."

 Chapter 253

    Wilma picked up the phone, "Maybe you should give the young master a call?"


    "Should I, though?"


    "Yes, after all, Ms. Young is hisdy."


    "You have a point." Mrs. York stretched out her hand, and Wilma passed the phone to her with a smile.


    Taking the phone, Mrs. York dialed Tyrone''s number.


    But there was no answer. Mrs. York frowned and dialed again.


    Finally, after the fourth attempt, the call connected.


    "Mom, I''m in a meeting."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The refusal was clear; he was busy, and whatever it was could wait. But Mrs. York seemed not to catch


    his drift at all, blurting out, "Oh, you''re in a meeting? Well, I was just wondering about that little vixen


    and the singer''s scandal flying high again. Were they caught living togetherst night? Wasn''t she with


    you? She was practically in your pocket, and you let someone snatch her away?" "Alright, I got it."


    Tyrone''s voice was calm and cool, tinged with a hint of frost.


    Mrs. York, eager for gossip, didn''t get the reaction she expected from her son. Since he was little,


    Tyrone had always been possessive; he wouldn''t let anyone touch what was his. "Son, are you even


    listening?"


    "I''m in a meeting."


    Mrs. York stomped her foot in frustration, "That little enchantress spent the night with two men, and


    you''re still in the mood for meetings?"


    Tyrone cut her off, "Mom, I thought you didn''t like her? Why so interested?"


    Mrs. York paused, then huffed, "It''s not about liking her or not. It''s embarrassing if it gets out that my


    son lost to another man. How am I supposed to face my card-ying friends? I don''t want that."


    "I see!"


    "Son, can you handle it or not?"


    Tyrone''s expression darkened, "Mom, you can hang up now."


    After ending the call and tossing the phone aside, Tyrone addressed the room, "Let''s continue."


    James remained silent; he nced at Kevin, who seemed lost in thought.


    Tyrone coolly swept his gaze over the executives, "I don''t care how many all-nighters you pull or what,


    you do. If you can''t produce a


    satisfactory merger one


    swnove


    consider your year-end bonuses gone."


    FindNovel


    Everyone gasped; their spirits plummeted at the thought of losing their bonuses.


    James hurried after Tyrone. Though he was aware of the hot gossip involving Quintessa Snow''s


    cohabitation that had topped the morning''s trending list, hecked the courage to ask about it. Carrying


    his apprehension, James ventured, "Mr. York, should I maybe have someone..."


    Tyrone sat down, "Tell her if she wants to clear the rumors, she cane and spend another night."


    James shuddered.


    Meanwhile, Quintessa was on set;


    ???


    the scandal altered how people looked at her. Just days ago, she was seen getting cozy with the


    president of York Financial Group, and now she was linked with Great Snow Jackson. The speed of


    these developments prompted whispers of her ying the field.


    During a break, Violet quickly pulled Quintessa aside, "What exactly happenedst night? Weren''t you


    supposed to have sealed the deal with Mr. York? How did you end up with Great Snow Jackson?"


    Quintessa took a sip of water, "After I left Tyrone, I ran into Snow."

 Chapter 254

    Violet was at a loss for words for a moment, "I mean are you just lucky, or are you insanely lucky? You


    hooked up with Mr. York, and what are you doing still here? At least stay till sunrise."


    Getting a moment with either Tyrone or Snow was as hard as hitting the jackpot. But Quintessa, oh,


    she not only had a fling with one hotshot but bumped into another right after. Violet was tempted to jinx


    her love life.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa recalled the previous night with a smile, "Couldn''t stay till sunrise, ''cause I kicked him out."


    "Who did you kick out? Can you be a bit clearer?" Violet was puzzled.


    Quintessa grinned, "I slept with Tyrone once and then gave him the boot. I told him, from now on, we''re


    just boss and employee."


    Violet poked Quintessa''s forehead, feeling exasperated, "Are you out of your mind? I sold my studio for


    a dime, hoping you''d snag Tyrone. It wasn''t about the bread; it was about making a statement, you


    know."


    Quintessa hugged Violet, "Relying on a man is never as good as relying on oneself. I''ll get the Oscar


    and make you proud."


    "You''re gonna be the death of me."


    Manny rushed over with Quintessa''s phone, "James is calling."


    After hesitating for a moment, Quintessa answered. James delicately conveyed Tyrone''s message.


    Quintessa casually said, "Oh, tell him this scandal has boosted my fame. I''m quite pleased, no need for


    rifications."


    She tossed the phone back to Manny, as she had made up her mind. No man was worth more than her


    own strength.


    James, staring at the dark screen, was dumbfounded. How was he supposed to tell Mr. York that she


    didn''t want to sleep with him? James nervously ryed Quintessa''s words to Tyrone.


    "Ms. Quintessa Young seems to feel this way. She''s quite happy with the current situation," James


    said.


    Tyrone, feeling amused, replied, "Happy? Heh. Alright, I''ll give her more reasons to be happy."


    Thinking she could just walk away from him like that? As if it was that easy.


    Snow was actually pleased to see the scandal, he hadn''t expected a selfie to capture Quintessa in the


    background. After contemting for a while he realized that it was their first private photo together and


    even he had set it as his phone wallpaper.


    Snow''s agent was ready to ride the wave to promote his new album. But before they could finalize their


    n gossip media released photos of Snow hugging and kissing someone else, iming that Snow''s


    real girlfriend had appeared. The previous scandal seemed like a


    publicity stunt!


    FindNovel


    Snow''s fans were devastated. They would have preferred it to be true with Quintessa; at least she was


    a looker.


    Seeing the leaked photos, Snow was speechless. The timing indicated that these were old.


    Without guessing, he knew who was behind it, "Caught in the crossfire because of the York family''s


    prince. Damn it."


    Snow called Quintessa, "What do we do? Your prince has put me in a spot again. His moves are so


    underhanded. How will you make it up to me?"


    Quintessa, browsing Snow''s scandal,ughed, "He targeted you, you deal with him!"


    "What''s the use? Is he someone you


    can reason with? The best revenge


    is to take you from him. Today


    officially tell you, Quintessa, m pursuing you."

 Chapter 255

    Snow finished his deration and then added, "Quintessa, I can''t wait for the day you be my


    girlfriend."


    Snow had a thing for Quintessa. She was special. He wasn''t the conservative type. Having been in the


    entertainment industry for years, he could see that Quintessa wasn''t as tarnished as she imed. On


    the contrary, people like her often had purer hearts than most.


    Snow had been undercut by Tyrone several times, which had made him hesitant to pursue Quintessa


    seriously before. Their previous interactions had seemed more yful, but this time, he was serious.


    Another one of Tyrone''s schemes had finally pushed him to make up his mind.


    He was set on pursuing Quintessa.


    Snow was a musical legend, with a voice that was both maic and rich. He meant every word.


    Quintessaughed, "Girlfriend? Are you sure you''re not just looking for a fling?" Snow couldn''t help but


    press, "Quintessa, why do you have to...?"


    Quintessa helped him finish his thought, "Why do I have to make it sound so sordid, right? But tell me,


    where in this world can you find a truly beautiful rtionship?"


    Snow earnestly replied, "I like you, for real. I want to pursue you, that''s the truth. Yes, I want to get back


    at that so-called prince by doing so, but that''s just an excuse to give myself the courage to say these


    words. Do you have any idea how much bravery it took me to say that?"


    Quintessa didn''t know what Snow saw in her. She considered herself a thoroughly bad person. Did


    someone like her deserve love?


    "I can offer you my friendship, the purest emotion I can give. But I can''t give you romantic love."


    Love was something she couldn''t offer anyone. She didn''t even love herself; how could she love


    someone else?


    Snow smiled, "It''s okay that you told


    me the truth. You''re willing to be my


    friend, which means you at least


    nichne


    don''t hate me. Whether you ept me or not is up to you. Whether I pursue you or not is up to me.


    And whether you can eventually love me is also up to you. If I do everything I''m supposed to, and you


    still don''t fall for me, then it''s not your fault. It just means that I wasn''t good enough for you to fall in love


    with."


    Quintessa sat silently for a long time; she was deeply moved by Snow''s words.


    It wasn''t her first time being


    confessed to, but Snow''s approach


    was unprecedented. His passion, his


    willingness to pursue her


    ver


    irrespective of the oue, was


    truly enviable.


    FindNovel


    Quintessa doubted whether she could ever be like Snow, able to embrace a rtionship so fearlessly


    with a warm and passionate heart.


    "What are you daydreaming about?" Violet nudged Quintessa, who had been staring off into space.


    "Snow just called to say he''s going to pursue me."


    "Oh, hasn''t he always been into you?"


    Quintessa nced at Violet, "It was all teasing and testing the waters. But now, he''s serious. What do


    you think he sees in me? Does he even know who I really am?"


    "Are you asking me? As if you don''t


    know how charming you can be, Violet teased, though she would''ve normally taken this as good news.


    But with Mr. York looming in the background, how could Snow dare?


    "He doesn''t know, does he? Everyone online is saying your supposed fling with him is just a publicity


    stunt orchestrated by Mr. York, right?"


    Quintessa sighed, "He''s pursuing me precisely because he knows it. It''s Tyrone''s way of challenging


    him."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 256

    "Dude, what kind of mess have you gotten yourself into? I''m telling you, you can''t just go messing


    around with God Snow. You went and ditched Mr. York all on your own, but you gotta think about


    whether you can actually kick him to the curb. He''s our boss, girl. He''s still got your contract."


    "I''m not stupid," she said, as she had assured Tyrone that it was just about clearing up some things,


    keeping it casual, no strings attached.


    Violet nudged her again, "Not stupid? If you were smart, you would''ve stayed the whole night, sealed


    the deal, and bagged that paycheck in one go."


    Quintessa justughed, asking, "So, what''s up?"


    "Oh, right, almost forgot the main reason I came by. After Roxanne Ferber got cklisted, ''Shadows of


    the Past'' needed a new leadingdy. Director Frost wants you toe in for some reshoots, and he


    said he''s nning on giving your character a few more episodes."


    Quintessa nodded, "Sounds good. I''m almost done with my scenes here anyway. I can swing by Zion


    City, and it won''t dy the wrap-up of ''Requiem.""


    "You sure you''re not worried about Mr. Yorking after you for ditching him?"


    Quintessa shook her head, "Not sure."


    Violet let out a moan, "My money!"


    Quintessa patted her solid shoulder, "I won''t be making it back for you, but I''ll take you along for the


    ride, we''ll show those jerks."


    "Deal!"


    "You''re not gonna spill about God Snow to Tyrone, right?"


    Violet shook her head, "Of course not. The boss is too busy to care about my gossip."


    But no sooner had she said that, Violet was dialing James'' number.


    Over at Snow''s, just after he hung up, his agent, with his fingers twisted in frustration, stomped around.


    "Are you out of your mind? Messing with that siren? What if Mr. York finds it out and decides to


    retaliate?'' Snow was in a good mood, "Then let him."


    "I''ve heard that guy is ruthless, who stops at nothing."


    Snow casually snapped a photo for Twitter, "Oh, just remind me to order a bouquet of roses every day."


    His agent, pacing in exasperation, "Are you even listening to me?"


    vel?


    Snow nodded, "I am, but like I said, if I''m pursuing Quintessa, I''ve got to show some real effort, right?


    Otherwise, she might think I''m not serious."


    "God Snow, that woman is trouble. Just starting out, she''s already attracting so much negative


    attention. She''s like a


    trouble."


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    for


    Snow stood up, "Perfect, I''ll help clean up her image. Oh, and the new album, it''s about time we


    announced the release date." "Where are you off to now?"


    "Chasing the girl of my dreams. Time for a new look."


    Filled with determination, Snow was


    ready to deploy all his charm and


    experience to woo Quintessa. Flowers, choctes, whatever it took to show his resolve. Content


    belongs to FindNovel S


    But in his excitement, Snow had underestimated Tyrone, a man who had already stabbed him in the


    back more than once.


    It wasn''t until Snow once again witnessed Tyrone''s audacity that he realized his agent was right: the


    man was a relentless scoundrel.


    One day, Snow stepped out to find his Porsche totaled, smashed up on the curb.


    A Bentley pulled up, and Tyrone smirked behind the wheel.


    "Your car was in my way," he sneered.

 Chapter 257

    Snow was absolutely livid, swearing under his breath. "Seriously?!"


    He''d had several run-ins with Tyrone before, but Snow had never really made a big deal out of it.


    Firstly, Snow knew Tyrone was out of his league in terms of capabilities. Sometimes, it just wasn''t worth


    the hassle over trivial matters.


    Secondly, Snow thought, why bother at all?


    But this time, Snow couldn''t hold back. Tyrone was clearly picking a fight. And now that Snow had set


    his sights on Quintessa, there was no reason to step aside for Tyrone. After all, is there such a thing as


    friendly rivals?


    Snow smirked, saying, "Mr. York, we''re all adults here. Why stoop to such childish antics?"


    Tyrone''s lips curled into a devilish smile. "Indeed, it''s very adult of me to just hit your car."


    Snow was at a loss for words. So, if they weren''t adults, Tyrone would''ve gone after him personally, not


    just his car.


    Snow felt at a loss for words to describe his current state of mind. He''d been in the entertainment


    industry for a decade and had met all sorts of people. But this level of brazen shamelessness was rare.


    Snow nodded silently, "Mr. York, if you''re a real man,e at me directly. What''s this sneaky behavior


    about?"


    Tyrone looked at Snow as if he were an idiot. "Isn''t hitting your car upfront enough for you?"


    Snow patted his waist, and cursed under his breath for not bringing a knife with him today.


    Tyrone nced at the time, knowing the cops would be here soon. "I''ll have someone deliver the


    compensation to your studioter. Goodbye. We''ll have plenty of time for a direct confrontationter.


    We''ll talk next time."


    With that, Tyrone stepped on the gas, leaving Snow in a cloud of exhaust.


    Snow felt like that he had definitely picked a bad day to step out. He turned to look at his new car,


    which he had bought specifically to impress Quintessa, now reduced to scrap metal. The fire in his


    chest refused to die down. How could Tyrone be so shameless?


    But this was just the tip of the iceberg in terms of Tyrone''s shamelessness.


    Tyrone pulled out his phone and made a call. Before Snow could figure out what to do next, he found


    himself surrounded by a crowd of over enthusiastic fans in the middle of the street.


    He was trapped there for over an hour before the cops finally came to his rescue.


    Back at the office, Tyrone tossed his car keys on the table and called for James.


    James walked in nervously, sensing Tyrone was in a slightly better mood.


    "Mr. York, what can I do for you?"


    Without looking up, Tyrone said, "I identally hit Snow''s car. Go ahead and deliver thepensation


    to him."


    James was stunned. The boss was showing kindness to his rival by offeringpensation? That


    wasn''t his usual style.


    With doubts swirling in his head, James nodded, "Alright, I''ll take care of it."


    As he turned to leave, he heard Tyrone add, "Wait, convert the entire amount into coins."


    James almost choked. Coins?


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    He turned back cautiously, "Um, how much was his car worth?"


    Tyrone replied dismissively, "Just a small SUV,


    Give him $200,000. I can''t let.


    Fone


    Give about $100,000 or s say bully others." Coelongs


    to FindNovel


    James felt like dropping to his knees. Boss, are you kidding? $200,000 in coins?

 Chapter 258

    James tried to sway his boss''s opinion, "Mr. York, that''s like $200,000, isn''t it a bit much? Exchanging


    that would be a nightmare. Even if we hit the bank, I doubt they''d have $200,000 in coins ready to go.


    Maybe we stick to bills?"


    Probably having actually taken James''s words to heart, Tyrone nodded thoughtfully for a moment


    before saying, "You''re right, that does sound problematic."


    James eagerly agreed, "Exactly, exactly."


    He had never found his boss so agreeable before, but reality struck him hard in the next moment.


    Tyrone said, "Then let''s go with Monopoly money instead. A stack should do. Deliver it personally and


    convey my sincerest apologies."


    James felt like he''d been pped across the face. How na?ve are you, he thought. Tyrone, of all


    people, was filled to the brim with mischief; would he be so kind-hearted?


    James regretted even trying to reason with his boss. Sincerely, he suggested, "Let''s stick to coins,


    though."


    Tyrone looked at him, "Wouldn''t that be a hassle? Don''t trouble yourself too much."


    James shook his head vigorously, "Not at all, not at all. Thank you for your concern, boss."


    Delivering coins might earn him a beating, but Monopoly money? That was practically a death


    sentence.


    What kind of boss had he gotten himself involved with? Being sent off to get thrashed, he still had to


    thank his boss for the mercy of not killing him.


    "Go on, get that to Snow today. Don''t let him think I''m skipping out on a debt."


    Feeling at a loss for words, James nodded absent-mindedly as he rushed out, nearly bumping into


    Kevin, who grabbed him, "What''s the rush?"


    James just threw out two words: "Seeking trouble."


    "Ha. Seeking trouble."


    Rescued from his enthusiastic fans,


    Snow was covered in scratches. His manager, both angry and


    sympathetic at the sight of the


    marks on his neck and chin,


    et


    said, told, you not to mess with that siren. How could Mr. York just stand by while you chased after his


    girl? God, Snow, just give it up and back off."


    Snow took a selfie, then wrote a few lines advising his fans to be rational about their fandom. Today''s


    incident nearly caused a stampede, and he didn''t want any of them getting hurt.


    Snow said, "It''s toote now."


    "You''re really courting death."


    Snow opened Quintessa''s Twitter and liked a photo she posted today.


    He saved Quintessa''s picture, saying, "Exactly. If not seeking death, how else to prove my true love for


    Quintessa? If Tyrone''s meddling doesn''t shake me, then I shouldn''t miss out on her. Otherwise, I''d


    regret


    it for life."


    FindNovel


    His manager, jumping in frustration, eximed, "You''ll be the death of me! Quintessa will be the end of


    you!"


    Suddenly, Snow asked, "What if I marry her? What do you think?"


    The manager, looking as if he''d seen a ghost, screamed after a few seconds, "Then I might as well


    die!"


    The manager''s phone rang. After the call, he said in shock, "Mr. York has sent overpensation. It''s


    downstairs."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    They looked at each other, and Snow got up to head out.


    Outside, several trucks were parked there like mountains.


    Seeing this, Snow was dumbfounded. What was Tyrone up to now?

 Chapter 259

    James caught a glimpse of Snow and hesitated for a moment when he saw the helmet inside the car.


    Eventually, he decided against wearing it and mustered up the courage to approach Snow.


    He had drafted something to say, and with a voice full of emotion, he began, "Mr. Jackson, I''m an


    assistant to Mr. York. Unfortunately, Mr. York identally damaged your car. On his behalf, I would like


    to extend our deepest apologies and hope you can forgive us."


    After finishing his speech, James bowed slightly to Snow, ready to y the humble card first.


    Snow gave a slight chuckle, "Let''s talk apologiester. Can you first tell me what''s all this about?"


    James touched his nose, feeling a bit guilty, "This, uh, it''spensation."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Snow scoffed, "Compensation? Did Mr. York have you empty out the city''s banks or what?"


    James nodded, confirming that was almost exactly what happened. He had indeed exchanged nearly


    all the coins from the city''s banks and even went to various supermarkets and malls to gather enough


    coins, amassing a total of 200,000 in coins.


    James couldn''t bear to think of Snow''s reaction upon seeing a vehicle full of coins.


    Snow smirked, wondering if Tyrone was trying to unt his wealth.


    "Well then, let''s see how generous Mr. York really is."


    James gestured to the drivers to open the back.


    He warned Snow, "You might want to brace yourself."


    Snow and his agent were curious about how much money was involved to necessitate several trucks.


    As the doors opened, it was like entering a new world; the glittering mass nearly blinded Snow, which


    was a sight to behold.


    Snow shielded his eyes and took a moment before looking again, unsure of how to react. He felt that


    no human expression could urately convey his feelings at that moment. James asked, "200,000, not


    a penny less. Would you like to count it?"


    Ignoring him, Snow picked up a coin and said, "Today, I''ve finally seen the epitome of shamelessness,


    and it''s none other than Tyrone. What''s this? Trying to bury me with money?"


    Hearing his boss being insulted, James felt ufortable. "Well, it''s not right to speak like that. Mr.


    York has owned up to his actions without denying his responsibilities, hasn''t he?"


    His agent, finally snapping back to


    reality, pointed at James and


    ne


    eximed, "This is outrageous. What is this supposed to be? 200,000 coins? Come on, count them


    one by one. I''m telling you, we''re not letting this go. I''m calling the police right now."


    James sighed, "Feel free to call the police, but let me be clear, my boss might have hit your car, but we


    didn''t dodge the debt. Not only did wepensate, but we also paid than the original value of Mr.


    Jackson''s car by tens of thousands. How can this be seen as bullying? No matter where you take this,


    we stand in the right."


    Suddenly, Snowughed, watching James and his agent at each other''s throats. Feeling amused, he


    pulled out his phone, sandwiched a coin between his fingers, and took a selfie with the mountain of


    coins behind him. Then he sent it to


    Quintessa.


    Such an extraordinary scene was too good not to share with her.

 Chapter 260

    Quintessa was midway through her makeup routine when her phone buzzed. ncing at the


    notification, she saw the message from Snow - just a picture. Zooming in, she had her lips twitched in


    amusement. Had Snow lost his mind? Why on earth had he gotten his hands on so many coins?


    After sending the picture, Snow turned to James and said, "Could you please ry a message to Mr.


    York for me? Tell him I deeply appreciate his pensation.'' I love it, actually. I''ve been wracking my


    brain for a creative gift for Quinn, and now I know. I''ll gift her 999 coins every day. It''s like saying


    ''forever and always,'' persistently, day after day. Who knows? After a couple hundred days, she might


    just be moved enough to ept me. Tell him thanks for the brilliant idea."


    James: if you''re looking for trouble, I won''t stop you.


    Returning to the office, James faithfully passed along Snow''s message to the boss, half-expecting a


    volcanic eruption of anger. Instead, the boss simply smirked sinisterly and asked, "Does he send her


    flowers every morning?"


    "Yes."


    "Find out which florist."


    "Got it. I''ll have that florist shut down immediately."


    Tyrone gave a dismissive look. "Really, do I seem like that petty of a man?"


    However, from that day forward, the flowers Quintessa received each morning were always wilted,


    nearly bereft of petals, and emitted a peculiar odor. This led Quintessa to tell Manny to keep any


    flowers from Snow far away from her.


    Unaware of the silent battle between the two men, Quintessa was focused on her own life. After


    wrapping up a segment of the Requiem series, she nned a trip to Zion City. Before leaving, she


    decided to hit the mall for some personal shopping - it had been a while since shest updated her


    wardrobe.


    "You''re a public figure now. You should pay more attention to your appearance," Violet had advised.


    Quintessa was one of those people who could make anything look good, even if it was just a bed-sheet


    thrown over her shoulders.


    After a two-hour shopping spree, Quintessa invited Manny to grab a coffee at the caf¨¦ downstairs.


    No sooner had they entered the caf¨¦ than a familiar voice reached Quintessa''s ears.


    "When I lent you that jewelry, Vivian, it was genuine diamond. And now, what''s this? A fake? Did you


    think I wouldn''t notice?"


    "Mrs. York, are you using me of swapping your real jewelry for fakes? Let''s get some perspective


    here. I just borrowed it, and now you''re saying I switched it out?


    That''s basically using m


    of


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    theft! Our family, the Wests, might not be as influential as the Yorks, but we''re still reputable. How can


    you nder me like this?"


    "Exactly, Mrs. York. You can''t just bully people because the York family has a big name. Vivian could


    even say you gave her a knockoff in the first ce." Quintessa removed her sunsses and saw Mrs.


    York from a distance, whose face was pale and eyes reddening with helplessness and indignation.


    Amused yet indifferent, Quintessa thought to herself, "What a mess. Not my circus, not my monkeys."


    She turned to leave but halfway to the door, something made her turn back.


    Mrs. York wasn''t known for her argumentative skills. When surrounded and pointed at, used of


    trying to frame others, she looked


    both aggrieved and usation


    unable to counter the usations. Suddenly, someone sat beside her and draped an arm around her.


    "What''s all the excitement about?"


    Seeing it was Quintessa, Mrs. York seemed to find her backbone; her eyes were brimming with tears


    as she looked at her.


    With a sigh, Quintessa hugged Mrs.


    York''s shoulders. "Auntie, long time no see didn''t expect to bump into you here. What''s going on?


    Who''s giving you a hard time? Tell me, and I''ll tear them a new one."

 Chapter 261

    Mrs. York, with a heart full of grievances, clung to Quintessa''s arm as if she had finally found her


    comrade-in-arms in a battle for justice. Her pitiful demeanor was heartbreaking. Quintessa sighed. It


    was tough seeing an elderlydy like Mrs. York being pushed around at her age. Clearly, some folks


    thought they could take advantage of her kind nature and force her into a corner. Quintessa gave her


    shoulder a reassuring pat, "I''m here for you. What''s there to worry about? It''s just a piece of jewelry. Let


    me take a look."


    Across from them, Vivian eyed Quintessa suspiciously, "And who might you be?"


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Who am I? None of your business. And you, borrowing jewelry from


    Mrs. York? Please, you don''t even look like you could afford such fine things."


    Vivian, stung by the remark, retorted while pointing at Mrs. York, "So, Mrs. York, you''ve brought


    reinforcements, huh? Think we''ll back down because of that? Let me tell you, your nder against me


    won''t just be brushed aside. If ites to it, we''ll settle this at the police station."


    With a ng, Quintessa grabbed a coffee cup from beside Mrs. York and mmed it on the table. The


    coffee sshed high, drenching Vivian''s brand-new Louis Vuitton bag. Vivian screamed, "My LV, oh


    my. It''s new, how dare you."


    Quintessa spread her hands and pulled out a couple of napkins to wipe her hands, "Oh, was that on


    purpose? My bad, it was an ident. Vivian, right? Since you''re from the well-respected West family,


    you need not make a mountain out of a molehill for a bag. Surely, you''re not so broke that you can''t


    afford a little mishap."


    Quintessa picked up an emerald ne from the table, "Let''s see what''s wrong with this jewelry. Not


    to brag, but my family specializes in these kinds of gems. I can spot a fake a mile away. Trying to fool


    Cecilia? No chance."


    Mrs. York watched Quintessa, feeling bewildered. Since when was she in the gemstone business?


    Quintessa''s words made Vivian and her group visibly uneasy. Vivian huffed, "Go ahead, check it. Real


    or fake, it doesn''t matter to me. I know what I know."


    Quintessa smirked; her fingers traced the emerald ne before holding it up to the sunlight. She


    appeared incredibly professional. After a moment, she expressed surprise, "Oh my, this is real. Top-


    grade imperial diamond, and the craftsmanship is divine. Look at the quality of this diamond, it''s so


    pure it looks like it could drip water. How could this be fake? You must have been mistaken earlier."


    Mrs. York panicked; it was supposed to be a fake. Hastily, she said, "But I..."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa discreetly squeezed Mrs. York''s hand under the table, reassuring her, "Take another look.


    Trust me."


    Mrs. York blinked, her eyes still red and looking confused yet innocent. She didn''t understand


    Quintessa''s n but instinctively yed along, nodding slowly, "Oh. I must have been mistaken. It


    does seem real."


    Vivian and herpanions exchanged looks; her eyes flickered with uncertainty.


    Vivian, with a cold expression, conceded, "So, it is real. Mrs. York made a mistake and falsely used


    us. Relying on being a member of the York family, can''t you even say sorry?"

 Chapter 262

    With a loud smack on the table, Quintessa red coldly at Vivian. "So what if I was wrong? And what


    about it if I called you out? Yeah, I''m ying the power card. So what? The one here is Mrs. Cecilia


    York, the queen bee around here. Who the hell do you think you are? Lending you that ne was a


    favor. Don''t bite the hand that feeds you."


    Mrs. York''s eyes widened in shock as she inched closer to Quintessa, seeking some form of


    reassurance or perhaps solidarity.


    Vivian, flushed with anger, stuttered, "You... you... you..."


    Quintessa, towering with arrogance, cut her off. "What about me? Stop dirtying my sight and get lost.


    Or believe me, your precious West family will be filing for bankruptcy by tomorrow morning. Capisce?"


    "I really thought Mrs. York here had some sense, clearly, I was mistaken. Let''s go," Vivian said, leading


    her posse away in a huff.


    Mrs. York, still in a daze, muttered, "We?"


    Quintessa stood up and slipped on her sunsses. "Wait here for me, will ya? Keep an eye on my


    stuff. I''ll be right back."


    Mrs. York, thinking Quintessa was leaving for good, asked, "Where are you off to now?"


    Quintessa just smiled. "To get the real deal back, of course. Did you really think I''d let you take the


    fall?"


    Quintessa dashed off before Mrs. York could protest, leaving her to murmur, "But it''s really okay if we


    don''t get it back."


    Down in the mall''s parking lot, Vivian West murmured doubtfully, "Could we have grabbed the wrong


    set? Those two nes looked identical, but imagine if we identally gave her the real deal." "That


    can''t be."


    "But the way that little schemer spoke, it sounded legit. If it were a fake, Mrs. York wouldn''t just take the


    loss, right?"


    As they debated whether they''d identally enriched Mrs. York or not, a voice suddenly interrupted,


    "Tsk, tsk, tsk. What have we here?"


    They turned around to see Quintessa, who looked like she''d seen a ghost. "You!"


    Quintessa pocketed her phone and approached. "Picking on Tyrone''s mom, are you? Got a death


    wish?"


    Only then did Vivian realize, "You little rat, you tricked me?"


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow. "How else was I supposed to hear the truth?"


    Knowing she couldn''t directly confront them for the ne, she''d resorted to a bit of trickery.


    Fuming, Vivian signaled her cronies to teach Quintessa a lesson.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Before they could move, Quintessa suddenly grabbed Vivian by the hair and kicked her knee,


    her knee, bringing


    . "Everybody, freeze "Cont


    belongs to FindNovel S


    Straddling Vivian, Quintessa shed a mischievous smile. "Why the rush? I was just getting started."


    She pulled out a bottle from her pocket and tauntingly waved it at Vivian. "Guess what I''ve got here?"


    Vivian, in pain, snapped, "You little witch, let me go."


    Quintessa slowly said, "Sulfuric acid."


    The words silenced Vivian and her friends, freezing them in ce.


    "What do you think you''re doing? Don''t you dare."


    Quintessa unscrewed the cap. "With a face like that, a ssh of acid might actually be an


    improvement; it gotta give you a free cosmetic surgery if you will. No need to thank me I''m all about


    charity." S


    Vivian''s face turned ghostly pale. "No, please, don''t."


    Quintessa leisurely said, "I''ll count to


    21


    three. If the real deal isn''t in my hands by then, your face gets a new


    look So, what''s it gonna be? The


    jewelry or your face?" Content


    belongs to FindNovel S

 Chapter 263

    Vivian was shivering with fear, "This is illegal, my family won''t let you get away with this."


    Quintessaughed heartily, "Your family? Can your family bepared to the York family that had


    been backing me? You don''t know yet, but I''m practically Mrs. York''s future daughter-inw. Do you


    think Tyrone would let anything happen to me? I can''t be bothered with you.1, 2, Oh, quite the tough


    cookie, aren''t you? Well, no need for a 3 then, let''s just go ahead with it. It''s not like it would make a


    difference."


    As Quintessa''s wrist slowly turned, the liquid in the bottle seemed on the verge of pouring out. Vivian,


    terrified to the point of nearly wetting herself, begged, "Don''t do it, please, no, no, I''ll tell. It''s true, it''s in


    my bag."


    Vivian knew Mrs. York was a soft touch and a bit naive. She really fancied the emerald jewelry set, but


    she also knew that her husband would never fork over seventy thousand dors for it. So, she devised


    a n to swindle Mrs. York. She figured Mrs. York wouldn''t miss the money, and since no one else


    knew whether the jewelry she borrowed was real or fake, as long as she denied everything, the police


    couldn''t prove a thing.


    Vivian intended to pass off a fake if she could, or feign confusion and switch them back if necessary.


    But she didn''t expect Quintessa to show up, who first lowered her guard with a strategy, then came at


    her with sulfuric acid.


    Quintessa nced at the bystanders, who were all too scared toe close, and said to one of them,


    "You, bring it here."


    Trembling, the person picked up Vivian''s bag, and pulled out a ck velvet pouch from it; it was heavy


    with the weight of Mrs. York''s entire jewelry set.


    Quintessa had them hand it over and confirmed it was genuine before putting the jewelry away.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then she lightly pped Vivian''s face, "If you had just given it to me earlier, all this could have been


    avoided. Trying to be clever with me? I''ll y you for a fool."


    Vivian knew she was beaten today. She was furious, but with the threat of acid hanging over her, she


    didn''t dare resist, "I''ve given you the real thing; now let me go." Quintessa nodded, "Sure, you can''t


    stay here."


    Vivian''s heart leaped with hope, "You mean let me go?"


    Quintessa pulled Vivian up, "Tsk,


    you''re as naive as Tyrone''s momet


    huh? Oh, you think just handing over the real deal makes everything alright? You wish."


    Vivian panicked, "What do you want then?"


    Quintessa pushed her forward, "What do I want? An apology is a start."


    Quintessa to the others, "Lead the way. it straight, no funny


    If I slip and spill this el


    Wool


    SW


    be the ones regretting it."


    As nobody dared to y any tricks, they all walked ahead quietly without stirring trouble.


    Mrs. York was anxiously waiting in the coffee shop; for several times she wanted to step out but Manny


    always stopped her.


    "Don''t worry, Quinn''s tough."


    "But they have more people."


    Manny looked up in admiration, "Doesn''t matter. No matter how many they are, they''re nothing in front


    of my Quinn."


    Just then, Manny, spotting


    Quintessa pushing Vivian and the


    et


    Onto the shop, exwith


    joy, "See, I told you that, nothing to worry about."

 Chapter 264

    Mrs. York let out a sigh of relief as soon as she saw Quintessa unharmed. She quickly got up from her


    seat, with a mix of concern and relief in her eyes.


    Quintessa, pushing Vivian forward, approached Mrs. York and handed her a velvet pouch, "Check if


    this is your jewelry set."


    Pouring out the contents, Mrs. York saw the entire set, which was authentic and intact. She had almost


    given up hope of ever seeing her beloved jewelry again, but Quintessa had managed the impossible


    with what seemed like a simple wave of her hand.


    The look Mrs. York gave Quintessa said it all - she was in awe.


    Quintessa nced over at Vivian and the others, "Cat got your tongues?" She mmed a bottle on the


    table, making them all jump.


    Vivian, shivering, hurriedly apologized, "Mrs. York, I''m so sorry. Please, you''re known for your


    generosity. I-I just got greedy, I might never own something like that in my life. I envy you, and I''m sorry.


    I know you have a big heart, and you''ll forgive me, right?"


    Mrs. York felt a twinge of disgust at Vivian''s apology. It felt insincere, as if Vivian was trying to guilt her


    into forgiveness. Without thinking, Mrs. York turned to Quintessa for support.


    Quintessa sighed, wondering how many times this sweet olddy had been taken advantage of by


    these people. Today, if she hadn''t been there, Mrs. York would have been tricked yet again.


    Quintessa smirked coldly, "So you steal someone''s belongings, and if they don''t forgive you, they''d be


    the bad guys? She might be kind, but I''m not. People who cross me usually regret it. Weren''t you the


    one shouting about being ndered and wanting to go to the police? Fine, let''s call them."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa yed a recording from her phone where Vivian admitted to stealing the jewelry under


    duress.


    Quintessa always had a backup n. She had started the recording before confronting Vivian.


    "How many years do you think theft could get you?"


    Vivian hurriedly begged, "I''m sorry, Mrs. York. I was an idiot for having taken advantage of your


    kindness. Please, let me off this time. I promise, it won''t happen again. I''ll steer clear of you." Quintessa


    turned to Mrs. York, "Should we let her go, or hand this evidence to the police? It''s your call."


    Mrs. York said indifferently, "I don''t care about the past. But from now on, we''re no longer friends. I


    won''t cut you any ck. You say I''m bullying you? Fine, I''m bullying you this once. I don''t want to see


    you around me ever again."


    Vivian thanked her repeatedly and ran off.


    Quintessa wasn''t surprised by Mrs. York''s decision. She knew that she was a person with a heart as


    soft as pudding and inherently good - this was expected of her.


    Mrs. York was touched by Quintessa''s help, especially given their rough past. She whispered her


    appreciation, "Why did you help me? I''ve been so awful to you."


    Quintessa smiled, "Awful? But you never tried to harm me. The world''s full of cunning people, and your


    innocence is rare. What if you became wise to the world''s ways from being bullied? Then, I wouldn''t


    stand a chance in our arguments, would I?"

 Chapter 265

    Mrs. York pursed her lips, "Why does everything sound so different when ites out of your mouth?"


    Quintessa grinned, "What''s up with Tyrone? Does he even know you''re getting pushed around out


    here? Can''t even stand up for his own mom. Some son he is."


    Mrs. York quickly replied, "I haven''t told him. He can be a bit rough around the edges. He always acts


    first, and thinkster. If I made a big deal out of it, people would say the Yorks are just throwing their


    weight around."


    Quintessa found it amusing, "There''s a time and ce for standing your ground. Some folks will only


    see your patience as weakness. Not everyone deserves your kindness."


    Suddenly, Quintessa realized that she was schooling someone who could be her own mother.


    Mrs. York sat up straight, with her head bowed like a scolded child, nodding, "I get it, people like Vivian


    doesn''t deserve my kindness."


    Quintessa smiled, "Exactly, people like me as well."


    Mrs. York looked up; the moment she met Quintessa''s amused gaze, she felt a bit awkward, "You''re


    not bad. I might have misjudged you before."


    Quintessa shrugged with a smile, "See, you''re too trusting. I do one little thing for you, and you think


    I''m a saint. But I''m far from it. Maybe I''m just trying to win you over to get into the York family, huh?"


    "You wouldn''t. I mean, you never really nned on marrying Ty, did you?" It dawned on Mrs. York that


    perhaps it was her son who couldn''t let go.


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Marry into the York family? A lot of women would kill for that chance."


    Mrs. York frowned, "I know you''re not like that."


    Manny gestured urgently to Quintessa, pointing at his watch, reminding her that it was time to head to


    the airport.


    Quintessa stood up, "Auntie, you weren''t wrong about me. I am exactly what you think. You don''t have


    to like me, and I''ve never expected you to. Helping you this time just squares us for that rack of steak I


    ate at your cest time. Goodbye."


    Mrs. York called after her, "Hey."


    Quintessa stopped and turned


    around Just keep being your naive and


    belongs to FindNovel.nou."Content


    yself. It suits who ot


    Mrs. York watched Quintessa leave, realizing she might never have truly understood the girl.


    Quintessa was stopped again before she could leave the mall.


    "Quinn."


    Hearing that voice, Quintessa paused, then resumed walking, only to be blocked.


    Quintessa let out a sigh, "Mr. Harrington, Ms. Harrington, what is it?"


    Serena excitedly tugged on her other''s arm, "Hey, hey, it really i


    s just telling my brother


    you looked like Quintessa."


    Quintessa''s expression remained cool, "Sorry, I''m in a hurry to catch a flight."


    Alexander spoke up, "Wait. I need to talk to you."


    He told Serena, "Go wait over there for a sec, will you?"


    Serena''s eyes widened in surprise, "Oh, okay."


    She moved aside, curiously watching the two.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Alexander looked worn, as the usually sharp features of his face was softened by a hint of defeat, he


    gave a bitter smile, "I won''t take much of your time. Just wanted to say something."

 Chapter 266

    "I never expected to bump into you here today. I used to search high and low for you, but to no avail.


    And now, stepping out the door is all it takes."


    Quintessa remained silent; she didn''t know what to say to him.


    Alexander pulled out a bar of chocte from his pocket, "I remember you said you wanted this brand of


    chocte so badly when it was snowing before. When I saw it today, I thought of you." Feeling a bitter


    taste filling her heart, Quintessa said, "No need, I don''t crave that anymore."


    Quintessa hadn''t noticed someone approaching her until her arm was suddenly yanked, "Quinn,


    weren''t we in a rush? Why are we still here? Ty''s been on my case about leaving." Startled, Quintessa


    looked up to see Mrs. York waiting to whisk her away.


    Alexander quietly retracted his hand and called out, "Mrs. York."


    Mrs. York stopped there, looking surprised, "Oh, Alex! You''re here too? Sorry, I was so rushed that I


    didn''t see you. Ty''s been waiting for us to have lunch. You wanna join?"


    Alexander nced at Quintessa, feeling a sense of loss, "No, thanks. I''ve got to go shopping with


    Serena."


    "Oh, then off you go. We should be heading out, too. Send my regards to your folks, bye now!" Mrs.


    York waved at Alexander.


    Alexander''s voice was tinged with bitterness, "Sure, take care."


    Serena hurried back, clutching Alexander''s arm, "Alex, you know that Quintessa?"


    "Met her at youring-of-age party."


    "But you were giving her chocte. What were you talking about?"


    "Nothing much, let''s go."


    "Thanks, Auntie," Quintessa said.


    Mrs. York''s intervention was indeed a timely escape.


    Letting go of Quintessa''s arm, Mrs. York frowned, "Well, the Harrington family is quiteplicated."


    "Oh?"


    "The internal strife in the Harrington family is severe, the deaths of Alex''s uncle''s wife and kid were


    mysterious."


    "Oh." Quintessa wondered what that had to do with her.


    Seeing that Manny had already hailed a cab, Quintessa said, "Auntie, I''ve got to run. Gotta catch a


    flight, bye now." As Quintessa walked away, Mrs. York pouted in frustration, "Hey, did you even listen to


    what I said, seriously."


    Once in the car, Manny couldn''t help but chuckle, "Quinn, for someone as smart as you, how did you


    not catch that? Mrs. York was basically warning you not to marry Alexander. It''d be a headache if you


    did."


    ?


    "Huh?" Quintessa paused and then burst outughing. She was quite something. Was she hinting not


    to marry Alexander and consider her son in


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    FindNovel


    Quintessa thought of Tyrone; they hadn''t spoken in days since that night.


    After Mrs. York got into her car, she called Tyrone, fuming.


    It took several attempts before he answered.


    "Mom, what''s up? I''m kinda busy here."


    Mrs. York huffed, "You''re always so busy. Too busy to care whether your mother is dead or alive. Who


    knows where you wander off to all day. Let me tell you, if it weren''t for me today, you''d have lost your


    chance, huh."


    Tyrone immediately thought of Quintessa, "Mom, what do you mean?"


    Mrs. York scoffed, "What do I mean? Your girl nearly got snatched away, and here you are, being


    busy!"

 Chapter 267

    Tyrone''s face turned cold: "Mom, was it Quintessa?"


    Scoffing, Mrs. York sent Tyrone a photo she''d sneakily taken. It showed Alexander and Quintessa


    standing face-to-face.


    The sight nearly made Tyrone smash his phone.


    "That Quintessa, I''ve been at loggerheads with Snow for her, and here she is, cozying up with


    Alexander behind my back. I can''t believe this."


    It seemed like his rivals in love were sprouting up like mushrooms after the rain.


    While everyone else seemed to woo theirdy with ease, Tyrone felt like he was navigating a minefield,


    with Snow on one side and Alexander seizing his chance on the other.


    Tyrone asked coldly: "Mom, did you see her?"


    "Yeah."


    "Did you talk to her?"


    Mrs. York''s tone was unfriendly: "Why should I tell you? You know Alex is after her, and it is your


    problem to keep her."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Something felt off to Tyrone. "Mom, why are you being so nice all of a sudden? Don''t you usually get


    annoyed just hearing her name?"


    "I just felt like it. Hmph."


    With that, Mrs. York hung up.


    Tyrone tried calling back, but she hung up again. Like mother, like son - persistent to a fault.


    Mrs. York turned off her phone: "That''ll teach you to ignore my calls. See how you like it."


    But no sooner had Mrs. York arrived home, Tyrone was back, calling out, "Mom."


    Mrs. York red at him: "Well, look at that, you doe home if I mention that si, uh, Quintessa, huh?"


    She''d almost called Quintessa a siren but stopped herself mid-sentence.


    Tyrone, with his arms crossed, looked skeptically at her: "You usually can''t stop calling her a siren. Why


    did you change today?"


    Mrs. York pretended to be distracted: "Did I?"


    Tyrone pressed on: "Mom, tell me the truth. What did you say to Quintessa today?"


    Mrs. York tried to avoid Tyrone''s gaze: "Nothing."


    Tyrone sat down and put an arm around Mrs. York''s shoulders: "Mom,


    you''re a terrible liar. Out with it You''re keeping secrets from your own son now?"


    Mrs. York shrugged off his arm: "I told you that it''s nothing. Just women''s issues, you konw. Anyway,


    when Alex went to talk to her, I pulled her aside, and told her to wait for


    US Then I saw the look on Alex''s face, which wasn''t pretty. At my age,


    I''m still ying tricks for my age,


    Tyroneughed, "Mom, you actually did something good for once, not sabotaging me."


    "When have I ever sabotaged you?"


    "Who told Quintessa I was no good?"


    "I wasn''t lying. You''ve always been a troublemaker."


    Tyrone sighed, "Mom. I''m your son. Even if I''m not the best, you should still talk me up. Especially in


    front of a girl I''m interested in."


    Mrs. York rolled her eyes: "Tell me, aside from being rich and decent-looking, what else is there to brag


    about?"


    Tyrone leaned back, realizing this conversation was going nowhere.


    He''d been in a funk for days, especially since Quintessa had given. him the cold shoulder. Tyrone


    hadn''t been home for days, spending his nights at the Luxe Haven Club, trying to drown his sorrows.


    Despite his efforts, he was the only one who remained painfully sober after outdrinking everyone else.

 Chapter 268

    So, there he was, tossing and turning, unable to catch a wink of sleep. Initially, Tyrone thought it was


    no big deal. His heart wasn''t aching or anything, but he constantly had this nagging feeling, like there


    was something stuck in his chest that he couldn''t get rid of. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t


    find a way to let it out, so he just buried himself in work. Whenever Snow butted heads with him, he''d


    take it out on her.


    For the past few days, Tyrone hadn''t bothered reaching out to Quintessa. He didn''t give it much


    thought. Why should he be the first to swallow his pride and go to Quintessa? Not this time.


    Every now and then, he''d recall Quintessa''s words "Physical intimacy, I''m in. But if you''re ying for


    keeps, count me out!"


    And Tyrone would think, fine, I don''t need love. Physicalpany is all I want from you.


    But deep down, he couldn''t ept it.


    Days went by, and Tyrone couldn''t even tell what he really wanted anymore.


    Mrs. York noticed Tyrone''s gloomy appearance and the troubled look in his eyes. She nudged his


    shoulder, "You''ve been having issues with her, haven''t you?"


    Tyrone didn''t respond or bother to speak up. What issues? It''s not like they were actually together in


    the first ce.


    After a moment, Tyrone murmured, "Mom, I''m feeling down."


    "I can see that."


    "I feel like I got yed."


    "What? By whom?" Mrs. York eximed.


    Tyrone''s gaze was unfocused as he stared at the ceiling and calmly said, "That Young enchantress."


    Mrs. York''s curiosity faded, "Oh, well, that''s normal, I guess."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Nothing, ah." Mrs. York cleared her throat, changing the subject. "Did you fight with her?"


    "It''s not a fight. I thought I was being


    good to her, but she keeps pushing me away. Every time I try to get close, she rejects me." Tyrone


    wished they had fought; at least that would mean some interaction. But that day, everything was calm.


    After their moment together, she just smoked a cigarette, took a shower, smiled at him, said something,


    and then left.


    Unlike any woman he''s known, Quintessa walked away so effortlessly, which left him to dwell on it.


    Mrs. York sighed, "Maybe you think you''re being good to her, but have you asked if she feels the


    same?"


    Tyrone frowned, "But I''m good to her; she has no reason to reject me."


    Mrs. York patted Tyrone''s head, "Son, are you kidding me? Where''s this confidenceing from?"


    Tyrone scowled, "Mom."


    "So, what makes you so great?"


    Tyrone stayed silent, just ring at Mrs. York.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Feeling a chill from his gaze, Mrs.


    e


    York said, "Alright, alright, you''re the best. How could I possibly know


    what you''re thinking? You don''t even understand it yourself." S


    Not wanting to engage further, she handed a small pouch of jewelry to Wilma, "Wilma, could you put


    this away for me?"


    Knowing that it was the jewelry they had lent to Vivian, Tyrone casually remarked, "Nice, you actually


    got it back."


    "Someone helped get it back."


    Tyrone paused, someone? Was it Quintessa?


    His brows which had been tense for


    days, finally rxed, and he


    suddenly hugged Mrs. York, "Mom,


    you''re the best. I''ll never use you of scheming against me again."


    Mrs. York pushed him away, giving a disgusted look, "What do you want now?"


    "After all the trouble she went through for you, isn''t saying thank you to her the least I can do as your


    son?"


    Tyrone breathed a sigh of relief. Finally, he got a solid excuse to see her again.

 Chapter 269

    Mrs. York yfully swatted Tyrone''s hand away, "Even if it''s to say thanks, I should be the one going.


    Why are you sticking your nose in?"


    Tyrone stood up, straightening his jacket, "Isn''t there an old saying, ''A son inherits his mother''s debts''?


    If you owe someone a favor, then it''s up to me to repay it. Between you and me, mom, there''s no need


    for formalities. Let''s go."


    Mrs. York watched how Tyrone, having entered the house with a face of dejection, left home with a


    bounce in his step.


    She couldn''t help but chuckle and shake her head, "That cheeky boy."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Wilma, having overheard it, couldn''t resist asking, "Ma''am, I thought you never liked Ms. Young. What


    changed?"


    Mrs. York, with an eyebrow raised, snatched a piece of jewelry that Wilma was holding, "Who said


    anything about liking her now?"


    Tyrone felt that the weight of several days'' worth of frustration begin to lift off his shoulders.


    He wanted to see Quintessa, but her parting words weighed heavily on him, making him ufortable


    at the thought of seeking her out just for a physical rendezvous.


    Indeed, Tyrone didn''t want it to be like that. Yes, he had once dreamed of waking up next to Quintessa,


    but now that the opportunity was here, he didn''t want to pursue it in that manner.


    Since Tyrone couldn''t figure out why, he decided not to dwell on it. He was afraid that it would possibly


    uncover a more painful truth if he figured it out. But not seeing her was torture; Being restless and


    sleepless, he missed her terribly.


    Fortunately, his mom came through this time by solving a big problem for him.


    Tyrone genuinely felt that his mom had saved up all her previous missteps and made up for them in


    one grand gesture.


    He dialed James, "Get me a gift."


    "What kind of gift are you looking for?"


    "Just a gift! Why all the questions?"


    James sighed, feeling exasperated, "But who is it for? What do they like?"


    "Forget it, get it myself. Can''t even handle a simple task; go hang out with Franklin." Tyrone hung up,


    leaving James baffled on the other end of the line.


    After wandering the mall for a while, Tyrone bought a gift and headed to the Requiem set, only to find


    out... thateveryone had left for Zion City to continue filming. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Reuben, noticing Tyrone''s dark mood, cautiously asked, "Mr. York, didn''t you know? Didn''t Quinn tell


    you?"


    Tyrone clenched his jaw, feeling irritated. Was this kid really bringing this up now?


    Tyrone responded coolly, "Of course she told me. I''m an investor in this project. Can''t I check on the


    progress?"


    "Of course, you can," Reuben quickly agreed.


    With Quintessa not around, Tyrone had no reason to stay a moment longer. The good mood he had


    brought from home had thoroughly dissipated.


    As he turned to leave, Reuben called out, "Take care, Mr. York."


    Tyrone, sitting in his car, nced at the beautifully wrapped gift; scoffing, he tossed it to the back seat.


    Then he picked up his phone and called James, "I need to make a trip to Zion City."


    James, flipping through the


    schedule, sounded puzzled, "Boss,


    l


    but you''re scheduled to go to Serenitia and Pinecrest soon. There''s nothing about Zion City


    Plus, there''s nothing nned there for a while."


    Tyrone, frustrated, wished that he could smack some sense into him, "Then add it, will you?"


    "But there''s no "


    "I don''t care, just add it."

 Chapter 270

    James couldn''t help but curse Tyrone from head to toe in his mind. What on earth was the boss


    thinking?


    Under Tyrone''s intimidating influence, James had no choice but to forcibly add a business trip to Zion


    City to the schedule. Feeling puzzled, James went to ask Kevin about it.


    Kevin burst intoughter upon hearing this: "You''re clueless, man. It''s obviously because Quintessa is


    filming in Zion City."


    "But if the boss wants to go there, why didn''t he just go? Why make me add it to thepany''s


    agenda?"


    Kevin shook his head: "You don''t understand the mind of someone who''s too proud to admit their


    feelings."


    Kevin tapped the desk and exined: "Going alone is like saying ''I want to see you'', but using the


    company''s name is like saying ''I don''t want to see you, but since I''m here on business, I might as well


    drop by'', get it?"


    James'' mouth twitched: "Seriously, would it kill him to just say ''I want to see you"?"


    "It wouldn''t kill him, but he''d be embarrassed."


    Meanwhile, Quintessa took a two-hour flight to Zion City. Upon arrival, she barely had time to drop off


    her luggage before being summoned to the set by Director Frost.


    The production was fraught with setbacks, and the incident involving Roxanne had left Director Frost


    on edge, so much so that he was ready tosh out. The financial loss was one thing, but the real


    concern was the possibility of not meeting the broadcast schedule.


    With the reshoot schedule being tight, Director Frost made it clear that there was no room for mistakes.


    More than three mistakes in a scene, and you''re out.


    Quintessa thought to herself, if Director Frost knew she was behind Roxanne''s mishap, he''d probably


    kill her.


    At that thought, Quintessa couldn''t help but smile.


    Someone whispered in her ear, "What''s so funny?"


    The voice was deep and maic. Without looking, Quintessa knew who it was; it was unmistakable.


    She


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    turned her head slightly and plied,


    "Uncle Jonathan."


    Jonathan Winters'' face lit up with a warm smile. "Uncle it is, then. It''s been a while, how have you


    been?"


    Quintessa shrugged, "Haven''t you been following Twitter? I''m currently the most controversial actress."


    Jonathanughed, "You seem to be taking it well."


    "What choice do I have? It''s not like I can let the criticisms kill me."


    "I''ve been thinking about producing a movie recently, and there''s a role that might suit you. Interested


    in giving it a try?"


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Is this the reward for calling you uncle?"


    After the director finished his instructions, Jonathan said, "Consider it that. We''ll talk more after you''re


    done with the shoot."


    Once the filming resumed,


    Quintessa finally met the new lead


    actress, Cynthia Rosenberg. Though Cynthia wasn''t as beautiful as Roxanne, she had a better


    novel


    demeanor, as she politely introdu herself to Quintessa. Their


    interaction was neither too friendly nor arrogant. It was rumored that Cynthia came from a well-


    connected family that nobody dared mess with.


    The scenes went smoothly, and Cynthia''s acting was decent, making their coboration tolerable.


    During the break, Cynthia sat next to Quintessa and asked, "Are you and Mr. Winters close?" "Not


    really."


    "But it seems to me that out of everyone here, Mr. Winters prefers talking to you the most."


    Quintessa replied with a half-smile, "Men are won over, not questioned. If I really liked him, would you


    even have the chance to ask? He''d already be wrapped around my finger."

 Chapter 271

    Quintessa was young, but life had thrown at her more experiences than many could handle. The girl


    standing before her was younger than her; though she seemedposed, she couldn''t quite mask the


    whirlwind of emotions in her eyes. There was an unmistakable mix of jealousy, doubt, and above all, an


    undying love for Jonathan.


    Quintessa wasn''t sure how she herself would act if she fell for someone, but she could easily spot the


    signs in others.


    Cynthia''s facade crumbled, and her cheeks flushed red at the usation. "What are you talking


    about?"


    Quintessa scoffed, "You know exactly what I''m talking about. Don''t test me, and don''t think about


    ying games with me. No one has ever gotten anywhere with doubt."


    It irked Quintessa, being scrutinized and doubted this way. Everywhere she went, it seemed she was


    marked as a rival by other women. But the truth was, how many had she really seduced? The only man


    she''d been intimate with was a guy named Tyrone. And yet, the world was convinced that she was a


    heart-breaker, a libertine. She had thought about clearing her name, but who would listen to her? Over


    time, she grew tired of justifying herself.


    Cynthia remained silent for a while, then she finally murmured, "You''re right. I''ve been in love with Mr.


    Winters for as long as I can remember. I pursued acting because of him. I was so excited to get the


    chance to act alongside him. I''ve been so nervous, practicing my lines in front of the mirror, over and


    over, just hoping to make an impression, and I''m scared he''ll find my actingcking."


    Quintessa''s thoughts drifted.


    Once, she had a chance to fall for someone, but fate wasn''t so kind for her.


    To love someone wholeheartedly is a luxury, a happiness that was beyond her.


    She stood up, with the script in hand, ready to join Jonathan for their scene.


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Cynthia called after her, "Ms. Young, wait."


    "I''ve got work to do, no time for chit-chat."


    As Cynthia stood up, she said with her expression serious, "Ms. Young, I can see Mr. Winters treats


    you differently. If you don''t have feelings for him, could you maybe stay away from him? I know it''s a lot


    to ask, but I just can''t bear the thought."


    Quintessa spun around fiercely. "Can''t bear the thought of what? Of Jonathan falling for me, or of me


    developing feelings for him? And why should I? Just because you ask me to? You want me to cut off


    my connection with him just because you like him? Who do you think you are?"


    Cynthia''s face turned beet red,


    Quintessa cut her off, "So, if youck the courage to chase after what you want, do you think keeping


    other women away will do the trick? Selfishnesses in many forms, but this naive pretense of


    righteousness is truly rare."


    Without another word, Quintessa gathered her skirt and left.


    She wondered, why did this woman think she stood a chance with Jonathan just by keeping her away?


    Cynthia wasn''t necessarily a bad person, but Quintessa had no patience for such naivety. Thest


    thing Quintessa wanted was to be ordered around. She thought to herself, best not to provoke me, or I


    might just charm Jonathan for real, just to spite you.

 Chapter 272

    The camera was perfectly set up, and Quintessa stood in front of it, getting ast-minute touch-up from


    the makeup artist. A few steps away, Jonathan caught her side nce. There was something about


    him, an air of grace that seemed to have settled over him through the years, a presence that was both


    calm and distinguished. "Still waters run deep"; that phrase fit him perfectly.


    Quintessa smiled to herself. The city was flooded with trendy guys, but men like Jonathan were rare


    jewels. No wonder Cynthia was head over heels for him, lost in a whirlwind of emotions.


    Director Frost pointed out an issue with the set design, urging the prop master for a quick fix. Jonathan


    approached, his period costume adding an aura of nobility to his demeanor; he asked, "Were you


    sneaking a peek at me just now?"


    As the makeup artist quickly excused herself, Quintessa lightly touched her hairpin and responded with


    azy tone, "You''re overthinking. I wasn''t sneaking peeks; I was studying you."


    Jonathan gave a curious look, "And what did your study find?"


    Thinking of Cynthia, Quintessa looked up at Jonathan''s gentle and handsome face, saying with a


    smile, "Actually, I did find something. Jonathan, you''ve still got it."


    Jonathan paused, "What do you mean?"


    Quintessa winked at him, "Exactly what it sounds like."


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Once the set was ready, the director called for action. This scene was ate addition, but Quintessa


    and Jonathan, already having a good understanding of each other, worked well together. Their scenes


    usually only required one take unless there were otherplications. That was why the crew enjoyed


    watching them perform - it was not only a feast for the eyes but also it proceeded fast.


    Amidst Jonathan''s tender gaze, the director called cut.


    Quintessa, leaning into Jonathan''s embrace, said, "Jonathan, you can let go now."


    Jonathan''s arm was still around her waist, causing Quintessa to lose her bnce slightly.


    Jonathan chuckled, "This would be the perfect moment for you to seduce me."


    Quintessa didn''t budge, and their awkward stance drew curious looks from others. She rolled, "Are you


    trying topete with your nephew now?"


    Jonathanughed, "Considering the


    ne


    rumors swirling around you and Snow, and seeing my nephew''sck of action, it seems you two might


    as well call it quits."


    "Jonathan, I don''t find that joke very funny."


    The assistant director awkwardly called out, "Mr. Winters, you''re up next."


    Jonathan, a bit regretful, released Quintessa, whispering in her ear before he left, "Actually, I''m looking


    forward to tomorrow''s scene."


    Quintessa frowned, wondering what scene he meant.


    Turning around, she saw Cynthia staring at her, pale-faced. Quintessa rolled her eyes, bracing herself


    to bebeled the viiness yet again.


    The next day, Quintessa finally


    understood what Jonathan meant. The director handed her a page of new dialogue for a scene


    involving her, Jonathan, and Cynthia. Reading through it, Quintessa exhaled sharply. That sly old man.


    As shootingmenced, Quintessa stood up, leaving her script behind.


    Tyrone, having justnded, rushed to the set, hoping for a warm wee from Quintessa.


    However, the moment he arrived, he


    saw Quintessa casting sultry


    nces at Jonathan, their intimacy striking a nerve. That wasn''t all;


    something they said led to Jonathan suddenly pulling her close and


    kissing her.


    Tyrone thought to himself, "What the heck!"

 Chapter 273

    Quintessa was seriously miffed. This kiss scene? The director hadn''t mentioned a peep about it


    beforehand. Yet Jonathan seemed to be in the loop, leaving her mentally cursing him out numerous


    times over. The director decided to beef up Quintessa''s role, throwing in some romantic scenes


    between Queen Seraphina and the King to flesh out her character andy bare all her emotional


    experiences for the audience. It should have been great news, but thinking back to Jonathan''s smug


    look the day before made Quintessa want to kick him right then and there. How did he know about it


    before she did? Meanwhile, Cynthia was hiding behind a prop rock, watching the two of them, her face


    as pale as a ghost. It was hard to tell if she was acting or if the emotions were real.


    The script didn''t call for a deep kiss, and they could have easily faked it with some clever positioning.


    Initially, that was the n. But seconds in, Jonathan shed a grin. Before Quintessa could even


    process it Jonathan pressed his thin lips against hers.


    Quintessa was livid, thinking, "You''ve got to be kidding me!"


    From her angle, she could see Cynthia behind the prop, who looked ghostly white and trembled;


    Quintessa almost wished she could bite Jonathan without mercy. Was he trying to get her killed?


    Tyrone, catching sight of their kiss, took a few quick steps forward, ready tounch at Jonathan and


    whisk Quintessa away. But then he stopped himself, staring daggers at them, and reminded himself to


    stay cool.


    Jonathan raised an eyebrow, thinking, "Look at this guy, not bad. Got some restraint!"


    The scene started with a few lines of dialogue and ended in silence. The director, timing it just right,


    called it a wrap.


    Before anyone could react, Tyrone strode forward, pushing through the crowd, not caring whom he


    brushed past, and stormed up to Quintessa. He shoved Jonathan aside, giving his knee a quick jab,


    and pulled Quintessa into his arms.


    Quintessa looked up, surprised, "Why are you here?"


    So that was the eerie feeling she had; it was all Tyrone''s doing.


    Tyrone''s face was stone cold, "Had I note, I wouldn''t have seen you two making a fool out of me."


    Jonathan adjusted his clothing, chuckling, "It''s just acting, part of the job."


    Tyrone red at him, "Shut it."


    Jonathan, ever the charmer, smiled, "But hey, you''ve got patience. I thought you''d jump in right away."


    Tyrone snorted, "You think I''m fricking stupid? Letting you two have a do-over so you can kiss again?"


    He had held back just for that


    they didn''t nail the


    e the director w scene


    take,


    surely


    ask for a second, meaning another


    Kiss.


    Quintessa couldn''t help butugh at the absurdity.


    Tyrone, livid, grumbled, "Stillughing. I haven''t even settled with you two."


    Quintessa spread her hands in a gesture of innocence, "What''s there to settle? We were just following


    the script. If you can''t handle this, what will you do when we get to the love scenes?" Besides, what


    were they anyway? Not boyfriend and girlfriend. Why the fuss?


    She just let out a smile, holding back


    wanting


    the rest of her thoughts, not of


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    to


    Tyrone in front


    FindNovel


    Jonathan nodded in agreement, "Exactly. I''ll talk to the director. Maybe we should add another love


    scene."


    Tyrone shot him a dark look, "Jonathan, you looking to end things? Just say the word, and I''ll oblige."

 Chapter 274

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow, "Seriously, Quinn still respects me as her elder, and this is how you speak


    to your uncle?"


    Tyrone nodded, his smile chilling, "Right you are, Uncle Jonathan. You''re getting on in years, and


    chasing after young things might not suit you. Be careful, or that tender green might turn out to be a


    cactus, leaving you with a mouth full of pricks."


    Jonathan looked at Quintessa and said, "What if I told you I have a thing for cactus? Besides, what


    makes you think you won''t end up with a mouthful of pricks?"


    "Let me show you if I will or not."


    Suddenly, Tyrone wrapped his arm around Quintessa''s waist and dipped her into a kiss, his strength


    undeniable, the kiss fierce and domineering. Quintessa felt as if her lips were about to be chafed raw.


    In the past, it was usually Quintessa who initiated their kisses. But this time, Tyrone, fueled by a


    burning rage, held Quintessa so tightly she couldn''t move an inch.


    Bystanders curiously looked on, wondering who this mysterious neer might be.


    A, "Whoa, look at them!"


    B, "Man, wasn''t Quintessa linked with God Snow, making headlines? Who''s this guy? Is she cheating?"


    C, "My phone, where''s my phone? Gotta snap this!"


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Jonathan watched amusedly, "Keep it up, and by tomorrow, Quinn will be making headlines again -


    labeled a cheater!"


    Tyrone released Quintessa resentfully, "Don''t get too smug. If I let you off that easily, I''d be wasting my


    reputation."


    Jonathan looked at Tyrone as if he were watching a child throw a tantrum, "After all these years, you


    haven''t changed a bit from when you were a kid."


    Jonathan''s gaze briefly darkened as it passed over Quintessa''s swollen lips.


    Quintessa felt a burning sensation on her lips and red at Tyrone, who tantly ignored her, chin up


    like a defiant teenager, challenging Jonathan, "Uncle Jonathan, I''m inviting you to catch up. You''re not


    going to refuse, are you?"


    Quintessa thought to herself, "this guy surely isn''t thinking of murder, is he?"


    Jonathan smiled, asking, "And what if I do refuse?"


    Tyrone chuckled, "Nothing much. Just that your show today won''t be shooting, and this drama won''t be


    airing either."


    Quintessa rubbed her forehead, great, time for a break.


    Jonathan nodded, "Well then, let''s go. It''s been years since you''ve shown such ''refinement''."


    Quintessa thought, refinement? Where? These two, neither more hassle-free than the other.


    "Don''te to me with bruises and wounds; I can''t stand the sight of blood!" Quintessa said before


    walking away.


    Tyrone snorted, "I''ll deal with Jonathan first, thene back for you. You''ll get your break."


    Tyrone nced at Jonathan, "After you, Uncle Jonathan."


    Jonathan spoke to the director, who


    was


    Dorothearby, "Director e family business." Con


    the next scene a


    belongs to FindNovel


    ''S''


    Tyrone pursed his lips, "family business" indeed.


    Got


    et


    The two men entered Jonathan''s private dressing room. As soon as the door closed, Tyrone attempted


    a sneak attack, aiming to send Jonathan to the floor. S


    But Jonathan, anticipating this, easily dodged, "Ty, you''re too old for these childish games."


    Tyrone sneered, "Uncle Jonathan, at


    you should find a woman,


    your an, and start a familves


    settle


    before it''s toote to have kids."


    W


    Jonathan responded seriously, "You make a good point. I think Quinn is quite suitable."


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 275

    Tyrone gave an impassive smile, "Uncle Jonathan,peting with your own nephew over ady?


    Don''t you feel ashamed?"


    He had never referred to Jonathan as "uncle" before, having never really seen him as an elder. But


    now, the way he emphasized "uncle" seemed oddly respectful.


    However, Jonathan knew all too well that Tyrone was just mocking him, as if someone kept whispering


    in his ear about how old and unattractive he was.


    Tyrone had always been a bit of a schemer, shameless to the core, and for Quintessa, he was willing to


    do just about anything.


    But Jonathan found it amusing. He chuckled lightly, "Ashamed? Hearing you talk about ashamedness


    is quite funny, considering you seem tock it yourself. Why demand it from others?"


    Tyrone rolled his eyes, mimicking Quintessa, thinking, "So what if he''s shameless? If he cared about


    that thing, Quintessa would have driven him insane multiple times over."


    Tyrone snickered, "Uncle Jonathan, don''t act all noble. I''m shameless, but how much better are you?


    You''re just curious because you''ve never met a woman like Quintessa. You''re intrigued, and, you think,


    competing with your nephew over a woman seems fun."


    Jonathan gave a small, knowing smile. He might not be young anymore, but his charm made people


    naturally overlook his age. His maturity was something the younger men couldn''t match. He looked at


    Tyrone and said, "Ty, aren''t you the same?"


    The more Tyrone thought about it, the less he knew what to say. Denying it confidently? That didn''t


    seem right.


    Admitting it? Deep down, Tyrone knew his feelings for Quintessa were a tangled mess, but one thing


    was clear: he wanted her for himself, and no one else could touch her.


    Jonathan''s smile was serene, "Men are all the same. No matter who, seeing a rose on the cliff, they all


    want to pick it. After all, it''s too beautiful, too unique. How can they not be moved?"


    Quintessa was that unique rose, thorny and poisonous, yet irresistibly drawing men to her. Jonathan


    admitted his curiosity about Quintessa. But often, love started with curiosity. Who knew what it might


    turn into?


    Jonathan had always been indifferent to love affairs. Having seen all sorts of beauties in the


    entertainment industry, he had long lost interest in them, especially the insincere actresses. But


    Quintessa was like a breath of fresh air in this otherwise dull and tainted world, making him curious to


    see how far she could go.


    Checking the time, Jonathan realized he needed to head to a shoot, "I''ve got work to do. I''m off."


    Stepping out, he heard Tyrone say, "Jonathan, this isn''t about curiosity."


    Jonathan, stepping out, replied, "Then it''s about liking her."


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Tyrone curled up his lips, "What''s between her and me is none of your business. Just know this: she''s


    my woman. I''ve always had a rule; don''t touch my stuff. Dare to cross that line, and I won''t care who


    you are."


    With that, Tyrone strode out, bumping into Jonathan on his way.

 Chapter 276

    Jonathan stumbled, nearly toppling over when he was bumped. Rubbing his sore shoulder, he couldn''t


    help but shake his head with a chuckle, "Still this bossy until now. Some things never change."


    Over the years, everyone Jonathan knew seemed to have changed, everyone except for Tyrone. Well,


    Tyrone had changed too. He''d learned to hide his true self from strangers. But in front of Quintessa, all


    his disguises seemed to shatter into pieces.


    Jonathan nced at Quintessa in the distance, "Tsk, but Ty, I''m afraid you won''t get your way this


    time."


    Quintessa was a remarkable person. That was Jonathan''s opinion of her.


    When Quintessa saw Tyroneing out, she thought Tyrone, after having a confrontation with


    Jonathan, woulde to bother her next.


    Instead, Tyrone gave Quintessa a cold look, huffed, and walked away with a flick of his hand. That


    clearly meant, "You wait. This isn''t over."


    A twitch formed at the corner of Quintessa''s mouth. Such a proud and stubborn case of teenage angst.


    But, letting her off so easily? Since when did Tyrone have such a good temper?


    As Jonathan approached leisurely, Quintessa asked, "Did you and Tyrone have a pleasant chat?"


    Jonathan nodded, "Of course, it was pleasant."


    Quintessa didn''t say anything, and just stared at his face for a while before pursing her lips.


    "What are you looking at, as if you''re disappointed?"


    Quintessa spread her hands, "Just thinking, with a face still so handsome, it''s a bit of a pity. There


    should be more colorful on it."


    Watching Quintessa walk away with grace, Jonathan couldn''t help butugh to himself. Did this girl


    really want to see him get beaten up by Tyrone?


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Quintessa was about to shoot another scene with Cynthia. After wrapping up smoothly, she was ready


    to leave when Cynthia hesitated, "Ms. Young."


    "I know what you want to say, but I don''t want to hear it. Better keep it to yourself, Quintessa took the


    water bottle Manny handed her and walked away.


    S


    n¨¦


    Cynthia had seen her kiss Tyrone and probably thought she had a boyfriend. She felt that what she had


    said earlier was impulsive and wanted to apologize, or perhaps to suggest that, now with a boyfriend,


    Quintessa should stay even further away from Jonathan.


    All Cynthia wanted to say were probably either these two things, but Quintessa didn''t feel like hearing


    any of it.


    Tyrone stormed off the set and got into his car, leaving Quintessa behind. After he got ahold of himself,


    his mischievous thoughts started to bubble up.


    He made two calls to Mrs. York. When she answered, he asked, "Hey Mom, what are you doing?"


    "I''m in the kitchen cooking."


    "Who are you kidding? At this hour, if you''re not at the card table, you''re out shopping. Who are you


    cooking for? Don''t worry; I won''t hold it


    against you for enjoying your shopping spree."


    Fuming, Mrs. York fired back, "Cut it out. What''s wrong with me being in the kitchen at this time? Is it


    any of your business?"


    Tyrone didn''t beat around the bush, "Mom, how about you go y cards this afternoon? And, you


    know, just lose casually."


    Mrs. York immediately became wary, "What are you nning?"


    "Just invite Darlene Winters over and drop a few hints," Tyrone tapped his fingers on the steering


    wheel.


    Mrs. York was puzzled, "Hints about what? What kind of mischief are you up to now? I''m not going to


    help you with whatever it is."


    Tyrone smiled, "Just casually mention to her that her precious grandson is in love, but his sweetheart is


    a man."


    "I ought to smack you! What has Jonathan ever done to you for you to y such dirty tricks?"


    Tyrone coolly responded, "He''s done nothing. I just don''t like the guy."

 Chapter 277

    Mrs. York dropped what she was doing in the kitchen, fuming, "He''s done nothing and yet you throw


    dirt at him. You know how much Darlene adores her grandson, and yet, you dare use him of being


    gay? What on earth are you trying to achieve?"


    Tyrone''s expression was dark. It was as if his heart, once cut open, would reveal nothing but a deep,


    reflective darkness.


    Without bothering to exin, Tyrone simply stated, "It boils down to one thing - are you my mom or


    not? If you are, you''ll help."


    Mrs. York wished she could shove Tyrone back where he came from, the nerve of him!


    "How can I possibly help with no solid evidence? Am I supposed to just take your word for it?" Mrs.


    York argued.


    Tyrone considered for a moment, "Alright, I''ll get you the evidence tonight. You can confront Darlene


    over a poker game tomorrow."


    "Son, what mischief are you nning now?"


    Tyrone curled his lips, "What mischief can I possibly be up to? Don''t always think the worst of your son.


    If you''re as kind-hearted as you believe, how bad could I possibly be? Rx, I''m just thinking my


    uncle''s life''s been too dull. Needs a bit of excitement."


    Mrs. York, exasperated, eximed, "You!"


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t worry; it''s not like I''m plotting a murder or theft. Help me out, and you''re still my dear mother."


    "I swear, I could strangle you."


    "Gotta go. I won''t being home these next few days."


    "Where are you now?"


    "On a business trip."


    The crew was a whirlwind of activity, and Quintessa, aside from the asional breaks for meals and


    restroom visits, spent the entire day on set, wrapping up well past 10 p.m. Rubbing her neck from the


    day''s strain, Quintessa sighed.


    After changing, she found Manny holding her bag, who suggested, "Hey, why don''t you hold off on


    sleeping once we get back to the hotel? I''ll go grab us some BBQ. You barely ate anything today."


    Quintessa shook her head, "No need, I''m so exhausted; I could fall asleep standing."


    Just then, Cynthia approached,


    cutting off any response from


    et


    Quintessa, "I know you probably don''t like me much, but I still need to apologize for what I said today.


    I''m I sorry."


    After her apology, Cynthia walked away. Coming from a well-to-do family, she carried herself with a


    grace and steady posture with a ramrod back that spoke of her upbringing. s?novel


    Quintessa couldn''t help but smile, watching her leave. Despite not being fond of her, Quintessa


    recognized that Cynthia probably didn''t have a mean bone in her body. "Let''s go," Quintessa said to


    Manny.


    Not far off, they encountered Jonathan, fresh from removing his makeup, "Need a lift back?"


    Quintessa didn''t stop walking, "Thanks, but I''ve got a ride."


    Jonathan maintained a respectful distance, his gentlemanly demeanor not imposing, "Do I seem like


    the type to have ulterior motives?"


    He gazed at Quintessa sideways. After removing the makeup, she looked less mboyant but had


    more of girlish tenderness.


    Turning to Jonathan with a light smile, Quintessa teased, "Who knows? At your age, you''ve got the


    experience, surely know what a young woman likes." "Afraid of being attracted to me?"


    "Now I see why you and Tyrone are uncle and nephew."


    Curious, Jonathan asked, "And why is that?"


    Pausing just outside the set, Quintessa shared, "Both of you have this inexplicable confidence. It''s


    uncanny."

 Chapter 278

    No sooner had they finished speaking, a shy convertible pulled up in front of them, its bright red paint


    job screaming both extravagance and ostentation. The man behind the wheel wore a grin that could


    only be described as sinister, his face practically begging for a punch, "Uncle Jonathan, hop in. I''m here


    in Zion City on business, but it''s not every day we get to catch up. Let''s go grab a beer or something."


    Jonathan and Quintessa were momentarily taken aback. The guy showed up again.


    Jonathan was the first to snap out of it, saying, "It''ste, and after a whole day of shooting, I''m pretty


    beat."


    Before he could finish, Tyrone cut in, "Ah, getting old, huh? Running out of steam already."


    With that remark hanging in the air, what could Jonathan say in response?


    Resigned, Jonathan replied, "Alright. Since you''re so keen on the idea, it''d be rude of me to keep


    turning you down. Quinn, you in?"


    Tyrone shot Quintessa a look that could freezeva, "What are you looking at? Who said anything


    about inviting you?"


    Quintessa thought, ''Would it kill you to be nice for once?''


    Jonathan climbed into the car, and before he could even buckle up, Tyrone floored the elerator and


    they were off.


    Quintessa, fuming with irritation, muttered under her breath about not caring for Tyrone''s invitation


    anyway.


    Manny, not daring to speak up, quickly brought their modest car around.


    Back at the hotel, Quintessa decided to skip her usual skincare routine after shower and went straight


    to bed without checking the messages from Snow. As she drifted off, she couldn''t help but wonder what


    Tyrone was really up to, taking Jonathan out sote just for drinks? It wasn''t like him to be


    straightforward about anything.


    But then again, whatever it was, it wasn''t her problem. The troubles of those two were none of her


    concern.


    Turning over, she tried to get some sleep.


    It was the dead of night, around 3


    a.m., when Quintessa was sleeping soundly, only to be suddenly suffocated by what felt like a


    mountain pressing down on her It was as if she was experiencing sleep paralysis, unable to push it off


    or scream for help, as if her vocal cords were destroyed, her lungs starving for air.


    When she finally snapped awake, she realized someone was on top of her, too dark to see who. Panic


    surged through her as she tried to push the person off, kicking out in desperation.


    But the person clung on, lips sealing hers, prying her mouth open with a domineering urgency that left


    her no escape. His kiss was scorching, tainted with the stench of alcohol.


    In a moment of rity, Quintessa realized who it was and pinched him hard at the waist.


    The person above her grunted but didn''t stop, intensifying his kiss instead, his hand wandering beneath


    her pajamas. The heat from his touch seemed to scorch her skin, leaving a trail of burning sensations.


    Struggling for air under his weight, Quintessa tried to fight back, butat


    only made him more relentless, his breathing heavy against her. She could feel the unmistakable Signs


    of his arousal pressing against her.


    Desperate for oxygen, she attempted to bite him, only for him to catch her chin, forcing her to strike out


    blindly against him.


    Finally, he released her mouth, allowing Quintessa to gasp for air, "Tyrone, are you trying to suffocate


    me?"


    "Shut up," he growled back in the darkness, a palpable anger radiating from him.


    "You''re drunk. Get off me. Who gave you the right to barge into my room in the middle of the night?"


    Quintessa hissed through clenched teeth.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "I''ll do as I please. Who allowed you two to kiss, huh?"

 Chapter 279

    Quintessa scoffed, "As if you''re one to talk about not kissing."


    Her room seemed to be Tyrone''s favorite crash spot; the hotel clearly didn''t care as long as the cash


    flowed.


    Head bowed, Tyrone bit her lip, "Could he everpare to me? What is he, some old guy kissing you,


    I''ll end him."


    The smell of alcohol was heavy on Tyrone; Quintessa wondered just how much he had drunk, as if he''d


    been marinating in a whiskey barrel for days.


    Quintessa pushed him away, "Why didn''t you just drink yourself to death with your uncle outside? Get


    away."


    Tyrone grunted, "No, I''m not leaving; I''m staying."


    Damn it; was he even drunk? He was too quick with hisebacks. She ground her teeth, "Then move


    over; this is my room. If you''re broke, go sleep on the streets; don''t hog my bed." Whether drunk or


    sober, Tyrone mumbled, "I won''t go. I want to roll with you together."


    In the dark, he leaned down to kiss Quintessa urately on her lips, gently nibbling, whispering, "I


    need to erase his scent from you, you should only carry my scent, only mine."


    In the darkness, they couldn''t see each other''s faces, and Quintessa could only feel the burning heat


    from Tyrone, the scent of alcohol almost intoxicating her too.


    Maybe it was the night''s allure or the numbing effect of the alcohol, but Quintessa found Tyrone''s kiss


    surprisingly tender and lingering, her hands instinctively reaching for his shoulders.


    If this was merely a night for two people to seek sce and warmth in each other''spany,


    Quintessa thought she might not push Tyrone away.


    Whispering into her ear, Tyrone said, "Quintessa, be mine, I can protect you."


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Her heart fluttered, the intimacy and flirtation from his kiss fading with those words. She gently patted


    Tyrone''s head, "Be good. You''re drunk; go to sleep."


    Tyrone surprisingly reacted fast, "Alright, let''s sleep."


    Saying so, he quickly shed his clothes and reached for Quintessa''s nightgown, Quintessa clenched her


    teeth, thinking she might tolerate just sleeping beside Tyrone, but now she realized even that was too


    much to ask.


    With a kick, she sent him off the bed, "I don''t want to sleep with you; get out."


    With a thud, Tyrone hit the floor. Quintessa expected him to explode in anger ore back with more


    persistence, but after a while, there was still silence.


    Something wasn''t right. She turned


    on the bedsidemp, its dim light filling the room. Looking under the bed, she saw Tyrone sprawled out,


    already asleep in aical pose.


    Quintessa couldn''t help butugh, but soon, theughter died in her throat. Releasing a sigh, she


    realized Tyrone got his wish; she was now marked by his scent, her breath tainted with the smell of


    alcohol.


    - Quintessa, be mine, I can protect you.


    Covering her eyes with her hand, she pondered, "In this world, who can truly protect whom?"


    Quintessa remembered someone else making a simr promise; he said, "You won''t have to be afraid;


    I''ll protect you."


    But in the end? He left, and she was still floundering in danger at that time.

 Chapter 280

    Quintessa chuckled, rolling over and kicking the covers off, tossing them onto Tyrone.


    d in her flimsy nightgown, she drifted off to sleep. She''d gotten used to falling asleep fast in the


    harshest conditions. The nket? She could take it or leave it.


    Under the dim light, Quintessa curled up, small in the vast bed.


    As dawn broke, Quintessa''s eyes fluttered open to find Tyrone''s face close to hers, cuddled up snugly


    with his arm around her waist and his leg over hers, almost enveloping her entirely.


    Tyrone''s warmth wasforting, his steady body heat a wee embrace. Quintessa frowned,


    wondering when he snuck up next to her in the middle of the night, his bed-hopping skills evidently


    improving without her noticing.


    It was past 7 a.m., and Quintessa thought about getting up, but the coziness of the bed was too


    inviting. "Just two more minutes," she reasoned.


    ncing at Tyrone, she noted his good looks, delicate features - a rarity even among the pretty boys in


    the entertainment industry. His peaceful sleep made him look so innocent; his long eyshes, tightly


    pressed lips, and a bruise on his forehead, probably from being kicked off the bedst night.


    Tyrone had the maturity of a man and the innocence of a boy, a truly lively person. Quintessa thought,


    when he was silent, he didn''t look like someone looking for trouble, which was not too bad - in his quiet


    moments, he was actually quite bearable.


    Quintessa scoffed at herself all of a sudden. Good or bad, what did it matter to her? After all, they were


    from two different worlds. How could they ever meet at the same point?


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Shaking her head, Quintessa got out of bed. This warmth, after all, wasn''t hers to keep. Who knew


    what the end would be for someone as ruthless and cold-hearted as her?


    Quintessa grabbed her clothes and headed for the bathroom. After getting ready, she was buttoning


    her shirt when suddenly she was pushed against the wall.


    Staring into the eyes of the person up close, she began, "You, mmph."


    Before she could finish, her words were sealed with a kiss.


    "First thing in the morning, have you lost your mind? Sleepwalking?"


    Tyrone held her chin, "From now on, I''m the only one who gets to kiss you."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "A night''s passed, and you''re still drunk? Move, I''ve got to head out."


    Tyrone


    only


    all Seriously, "I''m the.


    anyon who gets to kiss you. e else dares,


    swho


    them." Content belongs FindNovel


    Quintessa replied nonchntly, "Whatever. Not my problem if you go killing people."


    Tyrone smirked, "Touch you once,


    kiss you a hundred times. If a


    hundred''s not enough, then a


    vel.ne


    thousand. If you can handle it, good. If not, you''ll still have to." S


    Quinn asked dryly, "Did you brush your teeth? You''re going to kiss me?"


    Tyrone''s expression darkened, thinking, "Of all things, you had to say that."


    He grumbled, "I''ll kiss you especially because I haven''t brushed my teeth, hmph."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes. Indeed, he


    was only cute when asleep. She pinched Tyrone''s cheek,


    "Sweetheart, don''t be so naive. I''ve got a love scene to shoot today. What will you do about that?"

 Chapter 281

    Quintessa had thought for sure that after her cheekyment, Tyrone would blow his top. But instead,


    he just stared at her, dumbstruck, as a flush slowly spread across his cheeks, like he was blushing.


    Caught off guard, Quintessa chuckled and yfully lifted Tyrone''s chin, "What''s the matter? Feeling


    shy? Because I called you ''Sweetheart''?"


    Tyrone swatted Quintessa''s hand away, "You shut up."


    Quintessa burst intoughter, "Haha. I didn''t expect you to actually be bashful. Sweetheart,


    Sweetheart."


    She kept calling him ''Sweetheart'' on purpose, just to see him squirm. Finally, Tyrone couldn''t take it


    anymore and silenced her with a kiss.


    After the kiss, he picked up his jacket from the floor and tossed something at her casually, "It''s a thank-


    you gift from my mom."


    Leaning against the wall, Quintessa caught the beautifully wrapped small box without checking its


    contents, her fingers brushing her lips and said, "Did you speciallye here just to give me this gift?"


    Tyrone, his face burning, turned away, pretending to be uninterested, "You wish. I was on a business


    trip. Got nagged by my mom into stopping by to see you."


    Quintessa walked over and ced her hand on Tyrone''s shoulder, her fingers teasingly scratching his


    neck, "Just stopping by, huh?"


    Tyrone stiffly replied, "Of course."


    "If it''s just ''stopping by'', then scram. You''ve mooched off my bed for the night, you nning to keep


    mooching? You''re apany CEO for crying out loud,ing here to take advantage of your own


    employee aren''t you the least bit ashamed?"Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone leaned back, shamelessly retorting, "Of course I''m not. It''s not the first time I''ve taken


    advantage, and I still need to sleep. Don''t disturb me."


    Quintessa gritted her teeth, "If you''re still here when I get back, you''ll see."


    She grabbed her bag to leave. Tyrone nced at herzily, "There''s one more thing; do you wanna


    hear it or not?"


    "Forget it, what good thing could you possibly say."


    Tyrone turned over and hugged the pillow Quintessa had slept on, "Even so, about that person you


    asked me to look into, got some news, but guess you don''t wanna hear."


    Before he could finish, Quintessa, who had walked to the door, was already back, pressing down on


    him like a whirlwind, "Tell me, quick." Tyronezily said, "Didn''t you say you''d wait till you got back?"


    Quintessa nted a firm kiss on Tyrone''s lips, "Sweetheart, be good; spill it."


    The blush that had just faded from Tyrone''s face returned. Annoyed, he muttered, "You, as ady, can


    you not always snatch my words?"


    All this "Sweetheart" and "be good" should have been his lines when flirting, but Quintessa had beaten


    him to it.


    It felt as if Quintessa was the one courting him. Tyrone thought, "Fine, you court me, but at least hurry


    up about it!"


    Quintessa pinched Tyrone''s cheek, "Come on, spill."


    Lazily, Tyrone replied, "In my pants pocket; go get it yourself."


    Before his voice trailed off, Quintessa''s hand was already searching his pockets. She pulled out a piece


    of paper, nced at the address and number written on it, and curled her lips up, her smile cold and


    wicked.


    et


    Seeing Quintessa''s expression, Tyrone grabbed her hand, "I don''t care what you''re nning, but you


    have to let me know, or just tell me, and I''ll help you do it."

 Chapter 282

    Quintessa didn''t even hear a word Tyrone said, just stuffed the note into her bag and hugged Tyrone,


    nting a quick kiss on his cheek, "Sweetheart, thanks a bunch." And with that, she was gone in a


    sh.


    Tyrone, left to himself, touched his face where she''d kissed him, and after a moment, kicked off the


    covers and rolled over, burying his face in Quintessa''s pillow. Just a peck on the cheek, and why did it


    make his heart race so wildly?


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    This woman, she was too much. Suddenly, Tyrone remembered something and sat up quickly,


    grabbing his phone to send a picture to Mrs. York.


    Mrs. York called back almost immediately, "Tyrone, are you sure about this?"


    Tyrone drawled, "Mom, it''s gotta be done. You''re hitting the card table today and you''ve got to invite


    Darlene, show her this picture."


    Mrs. York looked troubled. She''d never done anything wrong, and now she had to be an aplice to


    her son''s schemes.


    "Darlene has a heart condition; what if it works her up and there might be a heart attack then? I can''t


    hurt people."


    Tyrone just grinned, "Toughen up, Mom. Darlene''s not gonna get sick from this. It''ll just push her to call


    back her grandson to the Winters family ASAP, and set him up on a series of blind dates." "Tyrone,


    what on earth are you up to?"


    "Don''t worry about it, Mom. Big ns, you know? Just make sure this gets done for me; gotta go."


    Hanging up, Tyrone felt a smug satisfaction. Last night, he''d gotten Jonathan drunk, paid a guy to pose


    with him, and snapped a photo.


    He couldn''t wait to see Darlene''s reaction to the photo. Jonathan would be too busy with family setups


    to bother Quintessa anymore.


    After getting up and freshening himself up, Tyrone noticed the lingering blush on his face in the mirror,


    cockily lifting his chin, "Sweetheart, hmph."


    Tyrone slipped into one of


    Quintessa''s oversized tees just in time to see Jonathan, looking worse for wear, passing by with his


    assistan Tyrone''spetitive spirit kicked in, leaning casually against the doorframe, "Well, well, Uncle


    Jonathan, up and about so early? Thought you''d be out till the afternoon, what with your age and all.


    But look at you, still sharp, how about another round tonight?"


    Jonathan''s head was throbbing fiercely, and despite his best efforts to hide it, seeing Tyrone, he


    couldn''t force a smile, especially when Tyrone came out of Quintessa''s


    room.


    Tyrone teased, raising an eyebrow, "What''s up, Uncle Jonathan? Like the tee? Quintessa got it for me.


    Nice, huh?"


    Jonathan had never seen someone


    with this expression that was smug enough to make one want to punch him. Trying to ignore him,


    Jonathan and his assistant started to leave, but Tyrone wasn''t having it; he


    closed the door and followed ret


    out, "Heading to the set, Uncle Jonathan? Let''s go together. Didn''t sleep well, huh? What happened to


    those wrinkles? They look deeper. Thought you couldn''t handle your liquor, why push it? Just tell me,


    and I would''ve let up. Uncle Jonathan."


    Finally, Jonathan snapped, "Shut up."


    Tyrone shrugged, "Easy, Uncle Jonathan. For someone as your old age, it''s easy to get myocardial


    infarction with such terrible temper, you know."


    Watching as he drove off, Tyrone whistled, "Can''t handle this, huh? Wait till you see what''s next."

 Chapter 283

    Tyrone grabbed breakfast and then drove to the set. By the time he arrived, Quintessa was already


    deep in the midst of filming.


    Quintessa was all concentration and dedication, utterly absorbed in her role. Tyrone found himself a


    seat, Quintessa''s usual spot when she wasn''t on camera, and watched her, unnoticed by the crew who


    had no idea who he was, and were still buzzing about the scene he''d made with Jonathan and


    Quintessa the night before.


    Manny was perched next to Tyrone, clutching Quintessa''s water bottle, ready to dash over the moment


    the director called cut.


    Hand propping against his chin, Tyrone watched Quintessa, who was dressed in a flowing gown,


    portraying an era of elegance and grandeur with an ease that captivated everyone on set. It was the


    first time Tyrone realized that Quintessa''s beauty wasn''t just skin deep.


    "When''s this scene wrapping up?" Tyrone asked Manny.


    "It''ll be a bit." Manny sneaked a nce at Tyrone, whose gaze hadn''t strayed from Quintessa. He


    asked, "Mr. York, don''t you think Quinn looks especially striking on camera?"


    Tyrone cleared his throat, "She''s alright."


    Manny couldn''t help but pout, thinking, "She''s alright'' and yet you couldn''t take your eyes off her."


    Tyrone was silently calcting how much longer Quintessa would be filming; his breakfast was getting


    cold. Suddenly, his view was blocked. A female voice then chimed in, "Are you Mr. York?"


    Tyrone didn''t even look up, his response curt, "Move." He didn''t want others to disturb him appreciating


    Quintessa.


    Manny looked up to see Crystal Anderson, who yed Lady Arabe Hastings in the film. A sweet-


    faced fairly well-known young actress, she approached with a friendly smile, "Mr. York, sorry to bother


    you


    thought you look we met


    ata partyst year. I didn''t dare to approach until now. I''m Crystal."


    Manny watched, feeling a tad annoyed. Crystal was known for her sunny disposition on set, but she


    came to chat up Mr. York while Quinn was in the middle of filming; he wondered if she had other


    agenda or simply intended to say hello.


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    FindNovel


    Crystal, shing her sunny smile and those two tiger teeth, seemed genuinely harmless. It easily could


    let people''s guard down, yet Tyrone barely acknowledged her, ignoring her outstretched hand.


    Withdrawing her hand, Crystal scratched her head awkwardly, "Mr. York, did I interrupt something?"


    Tyrone, visibly annoyed, nudged Manny, "What''s with the dy? Feels like flies swarm as soon as


    summer hits. Can''t stand that buzzing. Shoo her away." Manny''s mouth twitched; he couldn''t help but


    snicker at the remark, despite the tension. He stood up, "Ms. Anderson, I believe they''re ready for your


    scene."


    "


    Crystal, flustered, stayed put, "Mr. York, I was hoping could I ask for a favor? It''s about my brother; he


    works at yourpany, and he..."


    "What are you whispering about behind my back?" Lifting the hem of her dress, Quintessa glided over


    with a yful smirk, cutting her off, her gaze swept at Tyrone and Crystal.


    Tyrone stretched his leg out, pulling over the chair Manny had just vacated, "Have a seat."


    Caught between embarrassment


    and timidity, Crystal stammered,


    "Sorry, Quinn. I just recognized Mr York and wanted to say hi. Plus, my brother works for him, so I


    thought it wouldn''t hurt to introduce myself. Don''t overthink it."

 Chapter 284

    Tyrone unscrewed the lid of his thermos, pouring a cup of water and handing it over.


    Quintessa took it but didn''t drink,ughing, "What am I overthinking? That you came over to seduce


    him? Or that you could even manage that?" Tyrone, visibly annoyed, retorted, "Why all the chatter, all


    these lines? Aren''t you thirsty? Haven''t had breakfast, aren''t you hungry?" Crystal''s eyes were slightly


    red as she bit her lip, "Quinn, not everyone thinks like you do. I was too rash; I''m sorry. It won''t happen


    again." As Crystal turned to run off, Quintessa clicked her tongue, "There she goes. Does it hurt your


    heart?"


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    Tyrone, dragging his chin, asked her, "I made Jonathan throw up. Does that hurt your heart?"


    Quintessa, remembering Jonathan''s pale, greenish face, couldn''t help but pout, "Pfft."


    She opened the paper bag Tyrone tossed her way, finding a bag of doughnuts inside, "Bought specially


    for me?"


    "Keep dreaming. They''re leftovers."


    Manny rolled his eyes and thought to himself, "Like you''ve eaten any."


    When Crystal ran back, tears were spotted in her eyes. Someone asked, "Crystal, why are you crying?"


    Crystal shook her head, "I''m fine."


    Leona, who was closest to Crystal, said, "Bullied by Quintessa, right? I told you not to go over there.


    That woman doesn''t see any of us."


    Crystal shook her head, "I went for my brother. I think Quinn isn''t like that. Maybe not easy to get along


    with, but not a bad person. But I didn''t expect her to use me of flirting with her boyfriend without


    asking anything."


    The other actresses chimed in with their opinions.


    "How can she not be bad? I heard Roxanne probably got kicked out because of her. That woman ys


    dirty."


    "Yeah, and using you of flirting


    with her boyfriend? Who knows how she got her boyfriend. Did you see the scandals online? She even


    slept with her sister''s and her aunt''s man. That kind of tramp, what wouldn''t she do?"


    "I''ve had it with her for so long. But, s, she''s got the director backing her, even Mr. Winters sees


    something in her."


    Leona gestured for the other actresses toe closer, "The next scene is a group one. With the


    temperature rising, why don''t we..."


    Upon hearing it, Crystal looked uneasy, "I don''t think that''s a good idea. It''s so hot at noon; someone


    could get heatstroke."


    "What''s wrong with that? It''s just a


    little punishment, to take her downt mene bullied you after all. Trust


    peg.


    me, we''ll all be in it together


    Cynthia, sitting a bit away with her script, frowned upon hearing their conversation, and then nced at


    Quintessa.


    After a brief rest, the director called


    for the


    hot today, and you''re dressed so


    Let''s get this


    Wanext scene. Tyrone said, "It''s el.next."


    Quintessa smiled, "Got it. So caring."


    "Please, as if I cared."


    Quintessa reached out, yfully touching Tyrone''s face, whispering in his ear, "Since you care so


    much, tonight I''ll allow you into my chambers."


    Watching Quintessa walk away, Tyrone clenched his teeth. Into her chambers, how dared she


    suggesting such a thing.


    Words spoken, actions taken, let''s see if she dared to back out tonight.

 Chapter 285

    Manny sneaked a nce at Tyrone, muttering to himself, "Mr. York, you must be bubbling with joy


    inside, huh?"


    Tyrone nced at the time; it was past 10 a.m., and the temperature was steadily rising. Sitting in the


    shade, he could still feel the warmth.


    He looked towards Quintessa who was standing under the zing sun. A makeup artist was touching


    up her makeup while she held the script, cramming her lines.


    Dressed heavily under the scorching sun, Quintessa seemed oblivious to the heat. Tyrone sighed; she


    didn''t need to push herself so hard, yet she seemed never to learn to rely on others.


    Tyrone peeked into Quintessa''s bag, finding only a portable mini fan. He turned to Manny, "Go buy a


    few more fans."


    Manny paused, "Alright."


    Cynthia approached Quintessa.


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Yes?"


    Cynthia''s eyes flickered with hesitation before she said, "Nothing."


    Director Frost called the actors to their marks. It was a scene set at a garden party involving many


    actors and actresses. The director wanted to do a trial run, knowing group scenes were typically


    challenging to nail in one take.


    Quintessa nced at Cynthia, curious about her earlier hesitation but had no time to ponder as they


    were about to start filming. She left her script and positioned herself for the scene.


    They were portraying a garden party, with the Queen and herdies-in-waiting touring the royal


    gardens. With so many women together, the undercurrents of rivalry and hidden agendas were


    palpable, yet on the surface, everyone had to appear friendly and congenial.


    A few minutes into filming, Leona messed up her lines, causing Director Frost to call "cut".


    Leona apologized profusely, bowing to everyone, "Sorry, sorry, I''m really sorry, everyone. I got nervous


    and flubbed my lines. I''m truly sorry."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Her apology seemed utterly genuine,


    and looked like she was really self-usatory. Since it wasmon for mistakes to happen in group


    scenes, no one was too bothered, not even the director.


    Standing near Queen, Quintessa fanned herself with her sleeve, ¨¥ feeling a bit heavy-headed, possibly


    from not covering herself properly overnight. She just hoped they could wrap up this scene quickly


    After adjusting the camera angles, the director had everyone restart.


    Somehow, a few of thedies tripped over each other''s long dresses, causing a minormotion.


    Director Frost immediately called "cut", "What''s going on with you?"


    "Sorry, sorry, the dresses are too long. We didn''t pay attention and stumbled. Sorry, everyone; sorry,


    Director Frost. We''ll be more careful."


    This mishap was taken in stride, the director didn''t get peeved, and they attempted the take for the third


    time.


    Quintessa wiped the sweat from her forehead; the sun made her head feel even heavier, and her steps


    unsteady.


    On the third attempt, Crystal''s sleeve got caught on a branch, tearing her costume, cut. The fourth


    attempt was interrupted by an actress sneezing loudly during her lines, cut.


    The group scene, which started just after 10 a.m., dragged on past noon without conclusion. Except for


    Quintessa, Cynthia, and the actress ying the Queen, everyone had faced mishaps.


    Director Frost was furious. He had


    warned that anyone who messed up three times in a scene would be sent packing. But today, with over


    a dozemactors, each had only faltered twice at most. No one crossed the three-strike mark.

 Chapter 286

    It seemed like everyone was flubbing their lines left and right, each person''s mistake adding to the


    dy. The frustration was enough to nearly push Director Frost over the edge as he bellowed, "We''re


    not


    wrapping until this scene is done. Keep it moving!"


    Quintessa''s costume, drenched with sweat, clung to her like a suit of armor under the relentless sun,


    making her feel as if she was trapped in a sauna.


    Leona shot Crystal a knowing look, which Crystal returned with a helpless shake of her head.


    Cynthia noticed their silent exchange but chose to look away, pretending she hadn''t seen a thing.


    Tyrone, on the other hand, was a bundle of nerves, repeatedly attempting to intervene, only to be held


    back by Manny.


    He watched from a distance as Quintessa staggered slightly, his concern growing by the second.


    "She''s going to get heatstroke in this zing heat," he thought anxiously.


    Manny reassure, "This is thest take. If it reallyes down to it, the director will call for a break.


    Quinn''s just really dedicated to her work. If you interrupt her now, she won''t be pleased." Tyrone''s


    frown deepened at the thought.


    As the scene restarted, the Queen, leading herdies-in-waiting, repeated their entrance. With no lines


    at first, the Queen smiled subtly, her voice barely a whisper, "How are you holding up?" Quintessa felt


    the weight of her costume bearing down on her like a mountain. Her vision doubled as she moved,


    managing a weak reply, "I''m okay."


    "It seems like everyone''s off their game today. Like they''ve agreed to it or something."


    "Yeah."


    When they reached a garden, the group paused, and the Queen spoke her lines. As it was Quintessa''s


    turn, her vision darkened, and she faltered, "Today, I..."


    Director Frost, already on edge, saw


    Quintessa, who had seldom struggled with lines, stuttering and exploded, "Quinn, what''s going on with


    you? You''re usually spot-on. Howe you can''t remember your lines today?"


    Before he could finish, Quintessa''s world went ck, and she copsed backward, the surrounding


    noises fading away in an instant.


    As she closed her eyes, she saw Tyrone rushing towards her, and thought, "Given how fast you run, I''ll


    let you take care of me tonight."


    Director Frost, now genuinely concerned, rushed over, "What happened? What''s wrong?"


    The actress ying the Queen, experienced as she was, guessed, "She must have heatstroke."


    Regret washed over Director Frost, wondering if he had pushed his cast too hard.


    Tyrone red at the gathering crowd, "Back off."


    He scooped Quintessa into his arms and called out, "Manny, get the car."


    Manny hurried toply.


    Crystal bit her lip in frustration, exchanging a look with Leona, who managed a smile, "Looks like she''s


    finally getting a break."


    Quintessa woke to the feeling of a


    cool breeze, finding it pleasantlyforting. Opening her eyes, she saw Tyrone sitting beside her, his


    hand propping against the cheek, half-asleep, fanning her gently.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    A wave of emotion hit Quintessa hard. Growing up, her family wasn''t well-off, and during hot summer


    nights when she couldn''t sleep, her mother would fan her just like this. No matter how many times she


    woke up during the night, even if her mother fell asleep, her hand never stopped moving. Quintessa felt


    a


    lump in her throat. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    "You''re awake."


    Suddenly, Quintessa reached out, pulling Tyrone down by the neck into a kiss, hiding her teary eyes,


    "I''m not feeling well today. Shall we postpone your ''nightly duties''?"

 Chapter 287

    Quintessa''s breath, her lips, they felt warm, as if she carried the summer heat with her, causing Tyrone


    to feel a slight buzz in his head for a moment, as if he had caught a bit of sunstroke. Tyrone, lips


    pressed against Quintessa''s, asked, "How about we double up next time?"


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, her fingers crawling from his back up to his shoulder, "If you''ve got the


    chops, we can even triple it."


    Tyrone felt like he was being flirted with again. He moved his lips, about to speak, when suddenly the


    door burst open.


    Manny barged in, and upon seeing the two in apromising embrace, lips locked, his face turned


    beet red, "I-I shouldn''t be here. I''ll just go outside."


    Manny dropped off some stuff and hurried out, "Um, those are the meds the doc prescribed, Quinn.


    Remember to take themter."


    Seeing the medicine reminded Tyrone of the doctor''s advice, and the desire Quintessa had stoked was


    quickly cooling down. He said coolly, "I''m good, but I worry you''re not up for it."


    "Me?" Quintessa raised an eyebrow, wondering why Tyrone''s tone had suddenly shifted.


    Quintessa''s finger brushed Tyrone''s lips, "Don''t you know what I''m capable of?"


    Tyrone brushed Quintessa''s hand away, "Capable, huh. You''ve got skills alright, sleeping without a


    nket in the middle of the night. Who asked you to throw the nket on mest night?" The doctor


    had said Quintessa''s fainting wasn''t just from heat exhaustion; she had caught a chillst night, leading


    to a slight fever.


    "I saw you lying on the floor; didn''t want you catching a cold."


    Tyrone''s breathing became heavier with irritation, "I''m a man; what''s a night on the floor to me?"


    Quintessa frowned, "I''m used to it; besides, it''s not like anything''s wrong with me, right? I didn''t feel like


    there was anything off with my body."


    Tyrone suddenly wanted to grab Quintessa by the neck and shake her vigorously, wondering if that


    might shake some sense into her head. This woman never took her health seriously.


    Tyrone scoffed, "Nothing''s wrong?


    Do you even realize you''ve had a


    low-grade fever, you''re


    malnourished and overworked? You''re running your health into the ground, Quintessa. Do you really


    think you''re invincible? You''re a woman, not a machine."


    Quintessa stunned by the shouting, took a moment to respond, and thenughed, "Of course, I know.


    l.n


    Otherwise, I wouldn''t dare seduce you. Why so angry? Are you worried about me?"


    Tyrone pushed Quintessa away, "Right now, I don''t want to kiss you; I don''t even want to touch you.


    You better close your eyes and rest.¡±


    Quintessa couldn''t figure out why Tyrone was suddenly so angry. Was he concerned about her health?


    Quintessa ventured, "I''ve got a scene this afternoon; after getting hydrated I should head to the set."


    Tyrone grabbed Quintessa''s slender


    wrist, "Scene, scene, scene, is that all


    you have in your head? If you dare


    go to the set this afternoon,


    make


    sure you won''t get a role ever again.¡±


    Quintessa blinked, "Besides acting, I''ve got vendettas to attend to!"


    Tyrone pointed at her, "You!"


    He felt if he continued this conversation with Quintessa, he truly might lose control and strangle her.


    Tyrone let go of her hand and stormed out, mming the door behind him. Quintessay stunned on


    the bed; then couldn''t help butugh out loud. Who had ever seen Tyrone caring for someone like this?


    If this wasn''t love, then what was? Had she really got this man wrapped around her finger?Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 288

    Quintessa couldn''t help but feel a mix of pride and an indescribable sensation in her heart. In these


    cold, unpredictable times, having someone genuinely care about her well-being was rather nice.


    At least it warmed her heart.


    Soon after, Manny walked in, "Quinn, Director Frost called specifically to say you should rest up and


    not rush to the set. He''s going to shoot scenes with other actors first. He insisted that you get some


    good rest."


    "Since when is he so considerate?" Quintessa knew Director Frost to be anything but considerate


    about his cast''s health; the man was a workaholic.


    Manny scratched his head, "Mr. York made a call to him."


    Quintessa recalled Tyrone storming out earlier and chuckled, wondering what sort of deal he had struck


    with Director Frost.


    Manny poured Quintessa a ss of water, cautiously adding, "Quinn, Mr. York has been really nice to


    youtely."


    Quintessa smiled, "Isn''t that the truth."


    "Rest up. I''ll head to the set to pick up your stuff. I rushed here so quickly; I didn''t get a chance to


    pack."


    "Go ahead."


    Once at the set, Manny gathered Quintessa''s belongings and was about to take her costume to the


    props department.


    The props room was usually empty at this time, but as he approached, he overheard Crystal and Leona


    talking inside. Their conversation made him stop and listen. Crystalmented, "Did we go too far? She


    fainted."


    Leona snorted, "How is that too far?


    It''s not our fault she''s so frail. Besides, we were out in the sun just as long as she was. Howe


    we''re fine? I bet she''s been spending all her energy with men in bed. Her strength''s all used up. Don''t


    worry; messing up takes on set happens to everyone. It was a group scene; even without our little


    ''help'', they''d need a couple of takes. No one will suspect a thing."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    FindNovel


    "But I feel guilty, and I still haven''t sorted things out with my brother. Now, I''vepletely lost my


    chance to talk to Mr. York."


    "Don''t worry, your time wille. Honestly don''t see what Mr. York sees in that kind of woman who


    sells her body to achieve fame. For me you''re a thousand times better than she is."


    "Don''t say that. Let''s not do this again, okay? Even if no one notices, we''ll have that guilt."


    "Fine, you''re too kind-hearted. Quintessa isn''t as nice as you. This was just a small punishment


    compared to what she''s done. What we did is nothing."


    Grinding his teeth, Manny red at the door, tempted to burst in. But realizing he wasn''t cut out for a


    confrontation, he turned and left.


    Fuming, Manny thought, "Just wait. Quinn will tear you apart, you shameless harpies."


    With anger boiling inside him, Manny returned to the hospital. Outside Quintessa''s room, he saw


    Tyrone leaning against the wall, biting on an unlit cigarette, lost in thought. He was wearing Quintessa''s


    basic T-shirt; his aura of elegance and aloofness made him look like a


    portrait of solitude. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Manny couldn''t help but admire, "Mr. York really does look like a god when he''s silent."


    Cautiously, he asked, "Why aren''t you going in?"


    Tyrone scoffed, "What, to strangle her?"


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G????gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 289

    Tyrone''s mood was still boiling with frustration. He couldn''t stand Quintessa''s carefree attitude, how


    she seemed to disregard her own wellbeing, investing her energy into nothing but her work and


    vendettas. This side of Quintessa infuriated Tyrone, yet he was at a loss on how to effect any change.


    So, there he stood, outside the door, pondering. Perhaps, he thought, once he figured it all out, he


    could step in. Manny''s lips twitched, "Maybe it''s best not to go in right now."


    Manny was about to enter, but ncing back at Tyrone, he had an idea and stepped back, "Mr. York,


    you might not be aware, but Quinn''s recent fainting spell was the result of someone deliberately


    targeting her."


    Tyrone''s expression turned icy, "Exin. Now."


    Manny hurriedly recounted the conversation he overheard outside the props room, painting a vivid


    picture for Tyrone.


    "That''s the gist of it. Crystal and Leona, they''re just too vile. I mean, everyone seems nice on the


    surface, but their true colors are just dark. Quinn never did anything to hurt them, yet here they are,


    plotting against her and ndering her name."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Manny was indignant; recalling the exchange between Leona and Crystal filled him with rage.


    Tyrone exhaled his cigarette smoke, crushing the butt underfoot, "Keep an eye on her and don''t let her


    get out. Make sure she doesn''t find out about this."


    Tyrone turned to leave. Manny, puzzled, called after him, "Where are you headed?"


    Tyrone didn''t reply, his strides quick and determined. He might have held back from dealing with


    Quintessa directly, but he had no such reservations about others.


    There was only one person allowed to mess with Quintessa - himself. And although he rarely got the


    upper hand, the thought of anyone else daring to touch what was his, well, they were begging for


    trouble; otherwise, it''d be a waste of his umted devilish reputation.


    Tyrone stormed onto the set, confronting the director, "With the weather this hot, let''s not bother


    shooting today."


    Director Frost frowned, "We can''t do that, Mr. York. Renting this studio space costs us daily, and we


    need to stay on schedule for the promotion and premiere."


    Tyrone replied coolly, "How much are you spending a day? I''ll double it. Take a break today."


    "This isn''t about the money; it''s about the..."


    Tyrone cut him off, "Would you rather not shoot today, or not at all in the future?"


    That silenced Director Frost, "Pack it up, everyone. That''s a wrap for today."


    Tyrone''s voice was icy, "The actresses who were in the group scene with Quintessa today, stay.


    Everyone else, they''re dismissed."


    The director paused, puzzled by the request.


    Tyrone smiled, "Did I not make myself clear?"


    Director Frost realized Tyrone''s


    et


    intentions to avenge Quintessa, "Mr. York, I''m not sure what you''re nning but this could affect the


    production and release schedule." This would have some major influence on Quinn. It''s her debut


    series; it''s crucial for her career."


    Tyrone gave him a sidelong nce, "I''m well aware; no need to remind me."


    Seeing that further discussion was futile - after all, Tyrone was the boss, the man with the money -


    Director Frost waved his hand in resignation, signaling the end of the day''s work.


    As the crew dispersed, only those few actresses who had conspired against Quintessa remained.


    Tyrone surveyed them. These were the wretches responsible for


    Quintessa''s ordeal.

 Chapter 290

    Crystal''s heart raced when she saw Tyrone, and Leona whispered encouragingly, "See, I told you your


    chance woulde. I refuse to believe that Mr. York would be so blind as to think you''re not leagues


    beyond Quintessa. You''re a thousand times better than her. If Mr. York falls for you, your brother''s


    issues will be sorted in no time. And as for Quintessa, well, she''ll see what she''s really worth." Crystal


    blushed, "Stop it, I can''t do that. After all, Mr. York is Quinn''s boyfriend."


    "Don''t be silly. Do you even know what Quintessa is like? She''s been with every guy on the set. You''d


    be saving Mr. York, you know?"


    "But I..."


    "No buts. Come on, Mr. York was looking at you the whole time earlier."


    Leona dragged Crystal over to Tyrone, "Hello, Mr. York, Crystal here has something she''d like to say."


    With cheeks ame and mustering her courage, Crystal spoke up, "Mr. York, hello. I''m sorry for


    bothering youst time. I didn''t mean anything by it. My brother works at yourpany. He''s very


    capable and hardworking, but ever since he joined, he''s been suppressed by his superiors. Recently,


    his superior med a mistake in a proposal on him, causing my brother to be wrongly used. I


    believe that a bigpany like yours wouldn''t let its employees suffer such injustice. I hope you can


    clear my brother''s name."


    "What''s your brother''s name?"


    Thinking her plea had been sessful, Crystal excitedly replied, "My brother''s Harry Anderson. Thank


    you, Mr. York. Thank you."


    Tyrone made a quick phone call, "James, check if we have someone named Harry Anderson in the


    company."


    ???


    "Yes, we do. I know him. He''s always cutting corners and barely does any work. Made a mess of a


    proposalst time, nearly cost thepany tens of millions. We''re currently reviewing his position." S


    James''s description was theplete opposite of Crystal''s. It was clear whom to believe. Disgusted,


    Tyrone said, "Review? Just fire him. Mypany doesn''t carry dead weight." Crystal was stunned on


    spot. Why was this happening? Hadn''t he just agreed?


    Tyrone snorted coldly, "Now, let''s talk about my affairs." He raised his voice, "Bring it in."


    Before Crystal and Leona knew it, a dozen men entered, carrying a huge barbecue grill. The heat wave


    hit


    them before the grill even got close. The grill was set up in a circle


    around them.


    FindNovel


    Tyrone, legs crossed and with a sinister look, said, "I heard you''re all quite resilient, able to withstand


    the sun for hours without trouble. Well, let''s see how you fare now."


    He was using their own tactics


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    against them. They had been cruel to Quintessa, so he''d treat them likewise. The movie wasn''t


    finished, so he couldn''t just kick them out or cklist them. That would affect Quintessa too. But,


    making them "Sunbathe" every single day was definitely fair game. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Crystal''s face turned beet red from the scorching heat, "Mr. York, what is this? How can you treat us


    like this?"


    Surrounded by the grill, the already high temperature made their clothes and hair feel like they were


    singeing. Their heads were overwhelmed by the heat.


    Tyrone''sugh was almost devilish, "Why? Because you fricking messed with my woman and then


    have the audacity to y innocent."

 Chapter 291

    Leona and Crystal''s hearts skipped a beat.


    Crystal, looking utterly miserable, pleaded, "I don''t know what you mean. We haven''t done anything


    wrong. Please don''t use us unjustly."


    Leona was wiping sweat incessantly. They were both dressed in thick costumes for the y, and with


    the temperature already soaring, the ring of lights around them felt like an oven, rapidly dehydrating


    them. Leona gritted her teeth and said, "Exactly, what could we possibly do? In this crew, we''re just


    small fries, lucky not to be bullied!"


    As for that little sabotage, there was no concrete evidence, so as long as they denied everything


    vehemently, nobody could pin anything on them. Besides, it was just a little mischief, not something


    that harmed anyone.


    Tyrone smirked coldly, "Ha, unjustly used? So what if I did? I was right there, and yet you dared


    mess with my woman. If I weren''t around, Quintessa would probably be tormented to death by you lot."


    Suddenly, Tyrone felt that Quintessa wasn''t as tough as she appeared. She never initiated attacks on


    anyone. Her so-called toughness was nothing but retaliation after being hurt. She was, essentially, a


    na?ve person.


    Leona eximed, "Mr. York, did Quintessa tell you something? Don''t believe her; that woman is


    venomous. She can''t stand seeing anyone do better than her. You don''t know, she''s slept with every


    man in the crew. She got her role by selling her body."


    Tyrone stood up, his eyes filled with disdain as he looked at Leona, "This is actually the first time I''ve


    heard that a role I secured for mydy was earned through her liaisons."


    With that, Leona fell silent; Crystal bit her lip, looking anxious.


    Tyrone nced at his watch, finding these women hardly worth his time. He said indifferently, "Cherish


    this. It''s yourst show."


    To those around, hemanded, "Make sure they learn their lesson, or nobody''s leaving."


    Watching Tyrone''s retreating back, Crystal, with tears in her eyes, cried out, "Mr. York, Mr. York. I''m


    sorry. It''s our fault; it''s all on me. Please, spare them. They just wanted to stand up for me. We meant


    no harm; we never thought it would lead to Quinn getting a heatstroke. Please, forgive us."


    Crystal was whimpering, some tufts of her hair stuck on her cheeks; the fragility made her somewhat


    alluring.


    She seemed to be pleading on behalf of everyone, taking all the me on herself. Yet, in reality, she


    implied that the others were merely trying to take it out for her, making it seem as though she was


    uninvolved.


    Tyrone found her act repulsive, a ssic case of someone wanting to appear noble, to be the center of


    attention, longing for what she desired without getting her hands dirty. She manipted others to


    achieve her goals while trying to remain detached, a true master of deception, unworthy of staying.


    However, Leona was moved by her words; she uttered, "Crystal, it''s not your fault. Stop it. That bitch


    Quintessa, who among us can stand against her?"


    As Tyrone walked away, Leona clenched her teeth in anger, "That bitch, if I''m going down, she''s going


    down with me."


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Even though it was Tyrone who was punishing them, people often instinctively seek to align with power


    and avoid conflict. Knowing they couldn''t challenge Tyrone and daring not to face him directly, they


    redirected their anger towards Quintessa.

 Chapter 292

    Crystal shook her head, "No, Leona, we''re no match for her. I don''t want to drag everyone down again."


    Leona scoffed, "This isn''t for you; it''s for me. Who does this Quintessa think she is? I''m going to make


    sure everyone sees her true colors." When Tyrone returned to the hospital, he ran into Jonathan, who


    looked worse for wear, still struggling with a hangover from the night before. Tyrone stopped Jonathan,


    "Uncle Jonathan, mydy is resting right now. Whatever you''ve got to say, you can say to me. We''re in


    this together." Jonathan''s face, usually warm and inviting, was now cold and indifferent, "I was actually


    looking for you."


    "What''s up?"


    "What''s the deal with that picture?"


    Ty yed dumb, "What picture?"


    Although he appeared calm, his heart was racing. Oh boy, Uncle Jonathan must have gotten the


    family''s barrage of urgent calls.


    Jonathan smirked coldly, pulling out his phone to show the photo, "Don''t tell me this didn''te from


    your phone."


    That was when Tyrone feigned realization, "Oh, that. Someone recognized you as Movie Star Jonathan


    and asked me to take a photo of you two. I figured someone like you wouldn''t turn down a fan, so I


    snapped a pic."


    "And how did it end up on your mom''s phone?"


    "That was when I was chatting with your cousin. I told her I ran into you in Zion City, and she wanted a


    photo. You know, your cousin is a huge fan. That was the only pic I had on me, so I sent it. Is there a


    problem?" Technically, Jonathan should be Mrs. York''s cousin.


    Jonathan''s smile was slight but graceful, giving off an air of serenity. He said lightly, "Ty, do you know,


    sometimes, the harder you try to protect something, the more you can''t keep it?"


    Tyrone, with a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth, looked even more charming, "Uncle Jonathan,


    you''re so right. Experience speaks doesn''t it? But no worries. I''ve got time, I''m young and strong, and


    I''ve got money. There''s nothing can''t protect."


    FindNovel


    A yful smile emerged on Jonathan''s somewhat pale face, "I''m actually quite curious to see what


    you''d do when you can''t protect Quintessa."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone replied, a picture of


    nonchnce, "You don''t need to


    worry about that, Uncle Jonathan. After all, I''m in my prime; I''m sure I can seed. If anyone dares to


    try, I''ll just dispatch them."


    "Let''s see about that."


    Jonathan patted Tyrone''s shoulder and walked away. The smile on Tyrone''s face gradually turned


    sinister.


    His uncle was no saint, and though people said Tyrone had a dark heart, Jonathan was no less


    formidable.


    Quintessa casually asked, "Where''s Tyrone?"


    "I''m not sure. Want me to go look for him?"


    "No need. Just bring me my phone."


    Manny quickly handed over the phone, and Quintessa took a photo of her IV drip to send.


    Even by bedtime, there was no sign of Tyrone Hearing some rustling in the middle of the night,


    Quintessa chuckled, and the person beside her paused, annoyed, "Aren''t you supposed to be resting?"


    Quintessa grabbed the person next to her, pulling him down, "Because I''ve been waiting for you to


    climb into bed!"

 Chapter 293

    Crystal shook her head, "No, Leona, we''re no match for her. I don''t want to drag everyone down again."


    Leona scoffed, "This isn''t for you; it''s for me. Who does this Quintessa think she is? I''m going to make


    sure everyone sees her true colors." When Tyrone returned to the hospital, he ran into Jonathan, who


    looked worse for wear, still struggling with a hangover from the night before. Tyrone stopped Jonathan,


    "Uncle Jonathan, mydy is resting right now. Whatever you''ve got to say, you can say to me. We''re in


    this together." Jonathan''s face, usually warm and inviting, was now cold and indifferent, "I was actually


    looking for you." "What''s up?" "What''s the deal with that picture?" Ty yed dumb, "What picture?"


    Although he appeared calm, his heart was racing. Oh boy, Uncle Jonathan must have gotten the


    family''s barrage of urgent calls. Jonathan smirked coldly, pulling out his phone to show the photo,


    "Don''t tell me this didn''te from your phone." That was when Tyrone feigned realization, "Oh, that.


    Someone recognized you as Movie Star Jonathan and asked me to take a photo of you two. I figured


    someone like you wouldn''t turn down a fan, so I snapped a pic." "And how did it end up on your mom''s


    phone?" "That was when I was chatting with your cousin. I told her I ran into you in Zion City, and she


    wanted a photo. You know, your cousin is a huge fan. That was the only pic I had on me, so I sent it. Is


    there a problem?" Technically, Jonathan should be Mrs. York''s cousin. Jonathan''s smile was slight but


    graceful, giving off an air of serenity. He said lightly, "Ty, do you know, sometimes, the harder you try to


    protect something, the more you can''t keep it?" Tyrone, with a smile tugging at the corners of his


    mouth, looked even more charming, "Uncle Jonathan, you''re so right. Experience speaks doesn''t it?


    But no worries. I''ve got time, I''m young and strong, and I''ve got money. There''s nothing can''t protect."


    FindNovel A yful smile emerged on Jonathan''s somewhat pale face, "I''m actually quite curious


    to see what you''d do when you can''t protect Quintessa." Tyrone replied, a picture of nonchnce, "You


    don''t need to worry about that, Uncle Jonathan. After all, I''m in my prime; I''m sure I can seed. If


    anyone dares to try, I''ll just dispatch them." "Let''s see about that." Jonathan patted Tyrone''s shoulder


    and walked away. The smile on Tyrone''s face gradually turned sinister. His uncle was no saint, and


    though people said Tyrone had a dark heart, Jonathan was no less formidable. Quintessa casually


    asked, "Where''s Tyrone?" "I''m not sure. Want me to go look for him?" "No need. Just bring me myProperty of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    phone." Manny quickly handed over the phone, and Quintessa took a photo of her IV drip to send.


    Even by bedtime, there was no sign of Tyrone Hearing some rustling in the middle of the night,


    Quintessa chuckled, and the person beside her paused, annoyed, "Aren''t you supposed to be resting?"


    Quintessa

 Chapter 294

    The "old man" Tyrone was talking about was currently nursing a massive headache.


    After Tyrone stirred up drama with some actresses, Director Frost decided to seize the moment and


    rushed to film night scenes as soon as the coast was clear.


    Jonathan, who had just wrapped up for the day, was looking forward to some downtime. That was until


    his assistant broke the news that someone was calling him non-stop.


    Jonathan nced at the caller ID; it was a full-blown family assault: Dad, Mom, Grandma - his phone


    was practically sizzling from the barrage.


    With a sigh, Jonathan muttered, "Tyrone, that son of a gun, always ys dirty. Every trick in the book."


    He got into the nanny van back to the hotel and decided to call his grandma back first. The call


    connected almost instantly, and Granny Darleneunched into a tirade without missing a beat.


    Jonathan sighed, "Grandma Darlene, it''ste. Shouldn''t you be asleep?"


    "Sleep? How can I sleep when my grandson is out there kissing men? I''d be lucky if I don''t die of


    shock."


    "Tyrone got me drunk, and a fan wanted a photo. I was out of it and just went along. I swear I didn''t


    know. I''ve never lied to you, Grandma Darlene. I''m straight as an arrow, into women." "Enough, just


    come back home right now. We never should''ve let you in that showbiz - drugs, gay scandals, you


    name it. It''s alling out of the woodwork."


    Jonathan massaged his temples, feeling defeated, "Grandma Darlene, I''m not gay. And I''ve been


    pursuing this girl, actually. If things go well, I might bring her home for Christmas." "I don''t believe it.


    That''s just an excuse."


    "It''s true. She''s an actress in the same show, really pretty. I''ll send you a picture."


    "No matter what you say, I won''t believe it."


    "Grandma Darlene, I know you''re eager for great-grandkids, but let''s not put the cart before the horse,


    okay?"


    "Really? Is she pregnant?"


    "We''re working on it."


    "Then hurry up. I''m waiting to hold a great-grandbaby. Oh, why I always have to worry about those


    things for you?" "Okay, okay, I got it."


    At 8 o''clock the next morning, Tyrone woke up feeling less than ster, his neck stiff as if he''d slept


    wrong. Opening his eyes, he found Quintessa sprawled across his chest, looking utterly innocent in her


    sleep. Despite the difort, a smile crept onto his face


    t


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    When Quintessa was asleep, with her diminutive figure and the slightly parted soft, pink lips, she


    seemed so pure. It was almost temptin her.


    to kiss


    But then, Tyrone noticed something - a wet spot on his clothes where Quintessa''s mouth rested. Damn,


    she''d drooled in her sleep.


    Tyrone''s smile twisted into a grimace of disgust as he pinched Quintessa''s cheek, "So much for a


    goddess, huh? A drooling goddess?"


    Just as he was about to nudge Quintessa off, someone knocked on the door.


    "Quinn, I''ming in."


    Tyrone quicklyy back down,


    wrapping an arm around Quintessa, and shot a wary look at the door.


    When seeing the person at the door, Tyronemented coldly, "Great Snow Jackson, didn''t your


    elementary teacher ever teach you about not barging in on others'' room? What if you saw something


    you shouldn''t? I wouldn''t be


    embarrassed, but I doubt you''d


    handle it well."


    FindNovel


    Gazing at Tyrone, Snow was dumbfounded. He had traveled all the way to Zion City to surprise


    Quintessa, only to witness the scene.


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, "Interrupting our rest, don''t you think an apology is in order?"

 Chapter 295

    Quintessa shifted uneasily in Tyrone''s arms.


    In front of Snow, Tyrone gently kissed her, "Easy now, nothing''s wrong. Go back to sleep; it''s still early."


    Snow couldn''t fathom his feelings.


    Tyrone nced up, "You nning to stay? Want to keep watching us sleep?"


    Snow really wanted to retort, "Have you no shame?"


    But what could he say in such a situation? Gritting his teeth, Snow turned to leave, but not before


    Tyrone added, "Mind shutting the door? It''s early, and we n to catch some more z''s." Snow clenched


    his fists. He was on the verge of losing it. How could someone be so infuriating? And yet he still shut


    the door.


    Seeing Quintessa''s post about her being sick had made Snow think. A woman''s defenses were down


    when she was ill, and he felt it was right to be there for her, no matter the reason. But it seemed she


    wasn''tcking infort. He was kidding himself.


    No, he had always been kidding himself. But damn it, his stubborn heart wouldn''t let up. The more


    Tyrone challenged him, the more determined he became. Quintessa was worth every ounce of effort.


    Back in the room, Tyrone pinched Quintessa''s cheek, "You''re pretty good at faking sleep."


    With a smack, Quintessa pped his hand away, leaving a red mark.


    "Geez, such a heavy hand."


    Quintessa sat up, rubbing her neck. She had already been awake but with the situation earlier, how


    could she face with Snow? Waking up would have only made things more awkward for everyone. As


    Quintessa got out of bed, her wrist was caught by Tyrone. He imed, "You owe me for the wet shirt."


    Quintessa nced at his chest and


    scoffed, Your shirt? Listen here, you''re wearing my clothes, sleeping in my bed, and you have the


    nerve to ask forpensation?" S


    "I''ve been your human pillow all night, and this is the thanks I get?"


    Quintessa shrugged off his grip, "Be thankful you didn''t end up sleeping on the streets. That''s more


    than enough, don''t you think?"


    Tyrone followed Quintessa to the bathroom; leaning against the doorframe as she brushed her teeth,


    he asked, "What''s your n for that man outside?"


    Tyrone was annoyed right now. He had just dealt with a Jonathan, and now Snow''s on the scene.


    Couldn''t he catch a break and cozy up his woman in peace? Quintessa, brushing her teeth, replied,


    "What''s my n? You''re here, aren''t you?"


    Tyrone strode over and wrapped his arms around her from behind, "You really okay with me handling


    him?"


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    After rinsing her mouth, Quintessa dried her lips with a towel, "If I don''t like someone, I don''t lead him


    on."


    Half-joking, Tyrone pressed, "And me? Are you saying you like me?"


    Quintessa turned, lifting his chin, and gave him a seductive smile, "Oh, Rachel''s fianc¨¦, how could you


    be the same?"


    Initially, Quintessa had her sights on


    Tyrone for a reason. He was


    Rachel''s man - a prize not to


    be


    missed. After returning, the motive remained the same. S


    Tyrone''s gaze darkened, "I''m not Rachel''s man anymore."


    Quintessa tapped his chest lightly, "But she''s into you, isn''t she?"


    "And Jerome? He''s the one Miranda fancies."


    et


    Quintessa spoke indifferently, "Compared to him, I find you more intriguing. Besides, Miranda''s out of


    the picture, and Jerome, he''s of no use to me now."

 Chapter 296

    Tyrone felt a fire burning inside him, essentially realizing that Jerome was no longer of use to her, so


    she kicked him to the curb, but he still had value, at least for now.


    Though annoyed, Tyrone managed a smile, "Gotta give you credit for seeing that."


    By now, Tyrone had gotten a good read on Quintessa''s ways and wasn''t so easily riled up by her


    anymore.


    Tyrone remembered something, "Ynda took off, and on her way out, swiped all the cash Sean had


    been funneling out of thepany. She told me to tell you, she''s never setting foot in Emberbrook


    again in her life."


    Quintessa nodded, "Nicely done."


    "Sean''s going nuts looking for her. He nned to drain thepany dry, then skip the country with


    Ynda. Now his ns are in ruins."


    Quintessa sneered, "Skip the country? He''ll be long gone before that happens. Embezzling from the


    company, he must''ve cooked the books. Aren''t the authorities checking?"


    Tyrone scoffed, "He''s got someone high up in his corner. Pretty influential."


    Quintessa had an epiphany, "I know who it is."


    "I can help you with that."


    Quintessa tossed her towel aside and headed for the door, "I can handle this myself."


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, always the same with her, always insisting on handling things herself. When


    would she learn to rely on him?


    But it was okay, he had patience now. Finding an excuse toe over wasn''t easy, and he wasn''t


    about to blow this chance with a tantrum.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Opening the door, Quintessa noticed Snow wasn''t outside, probably gone. She actually breathed a sigh


    of relief. Good, it would have been awkward otherwise.


    Tyrone was puzzled; Snow wasn''t one to back down so easily. Why retreat now?


    Shortly after, Manny delivered breakfast, and after eating, Quintessa nned to head to the set.


    Tyrone frowned, "You''re not fully recovered. You''re not going anywhere."


    The doctor had mentioned


    yesterday that Quintessa had been in a suboptimal state of health for a while, advising rest and


    rejuvenation. Yet, she never took her health seriously, which irked Tyrone every time he thought about


    her cavalier attitude.


    FindNovel


    el


    Quintessa''s lips curled, "I have to go. Otherwise, those bitches will think I''m down for the count."


    Manny, overhearing, expressed surprise, "What? Quinn, you knew?"


    Quintessa smirked coldly, "If I couldn''t see through such petty schemes, I''d have been done for years


    ago."


    After years in the game, she''d seen it all. To not see through this would mean she''d have been dead


    and buried long ago.


    Tyrone blocked Quintessa''s path, his face stern, "Let me handle those women. You, right now, need to


    rest up here."


    Quintessa felt a warm strength fill her heart. The warmth Tyrone provided made her feel alive, capable


    of feeling moved, of joy.


    Lifting her gaze to meet Tyrone''s eyes, she suddenly embraced him, whispering in his ear, "I''m not one


    of those pampered princesses, never had the luxury. I''m used to fending for myself; I''d feel


    ufortable if I live in clover. If you truly care for me, let me make my own decisions."


    In that moment, Tyrone felt both a tightness and an ache in his chest, yearning to tell Quintessa, "Who


    you


    says you can''t have that life? want you to be spoiled and indulged. I want to pamper you." S

 Chapter 297

    Quintessa let go of Tyrone''s hand and turned to leave the room. Manny nced at him, quickly


    grabbed her stuff, and followed her out.


    Tyrone felt as if there was a lump in his chest, making it impossible for him to voice his feelings. He


    wanted to call out to Quintessa, to say something - anything - but the words just wouldn''te. He


    could only watch as she walked away.


    He didn''t immediately chase after her. Instead, he sat down on the edge of the hospital bed, trying to


    sort through the jumble of emotions clouding his mind. He felt utterly miserable.


    His phone began to ring, but Tyrone was in no mood to check or answer it. However, the relentless


    ringing eventually wore him down, and he checked the caller ID to see it was his mom.


    With a heavy sigh, he answered, "Hey, Mom."


    "Ty, where have you been hiding these past few days?"


    He lied effortlessly, "Busy, workingte."


    Mrs. York snapped back, "Workingte, my foot! I went to your office, and Jason told me you haven''t


    been in for two days."


    Caught in his lie, Tyrone remained unfazed, "Oh, I was on a business trip."


    "A business trip? Since when do you go on business trips alone? Don''t treat me like a fool, Ty."


    "I''m dealing with some stuff, Mom. Just leave it."


    He was about to hang up but then thought better of it, "Mom, what does it mean if you see someone


    doesn''t care about her own well-being, never relies on anyone else, and would rather bleed out than


    ask for help, but it makes you feel bad inside?"


    Mrs. York replied, "Well, like there''s a weight on your chest, suffocating and aching in a dull, persistent


    way?"


    Surprised, Tyrone eximed, "Exactly! How did you know? Mom, when did you get so insightful?"


    Mrs. York scoffed, "Tyrone, who are you worrying over?"


    Tyrone rolled his eyes, "Worry? It''s just she seemed pitiful."


    "My dear boy, when have you ever pitied anyone? If you feel sorry for her, that means you genuinely


    care. Who is she? Tell me." Tyrone felt his heart somehow race at those words, as if something serious


    was about to happen; he replied, "It''s no one."


    Mrs. York pressed, "Is it possibly?"


    He quickly interrupted, "Stop guessing, Mom. I''ll tell you when I figure it out, okay? Gotta go."


    "Wait, son, are you in Zion City right now?" Mrs. York''s voice trailed off as Tyrone ended the call. "That


    little rascal." Mrs. York cussed, tossing her phone aside, calling out, "Wilma! Wilma!" Wilma hurried


    over, "Yes, ma''am?"


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Brightening up, Mrs. York dered,


    ant


    "Find us a tour group to Zion Citet maybe a three-day el


    package. We''re going on


    Wilma was stunned, "A trip?"


    Mrs. York rarely traveled, especially not on a whim, and when she did, it was usually to some renowned


    international destination.


    With a wave of her hand, Mrs. York urged, "Hurry up. I need to pack. Traveling in this heat is going to


    be dreadful."


    Wilma, puzzled, asked, "But why join a tour group? We could just go by ourselves."


    "You don''t understand. Going by


    ourselves makes it look intentional. Joining a tour is different; it''s all


    arranged by them, so it doesn''t seem like I''m meddling." S


    Wilma couldn''t help but think that the was a bit wed, but then


    mother and son offer!!??


    shared the same peculiar reasoning.

 Chapter 298

    Quintessa breezed into the set, pushing open the door to the makeup room where a group of actresses


    were chatting andughing. Theirughter came to an abrupt halt at the sight of her. Quintessa


    sauntered in, "Wow, quite the party in here. You all seem in high spirits."


    Manny followed, chin up, throwing daggers with his eyes at the group.


    On the way over, he had spilled everything to Quintessa about what he overheard Crystal and Leona


    saying the day before. He figured, since Quinn was already onto them, there was no point in keeping


    secrets.


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Manny pulled out a chair for Quintessa, and she sat down, "Hmm, seems like yesterday''s sunbathing


    did you all a world of good."


    Crystal, pale as a ghost, stood up, "Quinn."


    She started, looking so pitiful and on the verge of tears, but Quintessa cut her off, "Stop, I''m not


    someone close to you, so don''t get it twisted. Weren''t you the ones calling me a lowlife behind my


    back? That term''s not too far from a witch, is it?"


    Crystal''s face went even paler, and she swayed, "How could you say that?"


    Leona pulled her down, "Crystal, don''t waste your breath on her. Let''s see how long she can keep up


    her arrogance."


    Quintessa scoffed, "How long I stay bold is none of your business. You''d do better to worry about


    yourself. I''m not one to take things lying down. Cross me, and you''d better hope I won''t figure it out;


    otherwise.'' Quintessa chuckled darkly, leaving the threat hanging. Manny knew the unspoken end of


    that sentence was - she''d make them regret it.


    Leona''s face lost a shade of color as she remembered Tyler, pulling Crystal, "Come on, let''s not bother


    with her. It''s our turn on set."


    The group left, none wanting to stay around Quintessa any longer.


    Once alone, Quintessa told Manny, "Go to the props room and get me a couple of sewing needles."


    Manny, puzzled, was met with Quintessa''s urging, "Just go."


    When Manny left, Quintessa took a bottle, walked over to their makeup table, and poured something


    into one of the makeup removers.


    Soon, Manny returned with a handful of needles. Quintessa curled up her lips, "Did you raid the entire


    props room?"


    Manny chuckled.


    "I''ve got a task for you."


    "Sure, Quinn, just say the word."


    Quintessa now dressed for her scene, was Queen Seraphina, who had been cooped up and was now


    facing the mockery of the courtdies, including those yed by Leona and Crystal.


    Quintessa shook out her hands, ready for the fight scene.


    "Action!" The director called. Quintessa, in her in dress, her hair bereft of any ornaments, radiated a


    deste elegance,pletely ignoring the provocations before her.


    "You still think you''re the noble


    queen, huh? Amoner like you


    el


    has no right to show us disdain," Leona sneered, relishing the moment. She and Crystal had


    nned to use this scene to put


    Quintessa in her ce once more.


    "Today, let''s give her a proper wee," Leona said, lunging forward. But before she could reach


    Quintessa, she stumbled and fell.


    Leona gritted her teeth, signaling


    Crystal. They and a few others rushed Quintessa. But in the next moment Crystal and Leona screamed


    in pain, pinned down on the ground. Quintessa''s lips curled into a wicked smile, thinking, "I''ve always


    loved a good braw."

 Chapter 299

    Director Frost shouted with a grim face, "Cut! What''s going on with you two?"


    Leona, holding her leg, said, "Director, it wasn''t us."


    Director Frost impatiently interrupted, "If it wasn''t you, then who was it? It''s such a simple scene. What


    are you two doing? Get ready; let''s do it again."


    Leona wanted to say something more but was stopped by Crystal, shaking her head.


    Director Frost was a workaholic. He was the type who cared little about any off-screen drama between


    his actors. As long as the scene was performed well, he didn''t bother with anything else. Leona threw a


    venomous nce at Quintessa, "Quintessa, just you wait."


    Quintessa shrugged, "Why are you ming me? It''s not like I asked you two to make noises. If you


    decide to bring your bedroom moans to the set, how is that my fault?"


    Leona couldn''t hold back, cursing, "Bitch."


    Quintessa retorted with a smirk, "Bastard."


    As Director Frost called for everyone to take their positions, Crystal tugged at Leona''s sleeve, "Let''s


    finish this scene first. We''ll talk about the restter."


    Leona, however, wasn''t willing to miss this chance to teach Quintessa a lesson. She signaled to the


    actresses ying maids around her, and they all moved in together, intending to overpower Quintessa.


    She didn''t believe Quintessa could resist them all.


    Quintessa saw through Leona''s


    scheme clearly. Shezily warned,


    el.ne


    "You all better think it through. If you think yesterday''s roast was not harsh enough, I can have you


    roasted for two hours every day. Don''t try to mess with me unless you''re sure you can handle the heat."


    The others hesitated, their resolve waning under Quintessa''s threat. Leona, frustrated but undeterred,


    gave Crystal''s hand a reassuring et


    squeeze. Even if others didn''t act, the two of them could handle


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa. They had been caught off


    guard earlier, but not this time.


    As the director shouted "action," a fierce look shed in Leona''s eyes. After delivering her lines, she led


    a group of people to rush forward and tear at Quintessa.


    Leona''s lines were all heartfelt, and


    the triumphant and ruthless expression on her face was a true reflection of her inner feelings. This was


    exactly what her character needed at the moment. Director Frost, watching through the monitor,


    nodded in approval. Content belongs


    to FindNovel


    Quintessa was pushed to the ground. Perhaps her earlier words had an effect, as the others came


    forward to scuffle, only pulling at her clothes. No one dared to actually hit her.


    It was Crystal, however, who usually appeared kind and gentle, pinned down Quintessa''s hands with


    surprising strength.


    Quintessa sneered internally. This little bitch was truly a nauseating piece of work-pretending to be


    gentle yet clearly wanting to see her hurt, all while enabling Leona''s aggression.


    Leona, the idiot, kept letting herself be used as a pawn, yet oblivious to it.


    Quintessa received a twist from Leona around her waist. She curled her lips, then shed a mocking


    smile at Crystal and Leona, "Let''s have some fun together."


    Quintessa''s fingers moved swiftly, each one holding a needle between the joints. With a swift


    movement, she pierced the tips through the clothes to prick the hands of both Crystal and Leona. The


    pain made them winced in pain.


    As they recoiled from the pain, Quintessa swiftly stabbed their thighs a few times with both hands.


    Quintessa exerted considerable force. The first stab into their thighs caused both of them to cry out in


    pain. As they shrieked, Quintessa delivered a couple more jabs. She smirked inwardly. She was


    confident in her skills in handling group fights and altercations. They were clearly no match for her.

 Chapter 300

    Director Frost angrily threw down his headphones. Everything was going well, the performance was


    almost finished, but it was interrupted by the inexplicable screams of these two actresses, and now


    they had to start all over again.


    "What''s wrong with you two? If you don''t want to film, then get lost!" Director Frost yelled.


    Quintessa got up from the ground and tidied her hair.


    Leona and Crystal were extremely aggrieved. They both held onto their legs, gritting their teeth in


    anger. Tears were swirling in Crystal''s eyes as she cried, "We''re sorry, Director. We didn''t mean for this


    to happen. We''re so sorry."


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Crystal was a very attractive crier. Some people just had that talent, making people feel pity when they


    cried.


    Seeing Crystal being "bullied" like this and still unwilling to me Quintessa, Leona felt annoyed. She


    grabbed Crystal and said to the director, "Director, it''s not that we don''t want to film. It''s her. She''s the


    one preventing us from filming."


    The director frowned. "Who?"


    Leona turned around and pointed usingly at Quintessa. "It''s her, Quintessa! She deliberately


    pricked us with needles. This woman is venomous, spiteful, and malicious. She stabbed us dozens of


    times. We couldn''t bear it and that''s why we cried out in pain. She''s been provoking us repeatedly


    because she thinks we''re easy targets."


    Everyone looked at Quintessa. The director''s face turned extremely ugly. He knew that drama between


    actors was inevitable, but he wouldn''t tolerate anything that affected the shooting schedule. "Quinn, did


    you do this?" Director Frost asked coldly.


    He knew that Quintessa wasn''t well-liked on the set. This girl naturally attracted negativity, especially


    among the female actors. Everyone thought she got her roles by sleeping around. Everyone thought


    she had slept her way to the top.


    However, Director Frost knew in his heart that Quintessa was actually cleaner than the most. She had


    never once knocked on his door in the middle of the night, nor had she ever tried to tter him unduly.


    Quintessa didn''t answer Director Frost''s question. Instead, she looked at Leona and smiled faintly,


    "Leona, do you have any grudges against me? Is it interesting to nder me like this?"


    Quintessa chuckled coldly. The


    ces where she had pricked were


    mainly around the roots of the


    el


    thighs and the waist. Unless these two stripped down to their underwear in front of everyone, no one


    would be able to see any wounds.


    Leona was so angry that she felt like her nose could spout fire. She cursed, "nder you? Quintessa,


    you''re truly shameless and despicable. Do you dare to show us your hands? Dare you prove you''re not


    holding any needles?"


    "Are you sure you want me to show my hands?" Quintessa replied coolly.


    "If you don''t, it proves you''re guilty, that you''ve got something to hide."


    Quintessa remained unfazed. "I''ll show my hands for you to see, but what if there''s no needle in my


    hand? Everyone knows I have a bad tempen if I did it, I''ll admit it. But if I didn''t, I won''t let anyone


    nder me without consequences." Content


    belongs to FindNovel S


    Leona said bitterly, "Stop disgusting people. The needles have to be in your hand. If there''s no needle


    in your hand, you can do whatever you want with me.


    Leona felt that Quintessa was just trying to stall for time with all her talk. In such a short time, the


    needle must still be in her hand. Even if it wasn''t in her hand, it must be on her body.


    Quintessa nodded. "Alright, then I won''t be polite. If there''s no needle in my hand, you''ll p yourself in


    the face while saying ''I''m the despicable one, I''m the shameless one,'' just say it a hundred times."

 Chapter 301

    Quintessa thought darkly to herself that she couldn''t let this little b*tch insult her for nothing. You insult


    me once, I''ll return it a hundredfold.


    Everyone on set, including the director, was taken aback by Quintessa''s fierce retort. They all nced


    at Leona, wondering how she''d cope if Quintessa actually didn''t have any needles. Apologizing a


    hundred times would be one thing, but what about the p? It would swell her face, what about her


    face then?


    Crystal looked worried, "Leona, maybe we should just let it go, let''s just consider ourselves unlucky."


    It would have been better if Crystal hadn''t said that. As soon as she mentioned considering themselves


    unlucky, it reignited Leona''s fighting spirit.


    Leona felt that the more Quintessa spoke like this, the guiltier she must be. She was only trying to


    intimidate them.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Leona lifted her chin, "Fine, I agree. Today, I want everyone to see the true face behind your words.


    But, if it was you who did it, then you do it yourself as what you just said."


    Quintessa merely nced at Crystal. Leona was such a fool, thinking herself a hero when she was


    being used as a pawn. Crystal was truly repulsive; you''d feel nauseous just looking at her. She had


    clearly noticed Leona''s hesitation earlier, hence her deliberate words. Quintessa truly found Crystal


    more detestable than Roxanne.


    Quintessa shrugged nonchntly. "Sure! If you''re so eager to p yourself, I don''t have any obligation


    to stop you. After all, I''m certainly no fake saint."


    Crystal''s expression was priceless. Quintessa smiled coldly, "Leona, I''m in a good mood today. See


    how stupid you are, here''s a piece of advice for you: don''t end up dead and still ying the grateful


    fool." Leona hesitated for a moment, "Cut the crap. Show us your hands and let everyone see."


    Quintessa shrugged nonchntly. "Fine, keep your eyes wide open and watch closely."


    Leona, Crystal, and everyone else present stared at Quintessa intently. They watched as her hands


    slowly emerged from her wide sleeves and lifted up slightly.


    The traditional costume''s sleeves were wide, and as Quintessa moved, they slid down to her elbows,


    revealing a slender, fair forearm.


    Quintessa''s wrists were slender, and


    her fingers delicate and elegant, looking almost meticulously crafted. And under the sunlight, her hands


    appeared almost translucent, stunning in their beauty.


    But the beauty of her hands wasn''t the point. The point was that there was absolutely nothing hidden


    between her fingers, not evena single hair, let alone a needle.


    Leona was dumbfounded immediately.


    Quintessa smirked at Leona, "See? See it clearly. There''s absolutely nothing in my hands."


    Leona couldn''t believe it, "Impossible. It must be on you somewhere. Where have you hidden it?"


    Leona rushed forward and tore at Quintessa''s sleeves, "You must''ve hidden the needle in your sleeve.


    You must have!" Quintessa sneered, "Then why didn''t you find it? Everyone was watching. Is there a


    needle on me? It''s crystal clear."


    Leona didn''t believe it. When


    Quintessa pricked her just now, she clearly felt more than one needle in Quintessa''s hand. Those


    needles couldn''t have just vanished into thin air. s?novel


    Quintessazily said, "Director, Leona is ndering me, and she''s still pestering me here. Aren''t you


    going to do anything about it?"

 Chapter 302

    Quintessa nced at Leona, who was still fussing over her sleeves, and said, "Look, I don''t mind, but


    wasting everyone''s time and dying filming progress wouldn''t be good, right?" Director Frost


    remained silent throughout. He understood the situation but couldn''t make heads or tails of it.


    Leona was adamant, not showing any signs of lying; while Quintessa remained calm, not the slightest


    bit guilty. Both of them seemed innocent, but one of them must be lying.


    And the liar, whoever it was, must be a master actor, having even deceived him.


    Seeing that it was impossible to find a resolution, Director Frost angrily shouted, "Enough, Leona, I''ll


    give you onest chance. If you dare to cause trouble like this again, get out immediately. Don''t even


    dream about getting any roles in the future."


    Leona refused to ept the reality, "Director, I swear I''m telling the truth. Every word I said is true.


    Quintessa must have hidden the needle."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Quintessa pulled back her sleeve and pushed Leona away, "Come on, I''ve seen dumb, but never on


    your level. You''ve torn my clothes, where''s the needle? Did I swallow it or what?"


    Leona''s eyes turned red with frustration, "You bitch!"


    Crystal, sensing the situation worsening, quickly grabbed Leona, "Leona, let it go. Director is pissed.


    Leona, just drop it."


    Quintessa coldly said, "This matter isn''t so easily settled. Everyone heard what was said just now.


    Leona, you better stand by your words."


    Director Frost, with a stern face, said, ¡°Quinn, don''t dy the filming."


    "Of course, I won''t affect the filming progress. This p? I''ll take it after filming."


    With that, the director had nothing more to say. As long as the filming waspleted, he didn''t care


    about who lived or died afterwards.


    Quintessa nced at Leona, whose face had turned pale, no longer as arrogant as before.


    Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Let''s start then.¡±


    Crystal nudged Leona to wake her up, "We need to finish this scene, or Director Frost might really kick


    us out. And we won''t have any more roles in the future." Leona murmured, "Even if Director Frost


    doesn''t kick me out, Tyrone will never forgive me."


    Leona barely made it through the scene. After it ended, Manny quickly brought a chair for Quintessa


    and then stopped Leona from leaving.


    Quintessa sat down, "Let''s begin."


    Leona turned pale, and Crystal, with red eyes, said in a pleading tone, "Quinn, I''m sorry. We


    misunderstood you. Please, spare Leona, please."


    Quintessa coldly cut off Crystal.


    "Stop acting like someone''s always wronging you. I''m the one being wronged here. She falsely


    used me, and this is the punishment she deserves. As for you, she stood up for you. Won''t you


    share some of the me?"


    Crystal''s face froze with a pained expression.


    Leona turned to her, but Crystal couldn''t even meet her eyes, stuttering in response. Even if Leona had


    been clueless before, she


    should have realized something by


    now.


    Leona''s expression chilled, "I''ll face the defeat."


    In front of everyone, Leona raised her hand, "I''m shameless and I''m despicable. I''m shameless and I''m


    despicable."


    The sound of ps was particrly


    harsh. Crystal cried softly beside her,


    while Quintessa looked on coldly, like a wicked woman who had


    <pmitted every sin imaginable, and who was deserved to be punished and eradicated by righteous


    indignation.

 Chapter 303

    Quintessa said casually, "Manny, keep count."


    "Uh. Sure," Manny nodded.


    People tend to sympathize with the weak. Everyone on set stayed and watched the scene.


    Their gazes towards Leona were sympathetic, especially with Crystal crying beside her. In contrast,


    Quintessa seemed unharmed, almost as if she were the viin oppressing the innocent, earning herself


    looks of disapproval from everyone.


    But Quintessa didn''t care. A cold smile yed on her lips. Was Leona pitiful? Sure, in a pitifully foolish


    way, being used over and over by Crystal like a pawn in her game. But, even if she was a pawn, it was


    Leona who allowed herself to be used. It was because of her own stupidity.


    Quintessa had no reason to sympathize with a pawn who had harmed her.


    Their actions were all petty tricks, far inferior to Roxanne''s and Rachel''s. But people like Leona couldn''t


    see all things clearly. They were like flies buzzing around, annoying to hear even if you ignored them.


    Quintessa had no sympathy to spare for Leona. This was a lesson for her. If she had any sense at all,


    this incident should be a wake-up call. If she still believed Crystal was a naive and kind Snow White,


    then no one could save her.


    Leona, looking like a puppet, cursed herself while pping her own face. Her face was now swollen,


    lips bleeding.


    By the 46th count, Cynthia walked over, her face full of anger. "Quintessa, why do you have to be so


    ruthless? We''re all part of the same crew. Why take it this far? Do you enjoy bullying people?"


    Quintessa nced disdainfully at Cynthia. "Oh, look who decided to y the hero."


    Before Cynthia could speak, Quintessa sneered. "Do you even have the right? Are you even worthy?"


    Cynthia fumed, "You..."


    Quintessa coldly interrupted, "You want me to expose the little tricks you''ve been up to?"


    Cynthia faltered.


    Quintessa stared her disdainfully. "I think you''re worse than them. At least they act on their desires to


    take me down. But you? You think about it, but you don''t dare. You know they are going to confront me,


    and you want to tell me, but then you''re defeated by your own darkness. You must have felt pretty


    pleased watching me copse."


    Quintessa had seen through


    people''s true colors before.


    el


    Yesterday morning, Cynthia hesitated to speak several times. At the time, Quintessa didn''t understand,


    how could she know?


    To Quintessa, this woman was truly a joke.


    She was not even as good as Crystal and Leona. She harbored malice butcked the courage to act,


    and she wanted to be kind but was far from a genuinely kind person.


    Cynthia''s face turned from red to


    white. She had intended to be a righteous avenger, but now she just felt utterly ashamed. She hadn''t


    expected Quintessa to see through her so clearly.


    "Cynthia, you think you''re some high and mighty princess, thinking you can pity others. But what are


    you, really?"


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Quintessa pointed at Crystal. "You''re not even better than a maniptive bitch pretending to be


    innocent."


    Quintessa had never been afraid of viins. If one is going to y dirty, she could y dirtier.


    But for someone like Cynthia, Quintessa''s only thought was: stay away from me. I don''t have the time


    or the patience for your pretense.

 Chapter 304

    With Quintessa''s words pushed to this extent, Cynthia, ever so sensitive, couldn''t bear the


    embarrassment any longer and ran away. Quintessa snorted-how could someone like her be a hero?


    Quintessa nced at Leona, whose face was already swollen. Exhaling, Quintessa blew a strand of


    her bangs, "Alright, consider this a debt unpaid for now. When I''m in a better mood, I''ll let you finish the


    job." Manny quickly stepped in to steady forward, holding Leona''s numb hand. Her eyes were vacant,


    as if she had already copsed.


    Quintessa stood up, giving Crystal a cold look. Crystal trembled and took a step back.


    Quintessa rolled her eyes. People like her weren''t worth her time.


    She said to Leona, "I''m not in the best of moods today. Seeing you getting screwed over is pitiful. I''ll


    give you a piece of advice. Take it or leave it."


    "Leona, wise up. Your mom didn''t raise you to be anyone''s puppet. If you can''t ept it and insist on


    being used, then aim your gun at those bitchy people. You can''t y this game with someone as


    ruthless as me."


    Quintessa motioned for Manny to follow her as they left.


    "Quintessa, I won''t forget this. This isn''t over."


    Leona''s hoarse voice came from behind. Quintessa didn''t even turn her head, her steps unfaltering,


    "Do as you please. Next time you want toe at me, try something more sophisticated. Don''t waste


    my time with child''s y."


    Holding a grudge was typical for Leona. If the roles were reversed, Quintessa would have taken


    revenge on them and their whole family.


    Quintessa walked away, and only then did Crystal dare to approach Leona. She grabbed her hand and


    sobbed, "Leona, I''m so sorry. Are you hurt? It''s all my fault. I didn''t mean not to help you. I was just


    scared. What if I helped you and she went even harder on you?"


    Crystal sobbed convulsively, as if she had suffered a great deal of pain. Her face streaked with tears,


    her eyes swollen, looking truly pitiful.


    Leona''s face had already numbed


    from the pain; she looked at


    1


    Crystal she always could always make others sympathize with her, just like before.


    et


    "For the first time, I realize you always y the victim, as if you''re perpetually bullied. I always thought I


    could protect you, but shouldn''t I be the one crying now?"


    "Leona." Crystal''s crying stopped abruptly.


    Leona pulled her hand away from Crystal''s grasp and left.


    Manny was helping Quintessa remove her makeup, and Quintessa cautioned him, "Be careful, you


    might prick yourself."


    "Huh?"


    Quintessa reached up and felt around the bun of her wig on her head, soon pulling out several needles.


    "That''s the advantage of historical costumes. With the high bun and lots of essories, a few thin


    needles can be easily hidden."


    "Wow, you''re badass," Manny looked up to Quintessa with admiration as he quickly gathered up the


    needles.


    Soon, Crystal walked in with red eyes, apanied by a few other actresses. They all saw Quintessa


    but none dared to speak up. Crystal in particr, kept her neck tucked in, looking like a wronged


    daughter-inw.


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Seeing Crystal sitting down and


    et


    reaching for the makeup remover Quintessa smirked-she''s going to prepare a dish called "spicy


    revenge sd" today.


    She wasn''t going to let this bitch go so easily.

 Chapter 305

    Manny kept sneaking nces at Crystal. He saw her pulled out a makeup wipe, doused it with makeup


    remover, and began to rub it across her face.


    Almost instantly, Crystal yelped in pain, covering her eyes.


    Quintessa smirked. How amateurish her prank was! Originally, she thought about sticking some


    needles into Crystal''s chair. But then, she thought better of it. After all, their doing to her was


    amateurish. There was no need to escte things to the point of killing them. Otherwise, she would


    have been caught a long time ago.


    "My eyes, my eyes." Crystal''s cries of agony echoed through the room.


    The other actresses surrounded her. "What''s wrong, Crystal?"


    Crystal, barely able to open her eyes due to the stinging from the pepper spray, cried out, "The makeup


    remover, it hurts so much, it''s burning, there''s something wrong with it."


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    One of the actresses quickly grabbed the bottle to sniff it. "Someone mixed pepper spray in here."


    Everyone turned to look at Quintessa simultaneously. In their minds, she was the only one capable of


    such a deed.


    Crystal''s cries of pain paused for a moment but then resumed even louder.


    "My eyes, will I go blind? My eyes, please, someone help me. Please."


    The room filled with her heart-wrenching sobs, evoking sympathy among the others.


    The others tried tofort her, suggesting, "Call 911, and let''s try to rinse her eyes with water in the


    meantime."


    Quintessa, with a hint of a smile, gestured for Manny to help her up.


    "Pack up, Manny. I will take you for barbecue tonight," she said.


    "Sure thing!" Manny replied.


    As they were about to leave, Crystal''s cries became even louder. "What if can''t see anymore? I. haven''t


    been filial to my parents, and I still have dreams to fulfill. What


    should I do?"


    Crystal''s crying was truly pitiful, and someone finally called out to Quintessa.


    "Quintessa, wait. Are you just going to leave like this?"


    Quintessa stopped and nced back. The actress who spoke up was visibly shaken, her face red,


    clearly afraid of Quintessa but determined to stand up for Crystal. Quintessa nodded. This kid had


    some courage.


    Quintessa nced disdainfully at Crystal. "Why should I stay?"


    "Aren''t you going to exin yourself about this?"


    "How amusing. Why should I exin?"


    "Whether it was you or not, it wouldn''t hurt to prove your innocence."


    Quintessa chuckled. "With so many people here, are you singling me out? If you''re that convinced, go


    ahead and call the cops."


    Quintessa''s smirk widened. "If it


    wasn''t me, don''t need to exin.


    The innocent


    The innocent will be cleared on


    their


    own. If it was me, then I have even less reason to exin. I''d be d


    she''s suffering. With her like this, I feel great. Who would bother with her?"


    With that taunting remark, Quintessa walked away with Manny.


    It was just a small lesson for Crystal. Hopefully, she''d learn to behave from now on.


    As they stepped out of the set,


    Manny''s eyes gleamed. "Hey, I heard


    about this new barbecue ce They''re super delicious, especially their grilled seafood, it''s amazing."


    "Alright, let''s go there."


    As they were talking, a Ferrari suddenly sped out, stopping mere inches from them, almost hitting


    them.

 Chapter 306

    Manny yelped and pulled Quintessa back with a strong tug.


    The driver of the luxury car didn''te out, which infuriated Quintessa. She marched forward and


    gave the car door a hefty kick. "Damn, think you''re something special just because you have a fancy


    car. You almost hit someone, do you know you shoulde out and apologize?"


    As the window rolled down, Snow''s handsome face came into view.


    Quintessa''s hand, poised to strike the window, stopped mid-air, her expression morphing into one of


    shock. "Why is it you?" She thought he had left!


    Snow leaned over to pick something up, then stepped out of the car.


    Quintessa nced at the item in his arms, her face stiffening further. Damn. It was a whole bunch of


    roses, a superrge bouquet.


    What was Snow doing now? He''s a superstar, and Zion City is bustling with people, with eyes all


    around. In this era, who isn''t looking for the next big gossip? If a single photo was snapped and


    uploaded online, and then.


    When Snow got out of the car and saw the small dent made by the kick, his lips twitched.


    But then, he was here to woo a woman, so the little details didn''t matter.


    Snow said with a smile. "I came to check on you. They say when someone''s sick, their psychological


    defenses are the weakest. I thought, by stepping up my game now, maybe you''d feel a bit fonder of


    me." Snow indeed was about to leave, but then he thought-since he hade, why leave so easily?


    He''s not the type to give up easily. Meeting someone he liked wasn''t an everyday urrence; why


    should he give up for Tyrone''s sake?


    Quintessa rubbed her temple, slightly annoyed. "Look, I think we''re better off as buddies. We''ve always


    got along-"


    Before she could finish, Snow interjected. "At least ept these flowers. I''vee a long way; it''s the


    least you could do."


    He handed the bouquet to Manny, who was still trying to process the situation, "Manny, hold this." And


    he suddenly found himself holding the roses.


    Snow wrapped an arm around


    Quintessa''s shoulder. "It''s dinner time. I''ll take you to eat. The doctor mentioned you''re malnourished.


    You female stars like to diet. You don''t have to follow them, you know."


    Quintessa started to protest, "Hey, wait-"


    While they were speaking, an electric scooter zoomed in, blocking Snow''s Ferrari. The person sitting


    on it nearly made Quintessa burst intoughter. Was this guying out to make a fool of himself?


    Tyrone nted his feet on the


    ground, his long legs enviable. His eyesnded on what was in Snow''s hand, "Are you going out for


    dinner? Where? Count me in. I haven''t brought money with me, perfect to join you. With Great Snow


    Jackson''s deep pockets, you wouldn''t say ''no,'' right?"


    Snow paused, not letting go of Quintessa. "Mr. York loves to joke You throw around billions like it''s


    nothing, acquiringpanies as if they''re toys. How could you possibly be short of a meal?" Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Tyrone shot Quintessa a look. "How could I not? I''m exactly short of a meal shared with a rival in love."


    Quintessa rubbed her forehead. "Both of you, zip it. This meal''s on me. Anyone else making noise can


    get lost."


    "What''s all themotion about? Mind if I join?" Just then, Jonathan''s voice cut in, no one knowing


    when he had arrived. Tyrone scowled. "No."


    Quintessa chuckled. This was about to get more interesting. She nodded. "Uncle, let''s go for some


    barbecue."Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.

 Chapter 308

    Tyrone wore a stone-cold expression, guarding his gaze against Jonathan as if he were a thief.


    Before Jonathan could utter a word, Tyrone spoke up, "Uncle, at your age, you should know better than


    to overdo it. If you get drunk again tonight, you won''t be able to get up in the morning. At this age, we


    need to ept our limits."


    Such a statement would irritate anyone, but Jonathan''s smile remained gentle, showing no sign of


    getting angry. He replied, "Quinn''s treating us, so of course I''m going. Besides, it''s been ages since I


    caught up with Snow. Today''s a good day to catch up.¡±


    Tyrone snorted, "Catching up? Catching up with a rival in love sure is interesting."


    Quintessa couldn''t care less about what the three of them thought, waving her hand dismissively, "The


    more, the merrier. Let''s all go, Manny, lead the way."


    Her tone left Tyrone and Snow bickering, but perhaps letting the three of them interact was better. A


    triangle is always more stable than a duo; this way, there might be a chance for some bnce. "Let''s


    get in the car."


    "Take mine."


    Tyrone and Snow said at the same time, then red coldly at each other.


    Jonathan offered with a light smile, "If you don''t mind, how about my car?"


    Tyrone grabbed Quintessa''s arm, "Uncle, you''d save your teeth for skewers, lest you struggle to chew


    anything harderter."


    If it came down to resources, Tyrone had more than the other two, but what really set him apart from


    Jonathan and Snow was his shamelessness, and his ability to take action.


    Without giving Quintessa a chance to respond, Tyrone pushed her into the front seat of his electric


    scooter, stretched his legs, twisted the throttle, and zipped off. The vehicle was far more agile than


    Snow''s luxury car.


    Snow''s gaze darkened for a moment before he turned to Jonathan, "Let''s go together."


    "Sure!"


    Quintessa shifted ufortably in the front seat and Tyrone, with one hand on the handlebar and the


    other. around her waist, resting his chin on her shoulder, teased, "Sit tight, don''t squirm. It''s barely dark


    and you''re already seducing me. Could you at least wait until we''re done eating skewers?"


    Quintessa elbowed Tyrone, who coughed, "I''m driving here. What if something happens? Reckless


    driving, you know. Don''t move around."


    Quintessa asked, "Why are you on an electric scooter today? Where''s your luxury car?"


    Tyrone scoffed, "What''s the point of


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    a luxury car? You may not be tired of sitting in it, but I''m tired of driving it. This is much better. I can hold


    you while we ride. Snow and his Ferrari are just for showing off."


    On a whim, after seeing couples on electric scooters, where the one in the back could wrap their arms


    around the driver, Tyrone thought it was a great idea and bought one on the spot. Holding her like this


    was far more preferable than driving a car.


    Tyrone''s hands stealthily caressed Quintessa''s waist, "Just focus on eatingter, and leave the rest to


    me. If you dare to stop me, you''ll see."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "Even if I drink myself to death, it''s none of your concern."


    Tyrone nted a kiss on her cheek, "Such a good girl!"


    Quintessa twisted his arm, "Aren''t you afraid Snow and your dear uncle will gang up on you?"


    Tyrone hugged Quintessa tighter and kissed her again, "Impressive, worried about me now. Rx,


    those two, ha, let me tell you, even with ten more Jonathans and Snows, they wouldn''t stand a chance


    against me. Just you watch."


    "Who''s worried about you? Have some shame!"


    Tyrone responded disdainfully, "What''s the point of having shame? If I did, you might be sitting in


    someone else''s car right now."

 Chapter 309

    Snow and Jonathan were cruising in the same car.


    Jonathan spoke with a casual tone, "You better watch out, that guy might be hitting the bottle pretty


    hard."


    Snow chuckled, "No worries, we haven''t seen each other for a long time. It''s okay to have a few extra


    drinks when you catch up."


    Jonathan smiled, appreciating how easy it was tomunicate with someone as sharp as Snow.


    Originally, the two were mere acquaintances; now, they had be friends. And friends, naturally stay


    united! The barbecue ce Manny had rmended was no ordinary street stall but rather a more


    upscale establishment located by the river. It was a two-story building, with the second floor designed


    as an open- air space, separated into semi-private booths with screens, a setup often reserved for


    celebrities.


    Upon arrival, Quintessa headed straight to the second floor, leaving Manny to order downstairs.


    Tyrone was a step behind her. The skewers weren''t served yet, but the table was already full of beer


    and spirits.


    Jonathan nced at the table and felt a heartache, still feeling the effects of a heavy drinking session


    from two nights ago. Snow quietly observed the selection of drinks and gave Jonathan a sidelong


    nce. Tyrone suggested with a grin, "It''s no fun just eating without drinks. Let''s y a game."


    He produced a deck of cards, tossed it to Manny for dealing. Each person received three cards to


    compare sizes. The loser drinks!


    Tyrone''s method was straightforward.


    Quintessa, holding a bottle of beer, watched coldly from the sidelines. Within the first ten rounds,


    Tyrone had lost six times, and three empty bottles already stood before him, adhering to their rule of


    drinking half a beer per loss.


    Manny, watching them down their drinks incessantly, sensing the tense atmosphere over the dining


    table, "Quinn, isn''t this a bit too intense? Aren''t you going to step in?"


    "What''s there to intervene? This grilled mushroom is pretty good, get me a few more skewers."


    "Alright."


    Quintessa realized Snow and Jonathan had teamed up against Tyrone. Tyrone must have realized it,


    too, but he hadn''t said anything, keeping one wondering what he was plotting.


    Having downed six beers without


    batting an eyelid, Tyrone was ready for another found. He announced, "Let''s switch things up. If I lose


    this round, everything on this table is on me. But if I win, you two, split it, how''s that? Think about it; it


    actually you two getting the better deal. Be men, and you''ll y. If not, better to back out now."


    With Tyrone''s challengeid out and Quintessa watching, Snow nodded.


    As the three revealed their cards, Tyrone said with a smile, "Sorry, gents, looks like I win. A bet''s a bet,


    please do the honors."


    Jonathan''s face darkened, realizing


    Tyrone had likely been losing on purpose earlier to lower their guard, aiming to take them down in one


    fell swoop. If he drank all that, he would sure to be floored. He touched his nose, "My doctor said I


    shouldn''t drink excessively these next few days."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Tyrone cracked open a lobster, "Come on, uncle, that''s no fun. If you couldn''t handle it, you shouldn''t


    have yed. I won''t pick on the elderly but you agreed, and backing out now is just weak. What would


    Quinn think of you?"


    After peeling the lobster, he removed the vein and offered it to Quintessa.


    Quintessa froze, and Tyrone said, "Come on, open up. Have a couple of bites. Later, I''ll take you to eat


    something really good."


    Snow and Jonathan both looked at Quintessa, who suddenly felt her face heating up, her heart racing


    unexpectedly.

 Chapter 310

    Quintessa leisurely sipped her beer, watching as Snow and Jonathan turned red with each gulp.


    As more people crowded into the barbecue joint, the sound of drinking games drifted over from the


    neighboring table. Quintessa found herself drifting into a haze, feeling like the people before her were


    blurring into duplicates, and the voices around her were drifted further away.


    Tyrone, noticing that Quintessa had already emptied two bottles in front of her, quickly snatched the


    beer bottle from her hand, "Your stomach isn''t feeling well. Drink less."


    Quintessa blinked, "Wha-what did you say?"


    Meeting Quintessa''s confused gaze, Tyrone was momentarily lost for words, "Geez, you''re drunk?"


    Quintessa tilted her head, "Not at all."


    Tyrone wrapped an arm around her shoulder, "Alright, alright, if you say so. Here, try some fish. Their


    grilled fish is decent."


    Quintessa took a bite and frowned, "This doesn''t taste good."


    Quintessa, a bit tipsy from drinking, swayed unsteadily and had trouble sitting up straight. Her gaze


    was hazy and lost, shed her usual tough exterior, appearing as vulnerable as a lost kitten.


    Tyrone couldn''t help but pinch Quintessa''s cheek, which she immediately shook off, trying to swat his


    hand away.


    Tyrone chuckled at her antics; even drunk, she was adorable.


    After shaking her head, Quintessa mumbled, "Dizzy."


    Tyrone quickly said, "Dizzy? Rest against me for a bit."


    Manny watched from the side, disdain written all over his face.


    Until the early hours of the morning, both Snow and Jonathan were passed out, and there was still


    alcohol left on the table.


    Tyrone scoffed. With such low alcohol tolerance, they still wanted topete for girls with him? They


    were just asking for trouble.


    Tyrone lifted Quintessa in his arms, "My girl, I''m taking her home. As for you two, Manny, escort them


    out."


    Manny nodded, helping Snow up first.


    But then Snow suddenly grabbed


    Manny''s hand and said, "Quinn, et


    I


    really like you. Tyrone''s no good for you can offer you marriage


    happiness, he can''t give you that."


    If Tyrone wasn''t holding Quintessa, he would have kicked him, "Damn."


    Drunk out of his mind, and still bad-mouthing him. What did he mean he couldn''t provide Quinn with a


    happy marriage? How could he not. Tyrone frowned. Marriage? He hadn''t really thought about it.


    With a dark expression, Tyrone said, "Strip them and dump them by the roadside."


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Tyrone carried Quintessa downstairs, paid the bill, and rode back to the hotel on the electric scooter.


    Manny nced at the two drunkards-he didn''t dare to leave them by the roadside.


    Back at the hotel, Tyrone ced Quintessa on the bed, took off her shoes, and went to the bathroom,


    returning with a warm towel.


    He bent down to wipe Quintessa''s


    face, but she suddenly opened her eyes, which were clear and bright,pletely unlike someone who


    was drunk.


    Tyrone paused, and the next second, Quintessa pulled him forward.


    By the time he collected his thoughts, he was lying on the bed with Quintessa on top of him.


    Tyrone''s heart raced, "What are you doing?"


    Quintessa flipped her hair, "The folly of drunkenness!"


    Tyrone grabbed her hand, "Damn, are you drunk or sober? This is too


    sudden. Don''t do likest time toget


    kicking me out after we''re done. I''m not that reckless."

 Chapter 311

    Quintessa chuckled, her cheeks flushed, hair tousled, eyes zed. Under the dim light, she resembled


    a seductive nymph. Leaning forward, her neckline revealed more than intended, captivating Tyrone


    completely. He couldn''t help but think that no scenic beauty couldpare to the sight before him.


    Quintessa''s short nails traced a tingling path along Tyrone''s neck, sending shivers down his spine.


    With a slightly husky voice, Quintessa murmured, "It''s okay. I can be reckless."


    In such a moment, any man would turn into a wolf, pouncing at the opportunity before him. Though


    Tyrone''s body responded uncontrobly, the lesson fromst time was still vivid in his mind. "Why do I


    feel so uneasy?" He wondered.


    Alcohol fueled Quintessa''s courage, her impulsive side taking over as she grabbed Tyrone''s chin. "Hey,


    why so hesitant. Are you a man or not?"


    Tyrone, standing his ground, replied, "Of course, I am."


    Quintessa tilted her head, studying him for a moment before challenging, "Prove it, then!"


    Tyrone felt as if his heart was shot. "You asked for it. Andter, don''t you dare, mmm."


    His words were silenced by Quintessa''s lips, her hands pinning his wrists down. Their hands


    intertwined, fingers locked together.


    A kiss ignited a warmth between them, the alcohol in their veins brewing a fervor.


    Intoxicated, Quintessa''s mind seemed clouded by alcohol. Tonight, she wanted to let go.


    Nibbling on Tyrone''s lip, she whispered, "Actions speak louder than words."


    Tyrone knew he had to act or he''d never forgive himself. "Just don''t regret this. Tomorrow, no matter


    what you say, I won''t be at your beck and call.¡±


    Quintessa''s hands ventured under his T-shirt. "All this talk. Is it because you are not capable?"


    "Damn it."


    In a swift move, Tyrone flipped positions, pinning Quintessa beneath him. "Time to show you I''m not a


    pushover. I''ve been too lenient with you."


    Tyrone swiftly removed his clothes, scattering them across the floor.


    Fire zed in Tyrone''s eyes, intense enough to incinerate Quintessa. Feeling the heat, she squirmed.


    But Tyrone held her close, not allowing any distance between them.


    He kissed her deeply, their bodies entwined.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Silhouettes danced on the curtain, their passion heating up the room.


    Tonight''s events seemed somewhat unexpected, yet at the same time, they felt inevitable.


    "Quintessa, I''m not a casual person.


    Once is chance, twice is choice, thrice, don''t you dare tell me it''s nothing. From now on, you''re mine,


    and only mine. If I catch you flirting around, I won''t let you off easy."


    Quintessa squinted at the man above her, sweat dripping down his jaw andnding right on her chest.


    This man was handsome, captivating, but could she ever truly belong to someone?


    Quintessa thought about all the bad things


    the man had done, and then about


    the many more bad things waiting for her to do. Who could predict her fate in the end?


    Quintessa reached out her arms, wrapping them around Tyrone like vines. "Why think so much?


    What''s the point? We''re still alive tonight."

 Chapter 312

    The sun crept in, illuminating the chaos within the room. With clothes and shoes strewn about, two


    figuresy intertwined in the most intimate of embraces on therge bed; their exposed shoulders told


    tales o the night before without a word.


    The summer sun was relentless, blurring the lines between dawn and noon. Today, the sun climbed


    higher under the clear skies, its rays growing more piercing as the morning wore on. Quintessa


    shielded her eyes from the light and turned over.


    The slightest movement from Quintessa prompted the arm around her waist to tighten, pulling her back


    in.


    Quintessa, with her eyes still closed, nudged the man beside her with her foot. "Get up."


    Tyrone hugged Quintessa tighter, nuzzling against her. "Awake so early? Seems like I went easy on


    youst night."


    Tyrone, feeling toofortable to open his eyes, reveled in the warmth and softness beneath the


    nkets. This was a far cry from the nights spent doing nothing but sleeping under the covers.


    What a waste of so many wonderful nights, he thought.


    Quintessa opened her eyes, and said in a cool tone. "Get out."


    Tyrone paused, then opened his eyes and pinned Quintessa beneath him. "Come on, Quintessa,


    you''re really gonna y it like that? What did I tell youst night? How could you throw a hamburger at


    me when I said I didn''t want it. Now, you can say what you want, but it won''t work, I¡ª"


    Quintessa pushed Tyrone''s face away. "Stop it, just go get me some medicine."


    Tyrone froze. "Medicine?"


    Quintessa kicked him again. "Birth control, hurry up!"


    Tyrone looked at Quintessa, his mind struggling to catch up.


    Quintessa rolled her eyes. "Why the daze so early in the morning?"


    She pinched Tyrone''s cheek. "Unless you''re looking forward to a bun in the oven, which I''m not, you''d


    better get going, now."


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    l.n


    Tyrone, with his clothes barely on, found himself being pushed out the door, still dazed. As he was


    about to close the door behind him, he pushed it open again and called back Quintessa, something


    doesn''t feet right."


    sto


    A pillow flew at him. "What''s not to get? Don''te back without it."


    "I..." Before Tyrone could finish, voices suddenly came from behind.


    "Son."


    "Mr. York!"


    "Young master."


    "Ty."


    Tyrone spun around, shocked to see four familiar faces. Manny was one thing, but the other three,


    especially at this time and ce, werepletely unexpected.


    "Mom? Wilma? What are you doing here?"


    Mrs. York raised a hand. "Hold on, don''t start with questions. What in the world is going on here?"


    Tyrone stuttered, "I..."


    Mrs. York eyed Tyrone, who had his clothes wrinkled and his T-shirt inside out; his hair was a mess as


    if he''d just rolled out of bed without a care.


    Tyrone instinctively reached to close


    the door, but Mrs. York stopped him.


    She peeked inside, then looked at


    Tyrone up and down, ma


    him


    squirm under her gaze. S


    Mrs. York, with a look of disdain, said, "Son, did you get yed again?"

 Chapter 313

    Tyrone''s face flushed a deep shade of red: "Mom, what are you even talking about? When have I ever


    been yed?" Clearing his throat, Tyrone continued, "Mom, why are you asking all these questions?


    First, tell me, how did you get here?"


    Serena quickly interjected, "Ty, I came with Mrs. York for a vacation. The tour guide suggested we stay


    at this hotel, iming that it had better amodations. But honestly, this ce is not great." Tyrone


    nced at Serena, feeling too annoyed to engage with her.


    He told Mrs. York, "Mom, just do whatever you need to do. I''ve got to head out for a bit. Please, no


    meddling."


    As Tyrone reached to pull Mrs. York''s arm and shut the door, Mrs. York grimaced, "Son, isn''t that a bit


    embarrassing that you get kicked out all the time? You might not care, but it''s mortifying for me."


    Tyrone''s face turned even redder. What could be more humiliating than his own mother witnessing him


    being booted out of bed by a woman? He was well aware of his disheveled appearance - unwashed


    face. ubed hair, still in yesterday''s clothes - without needing a mirror.


    Frustrated, Tyrone eximed, "Mom."


    Suddenly, the door swung open: "What''s with all the noise outside? Go get the medicine already."


    Wrapped in a sheet, with hair tousled and shoulders exposed, Quintessa stood there, her neck marked


    with bite marks from Tyrone the night before, looking irritable from being woken up.


    Everyone froze, and upon seeing Mrs. York, Quintessa did too.


    After a moment, she managed, "Mrs. York, you?"


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Stunned, Tyrone quickly stepped in front of Quintessa, trying to usher her back inside, "Who told you to


    come out? Get back in, now."


    Mrs. York immediately said, "Quintessa, dear, I''vee all this way. Won''t you invite me in?"


    Still dazed, Quintessa reflexively responded, "Oh, sure,e in then."


    Tyrone grabbed Mrs. York''s hand, stopping her from entering, "What are you doing, Mom? Don''t make


    a scene. Quintessa, just go back to sleep, and I''ll be back soon." Then, turning menacingly towards


    Serena, he snapped, "And you, what are you staring at?"


    Serena shrank back, hiding behind Wilma.


    Mrs. York pouted, "Why are you yelling? Do you want everyone to know you got kicked out without any


    thanks?" Tyrone''s face crumbled, "Mom."


    Mrs. York insisted, "Then let me in."


    "No way."


    Taking advantage of Mrs. York''s momentary distraction, Tyrone quickly pulled her aside and mmed


    the door shut. Inside, Quintessa paused, then, clutching the sheet, she returned to bed, thinking, Screw


    this, I need sleep.


    Tyrone finally breathed a sigh of relief, "Mom, go find your room. I''ve got things to do."


    With that, he turned to leave, only to hear


    back, sure enough, there was Mrs. York, tapping on the door. S


    Yg behind him. Be


    SW


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, pulling Mrs. York away, "Mom, what are you trying to do?"


    Mrs. York looked innocent, "Just trying to have a word with the little siren who took advantage of my


    son."


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, "It wasn''t like that, okay?"


    He sometimes wondered if she was really his mother. With so many people around watching, why did


    she insist on putting him in such awkward situations? Why couldn''t they just get along peacefully?


    Mrs. York nced at the door, "But it''s a fact that you got kicked out, isn''t it? You just got booted out of


    bed, didn''t you?"

 Chapter 314

    Tyrone was so furious that he felt steam was about to burst from his nostrils; the frustration was clear in


    his voice as he slowly enunciated, "I''ve told you, it''s not like that. I have something to do. I need to step


    out for a bit, but I''ll be back soon."


    Mrs. York, ever the skeptic, raised an eyebrow. "What ''something''?"


    "Just, don''t worry about it. I''ll fill you inter."


    With a sigh, Mrs. York threw her hands up. "Fine, go then. After you leave, I''ll just knock on the door


    anyway."


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Tyrone''s headache intensified. Was his own mother here just to make things difficult for him?


    He grabbed Mrs. York''s hand and began to pull her along. "Alright, fine. You''reing with me."


    After a few steps, he turned back to the trio standing by the door and warned, "If any of you even thinks


    about knocking just try me!"


    Manny, Serena, and Wilma simultaneously shook their heads.


    Ten minutester, Tyrone parked in front of a local pharmacy, saying, "Mom, wait here in the car. I''ll be


    right back."


    Mrs. York peered at the modest pharmacy sign and chuckled. "Picking up birth control, huh?"


    Tyrone''s cheeks flushed. "Mom, can you just not? If you''re going to y smart, at least pick the right


    moments."


    Mrs. York snorted. "Was it your idea, or did Quintessa send you on this errand?"


    "Of course, it was me." Tyrone trailed off, unable to admit he was indeed sent.


    Mrs. York sighed and shook her head. "So, you were sent on an errand, huh. Oh, son, what am I going


    to do with you?"


    Stopping in his tracks, Tyrone looked at her, feeling puzzled. "What''s with that look?"


    Mrs. York poked his forehead.


    "You''re too soft, kiddo. Being sent


    e


    out for birth control means that she doesn''t want to get pregnant. Despite being a decent-looking guy


    with a few bucks to your name, she''s not willing to have you baby.


    What does that say about baby.


    standing, huh? Pretty sadPif she''s not even considering the ''baby trap"."


    Tyrone was stumped. "But there''s nothing wrong with not wanting to suddenly have a kid, right?¡±


    Mrs. York rolled her eyes. "That''s


    one way to see it. But it deeply implies that, son, you''re not exactly priority material. Look at how


    disappointing that is." S


    "So what should I do?"


    "Ah, forget it." Mrs. York waved dismissively. "Anyway, any girl who ends up seriously falling for you


    would be signing up for trouble."


    Dazed, Tyrone got out of the car; the outside temperature was nearing 86¡ãF, which made him slightly


    lightheaded.


    As he entered the pharmacy, the clerk asked, "What can I get for you, sir?"


    Tyrone, lost in thought, didn''t respond until the clerk repeated the question twice. "Oh, uh, what''s the


    most effective birth control you have?"


    The clerk''s expression changed instantly upon fetching a box of pills.


    "Don''t rely on these too much. They''re not great for continuous use."


    Nodding absentmindedly, Tyrone paid and took the medication. At the door, he paused, turned around,


    and said, ¡°Can you give me a few more, just in case?"


    Seeing Tyrone return with the pills,


    Mrs. York grimaced. As a woman, she couldn''t help but disdain men who resorted to post-coital birth


    control for women. Such guys were so selfish as they enjoyed the moment but left the aftermath to the


    woman.


    FindNovel


    "Tsk, it serves you right. You act all high and mighty at home, yet you''re just easily yed."

 Chapter 315

    As soon as Tyrone got in the car, he was greeted with Mrs. York''s voice that instantly made his head


    feel twice as heavy. "Mom, am I even your son?"


    Mrs. York nodded, "Yes, yes, of course, you are. But son, there''s a difference between being a son and


    speaking the truth."


    Tyrone let out a sigh, "Mom, hold up. First, tell me, how did you even get here?"


    Mrs. York''s gaze flickered, "I came for a vacation."


    Tyrone chuckled, "Mom, cut the crap. Apart from shopping and ying cards, what else do you enjoy?


    In this weather, you''re not off to some cool retreat, but here for a vacation? Do you think I''m dumb?"


    "I''m really here for a vacation, believe it or not."


    "Alright, you''re on a vacation. Then exin to me, how did Serena end up here?" Seeing Serena


    reminded Tyrone of Alexander.


    "Her, well, her mom and I nned a shopping spree yesterday afternoon, and I was just about to pick


    up some travel essentials, so we went together. It just so happened we talked abouting to Zion


    City, and Rachel''s mom got really excited about it, so she entrusted her to me."


    Tyrone scoffed, "That''s really trusting."


    "Listen, you can enjoy youself today, but you''d better head back home tomorrow."


    Mrs. York immediately shook her head, "Go back? I''ve just arrived, after all this trouble. Besides, Look


    at you, getting so easily pushed around and even kicked out. With me here, at least I can give you


    some advice, right?"


    Tyrone massaged his forehead, "Mom, I wasn''t ''kicked out,'' okay? And I wasn''t before, either. Today


    was just a coincidence that you saw me. The best way you can help me is by not doing or saying


    anything that could backfire on me, please."


    "If you''re that capable, go ahead and win her over then."


    Mrs. York waved her hand, "Alright, son, I''ve seen enough by now. You can''t handle that little witch''s


    firepower, and neither can I."


    Tyrone smiled, "If I really win her over, would you be okay with it?"


    Mrs. York earnestly said, "It doesn''t matter if I''m okay with it or not. Son, what I want isn''t to see you


    entangled in some love feud. want to see you settle down and live a good life."


    Tyrone paused, remaining silent.


    When they arrived back at the hotel, Tyrone, carrying the medicine, got out of the car with Mrs. York


    following behind.


    Before entering, Mrs. York held him back, "Son, if you''re not certain, don''t make any rash decisions that


    could hurt others." Tyrone paused; understanding Mrs. York''s point, he nodded, "Got it."


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Mrs. York stopped him again, "Never mind, look at you. Better I go in, to avoid you getting kicked out


    again."


    "Mom."


    "I''m not wrong. Go get something to eat. It''s about time Quintessa hasn''t had dinner yet. With her


    sensitive stomach, you better hurry and get her something to eat." S


    Tyrone hesitated for a moment, then handed the medicine to Mrs. York.


    Mrs. York rang the doorbell twice before the door swung open.


    Seeing the person outside, Quintessa paused in drying her hair, "Auntie, what brings you here?"


    Mrs. York smirked and entered, "Came to see how you managed to kick my son out."


    Quintessa chuckled and closed the door.


    After a moment of hesitation, Mrs. York handed over the medicine, "It''s not good for a youngdy to


    rely on this medicine too much. You two... well, you know... should have taken precautions."


    S?arch the FindNovel website on G??gl? to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest


    quality.

 Chapter 316

    Quintessa chuckled, "This was a fluke, and it won''t happen again."


    To Quintessa,st night truly was an unforeseen event. If there''s anyone to me, it''s the wine for not


    holding itself back.


    Sometimes, when you''re on your own for too long, you seek somefort, maybest night,


    something about Tyrone struck a chord.


    Seeing Quintessa so nonchnt about being caught in bed, Mrs. York couldn''t help but silently sigh.


    This girl clearly hadn''t considered marrying her son.


    Girls like her are hard toe by these days. Thinking about it, she''s had it tough, as she had fought


    her battles alone while her son only added to her troubles.


    Mrs. York, against her better judgment, said, "Well, my son is a fine young man, you know. But for him


    to freeload off you isn''t right."


    Quintessa poured herself a ss of water, and swallowed her pills with a gulp.


    "You''ve seen it yourself, I''m practically sponsoring your son. He crashes at my ce, eats my food, and


    even wears my T-shirts. If I sleep with him, consider it settling his debts."


    Mrs. York was at a loss for words.


    It did make sense, didn''t it? She couldn''t understand why her son, usually so generous, was being so


    stingy this time. She felt embarrassed in front of Quintessa.


    Checking the time, Quintessa knew she had to leave. With a smile, she bluntly told Mrs. York, "Don''t


    worry, I won''t cling to your son. I never nned on joining the York family. Feel free to look for a


    daughter-in-w, but Rachel? Not happening. You know I''m quite charming. If your son can''t let go,


    that''s on him. I need to head to the set now."


    Mrs. York, taken aback, asked, "Where are you off to?"


    She wanted to say she wasn''t testing Quintessa.


    Grabbing her bag, Quintessa answered, "Off to the studio. Got scenes to shoot."


    As she rante today, the director was probably furious.


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Mrs. York hurriedly said, "But you haven''t taken breakfast."


    "I''ll skip it.


    here, enim used to it. Since you''re see how we shoot, ask M want to see your stay. If you


    I''m


    off."


    Mrs. York called out, "Wait."


    "Something else?"


    "Well, aboutst time, um, thank you. This is you." Mrs. York, being


    bit


    sed, handed C


    belongs to FindNovel.next.


    something from her bag. Content


    Quintessa was surprised, "No need. Tyrone already thanked me."


    Mrs. York fidgeted, "That was him, not me. Anyway, I gave it, take it or leave it. I can''t owe you."


    Quintessa, packing the nicely wrapped gift into her bag, said, "Alright, I''ll ept it. Thank you."


    As Quintessa opened the door to


    leave, Mrs. York couldn''t help but add, "Actually, my son isn''t all bad. Sure, he''s a bit of a mess, a little


    naughty, but at least he''s easy on the eyes."

 Chapter 317

    Quintessa couldn''t help but let out augh when she heard that. She probably hadn''t met anyone cuter


    than Mrs. York in a long while.


    Turning around, she nodded, "Yes, you''re right. Sometimes, he''s not all that bad."


    "Oh, so you?"


    Quintessa cut Mrs. York off, "Let''s not go there. Everyone knows what I''m about. Him and I, we''re just


    fooling around, nothing serious. Getting real? Maybe, that''s a game neither of us can afford to y.


    Thanks, though for not judging me like everyone else."


    "You!"


    "I''ve gotta go."


    Watching Quintessa close the door behind her, Mrs. York sighed. Deep down, she was conflicted. This


    girl, with all her personal baggage, wasn''t really a match for her son. But her son was smitten, and she


    didn''t dislike her either.


    But really, she shouldn''t be worried. The girl clearly wasn''t interested in him.


    Peering into Quintessa''s room, Mrs. York noted the sparse belongings. Even her makeup collection


    was smaller than hers, not to mention her son''s things scattered about.


    Mrs. York smirked. She knew her son all too well - he was picky and fastidious to a fault. And yet, here


    he was, willing to live in such a ce, getting kicked out of the room time and again without a word of


    comint. What did that tell anyone? It was clear as day, except to her oblivious son.


    If settling down with this girl meant that her son could finally find some happiness, then so be it.


    Sometimes, this girl wasn''t half bad!


    Upon returning, Tyrone found only his mother, "Mom, where is she?"


    Mrs. York frowned, "What, you only got her in your eyes?"


    "No, mom, please tell me. Where is she?"


    "She''s at the studio."


    Dropping some groceries on the table, Tyrone said, "Eat something, Mom. I''m heading over to the


    studio." "Why on earth for?"


    Without hesitation, Tyrone replied, "To bring her unch. You don''t know it, but she fainted the other day.


    The doctor mentioned she''s


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    1


    malnourished, so she had been constantly exhausted, and had severe gastritis. She can''t skip


    breakfast, especially not with today''s heat. I''m worried she won''t hold up."


    Mrs. York stared at Tyrone in surprise. Hearing such caring and considerate words from her son moved


    her deeply. Her son was finally learning to be less ''selfish''.


    Tyrone had always been a bit twisted, since he grew up with his father absent and had been coddled


    by everyone around him. From a young age, he had a streak of coldness and aggression.


    Mrs. York had been worried about him, especially during his rebellious teenage years, when his life


    was filled with fights. As he grew older he learned to control it, but part of his nature remained


    unchanged. He wasn''t one to care or show empathy, but now, she finally saw a change.


    Mrs. York said softly, "Son, have you ever thought about why you''re so concerned for her? Think about


    it. What do you really want? If you continge like this, not making your head clear, you''dl only be led to


    trouble."


    Tyrone paused, then nodded, "I''ll think it over. You should rest. Oh, and what did she say to you?"


    There was a glint in Mrs. York''s eye, "Nothing much. Just mentioned that my son could be a good catch


    and maybe worth considering. Oh, and she did say, at times, you''re not too bad."

 Chapter 318

    Mrs. York hesitated, not wanting to crush her son''s spirits. "Honey, it''s just not looking great. I can''t


    have you wasting your time chasing rainbows," she thought it over but couldn''t bring herself to say.


    Tyrone eyed her skeptically. "For real? You''re not pulling one over on me?"


    Mrs. York snorted. "Get outta here. What do you take me for?"


    "If you could just avoid setting me up for once, I''d be eternally grateful," Tyrone chuckled, while


    grabbing his sandwich and heading out.


    Mrs. York muttered with a smirk, "Little rascal..."


    In the afternoon, at the film set where Quintessa was shooting, Mrs. York and Serena paid a visit to her.


    Serena gasped at the sight of Quintessa''s costume. "Wow... Quintessa looks stunning, absolutely


    gorgeous!"


    She quickly reached for her phone, only to be stopped by Manny. "No way, you can''t take pictures.


    We''ve got a confidentiality agreement until the official promo kicks off. I''m only letting you in because


    we''re like family. If the director finds it out, I''m toast."


    Disappointed, Serena put her phone away. "Fine, no pictures. It''s just... I wanted it for myself, not to


    share."


    Mrs. York frowned. "Serena, behave. We need to respect the rules of the set..."


    Serena nodded, somewhat contritely. "Sorry, Auntie. I just got a bit carried away."


    During a break, Jonathan approached. "what brings you here?"


    Mrs. York felt a twinge of guilt; recalling the embarrassing favor her son had asked of her, she feigned


    nonchnce. "Oh, just for sightseeing."


    "There are a few spots worth checking out in Zion City. Let me treat you to dinner tonight," Jonathan


    offered.


    Mrs. York was quick to decline. "No, no, that''s not necessary. You go on with your work."


    Jonathan smiled. "Grandma gets bored at home. You should invite her over for some card games


    sometime."


    Mrs. York awkwardly agreed, "Ah, sure, sure."


    Then, Jonathan dropped a


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    bombshett. "By the way, I mentioned to Grandma that I''d bring a fianc¨¦e home this Christmas. What do


    you think about Quintessa?" he asked, while nodding towards her Content


    belongs to FindNovel


    Mrs. York''s eyes widened in realization. So, that''s why her son was acting up; he was trying to


    outmaneuver Jonathan for Quintessa''s affection.


    Feeling a sudden surge of protectiveness, she thought, "Since you mess with my son''s girl, you''re fair


    game for a little sabotage."


    Had she known it earlier, she''d have thrown a bit more fuel on the fire when showing Darlene


    Quintessa''s pictures. "Should''ve yed harder," she mused.


    Assessing Quintessa with feigned


    seriousness, Mrs. York opined, "Well, she''s not quite suitable, don''t you think? She looks a bit too


    enchanting, like a siren. Bringing her home might just give your grandma a heart attack. Your family,


    with its rich literary heritage, needs a match of equal standing. She''s pretty, sure, but she won''t pass


    muster with your grandma or your parents."


    Jonathan listened with a polite smile, then replied, "Is that so? But Ty is also pursuing her, you know?"


    Mrs. York nodded, saying, "Of


    course, I know. You won''t believe it,


    but I caught them in bed this


    morning. My face was so red that could barely stand it. Kids these days are so bold. They even said I


    might be bing a grandma in a few months."

 Chapter 319

    Jonathan found himself at a loss for words. His cousin, Emily, was known as someone of average


    intelligence and an innocent nature. Yet, at this moment, he couldn''t help but feel she was


    demonstrating a level of cunning that was truly touching. One moment she wasmenting how the


    Winters n had no love for Quintessa, and the next, she was gleefully recounting how she''d caught


    Quintessa and Tyrone in apromising situation in bed.


    It was as if she hadn''t outright said, "This is my son''s woman; you''re out of luck, so you might as well


    give up."


    Jonathan wanted tough, but found it rather difficult. He said, "Emily, what''s with the weird talk? You


    got a bit of a double standard, don''t you think? You tell me Quintessa is too mboyant for our family''s


    taste, but do you like her?"


    Mrs. York waved dismissively, "Ah, you know how it is; once kids grow up, they''re out of your hands.


    I''ve never been able to control Ty; he''s always been headstrong. As long as he''s happy, that''s all that


    matters to me. Besides, things have gotten this far between them. I''m hardly going to be the one to split


    them up. All I want is for Ty to settle down and start a family. As for his choice of wife, as long as he''s


    happy, nothing else matters."


    Jonathan''s lips twitched at her words, which implied that Quintessa and Tyrone''s rtionship was a


    done deal. If he were to interfere now, he''d be the outsider causing trouble.


    Feeling a tightness in his chest, he asked, "The Yorks are a prestigious family too. Don''t you care about


    lineage?"


    "We''re not like your family; I''m more open-minded," Mrs. York replied. "Let the kids find their own


    happiness. It''s their life, after all."


    Jonathan managed a smile, "Well, they''re not married yet. Anything could happen."


    Mrs. York chuckled warmly, "Oh, but you never know. Who''s to say Quintessa won''t be expecting in a


    few months? We''re quite progressive in that regard. Getting the cart before the horse is perfectly fine


    by us."


    Jonathan rubbed his fingers together, adding, "That''s just a possibility. It''s not set in stone. Everyone


    should have a fair chance, but I''m curious, aren''t you worried about bringing trouble into the family?


    After all Quintessa has a bit of a reputation. Not everyone in the industry likes her."


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Mrs. York yfully pped Jonathan, "Don''t worry about it. I trust herpletely. I used to have my


    doubts, but not anymore. If you''re interested in her, she can''t be all bad. I may not trust my son''s


    judgment, but I trust yours."


    Jonathan felt like he''d been punched in the gut. So, his judgment was just for picking out a daughter-in-


    law?


    The conversation had taken a turn he hadn''t expected. What happened to the sweet and naive cousin?


    Her words left him speechless.


    "I''ve got to get to the set, let''s chatter," he said, feeling eager to escape.


    "Off you go, then," Mrs. York said, while waving him off.


    Once Jonathan had left, Mrs. York''s friendly smile faded, and she snorted through her nose.


    She hadn''t expected Jonathan to be a contender for Quintessa''s affection. Mrs. York thought highly of


    Quintessa; she wouldn''t be so popr if she wasn''t a catch. Her son had good taste, it seemed.


    But, looking at Jonathan''s dashing figure andparing him to her own son, she couldn''t help but


    shake her head. Sure, Alexander was a catch in his own right, but Jonathan, despite being a bit older


    and not as handsome or wealthy as her son, had his own appeal.


    Mrs. York felt a twinge of concern. Modern moms have a soft spot for such charismatic, mature men.


    She sensed a challenge ahead.

 Chapter 320

    "No way, I''ve got to give my son a heads up."


    Staring nkly at Jonathan, it took a while for Serena to snap back to reality. Holding Mrs. York''s hand,


    she asked, "Quintessa is really with Ty now, isn''t she?"


    Mrs. York, thinking about Jonathan, replied offhandedly, "Didn''t you see them together this morning?


    Oh dear, you''d better not worry about these things."


    Serena bit her lip, her nose crinkling in frustration.


    That evening, Tyrone took them out for dinner at the same barbecue spot.


    Mrs. York''s face was a picture of shock as she watched her son peel shrimp for Quintessa. The fact


    that her son was even willing to eat at a street food stall had already surprised her enough, let alone


    this. Mrs. York sighed, truly, there''s a lid for every pot!


    Serena, usually the pampered one at home, felt a bit left out as everyone''s attention was on Quintessa.


    Nibbling on a chicken wing, Serena looked at Quintessa with hopeful eyes, "Quintessa, can I work for


    you? It seems so fun to work on a film set. We have a summer project for school, and I''d love to be


    your assistant, for free."


    Quintessa rejected her without a second thought, "No way."


    Serena, a spoiled little princess, working as her assistant? That was a joke. Who would end up taking


    care of whom? And if something went wrong, the Harringtons would have her head.


    Plus, the fact that Serena was Alexander''s sister made it an absolute impossibility.


    Tyrone red at Serena, his face darkened.


    Serena pleaded, "Quintessa, please, I really want to try it. You''re so kind; you''ll say yes, right?"


    "This is not a daycare."


    "I really want to."


    Tyrone interrupted, "I''ll have someone take you home tomorrow morning."


    "Fine,


    fing drop it. Ty, you''re so


    mean;


    a wife." Sere et


    care, or you''ll end up not


    a


    making a face at Tyrone.


    Mrs. York suddenly regretted bringing Serena along; it seemed that she didn''t know how to read the


    room.


    Serena''s phone rang, and she answered it excitedly, "Alex."


    Quintessa and Tyrone paused in their eating.


    et


    "I''m having barbecue with Ty, Cecilia, and Quintessa. It''s a shame you''re not here to peel shrimp for


    me. Yeah, it''s the same Quintessa who came to mying-of-age party. She looks so gorgeous on


    set, and I wanted to be her assistant, but she said no. Alex, I''m hurt."


    The dinner grew even more silent. Back at the hotel, Quintessa casually


    Set the Auntie, do you want to


    o in my room tonight?" Content


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    belongs to FindNovel S


    It was meant to lighten the mood, but Mrs. York agreed, "Sure!"


    "Tonight, I''m sleeping with Quintessa. You''re on your own, Ty. Here, take the room card."


    Tyrone held onto Mrs. York''s hand, pleading, "Mom, you can''t do this."


    Mrs. York forcefully pulled away and pushed him, "Off you go."


    Then, she pulled Quintessa inside and closed the door with a bang, leaving Tyrone outside.

 Chapter 321

    Tyrone scratched at the door twice before reluctantly heading back to his room with his keycard, with a


    gloomy expression on his face. After showering, Quintessa simply lied down, ready to call it a night.


    Mrs. York looked at her with a mix of disdain and concern, "Come on, you''re a celeb, darling. Shouldn''t


    you take better care of yourself?"


    Quintessa rolled over on the bed, "Auntie, care about what?"


    "Face masks, sweetheart. You''ve been out in the sun all day. Don''t you want to pamper your skin a


    bit?"


    Quintessa closed her eyes, "I''m not used to it. I''m so exhausted by the end of the day, all I want is to


    sleep. Believe it or not, I can be out like a light in three seconds."


    True to her word, it seemed like she was almost asleep after just a brief pause.


    Mrs. York shook her head; just as she finished washing up and was about to do her evening routine,


    she remembered she wasn''t in her own room.


    Luckily, Mrs. York had brought along a couple of face masks in her purse. She put one on and nced


    at Quintessa with a chuckle.


    Quintessa, half-asleep, suddenly felt a cool sensation on her face, which jolted her awake. Opening her


    eyes, she saw Mrs. York''s face so close to her, which startled her and made her gasp.


    "Oh, Auntie."


    Mrs. York smoothed out the face mask on Quintessa''s face, "There, now go to sleep."


    Touching her face, Quintessa couldn''t help but smile, wondering how she could possibly sleep now.


    Feeling unexpectedly warm-hearted in the middle of the night, she marveled at the thought that


    someone was still willing to pamper her like this.


    Lying down and gently patting her face, Mrs. York casually asked, "Speaking of which, you''ve been


    working with Jonathan on set. What do you think of him? I''m his cousin, no ulterior motive, just asking."


    Quintessa responded, "He''s great. Everyone on set likes him. He''s humble, polite, and, let''s not forget,


    incredibly handsome."


    Mrs. York frowned internally; humility and politeness were hardly traits she''d associate with her son.


    Clearing her throat, Mrs. York said, "Is that so? Well, I saw Jonathan today and I couldn''t help but worry


    for him."


    "Why''s that?"


    Mrs. York sighed, "He''s not getting any younger, yet he''s not married. His family is quite concerned. I


    was ying cards with his grandma beforeing here, and she


    mentioned that they''re starti et


    to


    wonder if he might be gay. After all, he''s been in showbiz for years without any significant rumors of


    dating. His grandma even showed me a photo of him hugging another man; in that pic they looked


    quite intimate."


    Quintessa''s eyes widened, "Really?"


    Mrs. York nodded, "Yes, really. His grandma has mentioned several times that if there are suitable girls,


    they should be introduced to Jonathan to get him to settle down soon." Quintessa shook her head in


    disbelief.


    Recalling Jonathan flirting with her before and suddenly felt a chill, she wondered if he could actually


    be gay. Mrs. York, being such a straightforward person and rted to the Winters family, had no reason


    to smear him.


    Mrs. York continued, "Yes, it was quite a shock to me too. Imagine if it''s true, any girl who ends up with


    him would be so unlucky. I re


    about wives who find out


    Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    husbands are gay after getting


    married. It''s just tragic."


    "You''re right, Auntie."


    Leaning closer to Quintessa as if she was sharing a secret, Mrs. York whispered, "That''s why when


    Darlene asked for my help, I''ve been cautious. I can''t let some innocent girl suffer. If it''s not true,


    themall is well. But what if it is?"

 Chapter 322

    Quintessa nodded vigorously, "Aunt Jane, you''re absolutely right. I''ve realized you''re pretty wise."


    Mrs. York smiled bashfully, "Oh, stop it. I mean, even though I think my son could be better in some ways, at least he can''t be gay, right? Think about it, he''s not that bad." Quintessa agreed, "True..."


    That night, Quintessa and Mrs. York talked until the early hours of the morning, around 2 or 3 A.M.


    The bond between women is built on shopping sprees and shared secrets. After they spent a night chatting, their rtionship skyrocketed.


    The next morning, Quintessa woke up with bags under her eyes and headed to the set, while Mrs. York knocked on Tyrone''s door, "Son, for your sake, I''ve even yed the viin. You better step up!" On set, Quintessa ran into Jonathan and gave him an odd look.


    Feeling uneasy under her gaze, Jonathan couldn''t shake off the awkwardness, even days after the shoot wrapped up. Whenever he tried talking to Quintessa, she avoided him, which left Jonathan utterly confused.


    After the wrap party and a group photo with the cast, Quintessa flew back to Emberbrook that very day.


    Tyrone, being a businessman, couldn''t stay in Zion City indefinitely and had returned to Emberbrook with Mrs. York two days earlier.


    Landing at 11 P.M., Manny, carrying the luggage, asked, "Tess, where to now?"


    Standing at the exit of Emberbrook airport, Quintessa suddenly didn''t know where to go. Emberbrook was so vast, yet she felt homeless. The house at Harmony Retreat was now Tyrone''s, but was a hotel really home?


    After a moment, Quintessa decided, "Let''s head back to Harmony Retreat for now... It''s about time I bought a ce of my own."


    Manny wanted to offer somefort but couldn''t find the right words.


    As they arrived at Harmony Retreat, someone called out, "Quintessa..."


    The voice sounded familiar, which sent a chill through Quintessa as she slowly turned around to face the person behind her.


    "Quintessa... It''s Dad," Sean looked at Quintessa with what appeared to be ''a father''s love''.


    Quintessa felt nauseated by the sight. A father''s love, right.


    His sudden change in attitude clearly meant he needed something from her.


    A security guard peeked out from the window, asking, "Ms. Young, is this your father? He''s beening here every day, and had waited for over a week."


    Quintessa offered a faint smile in thanks.


    "Manny, could you take the luggage up?" Quintessa handed the keys to Manny.


    She then led Sean to a gazebo in themunity, which was surrounded by darkness with only a few streetmps illuminating the area.


    "Quintessa, how have you been?


    Dad''s always worried about you. TheCcontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    entertainment world can be a tough ce, and I worry you might be taken advantage of," Sean''s gaze was earnest, seemingly genuine.


    Quintessa scoffed, "Let me guess, what brought you here today? Sean, it amazes me how you can spew such disgusting words. How many times do you have to rehearse them?"


    "Quintessa, I know you''ve always hated me, but some things were out of my control. Everyone made mistakes in their youth, and I''ve been living with guilt and regret. I hope you can give me a chance to make amends."


    Quintessa chuckled and nodded, "Oh, so your ''little mistakes'' led to my mom dying with resentment. Om Forgiving you is easy. See that building? It''s 28 stories high. Jump offit, and I''ll forgive you!"


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 323

    The night breeze was cool, and the gazebo was dimly lit. Quintessa''s skin, as white as snow, almost glowed under the moonlight. Her smile was captivating, and her features were soft and gentle. Yet, despite her beautiful smile, Sean felt a chill crawl up his spine like a serpent.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    His daughter was more terrifying than she had been three years ago. Her smile hid all the hatred; she was still mad, but now, it was invisible to others.


    Sean''s face paled, "Quintessa, please stop joking. Jumping from the 28th floor. I''d die."


    Quintessa nodded, "Of course. Why else would I suggest it? Remember, my mom died jumping from just the 7th floor. Imagine the 28th. Do you remember how she gasped for air when she hit the ground? Her eyes were wide open, and blood spilled from her mouth; her arms and legs were all broken. It was horrific."


    Those who have sinned always feel guilty. As Quintessa spoke slowly, Sean couldn''t help but recall the gruesome manner of his ex-wife''s death. He had been there; he knew how terrible it was. Over the years he had tried to forget.


    But as Quintessa detailed those bloody scenes, Sean felt a cold wind blowing through the midsummer night, which made him unable to feel the slightest warmth.


    Quintessa suddenly smiled, "You see, my mom is watching you from behind?"


    Sean, getting frightened, turned around quickly. His body trembled uncontrobly. It was pitch dark behind him, and though he knew Quintessa was deceiving him, he still felt as if there truly were eyes watching him; it sent shivers down his spine.


    Sean stammered, "Quintessa, I''m sorry. Dad''s sorry for what I did to you and to your mom. But back then, it was Lilian and her family who cornered me. I was just a country boy new to the city, but the Yates family was different. They had mob ties; they forced me. I really had no choice."


    With her lips curved into a faint smile, Quintessa sat there like a portrait of ady. She nodded, "Yeah, it sounds like you were innocent, forced to abandon your wife and daughter, to watch your wife die, then to share a bed with the enemy and have kids with her. You''ve had it tough, haven''t you?"


    Sean felt his heart leap with joy, and he nodded repeatedly, "Yes, yes, it''s been hard for me."


    Quintessa continued with a smile, "So, you deserve to die even more. What''s the point for a useless man like you to live in this world?"


    That smile, cold and terrifying, sent chills down Sean''s spine. He gritted his teeth, "Quintessa, I''m your father. At the end of the day, I''m your blood. There''s no overnight feud between father and daughter. Your mother has been dead for so many years, and I''ve apologized for that. How long will you hold this grudge?"


    "Do you count on a casual apology of you erasing your crime of murder, e Dad is your life so precious?"


    Quintessa had always known how selfish Sean was. In his eyes, there were no bond, no mules, father-daughter no He would shamelessly fawn over whoever was useful to him, and would ruthlessly eliminate whoever stood in his way.


    "Quintessa, your mother''s death is an unchangeable fact. Even if you seek revenge, it shouldn''t be against me. You should go after Lilian and the Yates family. I''m your father, the closest person you have in this world. You''ve lost your mother; do you also want to lose your father?"


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 324

    Sean was on edge, and Quintessa felt nauseated just looking at him.


    "You know, in one way, I''m a lot like you-equally despicable and shameless. I''ve told you before that I won''t spare any of you. What about dad? When it''s your turn, I''ll make sure you end up just as miserably dead as mom."


    Quintessa stood up, "I''m not interested in whatever you came here for today, and I''m certainly not helping you. Get out, now, before I lose my patience."


    Seeing her about to leave, Sean blurted out in desperation, "You think I don''t have any evidence against you and Ynda scheming together? You''ve left me penniless. I''m only sparing you from the cops because you''re my daughter. Don''t push your luck."


    Quintessa scoffed, "Then go ahead, hand it over to the cops. It''s not like it''s your first time trying to have me arrested."


    "We could make a deal. You help me out, and I''d give you the evidence."Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    "Not interested..."


    "What if I told you Rachel is nning to take you down? Wouldn''t you want to know about that?"


    Quintessa slowly turned back around, "I''m listening."


    "That witch Ynda ran off with all mypany''s money. The Business Bureau''s about to audit us, and I..."


    Quintessa interrupted him, "How much do you need?"


    "One... one hundred million."


    "I can''t believe your ipetence. A whole hundred million in the red? Ynda could''ve taken, at most, 4 million. Sean, you''re full of surprises."


    Desperate, Sean had turned to Quintessa as ast resort. With such a sum, only Tyrone could possibly help on such short notice. "I know you and Mr. Tyrone York are close. This amount is nothing to him. Let me tell you what Rachel is nning against you."


    Quintessa was unimpressed, "A el?


    hundred million; this is all you bring to the fable? You''re seriously underestimating the situation if you think that''s enough to persuade me."


    "What else do you want? I''m at my wit''s end here. You''re my only hope."


    Quintessa''s gaze sharpened, "Helping you isn''t out of the question, but you''ll have to agree to a few conditions first."


    "Anything, just say it..."


    Quintessa smacked a mosquito dead and said, "Your sister Miranda, she''s been acting outtely, trashing the ce and screaming her head off. Asher sister, I''m concerned. She needs professional help. How about Emberbrook Mental Institution? I hear it''s nice this time of year."


    "Quintessa, she''s your sister...after all."


    "Not willing to do it? Then there''s no deal." Quintessa turned to leave.


    Through gritted teeth, Sean agreed, "Fine, I''ll do it."


    Quintessa smirked. That was Sean for you, always ready to sacrifice 5m anyone, even his own daughter, as long as he got what he wanted. Quintessa raised another finger, "I hear Lilian''s about to be released."


    "What are you suggesting?"


    Quintessa calmly stated, "If the


    Business Bureau finds out you''ve embezzled a hundred million and m can''t pay it back, you''re looking at at it least 20 years behind bars. At your age, you''d be lucky to leave as anything but ashes."


    "What do you want?"


    Quintessa smiled sweetly, "A life for a life. If you want to survive, just use Lilian''s life to bargain for yours."


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 325

    Sean''s eyes widened with fear, "You want me to take out Lilian?"


    Quintessa''s smile was light, "I never said that. You said it yourself. Whether to do it or not, it''s up to you. I''m not forcing you."


    Sean quickly shook his head, "No, no, I can''t. The Yates family, you have no idea how ruthless they can be. They won''t spare me. Lilian will be released on bail in a couple of days. I can''t do it." Quintessa''s smile was inviting, "Are the people you''ve killed few? What''s the difference, really? For a murderer, whether you kill one or a hundred, the charge remains the same."


    Sean''s face turned sickly pale, "You you want to see Lilian and me at each other''s throats. You''re scheming."


    Quintessa spread her hands, "You don''t have to y the game if you don''t want to. I''m not forcing you. Whether to do it or not, the choice is yours."Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Quintessa wanted to see Sean and Lilian turn against each other. They had conspired to kill her mother years ago, and now she had the chance to watch them destroy each other. Why would she not take advantage of such a good opportunity?


    Sean struggled. The task Quintessa proposed was nearly impossible for him. But for $100 million, if Quintessa refused to ask Tyrone for help, his only fate would be behind bars. Just as Quintessa said, at his age, going in meanting out as ashes.


    Quintessazily said, "What''s more important, your life or Lilian''s? You weigh it yourself. I don''t have time for you to mull it over. Since you''re unwilling, forget it. What we discussed tonight, you didn''t say, and I didn''t hear. We''ve never met."


    Watching Quintessa walk away from the gazebo, Sean couldn''t help but call out to her.


    Sean shivered, "Wait, I''ll do it. But you have to help me first. The IRS ising to audit me in three days. You need to give me the money before that."


    "Are you ordering me? What right do you have to order me? Do I look like a toddler to you? If I lend you the money and you turn around and deny it, then I''ve learned nothing from my time abroad."


    "What do you want then?"


    Quintessa replied coolly, "It depends on whether you can perform wellin these three days. You have plenty of time. If you satisfy me, I''ll get you the money immediately. Otherwise, this deal is off."


    "That''s not enough time."


    "I''ve said my piece. Whether you do it or not is up to you." Quintessa turned to leave.


    Sean gritted his teeth, "Fine, three days it is. But I can''t just take youn word for it Transfer me $50 million first! I''ll only act once I see the money."


    Quintessa looked at him with disdain, "Tsk."


    That was Sean-his eyes only ever saw dor signs, nothing else. Despite over two decades of O M


    .e marriage to Lilian, and having raised children together, he was ready to kill her for money. "I''ll be waiting for your good news. Don''t disappoint me."


    As Quintessa took a few steps, she suddenly remembered, "Oh, and there''s Rachel. How could Ifanget, my dear Rachel? You want money right? I''ve got a quick way to make money. Once the audit is over, you can take the money and run far, far away."


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 326

    As soon as Sean heard about money, he quickly asked, "What way?"


    Quintessa spread her hands wide and slowlyid it out.


    After hearing it, Sean shook his head vigorously. "No way, I can''t do that. Everyone knows that that man is a freak."


    Quintessa scoffed, "You''re willing to give up your wife and daughter, but not your sister. Man, I never realized what a stand-up brother you are!"


    She shrugged, "Anyway, I''ve told you the way. Whether you take the money or not, it''s up to you. You don''t seriously think that Tyrone pumping 100 million into yourpany means the money''s yours, do you? Don''t be so naive. In the end, thepany will just be his, and you''ll have survived the crisis only to end up broke. I''m telling you a quick way to riches. Do you want to spend the rest of your life in poverty, sleeping on the streets, or live a life of luxury? It''s your choice."


    With that, Quintessa turned and walked away.


    Sean stood alone in ce for a long time.


    Money. He was out of money. Was he really going to spend the rest of his life like a homeless man, picking up scraps on the streets at his age?


    He had already given up his wife and daughter. Was his sister really that important?


    Quintessa stepped into the elevator, and just before the doors closed, Manny squeezed in, panting.


    Manny didn''t dare to look at Quintessa.


    "I heard everything just now."


    "Sis, I don''t know if this will help." Manny pulled out a voice recorder from his pocket, one that Quintessa usually kept in her bag. He had recorded the entire conversation between Quintessa and Sean. Quintessa raised an eyebrow and patted Manny. "Not bad, kid. You''re getting smart."


    Manny swallowed nervously. "Don''t worry, sis. I won''t say anything. I didn''t hear anything."


    "Next time, just stay away from it."Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    "Oh."


    "Go home. You have the day off tomorrow."


    "Thanks, sis. I''ll go now."


    Manny left, and Quintessa entered the room. Its interior was luxurious, with handmade wool carpets on the floor that made no sound when walked upon.


    Quintessa kicked off her shoes, sat on the carpet with her back against the bed, and stared nkly at a painting on the wall.


    She had done everything-illegal things, morally reprehensible things. By any normal standard, she was probably beyond redemption.


    But if she hadn''t, was she supposed to just watch them get away with it, to continue living happily as a family? Why should she? Others could forget her mother''s death, but how could she?


    Sean and the others were murderers. She knew it. If she did nothing, how could she deserve to be her mother''s daughter? People aren''t born crazy.


    Quintessa knew that someone like her probably wouldn''t end well, but she didn''t need to consider that. It was like a line from a movie she ce saw: Forgiving them is God''s job. My job is to send them to Him.


    Quintessa picked up her phone and made a call.


    "Help me check all of Sean''s ounts including those under fake identities. Find out where all the money he''s swallowed up has gone. It would be best to have solid


    evidence. Thanks."


    The person on the other end said something, and Quintessa''s lipsm curved into a faint smile. "I''m doing a fine. Things are going smoothly. Goodbye, I miss you too."


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 Chapter 327

    Chapter 327


    Quintessa hung up the phone. It was already dawn, and she was exhausted, yet sleep eluded her.


    This room felt alien, not at all like the quaint apartment she had moved into when she first returned to the country. Quintessa felt


    no sense of belonging here.


    Her mind dwelled on Sean''s affairs. He was no fool; even if he really had gone after Lilian, he would definitely leave himself an


    escape route.


    The looming $50 million was a must-pay. You can''t catch the wolf without risking your sheep, but paying up was like handing


    Sean a loaded gun. The situation was far moreplex than she had initially thought.


    Quintessa closed her eyes.


    Sean left Harmony Retreat and made his way home, but he didn''t enter the house. He sat at the doorstep all night long.


    Quintessa''s two conditions and one piece of advice were each more malicious than thest. Sean had always known himself to


    be ruthless, but he found his daughter even more ruthless than most, surpassing even him. He remembered Dolores being such


    a kind woman; how could she have birthed such a venomous daughter?


    Of his three children, Quintessa was the most like him: equally deceitful, equally unscrupulous, and equally without a moral


    compass.


    Sending Miranda to a mental institution-Even a sane person could lose their mind in such a ce, let alone Miranda, who was


    nearly there already.


    Killing Lilian was too difficult-not because Sean couldn''t bear to, but because it would stir up too much trouble.


    As for Rachel, Sean took a deep drag from his cigarette; she was his sister, the only family member he felt a semnce of


    affection for.


    By the time dawn broke, the ground around him was littered with cigarette butts.


    He stood up, took out his keys, and opened the door.Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    As dawn broke, Quintessa woke up. Rubbing her numb legs, she stood up with the help of the bed. Lost in thought the previous


    night, she had identally fallen asleep on the floor and spent the night there.


    It was already past 9 a.m., and she.


    had


    Comwork scheduled for the det


    She


    called Manny, telling him not to


    come over for the time being


    After freshening up and changing, she went outside.


    Quintessa hailed a cab, "To the York Financial Group, please."


    The driver kept stealing nces at her, probably wondering if she was the same celebrity who had been criticized online.


    Upon arrival, Quintessa walked straight into thepany''s lobby; just likest time, she was stopped at the reception.


    It was the same receptionist as before. Quintessa took off her sunsses and smiled at her, "m here to see Mr. York. | don''t have


    an appointment." S


    The receptionist was stunned, remembering Quintessa as the


    woman who had imed to bol


    bed


    ¡®a


    ment" with Mr. Yorkst


    time. She seemed to be a celebrity?


    The receptionist blushed and


    stuttered, "I''m not Sores that''s¡¯ okay.


    Let me tdkeYs ee call first." The


    content is on NovelDrama.Org! Read


    thetest chapter there!


    Before she could dial, a surprised voice echoed, "Quintessa?"


    Turning around, Quintessa saw a tall,


    handsome man aay Sel mM


    featyyed the rowned, "And you are?"


    The content is on NovelDrama.Org!


    Read thetest chapter there!


    The receptionist exined, "Kevin.


    Ms. Young is her Oe Yor 1"!


    wthqutaet@ppointment. The


    content is on NovelDrama.Org! Read


    thetest chapter there!


    Kevin looked Quintessa up and down, "So, is it another ''bed appointment¡¯ this time?"


    Quintessa stomped on his foot and pushed past him towards the elevator.


    Kevin winced in pain, "Such a hot-tempered girl. Don''t rush; let me take you up."

 Chapter 328

    Chapter 328


    In the elevator, Kevin stared at Quintessa and sighed, "Finally, a live one."


    Quintessa suddenly stepped closer, making Kevin step back in rm, "What are you doing? | don''t have any weird intentions."


    Quintessa snickered, "Just let you get a closer look, and gouge those eyes out by the way."


    Kevin immediately covered his eyes, "I''m not looking anymore."


    With a "ding," the elevator reached its floor. He said, "Go in by yourself. I''m not joining you; | don''t want to end up digging ditches


    like Franklin.¡±


    When James saw Quintessa, he quickly said, "Ms. Quintessa Young, what brings you here?"


    "Is he avable right now?"


    "Yes, anytime for you."


    Quintessa smiled. Tyrone really did have some interesting folks around him.


    James led Quintessa to the CEO''s office, knocked twice, and upon hearing Tyrone''s voice, he opened the door for Quintessa to


    enter before leaving her to it.


    Tyrone, thinking it was James again, didn''t look up, "What''s up?"


    No answer came, until suddenly a hand lifted his chin, "Come to see you."


    Tyrone was momentarily stunned. Forced to look up at Quintessa, their position was admittedly odd, and he couldn''t help but


    laugh, "What a surprise. You actuallye to visit me?"


    Quintessa shrugged, "Was waiting for you toe overst night, ended up waiting all night. Since you didn''te, | had to


    come myself!"


    Tyrone caught Quintessa''s hand and kissed it, "I wish it were that reason, but my luck isn''t that good. You wouldn''te for no


    reason. So, spill it. What''s up?¡±


    "Lend me 50 million, and I''ll pay you back after."


    "No problem. But could you tell me why you suddenly need this much money?"


    "Just a little something."


    "Let me guess." Tyrone got up, poured Quintessa a ss of water, then pulled her into his embrace and sat down, kissing her


    ear, "Sean came to you? The IRS is auditing hispany in a few days. He''s short a hundred million, and even if he has


    powerful connections, they can''t save himself without filling that hole. You agreed to help him, and made a deal, right?"


    Quintessa was surprised; Tyrone knew everything down to thest detail. It seemed he had anticipated Sean woulde to her,


    and that she would turn to him for help. Tyrone was indeed shrewd!


    "Why don''t you think it''s because he begged me earnestly, and | thought after all, he is my biological father, and then I


    impulsively decided to help him?"


    Her ears tingled from Tyrone''s kisses as she pushed his head away.


    Tyrone retaliated by biting her ear


    and said bitterly, "If you were really


    that kind-hearted, \ yidulitHave won


    youBvenong ago. | wouldn''t have


    been kicked out after being slept with


    all night." The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Now his mother would always bring


    up this matter. Whenever thegldtady


    was upget she wautd Sigh dnd say, "I


    might be low, but at least | don''t let


    people sleep over for free." The


    content is on NovelDrama.Org! Read


    thetest chapter there!Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Tyrone held Quintessa''s chin, forcing her to look into his eyes, "Tell me the truth, what exactly is your deal with him?"


    Quintessa smiled, "I just gave him a choice. Whether he does it or not is up to him; | didn''t force him.¡±


    Looking into Quintessa''s eyes,


    Tyrone knew she wasn''t being


    entirely truthful. He tightensa-Sieraiip


    on her inn Quintedsa; to you


    r¨¦alize¡¯ ''S not worth it to sacrifice


    yourself for those scumbags?" The


    content is on NovelDrama.Org! Read


    thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 329

    Chapter 329


    Quintessa felt uneasy under Tyrone''s scrutinizing gaze. She had always believed that revenge was her personal matter. The first


    couple of times she had involved Tyrone were because he had found out, and she had to involve him for her own protection.


    However, after spending time together, Quintessa had started to feel differently about Tyrone. She couldn''t define what their


    rtionship was, but it was toote to turn back, and there was no need to drag him down with her.


    Quintessa forced a smile. "Worried about me, huh? Don''t worry, I''m not that foolish.¡±


    Tyrone scoffed, "Do you think you''re that clever? The only reason you''ve gotten this far is because I''ve let you. If you think you''ve


    managed to outmaneuver me all this time, you''re wrong. When ites to plotting and scheming, you''re no match for someone


    like Sean; he is a seasoned yer in the business world. The moment you agreed to work with him, you yed right into his


    hands. Tell me your n; I''ll handle it."


    Quintessa remained tight-lipped. "There''s nothing.¡±


    Suddenly, he gripped her chin firmly. "Tell me."


    There was no trace of smiles on Tyrone''s face; his intense stare and serious expression terrifying. This was how he looked when


    he was serious, which was rarely the case around Quintessa.


    Quintessa felt as if her heart was being squeezed. Tyrone had forcefully made his way into her world, disregarding her wishes


    and insisting on participating in her revenge. She was torn between thefort of having someone by her side in her darkest


    moments and the guilt of not knowing how to repay such a gesture.


    Quintessa licked her lips nervously, "You don''t have to do this. | can handle it myself."


    Tyrone bit Quintessa''s lip harshly. "Sometimes | really want to knock some sense into you. Don''t worry, I''m not like you; | abide


    by thew. There are ways to handle someone without breaking the rules; you just don''t know how to y the game."


    Quintessa red at him. "Are you mocking my intelligence?"Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Tyrone smirked. "And what if | am? Don''t change the subject, speak up. If you don''t, you won''t be leaving this office today."


    As he said this, his hand had already slipped under Quintessa''s skirt.


    Quintessa grasped his hand, "I told him, if he wants the money, he


    vel.ne


    Lilian''s about to be bailed out. An eye for an eye!"


    needs to show some since d


    Tyrone flicked Quintessa''s forehead. "Dumb. What am | supposed to do with you? Lilian''s family had ties to organized crime


    before going legit Who knows if they''re really clean now? But Sean surely knows something. He wouldn''t rashty kill Lilian.


    Otherwise, the Yates family wouldn''t let him off. Huh That old fox, who knows what kind of


    nefarious n he''s cooking up now."


    Tyrone let go of Quintessa and prepared to leave. She asked, "Where are you going?"


    He turned back, sealed her lips with a


    quick kiss, and th nletherGoStay


    put ;heaveGhis {5 rme." The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Quintessa frowned. "Tyrone, | can handle this."


    "Now you''d better keep quiet. | don''t


    want ? hear you say a ain thatyau


    can do it by.yoursel out


    ayohe''s help. And, I''m not doing this


    for you." The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone pressed Quintessa down into his executive chair.


    He strode out of the office, closed the


    door behind him, nd gapuallyldcked


    ittfrom te@ustde. The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!

 Chapter 330

    Chapter 330


    "James,e here."


    "What can | do for you, Mr. York?"


    "I''ve got a task for you."


    Quintessa was wrestling with the doorknob, but it wouldn''t budge. She let out a sigh, wondering what on earth Tyrone was up to.


    Quintessa rubbed her forehead, somewhat regrettinging to look for Tyrone.


    Trapped, she nced around Tyrone''s office and noticed a photo of him with Mrs. York. In the picture, he had a youthful look, his


    arm around Mrs. York''s shoulder, both the mother and the son wearing beautifu smiles.


    Quintessa put the photo back down, feeling a mix of emotions. How could she not realize that Tyrone''s intention in keeping her in


    the dark was to protect her?


    But she wasn''t used to being protected. She had long be ustomed to bracing herself against the treacherous tides of


    society, with spikes up and schemes at y. There had been times when she was left battered and barely breathing, and no one


    had offered her a helping hand. Now that she could protect herself, someone wanted to shield her.


    Quintessa sighed. Tyrone was the most unexpected surprise in her life, abrupt and unguarded.


    She had initially used him to get back at Rachel, but now, it seemed their lives were entwined in a way she couldn''t easily


    untangle.


    Suddenly, a phone ring broke the silence. It wasn''t Quintessa''s phone. She turned to see Tyrone''s phone vibrating on the desk.


    She hesitated for a moment before picking it up. It was Mrs. York calling,beled on the phone as "My Little Old Lady."


    Quintessa couldn''t help but smile. Their rtionship was truly endearing!Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    She wasn''t intent on answering, preferring to knock on the door to let Tyrone take the call.


    But the door remained closed, and the phone kept ringing incessantly.


    Mrs. York''s habit was: if her son didn''t answer, she''d keep calling until he did.


    With the phone kept ringing, Quintessa thought it might be an urgent matter. After a moment of hesitation, she answered.


    Before she could speak, Mrs. York


    launched into a rapid-fire monologue "Son, what are you doing that you took so long to answer the phone? Dilly-dallying, no


    wonder you haven''t won the girl''s heart yet. I''m getting on in years, yet | worry about you every day. Helping you with all those


    shady deals has left me with nightmares."


    Quintessa, confused, managed to interject, ¡°Auntie, it''s..."


    The voice on the other end paused abruptly, and after a moment, Mrs. York asked, "Ahem, ah, are you two together? Where''s


    Ty? Maybe shouldn''t have called now? | hang up, you two continue."


    Quintessa''s face flushed at Mrs. York''s insinuation. Mrs. York''s "continue" sounded so awkward,


    wouldn''t she think they were rolling in the sheets?


    Quintessa quickly rified, "I''m in his


    office. He stepped gui )saw ae


    Reptrigin


    phone. inging, so | answered.


    The content is on NovelDrama.Org!


    Read thetest chapter there!


    Mrs. York''s voice rose in surprise, "Oh, you went to see him?"


    Click, the door was pushed open. And


    Quintessa, eee fase Tyridne,


    ickly Seid ¡®Vdur''rhom''s on the


    phone." The content is on


    NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    Tyrone hurriedly took over, "Mom, what''s up?"


    He was worried about what other bombshell his mom might drop.


    Mrs. York whispered, "! was just


    thinking. It would seer that Quinn


    g there dor''tlet er go, bring her


    along to Golden Harvest after work."


    The content is on NovelDrama.Org!


    Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 331

    Chapter 331


    Upon hearing it, Tyrone immediately sensed something was off. He knew his mother, Mrs. York, like the back of his hand. She


    was deliberately lowering her voice, fearing others might hear, clearly wary of someone. "Mom, what''s going on? Who are you


    with?"


    Mrs. York whispered back, "Don''t worry. Mom''s not going to get you into trouble. I''m just out shopping.¡±


    ¡°Mom, be straight with me. Who are you shopping with? Are you nning to take me out for lunch?"


    "It''s not me; someone else is treating."


    Tyrone heard someone calling for Mrs. York over the phone.


    "Mrs. York, is the call through? Can Ty make it?"


    "It''s through. He''lle over after work. My son, he always listens to me."


    Tyrone frowned. "Mom, have you run into some trouble?"


    But all he got in response was the dial tone.


    Seeing Tyrone''s concerned expression, Quintessa asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "There might be some trouble with my mom."


    "Should we go now?"


    Tyrone nced at his watch, "There''s still half an hour to go until the end of work. Stick around for a bit. After work, we''ll go to


    Golden Harvest together." "For dinner?"


    "| hope it''s just for dinner."


    ¡°Are you sure everything''s okay?"


    Tyrone smirked teasingly, "Geez, didn''t expect you to worry so much about my dear olddy. When did you two forge such a


    deep bond behind my back?"


    Quintessa rolled her eyes at him. "That''s your mom, not mine. If you, her son, aren''t worried, then | have even less reason to


    fret.¡±


    Tyrone wrapped his arm around


    Quintessa, "Don''t worry. In Emberbrook, no one dares mess with my mom. Just take a seat and rx for a bit. Oh, and | got you


    a spokesperson gig. Here''re the details for you to look overCcontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    He pulled out a document from his desk and handed it to Quintessa. Upon opening it, she saw it was an endorsement for a


    famous


    international luxury brand''s perfume, and she was to be the lead spokesperson for the Asian region.


    Given her current fame and status in the entertainment industry, there was no way she could''vended such a high-profile


    endorsement on her own. Tyrone must have used some means or paid a great price to secure it.


    What was their rtionship to warrant such repeated favors?


    A heavy weight seemed to press


    down on Quintessa''s heart,


    dampening her sense of joy. om


    cual shejgrabpe yrone''s arm,


    avoiding his gaze as she pleaded,


    "Tyrone, please, don''t be this good to


    me." He lifted her chin, insisting,


    "When you speak to me, shouldn''t


    you be looking into my eyes?" The


    content is on NovelDrama.Org! Read


    thetest chapter there!


    Quintessa''s eyes were beautiful. She was too calctive, too cunning, her eyes brimming with a coldness as she struggled.


    Tyrone initially wanted to tease her, but at that moment, he wasn''t in the mood.


    He understood why Quintessa was


    reluctant to ept his kindness


    Dependence could otifple Gne''s


    ability ive independently. If


    that support ever vanished, she


    might face a dire fate. The content is


    on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest


    chapter there!


    It was a basic rule of the wild; to survive, one must learn to fend for themselves. Those who can''t are doomed to be prey.


    Tyrone''s involvement had disrupted Quintessa''s own survival rules and broke the bnce in her world..


    In their ongoing game of chess, it


    seemed as though Quintessa had the


    upper hand. Yet, ee: twas!)


    T. ane who fore ly intruded,


    forcing his way into Quintessa¡¯s life


    and making her ept him. Despite


    Quintessa''s resistance, what was the


    oue? The content is on


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    chapter there!

 Chapter 332

    In the end, he effortlessly made his way into her ce, climbed into her bed, and made her an artist under the York Financial Group. It could be said that Tyrone essentially had control over everything in Quintessa''s life, but he wasn''t satisfied yet.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Before, Tyrone always felt at a disadvantage in front of Quintessa, but it wasn''t until his return from Emberbrook that a conversation with Mrs. York made him realize, in this tug-of-war with Quintessa, he had a myriad of paths behind him, whereas Quintessa had only a cliff behind hers.


    Tyrone had everything, and Quintessa had nothing-no support, no backing. All she possessed was her own cold, hard heart, which she guarded fiercely, making herself invincible. She strove to survive in this cruel world, fending off the harsh blows the world dealt her.


    She didn''t ept his kindness, not because she didn''t want to, but because she dared not.


    Quintessa clung to her few principles; in seeking vengeance alone, she could not drag anyone down with her.


    That day, Mrs. York said: If you can''t stay with the girl till the end, don''t bother her.


    Tyrone thought he understood Quintessa, but he realized that even Mrs. York, who had only spent a short time with Quintessa, understood her better.


    Tyrone felt uneasy; the more he understood her, the more he empathized with her.


    With a mischievous smile still on his lips, Tyrone pinched Quintessa''s cheek, "You''re my woman, and I want to take care of you, is there a problem with that? Be good, don''t say things that make me unhappy; after all, nothing you say can change my decision."


    Quintessa wanted to say something but couldn''t find the words. She held the folder, lost in thought. And after a while, she looked up at Tyrone.


    He was serious when working, lips pursed, brows furrowed - actually a cold and indifferent man when not smiling.


    Without raising his head, Tyrone took a pen and swiftly signed his name where the president''s signature was needed at the bottom of the page, "What are you looking at? Do you think I''m too handsome?" Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Yeah."


    Tyrone expected disdain but was pleasantly surprised by her prompt agreement.


    "Huh, agreeable today."


    "What did you do just now?" Quintessa had been thinking about it.


    Tyrone winked at her, "You don''t need know it''s better than your try to interfere." Content SW He wasn''t nning on telling Quintessa until everything was settled.


    Quintessa rested her chin on her hand, "Why didn''t I realize how smart you are before?"


    Tyrone nced at her, "Did you give me a chance to show it? It seems like I need to seize more swn lovel opportunities to let you take a good look."


    Quintessa just smiled, saying nothing.


    "It was about time," Tyrone stood up, "Let''s go, to Golden Harvest."


    Wrapping his arm around Quintessa, Tyrone casually asked, "I forgot to ask, how did you get up here? You''re not telling me you can now enter the York Financial Group unnoticed."


    "No, my brother brought me here."


    "Since when do you have a brother?"


    Quintessa tilted her chin up, "Just acknowledged him, there he is."


    Ahead, Kevin waved at them, "Boss, I''ve been working hard How about treating theto dinner?"


    Tyrone chuckled, pping Kevin on the shoulder, "Come on, let me talk to you about life!"


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 333

    Upon arriving at the Golden Harvest, Tyrone wrapped his arm around Quintessa''s waist and pushed open the door to the private dining room where Mrs. York was. The moment the door opened, everyone inside turned to look in their direction. Tyrone''s initial smile faded upon seeing the guests inside.


    He removed his sses, "Mom, what''s all this about?"


    Mrs. York immediately feigned surprise, "Ty, you''re here, oh you brought Quinn too, perfect. I was just thinking of her. Quinn,e and sit by me."


    Mrs. York warmly gestured for Quintessa to take a seat next to her.


    Quintessa felt puzzled, as Mrs. York had specifically asked Tyrone to bring her along, yet now acted as if it was unnned. This dinner wasn''t as simple as it seemed. Quintessa smiled and walked over to sit next to Mrs. York.


    Mrs. York, taking Quintessa by the arm, smiled, "Susan and I went shopping today. She was so kind, insisting on thanking us for taking care of Serena while she was in Zion City, so, here we are, having dinner together."


    Tyrone smiled knowingly, "Since when has Susan been so courteous?"


    There were four people in the room: Mrs. York, Serena and her mother, and one unknown individual.


    Mrs. Harrington, known for her pride due to her family background, appeared cordial in her interactions but seldom respected anyone else.


    Mrs. Harrington smiled gracefully, "It''s only proper to express thanks; it''s an essential courtesy."


    Her gaze then swept over Quintessa, "And now that Ms. Young is here, it''s a good opportunity to thank her too. Serena mentioned how kind Ms. Young was to her during those few days." Quintessa offered a modest smile, "It''s nothing."Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Serena waved at the two, "I didn''t expect Ty and Quinn to be here. Let me introduce you, this is my cousin Nydia. She''s incredibly talented. She just won second ce in an international fashion design contest and now works for DY as a


    womenswear designer." Content The elegant woman seated next to Serena, embodying both intelligence and style with her fashionable sses, greeted them with a perfect smile, "Pleased to meet you, I''m Nydia." Mrs. Harrington, yfully chiding Serena, chuckled, "Silly girl, what do you know? Your cousin and Ms. Young are not in the same league."


    To put it nicely, one lives off her looks, the other off her talent.


    To put it bluntly, one sells looks, the other her abilities.


    In any case, thetter is considered respectable, while the former is looked down upon.


    Both Tyrone and Mrs. York''s faces soured at thement. Quintessaughed; Mrs. Harrington had smiled so warmly and kindly, yet her words were sharp and cutting, the typical sort who could only feel superior by stepping on others.


    Realizing her faux pas, Mrs. Harrington quickly tried to amend


    "I''m sorry, that came out wrong. I didn''t mean that. What I meant was they''re in different fields."


    Before Quintessa could respond,


    Mrs. York chimed in with a gleeful retort, "Who says so? There are beauty contests all over the world for a reason-looks matter. Talent can be cultivated if you''re not a fool, but good looks not everyone is born with them. I didn''t mean your niece isn''t beautiful; what I meant is, our Quinn is exceptionally beautiful."


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 Chapter 334

    Mrs. York''sment was essentially a polite way of throwing shade: it wasn''t that you''re unattractive, just that you weren''t as pretty as Quinn.


    That certainly ruffled Mrs. Harrington and Nydia''s feathers. Which woman does not care about her looks? It was almost as if Mrs. York had pointed directly at them and said, "You''re just in!"


    But what was more important was that Mrs. Harrington realized, Mrs. York was unabashedly sheltering Quintessa behind her, referring to her as "our Quinn," treating her as a family member! Mrs. Harrington''s gaze at Quintessa became even moreplicated.


    Quintessa was stunned by Mrs. York''s staunch defense and was at a loss for words. She hadn''t expected Mrs. York to protect her so decisively, essentially tearing apart years of acquaintance for her. Why was she being so kind?


    Quintessa was also amazed at Mrs. York''s quick wit.


    A wave of warmth flushed through Quintessa, gently warming her entire body. She wasn''t sure if Mrs. York''s words were just offhand or heartfelt, but she wanted to say thank you. It had been years since anyone treated her like family. Tyrone, seated to Quintessa''s left, wrapped his arm around her shoulder, disying a possessive stance as if to say "this is my woman." He chuckled, "Susan, that''s just how my mom is. She can''t hide her feelings, says whatever is on her mind. She bears no ill will toward anyone. Don''t take it to heart."


    What Tyrone was thinking was: My mom really nailed it today, turning on the charm! Thateback was just too perfect. I''ve got to double her allowance this month.


    Mrs. York looked puzzled, "Oh. Did I say something wrong?"


    Tyrone shook his head, "Mom, you''re just too straightforward. Telling it like it is can sound harsh, but you and Mrs. Harrington have been friends for years. Everyone knows what kind of person you are; they won''t hold it against you."


    The mother-son duo yed off each other so well, leaving no space for Quintessa to add anything.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Quintessa, licking the corner of her lips, wondered if there was a ce for her in this squabble, feeling sidelined for the first time.


    Tyrone''s exnation only darkened Nydia''s expression; he was implying that: My mom''s just telling the truth-you are, unfortunately, in.


    Mrs. Harrington struggled to maintain her smile, thankfully, someone''s entrance broke the tension at that moment.


    "Alex, there you are! Come sit down. I thought since Ty was dining with usdies, it might be ufortable, so I invited Alex too.


    The moment Alexander walked in, his gaze fixed on Quintessa, especially noticing Tyrone''s arm over hen m shoulder Quintessa was sitting between Tyrone and Mrs. Harrington-it looked like a family scene, painfully stinging Alexander''s eyes as if scorched by fire.


    Mrs. York, noticing Alexander frozen in ce, joked, "Why the daze, Alex? Don''t recognize Ty anymore? Come on, sit down. Now that we''re all here, let''s get the food out. Everyone must be starving." Quintessa''s expression remained unchanged at the sight of Alexander, but Tyrone''s hand on her shoulder squeezed slightly. Mrs. York also nced at her son with a look that said: "Your rival''s here, step up your game!"


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 335

    A group of people, each with their own thoughts.


    Serena cheerfully waved at Alexander. "Bro,e over here! I''ve saved you a seat next to me. Sit next to me, andter you can help me pick out fish bones."


    "Oh, for heaven''s sake, you''re all grown up but still acting like a child. How busy is your brother be with work? Eat by yourself," Mrs. Harrington chided her daughter, but her eyes betrayed affection. Her children were her pride and joy.


    Serena pouted and coquettishly said, "No. I want my brother to pick out fish bones for me. After all, he''s the one who spoils me."


    Alexander smiled and ruffled Serena''s hair before taking his seat.


    Tyrone gestured for the waiter to serve Quintessa a ss of freshly squeezed watermelon juice. "Here, drink this."


    Quintessa nodded and sipped her juice, seemingly oblivious to the family of three.


    Tyrone gently stroked Quintessa''s silky hair and asked Alexander, "So, what''s been keeping you busytely? Haven''t seen you around much."


    Alexander looked up with aplicated expression. "Took on a case, and I''ve been running around."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Ever since Serena''sing-of-age party, the two hadn''t been in touch. The childhood friends now seemed to have a rift between them.


    Tyrone faced Alexander without a hint of guilt.


    Nydia, in an attempt to regain her dignity and presence, chimed in, "With a top- notchwyer like our cousin here, I bet you must be dealing with major cases. Any interesting stories? I''m currently looking for some inspiration."


    Alexander replied indifferently, "There''s nothing interesting. Just a bunch of grim stuff, not suitable for the dinner table."


    He tried not to look at Quintessa, but the mere thought of her with Tyrone made it impossible for him to feign a smile.


    Serena, resting her chin in her hands, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I identally saw some photos in brother''s briefcase the other day-they were terrifying. How about letting Quinn talk about her filming experiences? I visited their setst time, and it was so fascinating."


    All eyes turned to Quintessa.


    Quintessa leisurely drank her watermelon juice, as if she hadn''t heard their conversation at all. Serena blushed awkwardly.


    In such a situation, Quintessa wouldn''t go out of her way to engage with people who disliked her. Why should she bother being polite to those who made things difficult for her?


    Tyrone and Mrs. York seemed equally uninterested in joining the conversation, each sipping their coffee in perfect harmony.


    Mrs. Harrington''s eyes shed with displeasure as she smiled, "Ms. Young is a celebrity; probably she''s not used to interacting with us ordinary folks?"


    Mrs. York turned away-Mrs. Harrington was using Quintessa of acting snobbish and putting on airs, and thinking she couldn''t understand.


    After a few sips of her juice, Quintessa set down her ss and replied slowly, "Yeah, I just came from the set. I''m not used to socializing. So I can''t really keep up with your conversation. Filming 19


    tedious affair. I don''t find it a


    particrly enjoyable, especially since it''s my job. When I''m acting, I approach it Nydia on it with respect, just like Ms.


    Nydia does with her designing. She doesn''t consider her work as y, does she?"


    Nydia was choked. She clenched her jaw and smiled, "Well, that''s different. My work''s nature is entirely different ve from Ms. Young''s. I see all the drama in the entertainment industry online, every day''s a buzz. I''ve even heard about certain


    unsavory practices in your field. Do those happen on your sets?"


    Quintessa chuckled. This person was quite interesting. Why not j¨±seask directly if she had been slept with?


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 Chapter 336

    Mrs. York and Tyrone''s faces darkened. But before they could say anything, Quintessa, with a smile, said, "Unsavory practices, they''re everywhere, right? It seems like there are even more in the workce. People like Ms. Nydia, who have climbed to such a position at a young age, must have faced doubts about unsavory practices? Of course, I''m not pointing fingers at you, don''t take it personally." Nydia''s expression turned icy: "Of course not, I''m not part of your acting world, you guys."


    Quintessa cut her off: "Neither have I, because I''ve got the York Financial Group behind me. My boss is here, who would dare target me? Even if that was the case, it would be me doing the targeting, right?" She turned to Tyrone with a smile: "Isn''t that right, boss?"


    Tyrone recalled that night and his ears turned red. He cleared his throat, "Absolutely, as an artist under the York Financial Group, who would dare? If you wanna target someone, just target me instead."


    The two unted their affection without a care for those around.


    Quintessa pushed him slightly, then turned to say, "I thought people like Ms. Nydia wouldn''t care about the gossip and scandals of the entertainment world. But if you''re really curious, I could share some." Nydia''s lips twitched. Coming from her background, reputation was everything. Continuing this topic would only prove Quintessa''s statement that she was a gossip-monger.


    "Thanks, but no thanks."


    The atmosphere turned tense. Mrs. Harrington quickly said, "The dishes are all served, let''s not stand on ceremony. Except for Ms. Young, we''re all old friends here. Don''t feel out of ce, Ms. Young." Quintessa gave Mrs. Harrington aplicated look. Why did she always feel like Mrs. Harrington was subtly targeting her? Singling her out as an outsider, an invisible exclusion!


    Tyrone smiled slightly, "Please don''t worry; she''s got me."


    Mrs. Harrington smiled warmly, her demeanor gracious.


    At the dinner table, aside from Mrs. Harrington encouraging everyone to eat and Serena''sughter, no one else spoke much.


    However, Quintessa''s te was piled high. Everyone around her kept adding more to her te without her having to lift a finger. Quintessa kept her head down, eating without tasting anything, her eyes teary.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Mrs. York pinched Quintessa''s arm, "Eat more, how did you get so thin?"


    She nodded, "Hmm."


    "Bro, why have you been so quiet today? Is something on your mind?" asked Serena.


    Alexander showed a hint of fatigue, "Nothing, just thinking about a case."


    Serena pouted, "We finally get together for a meal, and stop thinking about it Try this, your favorite stuffed bell pepper, see if it''s as good as you remember."


    "Only you two siblings have such a


    great rtionship," Mrs. Harrington saidughing. "Serena came back saying she wanted to be Ms. Young''s assistant, and was quite upset when you refused scolded her right away. I''ve spoiled her too much, she''s too blunt and thoughtless. She really shouldn''t bother Ms. Young, given your line of work usually involves matters that can''t be made public. Serena is not cut out for it, I''ve lectured her already. Ms. Young, please don''t mind."


    Mrs. York bit her fork hard, rolling her eyes. Looking for trouble, huh? She put down her er fork) "Kdon''t quite follow your words. What do you you be your mean by ''secrets that can''t be made public"? My son always calls me


    dumb, can you exin more clearly?"


    ine


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 Chapter 337

    Mrs. York was irked. Did Mrs. Harrington suppose she could not understand the nuances of the conversation? It sounded as though Quinn had many skeletons in her closet. Unbeknownst to Mrs. York, Quintessa did have a few skeletons in her closet, things like murder and arson.


    Quintessa, once again named for reasons unknown, looked amusedly at Mrs. Harrington. Thisdy was really good at making veiled insults; but unfortunately for her, Mrs. York just didn''t fall for her tactics.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    At that moment, however, Quintessa felt that Mrs. Harrington''s opinion was the least of her concerns. Her attention was solely on Mrs. York.


    Feeling protected in this way was new and slightly ufortable for Quintessa. She was used to attacking but not yet ustomed to being protected.


    It puzzled Quintessa why Mrs. York was so fiercely protective of her after just one instance of help. She felt herself unworthypared to Mrs. York''s kindness and generosity.


    She started to worry. What would happen if Mrs. York ever discovered the truth about her past? Would she regret being so kind to her?


    Mrs. Harrington hadn''t expected Mrs. York to confront her so directly, her smile bing a bit strained. "You''ve misunderstood, that''s not what I meant."


    Mrs. York stopped Quintessa from speaking and said, "If that''s not what you meant, then exin it to me. I''m not like you. If you beat around the bush and don''t speak inly, I won''t get it. I guess I''m just foolish."


    Mrs. Harrington tried to rify, "What I mean is, just like how celebrities can hardly keep their private lives private, everything gets blown out of proportion, including romantic rtionships. Serena isn''t suited fo work that requires confidentiality."


    Mrs. York internally scoffed. What an unnecessary drama! She had already predicted this dinner wouldn''t be pleasant beforehand.


    Mrs. York nodded and then turned to Quintessa with a full smile, caressing her face, "Exactly? Being a celebrity, indeed, a lot has to remain unknown to the public, especially for Quinn who''s just debuted. Romantic rtionships have to be kept under wraps. Just the two of them, I worry day and night about them being caught by the paparazzi. Paparazzi these days are quite ruthless, aren''t they, Quintessa?"


    Sometimes Mrs. York was especially perceptive. With that statement, she not only silenced Mrs. Harrington but also subtly let everyone know that Quintessa and Tyrone were dating, squashing any ulterior motives!


    Quintessa was taken aback. Mrs. York actually stated she and Tyrone were dating. She didn''t she always call her a vixen? Could it be that she didn''t mind anymore?


    Feeling grateful, Quintessa quickly returned a sweet smile, "Indeed, they''re like detectives."


    Mrs. York turned to Mrs. Harrington,


    "This girl''s been busy filming, barely gets a break. She looks even thinner than thest time I saw her. It''s heart- wrenching. You shoulde over sometime; I''ll cook you @ hearty meal."


    Quintessa affectionately linked her arm with Mrs. York''s, "I''ve been m craving your barbecue ribs."


    With Mrs. York protecting her in such a manner, Quintessa knew she had to cooperate properly, even if


    Mrs. York was just speaking casually.


    Just for this unreasoned defensen alone, quintessa truly owed her a heartfelt thanks.


    Over the years, apart from them, who else had provided her such support?


    Tyrone didn''t speak. He tilted his head to look at Mrs. York and m Quintessa Tsk, they appeared truly affectionate!


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 Chapter 338

    Mrs. Harrington cast a meaningful nce at Mrs. York, her lips curving into a polite, perfunctory smile.


    Suddenly, Serena eximed, "Bro, you drop your fork?"


    Alexander looked somewhat pale and appeared to be in low spirits, "Oh. I didn''t notice. I''ll get another one."


    Mrs. Harrington said with concern, "You must be under a lot of work pressuretely. Always buried in work, you don''t even take care of yourself."


    Mrs. York sighed, "If you ask me, Alex should get a girlfriend. Being in a rtionship can really improve the quality of life. Look at Ty, he used to be just like that, but now he''s much better, even learns to take breaks."


    Tyrone was pleased, lightly teasing Quintessa''s nose, "Did you hear that? That''s apliment for you."Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Quintessa blushed with a shy smile.


    Alexander felt a bit ufortable, "Right now, I haven''t thought much about it. Thew firm just started, so I need to focus on work first."


    "Oh dear, I''ve told him a hundred times. The main problem is that our Alex is too picky. He doesn''t fancy ordinary girls. In this regard, he can''tpare to Ty. I mean as long as a girl is kind and sensible, why be so picky?"


    Mrs. York clenched her teeth internally. Mrs. Harrington''s habit of always trying to one-up others hadn''t changed over the years, always positioning herself and her family as somehow superior.


    Her remark about Alexander being picky and not satisfied with ordinary girls was a roundabout way of saying Tywasn''t discerning, implying that settling for someone like Quinn was easy. That was more than Mrs. York could bear. Content Mrs. York chuckled, "That''s true. My Ty was lucky have met such a good and beautiful girl like Quinn. He acted fast to win her over. Not everyone can match up to our Quinn." Quintessa felt ttered, questioning if she was the same as Mrs. York were talking about.


    Despite multiple rebuffs, Mrs. Harrington couldn''t gain the upper hand during the meal. As dinner concluded, she and her children left.


    Leaving the restaurant, Mrs. York teasingly asked, "Didn''t we agree to go for a skincare treatment this afternoon? Why not go?"


    Mrs. Harrington replied with a nod and a smile, "I remembered there''s something urgent at home, so I can''t make it. Let''s n it for another day."


    Once in the car, Mrs. York scoffed, "I knew her inviting us for dinner wasn''t without motive. Always pretending to be above worldly concerns, so pretentious."


    Quintessa was surprised. Mrs. York was typically non-confrontational so omments today indicated there herment must be some grievances between her and Mrs. Harrington.


    But considering Mrs. Harrington''s behavior, it was clear she must have deeply offended Mrs. York for her to react so strongly.


    Tyroneughed, "Don''t be angry, Mom. You were awesome today. Mrs. Harrington probably needs a couple coffee to calm down. Wait, is this really my mom? Suche intelligence, such eloquenced barely recognized you!"


    0000


    Mrs. York shot Tyrone a re, "Stop it. I''ve always been sharp. It''s just about teasing someone. Did youn really think! couldhte simply couldn''t be bothered with her before, but today she really provoked me. I wasn''t going to let her get away with it Besides, I might not engage with others, but her? Please."


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 Chapter 339

    Quintessa couldn''t help but burst intoughter at Mrs. York''s words.


    Mrs. York patted her and said, "What are youughing at? That old bat is scheming. If you ever run into her when I''m not around, don''t you be polite. You give her the cold shoulder. Let me tell you, anyone who marries her son is doomed."


    Mrs. York''s words carried deep meaning. She seized every opportunity to drill into Quintessa''s head just how bad the Harringtons were.


    Tyrone gave Mrs. York a thumbs up from the sidelines. This little olddy was truly putting the wisdom she had umted over decades of uselessness to good use today. Quintessa nodded in agreement, "Hmm, I''ll remember that."


    It was her first time in such a setting, and though she didn''t say much, there was something incrediblyforting about being protected like this-it was addictively pleasant. Tyrone asked, "Mom, does she still pick on you all the time?"


    Mrs. York shrugged. "It''s still about those old things from years ago. Let''s not talk about it. Just thinking about it makes me annoyed. She''s always trying to one-up me in everything. At this age, what''s the point? How many years does she even have left?"


    Mrs. York had an easygoing nature, not one to be sharp orpetitive. She was simple and usually didn''t like to nitpick, which led many in the socialite circle to underestimate her intelligence! Tyrone chuckled, "I bet you''ll outlive her, no doubt."


    Mrs. York lifted her chin proudly, "That''s for sure. She''s always calcting this and that all day long. Frankly, with her looks, she''s naturally destined to have a hard life. She''ll definitely kick the bucket before me. Oh, by the way, do you know what she was nning today?"


    "What was it?"


    "She was shopping with me and her niece, Nydia, going on and on about how ''exceptional'' her niece is, as if there''s no one like her on earth. Then, she kept urging me to call you over for dinner. I saw right through her n. She wanted to introduce her niece to you as a girlfriend. Look atcher niece, so arrogant just because she''s a little designer. Who does she think she is? As if I''d be interested. It just so happened that I called you both over to piss her off."


    "Mom, you''re truly wise."


    "Of course."


    On the other side, after driving off alone, Mrs. Harrington''s expression looked very unpleasant. She was full of anger after the meal. Serena tried to soothe her, "Mom, don''t be mad."


    Mrs. Harrington snorted, "Mad? At her? Why would I waste my energy? I have a loving family, what does she have? Her husband who barely shows up, and she lived like a widow. Yet she dares to act at high and mighty around me. What''s there for her to be so proud of Alexander frowned, clearly disapproving, "Mom."


    Mrs. Harrington knew he didn''t like her saying those things, "Did I say something wrong?"


    "This woman, unexpectedly, had wise up at her age. I never expected her toe up with such biting remarks today."


    Alexander''s expression darkened,


    "Mom, Cecilia used to let thing''s M ve stide"


    Seeing Mrs. Harrington''s mood shift, Serena quickly interjected, "Mom) it''s okay, it''s okay, don''t be mad. You En won''t look pretty if you''re angry."


    Mrs. Harrington sighed deeply, caressing Serena''s face, "Serena, I''ll


    make sure you find happiness. I want my daughter to be the happiestm woman in the world wealth, fame, happiness-I''ll secure them all for you." N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    UMS


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 Chapter 340

    Serena''s cheeks turned red, "Mom."


    Alexander felt somewhat helpless. More than loving his daughter, his mother seemed to be trying to fulfill her own unachieved dreams through her.


    Images of Quintessa filled Alexander''s mind. He had been trying to drown himself in work these past few days, numbing his feelings to forget her. He thought it had been effective, but seeing Quintessa today made all his efforts seem in vain.


    He couldn''t forget her; he was still in love with her!


    The car stopped at the doorway of the house.


    Alexander said, "Mom, Serena, you go ahead inside. I''m heading back to the office."


    Serena pouted, "Brother, you work too hard. I haven''t seen you for days. Now that we''re at the doorstep; go in and rest a while before you leave."


    Alexander ruffled her hair, "I''ll be better in a few days. Go inside."


    After Alexander left, the mother and daughter entered the house.


    Once inside, Serena bit her lip, "Mom, don''t you think when brother walked in today, he wasn''t looking at Ty but at Quinn?"


    Mrs. Harrington handed her purse to the maid and elegantly adjusted her hair, "Serena, you are the daughter of the Harrington family, ady of high status. Some people are just not worth considering as equals."


    Serena blinked, cautiously asking, "Mom are you talking about Quinn?"


    Mrs. Harrington gently patted her hand, "My dear, don''t be so naive with everyone. You have cousins; you''re notcking in sisters."


    Serena looked troubled, "But she... Okay, I understand. But mom, about what I just mentioned, what do you think?"


    It was clear even to Serena, so of course, Mrs. Harrington noticed.


    She smiled faintly, "So what if he was looking at her?"


    "Mom, how can you be so calm? Why would brother look at her? His gaze were weird."


    "My silly girl, remember what I just


    said. Don''t waste your attention on a nobody. She eventually be discarded by Tyrone, like a piece of clothing that after being work for a couple of days is thrown away. The discarded things are trash, not worth picking up. Her only fortune is her good-looking face, which might stir some feelings in young men, but it''s nothing."


    "But what if brother likes her? She''s currently dating Ty, right?"


    "Dating? Serena, you''re too innocent. Do you really believe what Mrs. York said? With Quintessa''s background, how could the York family ever ept her? Let her try to marry into the family.


    "But she said..."


    "At first, I thought it might be true. But now, I understand. She''s just trying to provoke me. A mere actress, and they''reparing her to you, Nydia, treating her like a treasure. After all these years, Mrs. York''sck of discernment hasn''t changed."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Serena asked in a low voice, "Mom, why are you and Mrs. York like this? Is there some misunderstanding or grievance? Weren''t we all getting along just fine before?" Mrs. Harringtonughed, "It''s not about grievances, dear. I just enjoy seeing her not doing well."


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 Chapter 341

    Serena stared nkly at Mrs. Harrington.


    Mrs. Harrington''s smile was tender, as if the harsh words from moments ago hadn''te from her at all. She gently touched Serena''s face. "Honey, tell Mom, do you like Tyrone?"


    Snapped back to reality, Serena''s face instantly blushed. "Mom, what are you talking about?"


    "There''s nothing to hide from me. Tell me."


    Serena waved her hands in denial. "Mom, no, besides, Ty already has Quinn by his side."


    Mrs. Harrington sighed deeply. "I wish you could stay innocent forever, but I''m also afraid of that." "Mom."


    "Serena, you just need to tell me if you like him. Don''t worry about all the other factors."


    Meanwhile, at the Young family, Sean had the household staff prepare avish lunch.


    "Dad, why is this meal sovish?" Miranda looked pale as a ghost, terribly thin. Since that incident, she had been like a shadow of herself, not daring to go out, her days filled with madness, rarely lucid as she was now.


    Sean picked up his fork and said, "Your mom''sing out soon."


    A flicker of joy crossed Miranda''s face. "Is this meal to celebrate mom getting out of jail? Dad, let''s go see mom. I miss her."


    Sean replied, "Hold on, finish our meal first."


    Miranda nodded eagerly. "Dad, after we eat, we''ll go pick up mom?"


    Sean nodded. "Yes, after we eat."


    Miranda picked up her fork and started eating hurriedly. After a while, her movements slowed down.


    With a tter, the fork dropped from her hand. Miranda swayed, unable to sit straight. "Dad, I feel so dizzy! Dad."


    Thump, Miranda''s head hit the table.


    Sean stood up and half-carried Miranda out.


    With a sliver of consciousness left, Miranda murmured, "Dad, where are we going?"


    Sean''s face was emotionless. "Dad is taking you to see your mom."


    "Okay, to see mom." Miranda blinked and finally closed her eyes.


    As they went out, they bumped into Racheling in from outside.


    "Bro, what are you doing?"


    Sean continued to drag Miranda outside. "Got something to do. Go have your meal."


    Rachel sensed something was wrong and quickly followed. "Bro, what are you going to do? What''s wrong with her?" "Don''t worry about it."


    "Bro."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Sean''s gaze grew somewhat stern. "I''m taking Miranda somewhere. Stop prying."


    Rachel''s mind worked fast, immediately grasping the key point. She stopped Sean, "Bro, what did you and Quintessa exchange?"


    Sean''s or was parked outside; he opened the door and stuffed Miranda inside. "It''s none of business, don''t worry about it." to


    Rachel stepped back, allowing Sean to turn the car around As long as it didn''t concern her, she thought, let whatever happen to Miranda


    happen. It would be easier if she just stayed out of it.


    Remembering her own n, Rachel''s lips curled into a smirk, and shem turned, stepping briskly back into the house.


    When Miranda came to, her head was pounding. She saw several heads above her and shivered in fear.


    Soon, she realized something was


    off. These people were all wearing white coats-she was in a hospital and the clothes she was wearing had sleeves sewn together, much like what patients wore in an asylum. Content belongs. Find Novel


    ton


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 Chapter 342

    Miranda struggled to sit up, "Where am I? I don''t want to be here. Dad."


    A doctor spoke up, "The patient''s emotional state is too erratic. To prevent her from hurting herself or others, give her an injection of a sedative."


    Soon, several nurses held Miranda down and injected a sedative into her neck.


    Miranda''s eyelids grew heavier, and the scene before her eyes began to shake. Before losing consciousness, she vaguely saw Sean and struggled to say, "Dad, where is here."


    A flicker of pain crossed Sean''s eyes.


    "Don''t me Dad, and don''t hate me. If you''re going to hate someone, hate Quintessa. She forced me into this. If you get out, seek her out for revenge."


    On the way back to the York family, Quintessa couldn''t help but ask, "Why are you so kind to me?"


    Mrs. York shifted ufortably, "Well, it was me who told Ty to bring you over. If you got bullied, it would reflect badly on me. Besides, if it had been anyone else, I might not have cared. But that woman was Susan Harrington. If I let her bully you, then I''d never hear the end of it from my son."


    Tyrone chuckled, "Mom, am I really like that?"


    "Are you not?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "I guess before you always just tolerated Mrs. Harrington. Now that it''se to this, what are we going to do in the future?"


    Mrs. York shrugged, "It''ll be the same as always. She wouldn''t dare truly cross me. She always bragged about how perfect her life was in front of me. How beautiful and well-behaved her daughter is, how her son is a young genius, and how deeply in love she and her husband are But in reality, she''s just putting on a facade. Her husband has done everything but bring an illegitimate child into the world. She likes to feel superior, so I let her. After all, sometimes what she says isn''t entirely wrong. But she crossed a line when she targeted you two."


    That''s just how Mrs. York was. She often chose to dwell on troubles, yet she had her limits. Bullying her was one thing, but her children were off-limits. Quintessa had nned to drop Mrs. York off at home and then head to the drama crew.


    But upon arriving at the York family Mrs. York said, "Come inside. I''ll whip up a bowl of spaghetti fory


    $19


    This meal was tasteless, just seeing her face made me lose my appetite."


    Quintessa was about to leave but was swayed by those words and followed them inside.


    Mrs. York handed her purse to Wilma, "You two go snack on some fruits. I''ll change and then make the spaghetti."


    Tyrone, wrapping his arms around Quintessa, sat down, "I realized today how awesome my mom is. Now I know where I got my smarts from."


    Quintessa smiled, "She wasn''t dumb before, just wisely unaware. Many things, she chose not to bother with, I guess."


    Tyrone hugged Quintessa closer, "When did you and my mom get on so well? Seems like you''re closer to her than to me. What secrets were you two sharing behind my back?" Quintessa raised an eyebrow, "Thinking of how to win over your mom, to marry into a wealthy family."


    Hearing the word "marry," Tyrone felt a flutter in his heart. He reached out and gently touched Quintessa''s stomach "If you''re serious about that, we could be making our own little one right now. Then I wouldn''t have to keep figuring out how to sneak into your bed anymore."


    .


    Chapter 342


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 Chapter 343

    Mrs. York came downstairs only to find Tyrone and Quintessa very close to each other, with Tyrone half-leaning over Quintessa. Her cheeks flushed red as she cleared her throat, "Ahem, mind your manners!" Tyrone, with a slight smirk, not only didn''t back off but kissed Quintessa on the cheek before saying, "Mom, I want spaghetti alle vongole."


    Mrs. York huffed, "Be d there''s anything for you at all. Don''t be picky with me."


    Despite her words, Wilma brought out two tes of spaghetti alle vongole from the kitchen a few minutester.


    Long strands of spaghetti mixed with a white wine-infused sauce, tender ms, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley made the dish exquisitely inviting.


    Mrs. York removed her apron, handed it to Wilma, and told them both, "Eat up while it''s hot, and hurry on out after you''re done."


    Despite her seemingly dismissive tone, she couldn''t help but remind them the dish was hot and to be careful not to burn themselves.


    The te in front of her made Quintessa paused. Memories from long ago were suddenly evoked, transporting her back in time. She was an 8-year-old girl again, hearing her mother''s gentle advice. "Quinn, be a dear and finish your meal, okay? Mommy will be back soon."


    "Quinn, if someday I can''t cook for you, you still have to eat well, no pickiness, you hear?"


    "Quinn, even if I''m not by your side, you must always be brave and strong."


    And then, she never came back.


    "Why aren''t you eating?" Mrs. York''s voice snapped Quintessa back to reality. She couldn''t look up, fearing her teary eyes would give her away.


    "I''ll eat." Quintessa picked up her fork, her hands trembling. The lightweight spaghetti seemed impossible to hold.


    Observing Quintessa struggling to pick up the noodles several times, Mrs. Yorkmented, "What''s with you, eating like a child? Can''t handle a fork? Here, take this one." Quintessa hurriedly took the offered fork.


    "How does it taste?"


    Quintessa kept her head low, nodding, "It''s delicious."


    Tyrone frowned, sensing something off in Quintessa''s voice.


    The taste lingered, blending with the memory of her mother''s cooking. Quintessa''s hands shook even more, tears threatening to fall. Each bite of spaghetti felt like a stone lodged in her chest, painfully squeezing her heart.


    UMS Tyrone tasted the dish, andmented with a hint of disdain, "Mom, it''s a bit nd."


    "If you can do better, then make it yourself instead of being so picky," Mrs. York retorted, visibly more pleased with Quintessa''s demeanor than Tyrone''s.


    "There''s more in the kitchen if you


    12.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    finish that," she told them, giving Quintessa a concerned once-over. "Let me tell you, girls, skinny isn''t beautiful. Starving yourself can only bring trouble. Why suffer for others'' opinions?"


    Mrs. York''s rambling concerns overwhelmed Quintessa. Her tears broke free, and suddenly, she put down her fork and abruptly said, "I''m sorry, I have something urgent. I have to go."


    She ran out of the York family home without her bag, leaving Mrs. York puzzled, "What happened?"


    Realizing something was wrong, Tyrone said, "I''ll go check."


    S arch the Find Novel website on G??gle to ess chapters of Advels inthe highest quality.


    Chapter 343


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 Chapter 344

    Tyrone ran quickly and caught up with Quintessa in the yard, grabbing her arm. "Quinn, what''s wrong?"


    Quintessa''s hair hid her face as she tried to wriggle free from Tyrone''s grip. "I''ve got something urgent. I really have to go."N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Despite her efforts to remain steady, her voice trembled uncontrobly.


    Tyrone''s grip tightened. "Something''s wrong. What happened? Talk to me, what''s going on?"


    The back of Tyrone''s hand felt cool, and looking down, he saw a drop of water. He paused, then quickly reached out to brush aside the hair covering Quintessa''s face-even though she dodged, he still managed to reveal a strand of her hair- underneath, he saw her face streaked with tears.


    That single tear on his hand suddenly felt burning hot.


    Tyrone froze on the spot, forgetting to take back his hand.


    Quintessa turned her head away, trying not to let Tyrone see her cry. She was desperate to leave, her voice hoarse. "Thest meal my mom made for me was spaghetti alle vongole. I just suddenly remembered her. I''m fine, really. Sorry, can you apologize to your mom for me? What she made was delicious. It''s my own reason, I have to go!"


    Tyrone hadn''t expected the reason for Quintessa''s sudden departure to be this. Upon hearing her words, he felt a heaviness in his chest, a dull ache. He wanted tofort her but was at a loss for words. He awkwardly offered, "Then I''ll take you..."


    Quintessa shook her head, her voice involuntarily rising. "No, just leave me alone. I need some time by myself, please."


    This might have been Quintessa''s most vulnerable moment in front of Tyrone. Even three years ago, caught in a scandal and arrested in front of him, she had never been this disheveled.


    Who is Quintessa, after all? A notorious, viper-hearted femme fatale, the fighter among mistresses. How could she cry? How was it possible for her to cry? Yet, the care and warmth Tyrone and Mrs. York showed her that day repeatedly assaulted Quintessa''s hardened heart until the night the spaghetti alle vongole was served, Quintessa finally broke through her defenses.


    Thest thing Quintessa wanted was for Tyrone to see her like this. She could be bad, but never weak.


    In the face of Quintessa like that, Tyrone wanted to rush up to hug her, kiss her, and give her warmth. Seeing her tears, he was willing to do anything just to make her stop crying. Perhaps, he had truly fallen for this woman.


    .


    Chapter 344


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 Chapter 345

    Quintessa forcefully pulled away from Tyrone''s grip and turned to leave.


    "Wait." Tyrone called after her, "It''s hard to get a cab around here. Here, take the car keys."


    "Thanks." Quintessa replied quietly, head bowed.


    Tyrone wanted to follow her, but he knew, at this moment, thest thing Quintessa wanted was hispany. How could such a strong-willed person allow others to see her vulnerability?


    He had never seen Quintessa like this before. In this moment, he realized she was just a girl, after all.


    Watching Quintessa drive away in his car, Tyrone felt a heavy sensation in his chest, the zing sunlight outside did little to warm his spirits.


    Back home, Tyrone felt a wave of mncholy wash over him. Sitting down, he noticed the steaming te of spaghetti alle vongole on the table. He rubbed his forehead, wondering what Quintessa felt eating this.


    Mrs. York looked puzzled. "What''s wrong, did she not like my cooking? I tasted it, and it seemed fine to me."


    Tyrone shook his head. "When she was eight, her mother passed away. Thest meal her mother made for her was spaghetti alle vongole. This te brought back those memories, and she kind of broke down. She wanted me to tell you the dish was delicious, it''s just her own issues. She''s sorry."


    Mrs. York was stunned for a moment, then scolded, "It''s all your fault, why did you have to choose spaghetti alle vongole? What''s wrong with you, there are so many other things to eat. Oh. Where is she now?'' "I gave her the car keys and let her drive off."


    Mrs. York smacked Tyrone on the head. "Are you stupid? In her condition, you let her drive? She could have had an ident! How can you be so careless and not care about others?"


    That smack seemed to wake Tyrone up. He suddenly realized with the state Quintessa was in, she shouldn''t be driving.


    Was his brain rusted? He must have inherited hisck ofmon sense from his mother.


    "I''ll go after her right away."


    Tyrone hurried to the garage and drove out a silver-gray sports car, Mrs. York stood by the flower bed, yelling, "Be careful yourself!" She sighed, "These kids, always giving me heartaches."


    Wilma rushed out, looking hesitant, and hesitated before saying, "Ma''am. Mr. York is on the phone."


    The anxiety on Mrs. York''s face instantly disappeared. "Hang up."


    "But."


    "There are no ''buts''. I''ve told you before, if he calls, just hang up."


    Mrs. York''s expression turned cold as she turned to go inside.


    Tyrone couldn''t catch up to Quintessa. He called her, but no one answered. Then he remembered that Quintessa''s bag was left at his house.


    Tyrone was anxious. He drove all the way to Harmony Retreat only to find Quintessa hadn''t returned there either. On his way out, he ran into Sean, and he couldn''t help but frown in disgust. This man, he thought, was truly despicable. Content In Sean''s eyes, his wife and child meant nothing. In his world, there was only himself and money.


    Tyrone never considered himself a saint; he had his share of misdeeds. But encountering someone like Sean made him feel like at least he was human What was Sean? Calling him scum would be giving him too much to credit. Content belonging him With a look of disdain, Tyrone walked past Sean and dialed James.


    "Is it done?"


    "Mr. York, it''s all set. We should hear something soon."


    S arch the Find Novel website on G??gle to ess chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Chapter 345


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 Chapter 346

    Tyrone let out a disdainful snort: then let Sean breathe a bit more of the free air while he can.


    Sean only saw a luxury car but failed to notice the person inside. He looked at it with envy, knowing such a vehicle couldn''t be bought for less than 10 million.


    Sean was busy calcting how he could milk more money out of Quintessa. After all, she had Tyrone backing her up. If he could just dig up some more dirt on Quintessa, something to hold over her, then she''d be his personal ATM.


    Sean then thought of Rachel.


    Tyrone was on the phone asking if Violet had seen Quintessa. He was anxious; Emberbrook was vast, and without her phone, even asking for help in searching would take some time.


    He was worried something might have happened to Quintessa in the meantime.


    However, he received a call from a traffic officer, informing him that Quintessa had been pulled over for driving without a license. Both she and the car were detained at the station, and he needed toe and pay a fine to get her released.


    Tyrone''s heart clenched at the news. "Is she okay? No idents or anything, right?"


    This was Tyrone''s biggest fear since distracted driving often led to idents. "Hey, you wishing something did happen? She hit a guardrail, but she''s fine."


    Tyrone exhaled in relief. "That''s good then. As long as she''s okay. I''ll be right there, don''t be too hard on her."


    Arriving at the station, Tyrone saw Quintessa sitting there, a forlorn figure under the stern gazes of two sun-tanned traffic officers lecturing her.


    Quintessa hung her head low, her thoughts unknown. Tyrone approached, cing his coat over her shoulders, "I''m the owner of the car. Speak to me instead."


    Quintessa shivered slightly but didn''t look up.


    "Ah, so you''re the car owner? Did you not know she didn''t have a license? How could you let her drive without one, were you trying to endanger her life or everyone else''s?" The officer''s tone was almost jesting.


    "Especially for a public figure. How could you knowinglymit such an act? Such a pretty face, if something were to happen, it''d be a loss for you and for us, the audience. Everyone wants to see a beautiful face these days."


    Quintessa nodded. "I''m sorry, it won''t happen again."


    Quintessa was cooperative, leaving the officer somewhat speechless. Thinking it was enough, he concluded. "We''re impounding the car, deducting points, and fining you. Plus, you''ll cover the cost of fixing the guardrail."


    Tyrone nodded in agreement. "Alright."


    After paying the fine, the officer added, "This is your first offense, so it''s a light penalty. But next time, it won''t be so simple. You''re lucky it was just a guardrail. If it had been a pedestrian, it could''ve been fatal."


    Quintessa nodded again. "Sorry."


    "That luxury car must''ve cost a fortune, huh? You see it wrecked?"


    Grinding his teeth, Tyrone was irked by the officer''s chiding of Quintessa. Embracing her shoulder, he asserted, "We''ve paid the fine, points deducted. Can we go now?" "You''re good to go."


    As Tyrone escorted Quintessa outside, he couldn''t help but turn back and retort, "I''ve got plenty of cars at home. I could let her y bumper cars all day, and there''s nothing you could do about it."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    .


    Chapter 346


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 Chapter 347

    Traffic officer: You''ve got money, you''ve got nerve!


    As they got into the car, Quintessa pulled off Tyrone''s jacket and ran her fingers through her hair, "Sorry about your car, I''ll pay you back."


    Seeing Quintessa''s indifferent expression and swollen eyes, Tyrone felt as if his heart was being pricked by needles.


    He smirked devilishly, "Alright then, how about you spend the night with me?"


    He wanted tofort her, but perhaps what Quintessa least desired at the moment was constion.


    Quintessa paused, then realized Tyrone''s notion of "spend" wasn''t about money, but about staying the night. She chuckled, "Not tonight, maybe another time. Just take me back to Harmony Retreat."


    "No, I can''t take you back there. Sean''s waiting for you at the gate," Tyrone stepped on the gas, heading towards his ce instead.


    Quintessa frowned. She didn''t want to see Sean; she was afraid she might lose control and do something drastic.


    "Then, drop me off at the Requiem production set."


    Tyrone brushed Quintessa''s cheek, "Look at you, how could I let you go to work like this? Letting mydy toil without a break, that''s something a loser would do."


    Quintessa moved her lips, unsure of what to say.


    Tyrone adjusted the car''s temperature, "If you''re tired, just take a nap."


    Quintessa closed her eyes.


    Tyrone drove smoothly, knowing Quintessa carried a heavy burden. She had witnessed her mother''s death with her own eyes. The shock and trauma inflicted on an eight-year-old child were something that could never be erased.


    Later, Tyrone found out her mother''s death wasn''t as simple as it seemed. Though it appeared to be a suicide, it was Sean and Lilian who directly caused it. This despicable couple had never intended for Dolores to survive.


    When people decide to be cruel, they be the terrifying beings on Earth.


    The car stopped at the doorstep of the house, and Quintessa had


    .ne already fallen asleep. With her eyes closed, she breathed evenly, her brows furrowed, strands of hair falling onto her face. Her skin appeared even more translucent, r¨¦sembling jade. In this state, she looked like a fragile girl.


    Tyrone carried her inside, bumping into Mrs. York on his way in.


    "Mom." Tyrone whispered.


    Mrs. York breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Quintessa was unharmed, "She''s asleep, huh? Get her to bed."


    Tyroneid Quintessa on his bed, covered her with a nket, and went downstairs.


    "Where did you find her?" Mrs. York asked.


    Tyrone took a sip from the ss Wilma handed him, "At the police station."


    Mrs. York gasped, "There was an ident?"


    "Yeah, she crashed into a guardrail and the cops pulled her over. Silly me, forgot she just got back and hadn''t had a chance to get her license.


    Mrs. York scoffed, "So what if the car''s damaged, as long as she''s m alright.


    Tyrone teased, "You are quite generous, that car was 5 million."


    Mrs. York rolled her eyes, "Look at how stingy you are. No wonder you end up kicked out of bed. Justst time, that jewelry set of mine was 7 million After crashing your 5 million car, you still owe her 2 million in favors."


    Tyrone couldn''t help butugh, "Mom, you sure know how to keep ounts."N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    "Of course, I do. I was the best in math back in my school days."


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 Chapter 348

    "Mom. You really don''t care?"


    Mrs. York thought Tyrone was referring to the car that got wrecked, and she said, "What''s there to care about? It''s just money, aren''t you well off anyway?"


    Tyrone paused for a moment, then said, "I saw her crying today, and it really hurt me. I just thought, if she could just smile once, I''d do anything for her." Mrs. York put down her phone, looked at Tyrone with some surprise, and gently patted his head, "Son, sometimes you gotta follow your heart. Matters of the heart aren''t thatplicated. When you can''t stop thinking about someone, when it pains you to see them hurt, or when you get jealous over them, that''s love. Don''t doubt it, and don''t fight with yourself. If you''re all twisted up now, give it a few years, and you''ll be regretting it."


    Tyrone was stunned. Had he fallen for Quintessa? Really?


    His heart suddenly raced. He wanted to speak but couldn''t find the words. His mind was nk.


    Seeing Tyrone like this, Mrs. York knew her dear son still hadn''t quite figured it out. She reached out and patted his head again, "Silly boy, always sneaking into bed, and after all those nights, haven''t you figured it out yet? With your stubborn streak, letting someone take advantage of you and still indulging them repeatedly, what are you after if not her heart?"


    Tyrone''s face turned red, and he stood up, heading upstairs.


    Mrs. York chuckled.


    After a few steps, Tyrone turned back and asked, "Mom, do you regret marrying Dad?"


    The smile faded slightly from Mrs. York''s face. "Of course, I regret it. But what can you do? You''ve been bouncing around for years, and I''m getting old. This is my life. I''m fine with it. I''m pretty happy like this. Besides, I''m not short of money. I''m quite satisfied."


    Mrs. York''s ability to maintain such a disposition over the years wasrgely due to her attitude-she was optimistic and content. If it hadn''t been for Mrs. Harrington targeting Quintessa today, Mrs. York would probably still be nonchnt,ughing it off and ying dumb.


    She was naive, but not foolish. She had been naive in the past, simply because she couldn''t be bothered to fuss over things.


    "Did you ever think about getting a divorce?"


    Mrs. York nodded, "Of course, I did. I''m not really foolish. I was adamant about getting a divorce back then, but then you clung to my leg and cried, and I had to stay." Tyrone''s lips curved into a smile, "Mom, I''ll be happy. I promise."Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Mrs. York snorted, "Pfft, start by actually getting married. With your temperament, who''d want to put up with you?"


    For anyone else with a different


    personality in Mrs. York''s position, it might have been impossible to live asfortably as she did. Her life had been smooth sailing. In her early years, she was pampered and


    adored in her parents'' home, el. not


    cultivated her innocent and carefree nature. The only misfortune in her life was probably her marriage, but she was also fortunate to have a child.


    Her child was the sole heir of the York family, and no one could challenge their status.


    Over the years, Mrs. York''s attitude had remained-What husband? I don''t care about him. As long as my son a and are doing well, that''s all that matters.


    Tyrone sat by the bed, watching Quintessa with a somber expression.


    He saw her eyshes flutter and her eyes slowly open, her gaze hazy and unfocused, taking a while to regain rity.


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 Chapter 349

    Tyrone whispered, "You''re awake."


    Hearing Tyrone''s voice, Quintessa snapped to full awareness, quickly sitting up: "How long have I slept?"


    "It''s still early, barely past 4 PM."


    "Thatte?" Quintessa quickly threw off the covers and got out of bed.


    Tyrone stopped her: "Where are you going?"


    Quintessa tucked her hair behind her ears: "I need to get to the set."


    Tyrone pushed her back down: "Look at you, you''re as pale as a ghost. You''re not going anywhere."


    "But I have to. I have scenes tonight, and there''s not much left. We could wrap up by this week. I can''t dy everyone''s schedule." Seeing her insistence, Tyrone could only say: "It''s not even dark yet. What''s the rush? Let''s have dinner, and I''ll drive you there."


    Quintessa nodded: "Okay!"


    Tyrone frowned slightly: "You''re a woman; don''t push yourself too hard."


    "I''m not."


    Tyrone chuckled coldly.


    He didn''t bring up her car ident, nor did he offer any words offort, because Quintessa wasn''t someone who soughtfort. Like a lizard that''s lost its tail, she might hurt, but she didn''t need anyone''s help to stand up again.


    That''s just who she was, fragile yet not weak, stronger than anyone yet immensely vulnerable.


    Tyrone escorted Quintessa downstairs.


    Mrs. York looked up and casually said: "You''re up. Go drink that ss of milk."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Quintessa paused, surprised that Mrs. York had prepared a ss of milk for her.


    Wilma brought the milk over to Quintessa, and she murmured: "I haven''t had milk in years."


    "Go on, drink. I had Wilma add some sugar. It won''t taste weird."


    Tyrone looked at the table, noticing there wasn''t a second ss and asked: "Mom, where''s mine?"


    Mrs. York scratched her head: "You? Wilma, get him a bottle of water."


    "Mom, why do I feel like I''m out of favor?"


    Mrs. York looked puzzled: "Were you ever favored?"


    Quintessaughed out loud, "Sorry, couldn''t help it."


    Tyrone, seeing a smile finally grace Quintessa''s face, felt content. He loved seeing her smile, no matter the kind - even if it was fierce or mischievous, as long as she was smiling.


    "Mom, just when I thought you were being sensible and smart, you turn around and tease me?"


    Mrs. York shrugged: "I can''t lie, can I?"


    Tyrone didn''t linger on the topic: "Mom, Quinn has to go to the set tonight."


    Mrs. York nced at the clock, noting it was nearly 5 PM, and quickly stood up: "Oh, then I''ll make dinner now. You can leave after eating."


    Quintessa felt a warmth inside. She envied Tyrone for having a mother like Mrs. York she had one too, once, but had lost her and could never get her back.


    "I''ll go check out the kitchen too." Quintessa handed her unfinished ss of milk back to Tyrone.


    Tyrone initially didn''t want her to go, but then thought it might be good for them to spend more time together: "Alright then, go ahead. Wait."


    Tyrone tilted his head, making Quintessa nervous, then he suddenly leaned down, kissed Quintessa, and licked the milk residue from her lips, "Tastes good."


    Quintessa''s cheeks flushed red. In the distance, Mrs. York peeked from the kitchen door looking eyes with Quintessa Before turning away nonchntly to go back to her cooking.


    Quintessa tugged at Tyrone''s arm, pushed him away, and walked into the kitchen.


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 Chapter 350

    Quintessa''s cheeks were still a bit flushed as she asked, "Auntie, is there anything I can do for you?"


    Mrs. York didn''t hesitate, "Go peel the potatoes."


    She treated Quintessa so naturally without any formality, making Quintessa feel almost like she was truly part of the family.


    "Oh dear, I forgot, you actresses, always taking care of your hands. You should wear gloves."


    "That''s alright, peeling with gloves on is a bit clumsy."


    Mrs. York looked on in surprise as Quintessa peeled the potatoes swiftly and skillfully, "I didn''t expect you to be so adept at this?"


    Quintessa smiled, "I used to work in a restaurant when I was abroad."


    Mrs. York blinked in astonishment, surprised again that Quintessa had worked; she thought such a girl, when abroad, would be attending sses, shopping, buying clothes. That''s how the wealthy from her country usually live, the Young family isn''t poor, yet she still worked.


    At dinner, Quintessa thought for a moment and said, "I''m sorry, Auntie, I crashed the car. It''s pretty badly damaged, and about the insurance."


    Before she could finish, Mrs. York tapped Tyrone''s hand with her fork, "That boy has money to burn. Once, he lost two Paganis in a bet within an hour, nearly gave me a heart attack. Don''t you worry about his money for him."


    Quintessa was shocked by Mrs. York''s words. How could there be such an adorable person in this world?


    Tyrone spat out a bone, thinking it best to stay silent at the moment.


    "But that car cost a lot."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Mrs. York waved it off, "If he has no money, let him earn it. He''s a man, isn''t he? What use is he if he''s not bringing in money to support a family? Might as well say I raised him for nothing." Tyrone looked up, "Mom, about the allowance next month."


    "Oh." Mrs. York served him a piece of beef brisket, smiling, "Eat up, son. You''ve been losing weight recently."


    After dinner, Quintessa was about to head to the set when Mrs. York called her back,ing down with a bag of items, and handed it to her.


    "You''re a girl after all, not even owning proper cosmetics like other female stars. Here, take these face masks and the set. I identally bought too much while shopping today, can''t use them all." Content Mrs. York''s expression was proud, clearly doing a favor but saying it as if she hadn''t done it on purpose.


    At her age, Mrs. York''s cosmetics were mainly for dark spot removal and skin tightening, but what she gave Quintessa was all about whitening and hydration, obviously bought specifically for her. It was a ssic case of saying one thing but meaning another, just like Tyrone.


    Quintessa took the heavy bag of cosmetics, her heart feeling just as heavy. She had seen all sorts of lowly characters over the years, but never someone who treated her this well.


    Quintessa tightened her grip and forced a smile, "Auntie, thank you Anaete Thank you You couldn''t really have taken a liking to me, wanting me as your daughter-inw?"


    Mrs. York lifted her chin, "Pfft, in your


    dreams. If you want to be my daughter-inw, well, you''d have to make me happy first. Alright, alright, hurry up and go. Seeing you all


    annoys me, not letting me have a moment''s peace."


    Tyrone chuckled, "Alright, we''re leaving. Don''t miss us too much."


    Mrs. York turned away, "As if I would. I''m much morefortable at home by myself."


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 Chapter 351

    "Alright, we''re leaving then."


    "Bye Auntie."


    Tyrone reached to take the cosmetics from Quintessa''s hand, and the two left.


    Mrs. York snorted at the sound of the car starting outside, "Ungrateful kids."


    Wilma was clearing the dinner table and said, "Ma''am, you actually like Ms. Young, don''t you?"


    "What? No. I just think, she''s had it rough, losing her mom at such a young age and growing up with a stepmom. The Yates family, they''re all trouble, she must have had a hard time as a kid. But the thing is, Ty likes her. If he likes her, as his mother, I can''t stand in the way, can I? Besides she''s quite formidable. If they do end up together, she might just keep that wild boy in line."


    Wilma nodded with a smile, "You''re right, ma''am."


    Mrs. York stretchedzily, exhausted. She''d been shopping all day and had a spat with the Alexander couple, which had been mentally draining. She was exhausted now.


    "I''ll go upstairs and lie down for a while. Wilma, remember to go to the supermarket tomorrow and get some ribs, pick good ones."


    "Alright!"


    Summer eveningsete, and at 6 PM, the streetlights were on, but the sun hadn''t set yet. The skyline was dotted with towering buildings, and the roads were bustling in this modern city. In this modern metropolis, while technology advances, people be increasingly indifferent to each other.


    Quintessa watched the passing vehicles outside, lost in thought.


    Tyrone drove attentively. He nced at Quintessa and said, "There''s something I''ve got to tell you. I''m not a spendthrift."


    Quintessa turned, puzzled, "Huh?"


    "I once lost two Paganis in a bet, but a few dayster, I won back four. My ability to earn money is much stronger than my ability to waste it," Tyrone said seriously.


    Quintessa paused for a moment, wondering why he was exining this to her.


    She nodded, "Yeah, you''re pretty good at making money."


    That was undeniable. Mr. Tyrone York was known for his shrewd business acumen and unmatched ability to make money. Dealing with him in business meant you rarely came out on top. Tyrone smirked, "d you know."


    He wanted to assure Quintessa that he could make money, that he wasn''t a spendthrift, and she didn''t need to worry about him squandering their wealth and .ne not being able to support them in the future.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    But clearly, Quintessa hadn''t grasped the full meaning of his words; she seemed distracted.


    When they reached the set, Quintessa was about to get out of the car, but Tyrone locked the doors.


    "Hold on, there''s something I need to tell you."


    Quintessa looked at him, "What''s that?"


    Tyrone gazed at her with his deep, soft, pitch-ck eyes, as if they could envelop her. Quintessa paused.


    With a serious expression, Tyrone


    said, "We''ve known each other for three and a half years now. At first, I didn''t think much of you. I wondered En: how someone as peculiar as you


    hel


    even existed. During the three years you were gone, I didn''t spare you a l thought. I figured you were just an one-night stand nb big deal. I never expected to see you again, nor did I anticipate that, after three years, I''d remember everything about you so clearly. I thought I''d forgotten, but I hadn''t.


    ''m


    "Back then, I wondered, why do remember this woman so the mber this content is on NovelDrama.Org! Read thetest chapter there!


    clearlye What''s so good about her? I clearly disliked you so much, but I couldn''t control my desire to see you again."


    The content is on noveldrama.org! Read thetest chapter there!

 Chapter 352

    Tyrone chuckled at himself, "I wanted to get close to you, wanted to sleep with you. I thought, maybe I was just interested in your body, and I felt that your temperament was a bit challenging." Quintessa gripped the car door tighter and tighter. The car had good soundproofing; she couldn''t hear anything from outside, only Tyrone''s voice.


    His voice was pleasant, especially when he spoke earnestly.


    As if enchanted by his voice, Quintessa listened quietly to every word he uttered.


    "After being entangled with you for so long, I found out that you hate me, and the more you dislike me, the more I want to approach you. I couldn''t understand why you''d dislike me. I''m such an outstanding person. Humans are trulyplex creatures, don''t you think? Maybe it''s because of my nature. But from the very beginning, I never disliked you. I just wanted to deny that I could be drawn to a woman like you."


    "Quintessa, what I mean is..."


    Suddenly, Quintessa covered Tyrone''s lips, silencing him. She said, "I probably know what you want to say. Just don''t, not yet. Let me think for a few days. Don''te looking for me. My mind is a bit chaotic right now. I''m sorry."


    Quintessa was overwhelmed, fearful, and unsettled.


    She knew the path she was about to tread. It was a solitary one, shrouded in darkness rather than light. She had never dared to contemte loving anyone. She wasn''t afraid of sin or the cold.


    Yet, she feared the warmth offered by others. But paradoxically, she desired to touch that warmth.


    Such is the contradiction of human nature; those wandering in darkness often yearn for the light the most.


    Even if they know that light doesn''t belong to them, they still crave to see it.


    Tyrone saw the vulnerability in Quintessa''s eyes; she couldn''t bear any more pressure. This wasn''t the right moment.


    He sighed and took Quintessa''s hand, "Alright, I won''t say it. If you wanted to shut me up, you should''ve done it earlier, or you could''ve used your mouth. You insisted on stopping me after I said so much. I had everything prepared, I had the words ready. If you keep stopping me, I''ll forget the rough draft I painstakinglyposed. I won''t know when I''ll remember it."


    Quintessa was amused, "Then let''s not talk about it. Pretend you never said anything earlier."


    Tyrone immediately protested, "No, absolutely not. I never leave things half- done."


    "But what about that time with Mr. Young, doesn''t that count as leaving things half-done?"


    Quintessa gently tapped Tyrone''s chin, and o first. It''s starting somet t fully memorized?


    lines.".


    Tyrone glowered, the message clear: "You go ahead, I won''t open the door."


    Quintessa sighed, this guy was being stubborn again. She needed to coax him.


    She reached out and hooked Tyrone close for a kiss.


    Momentster, Quintessa released him, lightly patting his cheek, "Good boy, unlock the door."


    Tyrone wiped his lips, "Fine, you''re sincere enough, I suppose. You can leave."


    The car door opened, and Quintessa got out.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    "


    your space. But what about matter? Should I note toet about that?"


    SW


    Quintessa, leaning on the door, bent down, "Hmm, you''re weet


    ''gome to my bed'' for that.",


    FindNovel woyane


    Tyrone''s lips curled into a smile


    swikontent


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 Chapter 353

    Today''s shoot was indoors, featuring Reuben and the second lead male. Both were handsome, their acting skills may not be exceptional, but they managed to keep the audience engaged without breaking the illusion.


    The set was hushed, with only the sound of their lines being spoken.


    Quintessa moved quietly to Director Cooper.


    Director Cooper was focused on the monitor. After a few minutes, he called out, "Prepare for the next scene!"


    Seeing Quintessa, the director said, "Quinn, you go over your lines, get changed, and do your make-up. You''re on in about an hour."


    "Okay, director. Thank you."


    Director Cooper gave her a pat on the shoulder, "Everyone''s been working hard. Let''s give it our all for thisst week, then we can wrap. Oh, I forgot to congratte you."


    Quintessa was confused. Congrattions? For what?


    The rest of the cast and crew were also congratting her, leaving her bewildered.


    Reuben approached her with a smile, "Hey, sis, congrats! You looked absolutely stunning!"


    "What? Why is everyone congratting me?"


    "Don''t you know? The music video you did with God Snow went online today. Twitter''s blowing up."


    Quintessa''s eyes widened as she quickly pulled out her phone. She first noticed a message from Snow on WhatsApp, along with a couple of missed calls, all during the time she had a breakdown in the afternoon when she didn''t have her phone with her.


    Opening Twitter, she found herself once again trending thanks to her coboration with Snow.


    Her Twitter was buzzing, a stark contrast to the previous barrage of criticisms. This time, mostments were praising her, calling her a goddess, and the rest were specting about the roman Yo!!!!


    sparks between her and Snow during the music video shoot.


    Quintessa chuckled at some of thements.


    #Blown Away, I''ve be a fan of an actress I swore to dislike after watching a music video#


    #You''re not alone. Count me in#


    #Beauty wins. Goddess, take my admiration!#


    Thements were diverse. Quintessa clicked on the music video. It was beautiful, with edited shots that seemed to be enchanted. The opening was a long aerial shot, with no background music, just a sound ying as if hummed spontaneously, tuneless yet intriguing. N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    This aerial shot, likely addedter, kept zooming in, revealing countless abandoned cars piled up, some of them had been here for so long that they were covered in dust, instantly outlining a destion. And what was also brought up along with the dust was a red veil drifting into the frame.


    The camera slowly panned to Quintessa, and then the music started-Snow''s unique voice bringing tears to the eyes alongside the instrumental.


    Snow was truly talented. The amateur shots, post-editing, turned into aesthetically pleasing scenes, each frame wallpaper-worthy, with the music being the soul of the video.


    Quintessa retweeted Snow''s post. She had an obligation to promote it, after all, it would boost her own poprity.


    She then picked up the script to memorize her lines.


    Manny, out of breath, arrived: "Sis, sorry I''mte. Let''s start on your makeup."


    Quintessa pointed to the chair beside her, "No problem, take a breather. There''s no rush for makeup."


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 Chapter 354

    Manny shook his head, "I''d better do your makeup now. Your scene ising up soon; we can''t have any dys."


    Manny''s skills with makeup had grown remarkably. It was no longer like when he first started following Quintessa. Makeup on modern looks was easy, especially since Quintessa naturally had a great canvas to work on, making his job much quicker.


    As he adjusted her makeup with some bronzer, Manny asked, "Sis, Violet said we should find another female assistant because sometimes I can''t keep up with you alone, and there are things that are inconvenient for me as a man."


    "Sure, hiring another assistant sounds good. It''ll take some of the load off you."


    Manny beamed, "Thanks, Quinn. And, uh, if I find someone suitable, can I introduce them?"


    "Of course, but you know the conditions."


    "Don''t worry, Quinn. If they''re not up to par, I won''t even bring them over for you to see. Thanks sis."


    Quintessa finished her makeup routine and shut her eyes, silently running through her lines until the director called, "Quinn, get ready."


    She opened her eyes and got up.


    After a long night of shooting that stretched into the early hours, Quintessa finally got back to the hotel, managed a quick shower, and fell into bed exhausted.


    She had intended to just sleep through but forced herself to get up again, grabbing a face mask Mrs. York had given her. pping it on her face without much care for uracy, she copsed back onto the bed.


    As Quintessa drifted off, she thought: keeping up with these daily face masks was quite troublesome!


    Sean had been loitering outside the Harmony Retreat all night, smoking and littering the ground with cigarette butts.


    After staying up all night, his eyes were bloodshot, making his re intimidating when he looked at people.


    Up to now, Quintessa hadn''t sent him the money, leading him to suspect she might just be ying him.


    Sean''s brain, deprived of rest all night, was now throbbing with pain.


    The security guard at the gatehouse wondered why, if this man was indeed Ms. Young''s father, he didn''t ever have his daughter''s phone number?


    Having smoked thest cigarette in the pack, Sean got up, cast onest venomous look toward the residentialplex, then turned and left.


    Returning home, Rachel had just woken up. Rachel could tell from his appearance what had happened.


    "Bro, you spent another night outside Quintessa''s neighborhood entrance, didn''t you? And didn''t see her?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Sean didn''t say anything, his face cold as he headed upstairs.


    "She promised you money but didn''t give it to you, did she?"


    "That bitch, do you really think we can trust anything she says? Getting her to help you or our family is impossible, unless we catch her with something lethal."


    Sean paused, "Rachel, I know you''ve been investigating hertely. Have you found any dirt?"


    After a sleepless night and a night of smoking, Sean''s voice was harsh and unpleasant when he spoke.


    Rachel smirked, "Not yet, but I have a feeling it won''t be long."


    Suddenly, the doorbell rang. The two exchanged nces. Who could it be at this hour?


    Rachel went to answer it, finding several people in police uniforms standing outside, which immediately set off rms in her mind.


    "Rachel felt a sense of foreboding "May I ask who you''re looking for?"


    "We''re looking for a Mr. Sean."


    After a moment of hesitation, Rachel let them in.


    "You''re Sean, correct?" one officer asked as they entered.


    Sean, seeing the officers, felt a of brand he couldn''t help b in a cold sweat, "Yes s me. What can I do for you?"


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 Chapter 355

    The police officer said, "We''re from the Emberbrook Police Department. One of your employees has used you by name for tax evasion, misappropriation ofpany funds, and bribery. Pleasee with us for questioning."


    Sean felt like he''d been struck by lightning.


    At 9 a.m., Quintessa woke up, grabbed her phone from under the pillow to check the time, and sent Snow a quick message on WhatsApp before nning to get up. But as she moved, she realized, why was she naked?


    Turning her head, she saw a man lying next to her.


    That man, with a sinister look, resembled the cuckolded husband.


    "You scared me! When did youe? Now you''re so skilled, climbing into bed without making a sound."


    Tyrone replied coolly, "Yeah, if I hadn''t been quiet, I wouldn''t have known that the first thing you do when you wake up is text another man."


    Tyrone had arrived an hour earlier. Getting Quintessa''s room key from the hotel reception was a breeze. Who wouldn''t help a handsome and wealthy guy?


    Quintessa sighed, "I saw it and just happened to reply."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    She finished speaking, furrowing her brows. Was she exining herself?


    Before, she probably wouldn''t have cared about him at all.


    "When did you get here?"


    Tyrone wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her close, "Right when you were sleep talking and calling my name."


    Quintessa widened her eyes, "You''re lying. How could I possibly talk in my sleep?"


    "You did. And you sounded so sweet calling my name. Call me once more, and you''ll find out!"


    Tyrone spoke as if it were true. If Quintessa didn''t know she didn''t talk in her sleep, she might have been fooled by him. Quintessa pinched Tyrone''s cheek, "Babe, cut it out." "See, you sound so sweet. Come on, call me that again."


    Quintessa was speechless. Thest time she called him "babe," he would still But it seemed his skill in thed antics had thick-skinned antics had leveled up.


    Quintessa pinched Tyrone''s chin, "Enough, we''ll yter."


    Tyrone didn''t want to let go of her slender waist, "It''s still early. How about some morning exercise?"


    Quintessa rolled her eyes, "Sure, if you can finish before Manny knocks, then go for it."


    Tyrone''s eyes lit up, "Really? That good!"


    Quintessa gave him a meaningful look, "I think, for you, the time might just be enough."


    Tyrone''s face darkened as he flipped Quintessa under him, ready to prove his endurance and stamina.


    But then.


    Knock, knock, knock. The urgent knocking sounded.


    "Quinn, time to get up! You''ve got work at 10!"


    Tyrone''s face instantly darkened, and Quintessa, smiling, pinched his ch¨¬n, "Sweetiellet go. I need to get ready."


    "Tsk, that kid has ruined my ns more than once."


    Tyrone was as dark as ink, no wonder Quintessa said so kindly that if he could finish before Manny arrived, he could go along with her.


    Damn it, Manny came so early, without even giving him a chance to get started!


    After Quintessa got ready, she smelled something delicious. H growled as she s air d asked, "What''s the the smell?"


    Tyrone, leaning against the headboard, responded, "Cecilia made ribs this morning and insisted I bring them to you. I''m starting to wonder if I''m even her real son."


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 Chapter 356

    Tyrone descended the stairs early in the morning only to be greeted by the delicious aroma of ribs cooking. He was puzzled, wondering why his mother was making ribs at the crack of dawn. To his surprise, breakfast was served without offering him a single bite, and without any further ado, his mother packed the ribs, handed the container to him, and simply said, "Take it to her!"


    Being cared for in such a manner filled Quintessa with a long-forgotten sense of happiness. The skincare products she had just used were a gift from Mrs. York, and the meal she had eaten was prepared by Mrs. York as well. Despite having no blood rtion to her, Mrs. York extended such warmth. With a smile, Quintessa opened the box of ribs, found not only ribs but also a thermos with two veggie burgers and some oatmeal.


    Quintessa asked Tyrone, "Have you eaten?"


    Tyrone grimaced, "Not yet, but I wouldn''t dare. Mom said I can''t steal your food."


    Quintessa chuckled, "That''s right, you can''t."


    There was something about the way Quintessa ate that made it seem so appetizing, even though she didn''t have the graceful elegance of those high society girls. Tyrone, however, found her way of eating quite charming.


    In no time, Quintessa polished off the veggie burgers and a third of the ribs, and finished off the oatmeal.


    Getting up, she patted her stomach in satisfaction, "Nothing beats a full belly." Carefully, she covered the remaining ribs.


    Quintessa pulled out a napkin to wipe her mouth, "I''m running out of time; I need to head to work. You should hurry to your job as well."


    Tyrone disdainfullymented, "I''ve noticed something about you. You always seem to forget my favors after eating."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    His words had a double meaning. Quintessa paused for a moment, remembering his earlierment about his staying over without any gains.


    With a slight smile, she replied, "That''s because I can''t afford the bill!"


    Tyrone caught the underlying sentiment in her words. He sighed inwardly, realizing she still dared not to open her heart. Despite her struggles, she always tried to appear stronger than anyone else. Tyrone said, "Sean has been arrested by the cops, just over an hour ago!"


    Quintessa was startled, "Arrested, is it because of you?"


    Tyrone spread his hands, "I can''t control the police. It''s just hispany''s CFO reported him for tax evasion, embezzlement, and bribery!"


    Quintessa curled her lips into a smile, radiant yet sinister, "He brought this upon himself; he has only himself to me."


    "I suspect that a scoundrel like him won''t just let things lie. To escape punishment, he''ll surely drag others down with him. He must harbor a strong hatred for you now, perhaps even believing you''re behind his arrest. He might disclose our information damaging to you, such as your order to have Lilian killed."


    After a moment of contemtion, Quintessa said, "I think I need to meet someone."


    "I''ll go with you," Tyrone offered.


    "I can..."


    Tyrone ced a finger on Quintessa''s lips to stop her


    ?


    speaking. "Don''t refuse. It''s useless anyway. Won''t let you go alone.


    now on, you won''t have to face things like this by yourself. Content


    Quintessa''s hand trembled slightly. She murmured, "But you don thave to:" "


    "It''s not for you to decide whether I need to do. That''s my concern. Just


    focus on your acting, and don''t get too friendly with other men. Of else, I''ll get mad especially if you se filming as an excuse."


    Quintessa swatted his hand away,


    "You had my intimate scenesouth from the script. Thaven''t even started En. with you about that."


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 Chapter 357

    Tyrone cleared his throat, "Look, it''s for your own good, so you don''t get taken advantage of without even realizing. Man, I''m swamped every day, and I still manage to bring you food. Be grateful." Worried Quintessa might hold him ountable, he grabbed his jacket, "There''s a bunch of people waiting for me at thepany. I won''t teach you a lesson today, but I''ll be back tonight."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes just as Tyrone opened the door, bumping into Violet who was about to knock.


    Violet froze, "Mr. York?"


    Tyrone lifted his chin, "Ahem. Just dropping by to check on my employee."


    Violet watched Tyrone leave with wide eyes, her plump figure nearly rolling into the room after him.


    "Quinn, the boss said he was just checking on his employee?"


    Quintessa nodded, "Yeah, to bring some warmth and check on employees."


    "What warmth?"


    "Breakfast."


    Violet spotted the half-eaten box of ribs on the desk and reached for it, but Quintessa quickly snatched it away.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Sheined, "We''re all employees, but the treatment, it''s really unfair. At least let me have a bite."


    Quintessa fished out a few coins and handed them to Violet, "It''s hot out, go buy yourself an ice pop. You''ve gotten quite chubby, enough with the meat."


    Holding the coins, Violet retorted angrily, "You''re an actress, how can you indulge in meat like this?"


    "Somebody told me yesterday, girls shouldn''t think being thin is beauty. Being healthy is what''s really important."


    Quintessa grabbed her bag and dragged Violet out.


    "Who told you that?"


    "Why should I tell you?"


    "I''m your agent."


    Quintessa spent a rigorous day filming on set. During the afternoon break, Manny hurriedly showed her a video of Snow being interviewed at an event that morning.


    A journalist had asked about his rumored romance between him and Quintessa, asking whether it was true or not.


    Heughed, "We''re really good friends right now."


    "But, Quintessa is indeed my type!"


    That statement instantly shot Quintessa back into the trending searches Seizing the moment, the the~~~ official Twitter for "Shadows of the Past" posted a few of the lead actors costume photos, vel? Love skyrocketing into the top 10 trending topics.


    Quintessa''s costume photos were stunning. Standing atop grand steps, with majestic pces in the om background. The dark tones did nothing to dim the fiery elegance of her costume, making her presence felt powerfully. Thus, Quintessa garnered another wave of fans!


    Director Cooper, envious at the buzz, said, "We can''t miss out on this opportunity.


    Let''s ride the wave too."


    Requiem''s official Twitter didn''t fall behind, posting behind-the-scenes photos and on-set pictures of Quintessa.


    Quintessa''s Twitter followers had now surpassed 2 million. Violetmented that this momentum was impressive, predicting that once both series aired, her poprity would only soar. Quintessa told Violet, "I''m taking a half-day off tomorrow to go out."


    "For what?"


    "Can''t tell you."


    After a moment''s thought, Violet nodded, "Alright, I won''t ask. But remember, we''re on a tight schedule here, you can only afford to take half a day off. You muste back in the afternoon."


    "Got it."


    The next morning, Quintessa woke up to find Tyrone lying beside her again. She had gotten used to his sudden appearances and teased him, "Your bedside climbing skills are getting better and better!"


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 Chapter 358

    Tyrone lounged around in bed with her for a while before finally getting up to freshen up.


    After having the breakfast Tyrone had brought over, Quintessa said, "Let''s go."


    On their way, Tyrone filled Quintessa in on the Yates family. "Today, Lilian got bailed out. She''s definitely going to be picked up by someone from the Yates family. The Yates family has always had a bad reputation. The distinguished families like Emberbrook don''t want much involvement with them. were involved in organized crime in the early days and were suppressed. Later on, they whitewashed their image and started engaging in import and export trades. Barely qualifies them as respectable businessmen, I guess."


    When Tyrone mentioned the Yates family, Quintessa clearly sensed his disdain. It seemed she had no respect for the Yates family.


    "The head of the Yates family is Lilian''s cousin. These days, the family tree has spread wide, with its fair share of good-for-nothings. Lilian''s father is still around, but her mother passed away. She has a brother who got involved in some criminal activities and fled the country, and hasn''t been back since. Her father''s been edged out of the power circle in the Yates family. Honestly, Lilian doesn''t hold much sway there anymore."


    "But that doesn''t mean that it''s easy to deal with Lilian. You still need to watch whose toes you''re stepping on. And the current Yates family has a..." Tyrone trailed off, hesitating before deciding not to continue. Quintessa was curious, "Has a what?"


    Tyrone ruffled her hair, "Nothing. You''re unlikely to cross paths with this person."


    Quintessa had been with the Young family for many years, yet she had never visited the Yates family. During holidays, Lilian would take Miranda and her brother out but never included Quintessa. And the Yates family never paid visits to the Youngs, so her knowledge about them was quite limited.


    She was meeting Lilian today to prevent Sean from pulling Lilian over to his side. It was crucial to divide them beforehand, to prevent them from reconciling, which would make them much harder to deal with.


    As the car stopped at the detention center, Quintessa''s eyes were immediately drawn to a sleek ck Bentley, silently parked under the sun, its emblem gleaming metallically.


    "That must be the Yates family''s car," Tyrone remarked.


    When the detention center''s gates opened, Quintessa saw a haggard-looking Lilian. She moved to push open the car door, intending to get out, but Tyrone said, "Ie with you."


    Quintessa stopped him, "No, wait here for me. There are things I want to say to her in private. I appreciate your willingness to help, really, but some things, I need to handle them myself."


    Tyrone frowned, "When will you learn to rely on me?"


    "Maybe someday. But not yet. I''m not ready for that."


    Tyrone grabbed Quintessa''s wrist, "Don''t go far. Stay within my line of sight."


    Quintessa nodded and got out of the car.


    Dressed casually in a ck sleeveless dress, her fair arms and


    slender legs were on disy, radiating a charm that made even the simplest outfit seen luxurious. She had that knack.


    Quintessa walked straight up to Lilian, "Long time no see."


    Lilian, about to open the Bentley''s door, was like a lit fuse the moment she saw Quintessa, exploding with anger, "You bitch! How dare youe to see me? I''ll tear you apart."


    Quintessa raised her hand with her bag to block Lilian''s, "You just gotout of the detention center. If you don''t want to get in again, I''d suggest you calm down." This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


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 Chapter 359

    Lilian pushed Quintessa away, "Back off! If we were somewhere else, I''d end you right now."


    Quintessa had schemed against her, sent her to prison, and ruined her daughter''s life. She was itching to tear Quintessa apart, skin her alive.


    Quintessa took off her sses, revealing her striking eyes: "I came here to talk to you about Sean Young. If you''re interested, we can talk. If not, well, it''s not my problem. If you want to get out only to die, I won''t stop you."


    "Wait, what do you mean?"


    "If you''re interested, let''s talk!"


    Quintessa noticed Lilian hesitating. Lilian nced at the car window, a battle raging in her eyes. She seemed afraid of the person inside.


    As Quintessa nced at the opaque window, it suddenly lowered slightly, revealing a pair of eyes as dark as ink, imprable and deep. In that moment, Quintessa felt a shiver down her spine, the chilly air creeping up from her feet. Under the zing sun, she felt no warmth.


    "Andrew, I need a moment, just another 10 minutes." Lilian said to the person inside the car, her voice dry,cking her usual arrogance, even sounding somewhat pleading. Quintessa was surprised. This person must have some power to make Lilian, of all people, so afraid. This person must hold a significant position within the Yates family.


    As Quintessa wondered, the person inside the car suddenly spoke: "You''re Quintessa."


    His voice was as cold as his gaze, devoid of any warmth, confidently stating Quintessa''s name.


    Quintessa gave a slight smile, "Yes, Dolores'' daughter."


    She knew her mother''s death had connections to the Yates family, and she deliberately mentioned the name Dolores to disgust him.


    "Talk in the car."


    "I think some conversations are better had without an audience."


    Quintessa saw his eyes narrow slightly, a heavy, oppressive atmosphere enveloping her.


    Lilian snapped, "Quintessa, shut up."


    "Andrew, sorry, just 10 more minutes. We''ll talk under the tree over there."


    The two walked to a tree. Quintessa yed a recording for Lilian, the one Manny had secretly recorded the night she met Sean. Quintessa hadn''t tampered with it, letting Lilian listen to everything from start to finish.


    wn After listening, Lilian tried to hit Quintessa, "You vile woman. How could you do such things? Why haven''t the police caught you? You belong in hell."


    Lilian, seemingly losing her mind,shed out at Quintessa. Her Com fingernails scratched his arm, leaving along red mark. Her grip was fierce, and with Quintessa''s thin skin, the scratched area quickly


    began to bleed.


    Quintessa frowned and pped Lilian back, the sound sharp and loud. She wouldn''t hold back against Lilian.


    "When will you stop your madness? If I really wanted you dead, I wouldn''t be here."


    "You hit me? You witch."


    Quintessa scoffed, "I wouldn''t dare im that title; it suits you. If you can''t calm down, then there''s no point in talking." N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Lilian gritted her teeth, wishing she could devour Quintessa alive, "What do you want to say?"


    Quintessa nced at the blood seeping from her arm, the contrast of the crimson against her pale skin creating an eerie beauty.


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 Chapter 360

    She sneered, "Do you know why you''ve ended up like this? Because you''re foolish. Instead of hating me, shouldn''t you hate Sean even more? I just casually mentioned an eye for an eye, and he readily agreed. In his eyes, your life, over two decades of marriage, your daughter, all of it was worth less than a bit of money. Look at how cheap you all are. Look at the man you killed my mother for. He''s not even worth the name of a beast."


    "I just said it casually, and he took it seriously. Did you really think I''d be so stupid as to directly incite him to kill you? I just wanted to make things difficult for him, but he took it seriously. To avoid jail, he didn''t even think twice."


    "It wasn''t until yesterday, when I heard he had sent your daughter to a mental institution, that I realized he was serious. I certainly don''t want to be implicated a murderer, so I thought I''d kindly inform you in advance. But I didn''t expect you to be so ungrateful. Fine, if you truly believe he''s still a trustworthy husband, then go to him."


    Quintessa had long seen through Sean. Even a tiger wouldn''t eat its own cubs, but he would go as far as to hunt down her, his own daughter, and one day, he could also use Miranda as a stepping stone. Tears welled up in Lilian''s dull eyes as she murmured, "Miranda, Miranda."


    Quintessa''s smile was venomous, "Lilian, if you had an ounce of intelligence, you wouldn''t be in this situation. Sean''spany lost 100 million dors. Where did all that money go? What was it used for? As a shareholder of thepany, how can you not know anything?"


    Lilian suddenly looked up, her gaze fierce enough to burn Quintessa alive.


    Quintessa enjoyed that anger, "I''m just letting you know. Of course, I''m not doing this out of kindness to help you. I love watching you fight each other. But the real culprit behind all this mess is Sean. I hate him more than I hate you. I can deal withter, but him... I wish he was dead already."


    "Hmph, you just don''t want us to reconcile, afraid that we''ll join forces to deal with you," Lilian was no fool!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Exactly, which is why I''m telling you the truth now. If you can still sleep with him after knowing all this, then I have nothing more to say. After all, there''s no cure for being foolish. I''ve said my piece, it''s up to you whether you listen or not."


    Quintessa turned and walked away, her shadow stretching long in the bright summer sun. Just then, she saw a figure lunging at her from behind. With a swift sidestep, Quintessa avoided it, leaving Lilian to crash heavily to the ground.


    After all, Lilian was getting old, and she had wanted to make sure


    ??


    Quintessa didn''t leave so easily since they had met. She was determined to tear off whe tear off ayer of Quintessa''s fox fur. But she hadn''t anticipated Quintessa dodging so effortlessly, and she ended up falling hard on the asphalt, her knees and elbows throbbing with pain.


    Quintessa walked over and stepped on Lilian''s hand, "Tsk, how careless om of you. At your age, you stiff want to y the? Is the Yates family so short of money that you resort to this?"


    Quintessa always enjoyed wearing stilettos. She reveled in the feeling of stepping on someone''s hand and watching them struggle on the ground.


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 Chapter 361

    Lilian writhed in pain. She tried to get up, but her knees and arms hurt too much to move.


    She bellowed, "You bitch, get away."


    Quintessa sighed, "I rarely get to see you, Auntie, why rush me away so soon? We should absolutely have a good chat, don''t you think, Auntie?"


    "Your sses fell off." Suddenly, a voice overhead broke the tension, its icy tone like a pile of ice cubes suddenly dumped on you. Cold, piercing, but not in the least bit refreshing; it felt cold! As if the ice was pressing directly against your skin, chilling you to the bone.


    Quintessa''s gaze drifted down to a pair of feet a step away, ck handmade leather shoes, straight long legs. Quintessa''s mind had only one thought: tall, slim. Finally, against the light, she saw that face, and Quintessa''s heart skipped a beat.


    This was the man she''d seen in the car, young and handsome, yet there was a decayed coldness about him from head to toe.


    He was pale, with a sicklyplexion, delicate features, slightly red lips, sunken cheeks, and wore rimless sses. Schrly yet unnervingly beautiful as if he could be mistaken for a stunning woman with just a wig and no makeup.


    Seeing this person, Quintessa felt an inexplicable danger, as if a hidden beasty in wait, terrifyingly close.


    Suddenly, Quintessa was embraced from behind, and Tyrone''s voice calmly stated, "Andrew, my friend, it''s been years!"


    Hearing Tyrone''s voice, Quintessa immediately felt warmth spread through her, and the danger gradually receded.


    She slowly breathed a sigh of relief, realizing she might rely on Tyrone more than she thought.


    Andrew Yates''s slightly red lips uttered faintly, "Indeed, it''s been a long time since west met. I never thought I''d encounter you here."


    Tyrone chuckled, "Life is full of surprises, isn''t it?"This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Lilian, ignored on the ground, screamed, "Andrew, Andrew, please, make this bitch get off my hand, it''s breaking."


    Tyrone seemed to ignore Lilian''s cries, stepping on her wrist with a faint smile, "Emberbrook has been dull without you, Andrew." Andrew''s gaze swept over Quintessa, "I believe there will be plenty of excitement in the future."


    "Exactly!"


    A slight smile yed on Andrew''s lips, an imperceptible amusement in his tone, "Excuse me, Ms. Young, could you move your foot?"


    Quintessa remained unmoved, lowering her head to see Lilian, who was sweating profusely from the pain. Only then did she feign surprise, "Oh, did I step on your hand? How did I not see it before? Lilian, you didn''t even say anything."


    Lilian gritted her teeth and cursed, "Bitch, you''ll die sooner orter."


    "Lilian, don''t scare me like that. I''ll get frightened." Quintessa taunted.


    Tyrone''s expression darkened, "Mrs. Young, if you have any


    misunderstandings about my woman, you''d better clear them up. If you really harm her, I won''t be pleased."


    "Mr. York, you need to see this bitch''s true colors. She''s cold-blooded and vicious."


    Quintessa flipped her hair with augh, "But, there''s nothing I can do about it. Some people just love my wickedness. What can I do? I''m just irresistible?"


    Tyrone nodded, "Absolutely, I love it!"


    He then leaned over to kiss Quintessa gently on the lips,


    "Sweetheart, it''s hot out here, and


    your face is getting red from the sun. Go wait in the car for me; we leave car for v we''Pleave shortly.


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 Chapter 362

    "Okay!"


    Quintessa turned and walked towards Tyrone''s car.


    Lilian struggled to her feet, limping towards the Yates family''s car.


    Under the scorching sun, only Tyrone and Andrew remained.


    The two stood like day and night, in stark contrast. Tyrone, bathed in sunlight, shone even brighter than the sun itself, but Andrew seemed like a shadow that no light could prate!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Andrew drawled, "I didn''t expect your taste in pets to be so unique."


    Tyrone''s lips curved into a smile, "No, not a pet, she''s my girlfriend!"


    Andrew was somewhat surprised, "Girlfriend?"


    Tyrone lifted his chin, "Yes, my girlfriend."


    "My cousin and your girlfriend must have some misunderstanding. After all, we''re somewhat like distant rtives. Let''s sit down sometime soon, talk it out, and clear up any misunderstandings." Tyrone inwardly scoffed. Misunderstanding? Killing someone''s mother, that''s some misunderstanding alright!


    "I don''t think it''s just a misunderstanding. I can''t control what she wants to do, so I can only help her."


    With those words, Tyrone made it clear that he was taking Quintessa''s side, regardless of the Yates family''s stance.


    Andrew''s expression remained calm, "You''ve changed a lot. I have other matters to attend to today, let''s catch up some other time."


    "Sure, some other time."


    They turned and walked towards their respective cars. Tyrone took a few steps, then turned back, bending down to pick up Quintessa''s sses from the ground. Tyrone got into the car and shut the door.


    Quintessa, looking out at the departing Bentley, asked, "Who was that? I feel he''s dangerous."


    Tyrone, who had a gloomy


    expression, smiled and reached out to pinch Quintessa''s cheek, "You''ve got a good eye. That''s the wildest one in the Yates family, Lilian''s youngest cousin, Andrew!" S


    "Andrew, I feel like I''ve heard that name before."


    "Well, it''splicated. He''s veryplex, dark, and quite despicable."


    "You know him?"


    Tyrone started the car, "Ah, back in the day, when we were young and reckless, I intentionally crashed into his car during a street race."


    Quintessa rested her chin on her hand, "So, do you hold a grudge?"


    "Sort of, but not really. That guy, he''s been weak since childhood, always carrying medication with him.


    People like that, they either grow up overly sensitive or twisted. Clearly, he''s thetter. Be cautious when dealing with him in the future."


    Quintessa nodded, "Got it."


    Her instincts about danger told her Andrew was indeed someone to be wary of.


    "Do you think Lilian will turn against Sean?"


    "Don''t worry. Even if they don''t turn


    against each other, they won''t


    §Ö


    coborate either. The Yates family haspletely abandoned Sean. Otherwise, why didn''t he seek their help when he needed that 100 million dors, instead ofing to you? The Yates family probably never valued Sean much, let alone


    support him."


    Quintessa nodded, "You''re right. Every time Sean came back during the holidays, he looked pretty gloomy."


    Tyrone''s lips curled up, feeling quite pleased. Quintessa had unknowingly started discussing things with him, learning to inquire and confirm. In fact, she had already started to rely and trust him. After driving for 20 minutes, Tyrone parked the car by the roadside, "Wait here for me."


    "What are you going to do?"


    Tyrone didn''t answer her. Instead, he exited the car, crossed the road, and went to the pharmacy across the street.

 Chapter 363

    Minutester, he came jogging back with a stic bag in hand.


    The car door swung open, and Tyrone climbed in, bringing with him a wave of heat. "Stretch out your arm."


    Quintessa blinked in surprise. "Huh?"


    "Your arm." Tyrone gestured for Quintessa to lift her right arm, thenughed. "The left one! Got sunburned and turned your brain to mush, huh?"


    He unscrewed a bottle of rubbing alcohol and drew out two cotton swabs, dampening them. "This might sting a bit. Just bear with it."


    The wound on Quintessa''s arm, though shallow, was ring. It had been inflicted by Lilian and had dried blood caked around it. Tyrone meticulously cleaned it, then pulled out a couple of Band-Aids to cover it up.


    "That old woman, locked up in detention for long, who knows if she''s even taken a shower, what kind of germs might be under her nails. Let''s deal with it this way first, and then go to the hospital for a shotter."


    Quintessa didn''t feel the wound hurt at all, but it was Tyrone who had broken out in sweat.


    Quintessa shrugged it off. "You''re making a mountain out of a molehill. It''s just a small wound; it doesn''t need treatment."


    "Aren''t you worried about scars?"


    "Who doesn''t have a scar or two?"


    "But I don''t like seeing them."


    There was a tremor in Quintessa''s heart as she met Tyrone''s gaze. His eyes, deep and dark, held warmth. She could even feel some affection.


    Tyrone reached out and held the back of Quintessa''s head, pressing towards her, and kissed her lips.


    The midsummer sun zed overhead as pedestrians hurried past. Tyrone''s lips were soft and warm. Quintessa thought, perhaps, she really didn''t resist.


    Tyrone let go of Quintessa, his thumb slowly caressing her cheek. "I hate seeing you hurt, sad, and even less seeing you cry. I want to make youugh. So, tell me, what should I do?"


    Quintessa wanted to smile, but as she moved her mouth corners, she found it somewhat hard to actually smile. "I''m fine!"


    She rarely cried. She increasingly felt


    less sadness, and even when hurt, it seemed like she didn''t know what pain was anymore. Quintessa was steering herself towards bing invincible.


    Originally, Quintessa thought all these didn''t matter to her, as long as she was alive. But suddenly, someone they didn''t want to see her like this, wanting to see her smile. Quintessa''s defenses were shaken once more.


    Suddenly, a knock on the window


    disrupted their moment. Tyrone frowned and rolled down the window to see a traffic policeman standing outside. The officer handed Tyrone a ticket. "Illegal parking, a warning this time, that''s a $20 fine."


    The officer, recognizing Tyrone from a previous encounter where he boasted about affording to crash a car a day, remarked, "You again? Didn''t you learn your lesson from yesterday? Two points deduction." This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Tyrone was speechless.


    Quintessa reached out to hold back Tyrone about to re up. The officer was just doing his job, and they were in the wrong. She handed over $20 to the officer. "Having money doesn''t mean you can waste it like this. Move along," the officer said, taking the money.


    Quintessa gently tugged on Tyrone''s hand. "Let''s go."


    Tyrone started the car, stepping on the gas and zoomed off.


    He looked displeased, "Let''s take a rest after finishing this movie."

 Chapter 364

    "I''m just starting out, I don''t have the luxury to rest. If I rest, someone else will snatch away my opportunity."


    "With me here, are you still worried about not having opportunities?"This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    "It''s different. I love acting, I love this job, and I want to be a great actress."


    Someone like her probably can never be a good person in her lifetime, but she thinks she can at least be a good actress.


    Tyroneughed bitterly, "There''s really no way to deal with you."


    Tyrone had always been amodated by others. Everyone else adjusted their actions based on his preferences. But Quintessa was the exception; she hardly ever listened to him. It was always him repeatedlypromised with her, trying to please he.


    This woman, Quintessa, had be his Achilles'' heel. He couldn''t get past her! Nor did he want to. He wanted to be lost in it.


    In the car, Lilian was shivering, feeling cold even though the air conditioning wasn''t on. Andrew''s chilly demeanor seemed to frost over her eyebrows.


    "Andrew, could you help me find out which mental hospital Miranda was sent to? I want to bring her back." Lilian was most worried about Miranda.


    Andrew focused on driving, "She''s lost her mind. Sending her to a mental hospital for treatment is the right thing to do."


    Lilian shook her head repeatedly, "No, you can''t. She''s your niece. How can you let her stay in a ce like that?"


    The frost in Andrew''s expression deepened, "Cousin, all I know is that she''s a Young family member."


    Being a Young meant she had no ties to the Yates family, so why should he care?


    Lilian pleaded, "Andrew, I''m begging you. With Matthew gone, she''s the only one child I have left."


    Andrew remained silent, as if he hadn''t heard a word.


    Lilian knew how cold-hearted Andrew could be. If he said he wouldn''t help, he meant it.


    After crying for a while, Lilian gritted her teeth and said, "Andrew, I''m not asking you for this, but there''s one thing you must help me with. You''re the most capable one in our family. Please, help me get rid of that little slut. She''s a devil."


    Andrew replied calmly, "Life is all about cause and effect. Whatever seeds you sowed 17 years ago, you''re reaping the consequences now. It''s just a cycle."


    "You''ve seen how arrogant she is, how she bullies me. She doesn''t even consider the Yates family in her eyes."


    Andrew''s tone was light, "Seeking


    revenge for her mother is understandable. If you can''t stand against her, it''s your ipetence. I won''t interfere in this matter. The Yates family will only guarantee your life, nothing more."


    Lilian''s voice rose, "But I''m your cousin! Miranda is a Young, but I''m your family. You''re just standing by while + get bullied, letting that wretch disrespect me is like ignoring the Yates family."


    "Family? Does the Yates family even have any sense of family?"


    With that, Lilian couldn''t say a word for a moment.


    Did the Yates family have any sense of family? No, every member of the Yates family harbored a twisted soul within!


    Andrew handed a folder to Lilian.


    "Sean has been arrested. He embezzled 100 million inpany funds-40 million went to bribes, 50 million lost in gambling, and the remaining 10 million on mistresses."


    When Lilian saw the contents of the folder, her hands trembled incessantly, and her eyes reddened as if they would bleed.

 Chapter 365

    "This scumbag, this jerk, I must''ve been blind back then, and I must''ve been blind."


    The records were clear, Sean had his fair share of women over the years, with Ynda being the most recent one. And he started cheating on Lilian when she was pregnant with Miranda. Throughout these years, he nevercked femalepany.


    For so many times, he imed he was on a business trip, yet he was actually off gambling with his mistresses.


    In this marriage, Lilian finally came to believe what Quintessa had said - she was a fool. The man she fought so hard to win over from Dolores turned out to be nothing but trash!


    This marriage of over 20 years was aplete joke.


    "Sean wants to see you."


    Lilian looked up, her eyes filled with deep-seated hatred, "See him? Of course, I''ll see him. I must."


    Tyrone was drinking water, while watching Mrs. York busy packing lunch into a box.


    "Mom, you''re alwaysing up with new recipes. You never did this when I was a kid. Did you get me and Quintessa mixed up? Maybe she''s actually your daughter?"


    Mrs. York gave him a sideways nce: "You silly boy, what''s wrong with what you''re eating. If I could, I would''ve stuffed you back inside me a long time ago."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Alright, take it and go. Hurry up, the porridge is still warm and tasty. It won''t taste the same when it cools down."


    Tyrone sighed and grabbed his breakfast; his job these days had been - delivering meals!


    Mrs. York made breakfast with a variety of recipes, insisting he take breakfast to Quintessa every day.


    Mrs. York lectured Tyrone, "I''m going through all this trouble for you, and if you don''t pull yourself together, are you really worth it? Though you act all reluctant, I bet you''re secretly thrilled. You don''t have to make up excuses to see her anymore, and I''ve given you the perfect excuse. If you don''t seize it, you''re really hopeless."


    Feeling his little secret exposed, Tyrone quickly replied, "Yes, sorry, you can count on me. I''ll handle it as soon as possible."


    Mrs. York scoffed, "Ha. Just make sure the next time I find you, you''re not just lying in bed. That''ll be a day to thank the heavens." Tyrone didn''t say another word; his ears turned red as he carried the lunchbox and left the house.


    Today was thest day of shooting


    for "Requiem. The schedule wasn''t heavy for Quintessa as she only had scenes in the morning and


    afternoon. Once the final scene.ne


    the afternoon was shot, the film would be wrapped up.


    Quintessa got up early today; because she had been eating well and sleeping welltely, herplexion had greatly improved.


    Watching her eat breakfast, Tyrone


    said, "My mom said that after you finish shooting tonight, you should get a good night''s sleep. Tomorrow, she wants to take you for a full-body spa treatment. Geez, do you women always have so much inmon to talk about?"


    "Yeah, because when ites to discussing period pains, you''re clueless," Quintessa replied.


    Tyrone smoothly pulled out a napkin and adeptly wiped away the soup stain from the corner of her mouth.


    Violet, walking in just to see this scene, instantly felt proud that their Quinn was so capable of taming this wild man into such gentleness. Aside from her, no one else could. Violet chuckled, "Mr. York, here to deliver some warmth again?"


    Not feeling the least bit embarrassed, Tyrone tossed the napkin into the trash can, "Of course, a good boss has to be like this, taking meticulous care of his employees."


    Violet and Manny rolled their eyes in unison: Well, why don''t you deliver some ''warmth'' to us too! What a superficial society, to judge others by appearances!

 Chapter 366

    "I''m heading to the office first. James booked a hotel for the wrap party tonight, and he''s taking care of it. If I''m free in the afternoon, I''ll swing by to pick you up." "Would it make a difference if I objected?"


    Tyrone lifted his chin arrogantly. "Of course not. I call the shots here. You''re just a small-time employee in front of the boss. You think you have a say?"


    Lately, Tyrone had been assertively domineering yet subtly persuasive, forcibly making his way into Quintessa''s life.


    Every morning, he''d show up with breakfast prepared by Mrs. York in hand.


    Quintessa could resist Tyrone, but she couldn''t resist the warmth that came with Mrs. York''s meals.


    She figured that she was just missing her mom too much. The care Mrs. York provided gave her the illusion that she was still in her childhood, that her mother was still alive. Quintessa didn''t want to let go this little bit of hope. As she struggled on her own, surviving was tough for her, but her only belief was to keep living. Only by living could she seek her revenge. But the appearance of Tyrone and his mother made it hard for her to refuse.


    Feeling herself change from resisting him to gradually getting used to his presence, Quintessa was scared. She feared that some day she''d lose control, and that could spell disaster for her.


    After Tyrone left, Violet sidled up to Quintessa and said, "Go for it, Quinn. You''re our studio''s star yer. Just marry into Tyrone''s wealth, reach the pinnacle of your life, and take us all to the high life with you." Quintessa smiled but said nothing.


    In the afternoon, it was time for the final scene - a car crash on the highway. The entire crew was extra cautious. Such scenes were prone to idents, so safety checks were meticulously conducted.


    Quintessa was designed to stay in


    the car and get hit. In the end, the male lead would miraculously save her right before the car exploded, which would culminate their love story perfectly.


    A clich¨¦ scenario, but audiences loved such endings. Plus, the director mentioned that if the show did well, a second season might be in the works. What would they shoot if someone actually got hurt?


    With minimal lines to deliver, Quintessa just waited for the safety checks to conclude and for the director to call action.


    Somehow, Quintessa felt distracted today, unable to focus.


    ncing at the time, she found there were only 30 minutes left before shootingmenced.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    In the city center, someone rushed into Alexander''sw firm, looking frantic.


    "I need to see Attorney Alexander. I have something extremely urgent."


    The receptionist shook her head. "I''m sorry, but Attorney Alexander is very busy. Without an appointment, you cannot see him."


    "But it''s truly urgent, a matter of life and death. Please, could you call him and let him know? It''s about Quintessa; she''s in danger." "Alright, I''ll call." After hanging up, the receptionist said, "Please follow me."


    Upon seeing the visitor, Alexander frowned in disgust. "Why is it you?"


    Rachel wrung her hands nervously, with her face pale, eyes red, and ber hair tousled from rushing over. "Mr. Harrington, I''m sorry, I didn''t know who else to turn to. I had toe to yout."


    "What danger is Quinn in?"


    Rachel bit her lip, her eyes welling up. "The scene she''s shooting this afternoon, the car crash, the car has been tampered with."

 Chapter 367

    Alexander jumped to his feet, his face a picture of shock. "What did you say?"


    Choking back tears, Rachel stammered, "I''m so sorry, really sorry, It was jealousy. I''ve always been so jealous. Quinn stole Ty from me, and when a woman came to me saying she could help me get revenge and asked me to find out when and where Quinn was filming, I just lost my head and helped her. I told her where Quinn was shooting. I thought she was just going to give Quinn a small scare, but I never imagined she would go to such lengths. I''m so sorry."


    Rachel''s face was streaked with tears; her remorse seemed genuine, even to Alexander, a seasoned attorney. She appeared truly repentant.


    Covering her face, Rachel cried so hard that she could barely speak. "I only found out a few minutes ago that she intended to kill Quinn. I panicked. Despite our differences, Quinn is my niece. We''re family. Even if I were the worst person in the world, I wouldn''t want her dead."


    Alexander''s expression darkened as he grabbed his car keys and headed for the door.


    Rachel hurried after him, "Mr. Harrington, you don''t know the ce. Let me take you there."


    Alexander didn''t refuse; he truly didn''t know where Quintessa was currently filming.


    He drove toward Quintessa''s filming location, feeling thankful that it wasn''t out of town. Otherwise, even if he had wings, he couldn''t have made it in time.


    Rachel kept crying silently, her eyes swollen like peaches. She knew how to avoid irritating a man. Alexander, being in turmoil, focused solely on Quintessa. If she made any noise, it would only upset him further.


    In his younger days, Alexander had his wild moments, racing cars with Tyrone when they were in high school; they even dared to speed before they turned 16.


    As he matured, Alexander left his reckless days behind. But now, he was driving fast again, overtaking and drifting without a second thought.


    His hands clenched the steering


    wheel, with his veins bulging. His et


    face might have looked calm,


    this


    eyes and the tension in his hands


    betrayed his deep concern Content


    Suddenly, Alexander said, "Why didn''t you go to her yourself? If you truly felt guilty, you should have told her immediately, note to me."


    Alexander had never liked Rachel. She was the type who seemed cunning yet pretended to be kind.


    If it wasn''t for Quintessa, he wouldn''t have bothered with her at all.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Covering her face, Rachel spoke through her guilt, "I was afraid. Quinn has always hated me. If I went, I feared that she''d misunderstand, and I don''t have her phone number. If something really happens to Quinn, I couldn''t live with myself."


    Alexander scoffed. "Right, if something happens to her, you indeed..."


    He didn''t finish his sentence, but Rachel shuddered, understanding the unspoken implication. Even death would be too good for her.


    Rachel had her hands clenched


    tighter; her shoulders were shaking


    as she bowed her head, and her hair masked her face in a disy of utter despair.


    "If anything happens to Quinn, I couldn''t go on."

 Chapter 368

    Alexander nced at his watch, feeling his heart racing with regret. Why on earth hadn''t he opted for a sports car when he had the chance? So slow! Painfully slow!


    Rachel ceased her fiddling and sneaked a peek at Alexander through a curtain of hair. The concern etched on his face for Quintessa was palpable. She seemed to be the center of everyone''s universe.


    On set, Quintessa stretched her arms and legs, grateful for the pleasant weather. The road had been blocked off to ensure the shoot went smoothly.


    The crew appeared rxed, knowing the end of the shoot was in sight.


    Quintessa mused that the wrap party didn''t need to be at some fancy hotel. A simple barbecue at a local joint would suffice. Mr. York really didn''t mind sshing the cash.


    The director called out, "Quinn, you''re up in ten minutes!"


    Quintessa nodded, "Got it!"


    Manny came over to fix Quintessa''s hair.


    "Be careful, Tess. Even though it''s just a staged car crash, safety first."


    Quintessa chuckled, "Don''t worry, we''re all insured."


    "But let''s hope we never need to use that insurance, right?"


    Violet joined them, adding, "Manny''s right. Safety above all. We''ll get you a stunt double. After all, we''re under the York Financial Group''s wing now. We can afford it." Quintessaughed, "Sure, discuss it with the big boss tonight."


    Violet waved the idea away, "Me? No way. He''d kick me to the curb. But a little pillow talk from you, and it''s as good as done."


    The director shouted, "Alright, Quinn, let''s roll."


    "Let''s do this!"Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Violet cautioned, "Be careful."


    "Will do."


    Quintessa waved and got into the car.


    Violet muttered, "Why am I feeling so anxious?"


    Manny nodded, "These scenes are always a bit risky."


    The scene started with Quintessa driving alone. As she approached an intersection, a car suddenly emerged from the left and collided with her.


    Everything was set. The director


    called action, and Quintessa started the car slowly elerating. Safety was the priority, after all. As she neared the intersection, the other car charged out and headed straight for her. s?novel


    The moment of impact focused on Quintessa''s face-she was in terror, and her eyes widened in shock.


    Bang! The cars collided, and airbags deployed instantly. With the car shaking, Quintessa immediately tried to hit the brakes, only to find them unresponsive.


    Panic surged through her. There was no way the safety checks had missed this. She swerved, crashing into a roadside bord, and the vehicle came to a jarring halt.


    Thrown forward then back,


    Quintessa found her head dizzy from the impact. She couldn''t afford to think too much; this was the final scene, and it had to bepleted.


    The director, watching through the monitor, was surprised. The script had called for an immediate stop after the collision, but Quinn''s erash into the bord made it all seem more real.


    He grabbed the walkie-talkie, "Cut! Check on her, quick. If she''s okay, Manny, touch up Quinn''s makeup."


    Manny and Violet were already running towards the scene.


    Quintessa reached for the door; her surprise turned to dread as she realized that it wouldn''t open. She was trapped inside the car.

 Chapter 369

    Quintessa''s heart raced as she found her brakes failed, and the car door jammed? This was no coincidence, nor a mere oversight. Such a significant hazard going unnoticed could only mean one thing - someone had tampered with it intentionally.


    Someone wanted her dead!


    Unbuckling her seatbelt, Quintessa kicked at the car door with all her might. The car was sealed tight, and to make matters worse, it seemed like the fuel tank was leaking and spewing smoke that grew thicker by the second. If things continued this way, an explosion was inevitable.


    Yet, Quintessa was calm, her mind wasser-focused on one thought - she could not die.


    She had dodged too many bullets to die here. Her quest for revenge was only a third of the way through; her enemies were still alive, and so she must remain.


    Pounding on the car door with desperation, Quintessa was determined to escape.


    Manny rushed over, trying to pull the door open, only to find it immovable. Shaking with urgency, he eximed, "Tess, the door won''t budge, what do we do? Someone, anyone, hurry!"


    Violet, panic-stricken, yelled, "Hurry up, find something to pry the door open with, now call 911, get the firefighters, where is everyone? Move it!"


    That''s when the gravity of the situation hit everyone else. Reuben was the first to dash over, followed by the director and the rest of the crew; they were all thrown into disarray as the smoke from the front of the car grew thicker, and the stench of burning rubber filled the air.


    Several young folks grabbed metal rods, attempting to smash the door open, but despite the door denting, it remained shut.


    Choosing the car for filming had been a decision made with safety in mind; ironically, its sturdy build was now the very cause of distress.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Inside the car, Quintessa was drenched in sweat, as the temperature was soaring. With nothing at her disposal, she looked out at the panicked faces and found a strange sense of calm amidst the chaos. If she were about to die, Quintessa wondered, who would she most want to see?


    Her mother''s face shed in her mind, but it quickly morphed into Tyrone''s.


    A small smile crept on Quintessa''s face.


    Manny, red-faced and distraught, stammered, "What do we do? The door won''t open. What do we do?"


    Suddenly, amanding voice cut through the chaos, "Everyone, shut up and move!"


    The crowd parted; their attention was captured by the imposing figure who had just arrived.


    Seeing him, Manny had his face light up with hope, "Mr. York, Mr. York, please, you have to save Quinn; we can''t get the door open."


    Tyrone approached the car,


    attempting to pull the door, then turned his attention to the front of the vehicle. His expression was stern, and his focus was not on the person trapped inside.


    After inspecting the situation, Tyrone stripped off his bespoke suit jacket, ordering, "Get the fire extinguishers, as many as you can find, and spray the front of the car to cool it down, quickly."


    Reuben and Manny were the first to react, scrambling to find fire extinguishers - a standard precaution for film sets against unforeseen idents.


    "Do we have a chainsaw?" Tyrone inquired of the nearest bystander.


    The man nodded, "Yes."


    Tyrone''s gaze darkened, "Well, don''t just stand there, go get it."


    The man shivered and hurried off.


    Tyrone grabbed a metal rod from someone nearby, and nced coldly at Quintessa before gesturing towards the back seat. Quintessa immediately bent down and moved to the back.

 Chapter 370

    Tyrone swung the iron bar with all his might at the windshield. The car was locked tight for reasons unknown, and its internal buttons were rendered useless. Now, they were left with only two options: either saw the door open with a chainsaw to free the trapped soul or smash through the windshield.


    But neither of these options was quick to execute. Tyrone couldn''t put all his eggs in one basket; he figured they had to try both methods at the same time.


    Reuben and the others grabbed every fire extinguisher they could find and started sting the front of the car, especially where the smoke was billowing out.


    Having tinkered with cars for years, Tyrone had his fair share of wrecks in his youth. Just one sniff of the air, and he knew they were in grave danger. It wouldn''t be long before the fire extinguishers would prove useless against a leaking gas tank and an engine that was sparking, threatening an explosion at any moment.


    The windshield was tough. Despite Tyrone hitting it over and over, it only cracked but wouldn''t give in. With a fierce look, he ignored Quintessa, as sweat dripped down his face; yet his movements never paused for a second.


    Quintessa watched Tyrone, her lips curving into a slow smile. Somehow, she found sce in this chaos.


    She thought about who she''d want to see before dying, and surprisingly, it was Tyrone.


    "If I''m to die here today," Quintessa thought, "then perhaps it''s just my fate. But knowing that someone cares this much about me in my final moments... well, that''sforting in its own way!"


    Tyrone ordered others to start cutting the door with a chainsaw. The whole crew was in a state of panic, with the faint-hearted too scared toe near. A few of the female actors were even crying out of fear. Suddenly, another person joined the fray. Tyrone turned to see Alexander, who had somehow found a baseball bat and was now fiercely smashing the windshield without a word.


    Alexander always had a calm and schrly demeanor. Such wild behavior was rare from him.


    He didn''t pay any mind to Tyrone.


    Nor did Tyrone to him. It was as if they hadn''t seen each other, yet theypeted in their efforts.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Seeing Alexander, Quintessa was utterly surprised. Why had hee?


    Reuben shouted anxiously, "The fire extinguisher isn''t working! The smoke''s getting thicker, and I can see mes now. What do we do?"


    Tyrone sniffed the acrid smell and immediately said, "Everyone, get back! The car''s going to blow."


    Upon hearing this, everyone, caring not for Quintessa''s fate, scattered.


    Reuben and Manny were about to leave too, but Quintessa was still inside.


    Manny clenched his teeth. Quinn


    had always been good to him; he et


    A


    couldn''t just abandon her. He ran to the roadside and picked up a couple of bricks that were lying around.


    Seeing him, Reuben did the same. Now as they were armed with bricks, theirbined effort finally


    shattered the already weakened


    windshield, sending ss shards


    cascading down.


    Alexander urged Manny and Reuben to get away quickly while Tyrone motioned for Quintessa toe closer.


    Quintessa, eager for life, hurriedly moved forward. Nobody chooses death when there''s a chance at life.


    Trapped in the car, Quintessa had


    lost track of time, but she had never felt fear or panic. Despite the chaos and shouting outside, she remained calm.


    Tyrone and Alexander reached out to Quintessa at the same time.


    Alexander said, "Be careful, watch out for the ss."


    Tyrone snorted coldly, then he grabbed Quintessa''s arm and pulled her out to safety.

 Chapter 371

    "At a time like this, cut the drama. A little ss cut won''t kill you, and it''s better than going up in mes with the car."


    Quintessa didn''t care about the possibility of being cut by the ss. Seeing the mes leaping from the front of the car, she yelled, "No time for chit-chat, the car''s on fire!"


    Tyrone and Alexander each grabbed one of Quintessa''s arms, and pulled her out with force.


    As Quintessa slid over the hood of the car, she felt a searing pain, as if her skin could get scorched in an instant.


    She gritted her teeth, and finally, her feet hit the ground.


    "Let''s move." Tyrone pulled her and they started running.


    They hadn''t made it two steps when a loud bang echoed from behind them-the car exploded, sending a st of heat their way. Tyrone and Alexander shielded Quintessa beneath them. Reuben and Manny were the closest to them at the moment. They too felt the heatwave but weren''t harmed.


    Reuben paused for a second, then shouted, "Call an ambnce, quick."


    As the two ran towards Quintessa and the others to help them up, the car exploded again.


    Quintessa was pinned down low, her face pressing against the asphalt road; the small protruding stones made her face ache, and the weight on her body was immense.


    Her mind was so clear that she could hear her own heartbeat.


    After a while, when the car had stopped exploding, Tyrone lifted his head. He pushed Alexander aside, helped Quintessa up, and hurried to a safer spot.


    Without saying a word, Tyrone checked Quintessa''s arms and legs; spotting several cuts likely from the ss, and finding her face show signs of abrasion, he frowned deeply. "I''m okay, how about you guys?"


    Alexander got up, saying, "If you''re fine, that''s good."


    Tyrone snorted, "Yeah, not dead yet."


    Their timely action saved them from serious injury, but they didn''t escape cuts and bruises. The explosion had sent ss shards flying, many of which were now embedded in their backs.


    But the two men, though injured, acted tough. Tyrone''s white shirt was now stained with patches of red.


    Noticing the wounds on Tyrone''s


    back, Quintessa had her brow


    furrowed, "The ambnce should be


    here soon. Let''s go to the hospital;


    you need to get those wounds cleaned."


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow, "Worried about me, huh?"


    Quintessa nced back at the still-burning car, "Now''s not the time for jokes."


    She looked at Alexander Harrington, "Thanks. If you hadn''te, I might''ve been a goner."


    Tyrone gave Alexander a cold look.


    In that moment, Tyrone wished he could kick Alexander out of the way. What was he doing here, thinking he owns the ce?


    The fire truck was the first to arrive, and the firefighters quickly extinguished the mes with their hoses.


    Soon after, the ambnce arrived. The three of them, having sustained various degrees of injury, got on the ambnce together.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    But before boarding, Quintessa told Manny.


    "Make sure to secure that wrecked car, and call the cops."


    The director was surprised, "Why call the cops?"


    Thest thing the crew wanted was trouble.


    Quintessa pointed at the car, "The brakes and the lock mechanism were faulty. Once you shut the doors, they wouldn''t open. Such a significant safety hazard went unnoticed? I can''t help but suspect this was sabotage."

 Chapter 372

    And the culprit had to be someone among the prop masters, who was specifically assigned to ensure safety. Someone deliberately overlooked the two critical safety hazards and let Quintessa take the wheel o thatpromised car.


    Director Cooper was visibly shaken as he looked at Quintessa; he hesitated for a moment before saying, "But, Quinn, we''re about to wrap up the shoot. I''m both angry and shocked by this, but we could investigate this quietly."


    Quintessa cut him off firmly, "No way. I could have died. If I had actually died in there, would you still want to handle it quietly?"


    "This is..."


    Tyrone scoffed, "Looks like Director Cooper forgot how this film even got started, huh?"


    It then dawned on Director Cooper that they were able tomence the project because of Quintessa. "I''m so sorry, Mr. York."


    Tyrone instructed Manny, "Keep an eye on all the prop masters. Gather everyone in the crew and make sure no one wanders off. I must get to the bottom of this. Someone dared to mess with my woman, and I want to see who is looking for trouble."


    Violet chimed in from the side, "Don''t worry, Mr. York. This won''t just slide. I''ve already called the cops, and they''ll be here soon. Before they arrive, I''ll make sure the scene remains untouched."


    "I''ll leave this in your hands then."


    Tyrone escorted Quintessa to the car.


    Director Cooper, feeling anxious, pulled Violet aside, "Violet, I''ve poured so much into this film, and I have a feeling that it''s going to be a hit. If this scandal breaks now, it''s bad for all of us. How about we cool it down, investigate internally first, then discreetly take it to the police, avoiding the media? You''re Quinn''s agent. She''ll listen to you."


    After listening to Director Cooper,


    Violet replied Quinn is my artist. She was nearly killed today. You saw what happened. It was a matter of seconds, Forget about Quinn agreeing; I would never agree. This isn''t a minor issue; it''s a matter of life and death. I know you value this production, but I''d rather scrap the film than put my artist in danger."


    Director


    we''re friends. If this film tanks, all


    mmender pleaded, "Violet, t be okay, but what about


    me?"


    Violet responded coldly, "I brought Quinn back from Serenitia. I promised her that if she came back with me, I''d make her the top actress in the country. But being the hottest star is contingent on her being alive. My stance won''t change on this matter. And even if you beg me, it won''t make a difference. I''m just an employee of the York Financial Group. Do you really think Mr. York would just let this slide?"


    "Neither you, me, nor Quinn can sway Mr. York''s decision."


    In the ambnce, a nurse was tending to Quintessa''s leg wound.


    Quintessa''s face was pale, but she didn''t show any sign of pain as the nurse cleaned her wound.


    No one spoke a word.


    Quintessa asked Alexander, "How did you get here?"


    She wasn''t surprised to see Tyrone, but Alexander''s presence was unexpected!


    Tyrone nced at Quintessa.


    Alexander exined, "Rachel contacted me about half an hour ago, telling me someone tampered with your car."


    Hearing the name "Rachel," Quintessa''s first thought was-conspiracy!N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

 Chapter 373

    Rachel was far from the most skilled woman Quintessa had ever encountered, but she was undoubtedly the most cunning one.


    With disdain, Quintessa scoffed, "Hah, she''s probably the one who wishes me dead the most. How did she even find out about my car ident, and why did she specificallye to you? Where is she now?" Alexander ryed Rachel''s words to Quintessa without missing a beat.


    Narrowing her eyes, Quintessa asked, "Someone was looking for her? Who was that?"


    Tyrone pinched Quintessa''s cheek yfully, "Can you even trust a word that woman says?" Quintessa nodded in agreement, "You''re right. Her words are as worthless as farts."


    The idea that Rachel would do anything out of the goodness of her heart wasughable at best.


    Alexander remembered Rachel''s tearful, remorseful demeanor, and how she had said she would turn herself in.


    Even though Alexander despised Rachel, he still felt her act so convincing. Could it really be just an act?


    Had their family really reached a point of such mutual hatred that it was a matter of life and death?


    Upon reaching the hospital, after a thorough examination and treatment of all injuries, the doctor insisted that they stay overnight for observation, especially due to the potential aftereffects of the explosion, which might not be immediately apparent.


    Given the choice, Tyrone would have preferred a VIP room, which were all single upancy, but he wanted to stay with Quintessa. After a moment''s hesitation, he chose Quintessa overfort.


    After all, there will be plenty of time forfortter. Tonight was special, and he absolutely wanted to stay with Quintessa and y the hero who saved the damsel in distress.


    However, they ended up in a regr ward with four beds.


    Quintessa, Tyrone, and Alexander shared the room.


    Seeing Alexander, Tyrone chuckled, "Alexander, when did you get involved with Rachel? You''ve got some nerve."


    Tyrone knew Rachel better than Alexander did.


    It was questionable that Rachel


    would reach out to Alexander out of the goodness of her heart. Her motives were likely still selfish, aiming to garner Alexander''s sympathy.


    Alexander nced at Tyrone coldly and then closed his eyes, refusing to engage.


    Tyrone sneered. Should he feel sympathy for Alexander being entangled with Rachel, or should he be amused?


    Quintessa couldn''t help but take a few extra nces at Tyrone''s wicked smile.


    Getting out of bed, Tyrone


    approached Quintessa and lifted her


    chin, "It''s just this face that''s passable. What if you had been disfigured? What then? Maybe?d have to step in and rid the world of one less evil."


    Any gratitude Quintessa might have felt vanished with that remark, and she swatted his hand away. Biting back, she retorted, "Even if I was disfigured, I''m still good in bed don''t need your charity, and b


    wouldn''tck for men." Content


    Tyrone knew Quintessa was just talking big. What men? It was only him. He nodded, "True, I can attest to that. Your skills aremendable."


    He gently caressed her cheek, asking, "Does it hurt?"


    "And you?" she retorted.


    Sitting beside her, Tyrone replied, "As long as you''re okay, that''s all that matters."Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Alexander observed their interaction, noticing Quintessa''s eptance of Tyrone''s proximity.


    Her rtionship with Tyrone was entirely different from what it used to be with him.

 Chapter 374

    She felt more at ease now, with a look of reliance on Tyrone in her eyes.


    Alexander closed his eyes; he felt a chill run through his head and his eyes were aching painfully.


    Before he found Quintessa, she was his whole motivation and hope. But upon finding her, he felt as if he had lost himself entirely!


    Being hospitalized meant that they had to inform their family, or else, what would they have for dinner?


    When Mrs. York received the call, she nearly had a heart attack from the shock and hurried over with meals in hand.


    As she entered the ward and saw Quintessa and Tyrone, she had her eyes welled up, "You kids, why do you have to worry me so much? It''s only been a short while, and both of you are in the hospital. How bad are the injuries?" Before she could finish, she noticed Alexander on another bed and paused, "Oh? Three of you?"


    Alexander got up and said, "Cecilia."


    Mrs. York awkwardly looked at the food she brought: "Look, I only brought food for two."


    Alexander quickly said, "Don''t worry, my mom will be here soon."


    "Oh, in that case, you wait for them."


    Mrs. York lightly tapped Tyrone on the shoulder, "I''m talking to you two, eat up first. Can mushy love feed you? Finish your meal and then you can be all lovey-dovey."


    Tyrone couldn''t help but want tough. Mushy love, that phrase sounded like it was deliberately mentioned. He nced at Alexander and provocatively wrapped his arm around Quintessa''s waist. Quintessa said, "We''re fine; it''s just some superficial injuries."


    Mrs. York fretted over Quintessa''s face, "Let me look at that face.? You''re actors, and your face is so important. But don''t worry, even if there are scars, don''t be afraid. I''ve got a miracle cure for scars."


    Quintessa nodded, "Yeah, sure."


    "Eat up."


    Before they were halfway through their meal, Mrs. Harrington and Serena rushed in, panic-stricken.


    Mrs. Harrington''s face fell a bit upon seeing Mrs. York, but she quickly smiled and greeted Mrs. York and Tyrone, tantly ignoring Quintessa.


    Serena cried as she hugged Alexander''s arm, "Brother, how are you? I heard you were injured and hospitalized, which nearly scared mom and me to death. How could you be so careless?" "It''s nothing, just some minor injuries."


    Mrs. Harrington coldly lectured, "You''re just too kind-hearted. Even when saving someone, you should first asses''s if they''re worth saving. Don''t just rashly save any Tom Dick, or Harry. Why risk your life for a piece of trash?"


    Alexander immediately retorted angrily, "Mom, stop it."


    With a "snap", the fork in Tyrone''s hand broke, and his eyes were filled with fury.


    Quintessa slowly sipped her chicken soup, as if she hadn''t heard a thing.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Mrs. York red at them both, signaling them to continue eating. This wasn''t their fight to join. She was standing right there, and she wouldn''t let Mrs. Harrington bully them.


    Mrs. York stood up, letting out a


    forcedugh, "Mrs. Harrington is right, I really do understand. Not just any old rubbish is worth saving. One mistake made as a child was


    saving a wretch. Now, I have tol.ne


    listen to her nagging. If I had known what a vile creature she was, I would have just let her die. It would save me from her constant annoyance. Just seeing her makes me sick."

 Chapter 375

    Being genuinely livid this time, Mrs. York spouted the harshest words she had ever said in her life.


    But then, Mrs. Harrington really crossed the line, daring to utter such words right in front of her, as if she were invisible. To have the usual small squabbles were one thing, but to audaciously make such a remark was another thing; it was like signing her own death warrant.


    Quintessa looked at Mrs. York in shock. She thought she had seen Mrs. York''s most cutting side at dinnerst time, but who knew there was more toe?


    Quintessa suddenly wanted to grab Mrs. York''s hand, just like the way she held her mom''s hand forfort when she was a little girl.


    Mrs. Harrington spun around furiously, "Cecilia Farley York, say that again."


    Mrs. York lifted her chin, "Oh, well done. The snotty little brat who used to trail behind me is now ordering me around."


    Mrs. Harrington''s face turned beet-red with anger, "Cecilia, don''t you bully me just because you can."N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Mrs. Yorkughed mockingly, "My maiden name is Farley, and my son''sst name is York; my family has influence and power, and yes, I am bullying you with it. What are you going to do about it? You always loved topete with me, didn''t you? Come on then, let''s see what you''ve got!"


    Seeing Quintessa gaping and looking up at her, Mrs. York sensed the unintentional dependency in her gaze; she felt that she had to step up, and she couldn''t be the same as before.


    She had always been the golden girl, never needing to please anyone, neither from her parental home nor her marital home.


    Mrs. York had always been cautious, worried that people would use her of using her status to bully others, so she rarely ever brought up her family background.


    But now, Mrs. York felt that it was actually quite satisfying to be able to use her status to bully!


    Especially when she saw Mrs. Harrington''s face turn as red as a liver, it felt-exhrating!


    Mrs. Harrington, trembling with rage, stammered, "You... you..."


    Serena, seeing the tension in the room, started to cry, "Mom, my brother is still hurt, please stop fighting."


    Mrs. Harrington clenched her fists and angrily dered, "We''re moving to a new room immediately. This ce is only fit for those despicable lower-ss people."


    Tyronezily retorted, "Huh, Mrs.


    Harrington, why did your words sound so unpleasant to me? Who are you calling despicable? Who was it that cried and begged this ''despicable person'' to help the Harrington family through tough


    times, only to turn around and deny


    it now?"


    Mrs. Harrington, with a headache from anger, gritted her teeth, "I wasn''t talking about you."


    Quintessa slowly said, "Then you mean me."


    Mrs. Harrington, not able to hold back her disdain for Quintessa any longer, scoffed.


    Quintessa smiled, "I''m not the first person you''ve insulted, and I won''t be thest. Treally don''t care. I''ve always had thick skin. Say what you want! I''m curious, how noble can ady like Mrs. Harrington, who got her looks from Botox injections, really be?"


    Mrs. Harrington, unable to maintain herposure, opened her mouth to retort but was stopped by Serena, "Mom, please don''t talk. We''ve all been friends for so many years, why argue like this? Calm down, please."


    Wiping away her tears, Serena stood


    up, "Cecilia, y, Quinn, I''m sorry. My mom didn''t mean it. She''s just worried because my brother is in the hospital. Quinn, no matter what, my brother got injured trying to save you. I''m begging you."

 Chapter 376

    Quintessa''s smirk slowly faded from her face.


    Well, after all, Alexander had saved her. Let it be.


    Suddenly, Mrs. York pinched both Tyrone and Quintessa on the cheek, scolding, "What are you two staring at? Eat up. Those filthy things won''t do any good to your appetite. If you don''t finish your meal, you''re not getting any tomorrow."


    Mrs. Harrington trembled with rage. She had been trying to intimidate Mrs. York for years and often taking pleasure in stomping over her whenever she got the chance.


    It''s a strange feeling when the person you''ve been bullying suddenly stands up for themselves. The bully finds the newfound bnce unsettling.


    Quintessa immediately lifted her head and smiled sweetly, "Auntie, your cooking is delicious."


    Without realizing it, Quintessa felt a closeness to Mrs. York. Speaking softly, she had her usual sharp edges softened; she looked just like an everyday girl enjoying her meal, her cheeks puffing with each bite. Mrs. York couldn''t help but itch to pinch them more.


    Rubbing her fingers together, Mrs. York patted Quintessa''s head, "Then eat up, dear. Let me know what you want, and I''ll bring it over tomorrow."


    The old Quintessa might have said, "No trouble," or, "I eat anything, I''m not picky."


    But today, she admitted, "Actually, I have a sweet tooth."


    Tyrone chimed in, "Mom, I like meat."


    Mrs. York pushed his face away with one hand.


    Seeing the harmonious chat between them and feeling utterly left out, Tyrone sighed. It felt a bit like being the unwanted one.


    Yet, with a smirk yed on his lips, Tyrone felt his mood surprisingly good.


    After dinner, Tyrone asked Mrs. York to head back. It was getting dark, and they didn''t need a chaperone.


    Refusing to leave, Mrs. York nced sideways at Mrs. Harrington with a scoff. She wasn''t about to leave Susan, that wretched woman, behind. She wasn''t foolish.


    When Mrs. Harrington suggested Alexander change his hospital room, he refused.


    "Mom, you should go back. I''m fine here. You saw it''s just a minor injury. Take Serena home."


    "But you..."


    Seeing her mom about to erupt again, Serena quickly intervened, "Mom, don''t be mad. I also think Alex is okay. Let''s go back and let him rest. We''lle back tomorrow."


    Mrs. Harrington red at Quintessa


    and coldly sneered, "Alex, remember your status Even if you have the


    heart for her, I will never allow her step into the Harrington family. Trash remains trash, even when dressed in finery; its vile nature remained unchanged. The Harrington bloodline won''t beThis is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    tainted by her."


    Quintessa, holding Mrs. York''s hand, retorted, "Auntie, some people are justughable. Where do they get all this confidence from? Acting as if they''re so noble, yet not realizing if they''re even worth a second nce. Puffing themselves up like they''re something special when they''re


    nothing but a joke."


    Mrs. York rolled her eyes, "Exactly. Living like a joke and yet so full of themselves. What are they really? Less than a yard-bird."


    Mrs. Harrington''s teeth nearly cracked from clenching, "Cecilia, don''t push it!"


    vel.ne


    Mrs. York Spread her hands, feigning innocence, "Did I mention you? Jumping to conclusions, aren''t we? And what can you do if I did cross the line? Upset? Well, be upset then!"

 Chapter 377

    Every time Mrs. York and Mrs. Harrington crossed paths these days, sparks flew.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Just the sight of Mrs. York''s self-righteous, smug expression made Mrs. Harrington''s skin crawl.


    Mrs. Harrington was visibly shaking; Serena was beside her, with tears streaming down her face in worry, while Alexander just felt his headache intensify.


    In a cold voice, Alexander said, "Mom, enough, please leave. I''m fine, I''ll be discharged first thing in the morning."


    Serena nodded vigorously, "Exactly, Mom, let''s go. If we don''t leave, Alex and the rest won''t be able to rest. Dad''s flight tonight is almost home; let''s head back."


    Serena tugged at Mrs. Harrington''s arm.


    With clenched teeth, Mrs. Harrington said, "I won''t stoop to your level, darling, let''s go."


    Mrs. Harrington huffed and, taking Serena with her, left.


    Serena looked back at Mrs. York, stopped, and bowed slightly, "Auntie, let''s go together. You and my mom have been on good terms for so many years. Maybe my mom spoke out of turn because she was upset. I really hope you two can talk things out."


    Mrs. York hesitated. She did want to say something to Mrs. Harrington.


    She nced at Tyrone and Quintessa, "I''m leaving, you two okay here?"


    Tyrone wrapped an arm around Quintessa, "Don''t worry, what could possibly happen? I''m here."


    Mrs. York chuckled, "Just try not to get kicked out."


    Tyrone frowned, "Mom."


    Mrs. York waved her hand dismissively and left.


    Mrs. Harrington walked briskly out of the hospital room, with her high heels cking loudly on the floor. Mrs. York curled her lip, as if she was the only one wearing high heels.


    Serena, feeling anxious, whispered,


    n¨§t


    "Mom, you can''t be like this. Why have you been so irritabletely? You could have talked with Cecilia, more calmly. Cecilia has always been so patient. After being friends for so many years, how can you just fallout like this? Mom, think about it, What good does it do us to offend the York family? It could affect Dad''s business, and what about my brother?"


    Mrs. Harrington stopped in her tracks, and her mind suddenly cleared. Yes, she was too angry. She had always been so good at putting on a facade, but now she was losing control because of Mrs. York, who seemed to have suddenly wised up, challenging her at every turn.


    Mrs. Harrington clenched her fists. It was Mrs. York''s sudden shift from her usual, somewhat foolish demeanor to this newfound cleverness that had thrown her off. Mrs. Harrington took a deep breath. No matter what, she had to calm down.


    She didn''t believe that after dominating Cecilia for so many years, she would let her turn the tables now.


    Even though she looked down on Mrs. York, she had to admit that the Harrington family was, in some respects, a step behind the York family.


    Mrs. Harrington stopped and waited


    for Mrs. York to catch up before


    saying, "Mrs. York, I was to


    earlier, apologize. The


    long-standing friendship between


    our families shouldn''t be tarnished


    by irrelevant people." Content


    Serena quickly added, "Cecilia, my mom realizes her mistake, please don''t be upset."


    Mrs. York smiled warmly, "I don''t ept that apology. What do you mean by irrelevant people? Who exactly are you referring to?"


    Mrs. Harringtonughed, "Cecilia, I call you sister because I''ve never seen you as an outsider. You''re just too easily deceived."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 378

    Mrs. Harrington put on a facade of concern, saying, "Can''t you see what kind of person that Quintessa is? I figured her out in a heartbeat. Sure, Ty fooling around with a bit of a celebrity crush is one thing; all the young folks go through phases like that. But seriously, you


    don''t actually want someone of her... stature, walking through the York family''s door, do you?" Mrs. York asked, "Are you done?"


    Thinking Mrs. York was taking her advice to heart, Mrs. Harrington continued, "Cecilia, I know you''re a bit naive, but... sometimes, you''ve got to open your eyes wider. That Quintessa, what is she really? A pretty face on TV? Or to put it bluntly, just an actress, mingling with all sorts. If Ty actually marries such a tainted woman, the whole Emberbrook elite will be snickering behind his back. Ty is your son; do you want him to be the talk of the town?" Mrs. York remained calm: "Anything else?"


    Convinced her words were making an impact, Mrs. Harrington went on, "Moreover... even if you were to agree, do you think Ty''s father would? Would he really allow an actress, known for her loose morals and flings, into the York family?" Mrs. York queried, "Are you finished?"


    Mrs. Harrington brushed her hair back, "Cecilia, I''m saying all this for your sake. Can''t you see? Both Ty and Alex have fallen for Quintessa. I didn''t take her seriously at first, but she must have something going for her, having both brothers smitten. Have you seen it? The rtionship between Ty and Alex isn''t what it used to be. Do you really want to watch them turn against each other over some floozy?"Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Mrs. York replied indifferently,


    "Susan, normally, I let things slide considering our long history since childhood, and I''ve never bothered to pick a bone with you. But it seems


    you''ve forgotten sou


    Mrs. Harrington frowned, "What''s that?"


    Mrs. York''s expression turned icy as she regarded her, "You will always be the daughter of the Farley family''s maid, and nothing can change that. Before you call anyone worthless, remember what you are."


    Mrs. Harrington''s face flushed red with anger, and Serena looked on in shock, having never heard such revtions about her mother.


    Panic flickered in Mrs. Harrington''s eyes, "You shouldn''t... shouldn''t..."


    Mrs. York cut her off, pointing at Mrs. Harrington, "Shouldn''t what? Spout nonsense? Ha... The level of self-deception you''ve reached is astonishing. You''ve been ying this role for years, actually believing you''ve somehow be better. Today, I won''t strike you, giving you onest bit of dignity, but there won''t be a next time."


    Mrs. Harrington couldn''t even maintain her anger, seeing the deep disdain and contempt in Mrs. York''s eyes, as if she was nothing more than a nuisance.


    "Moreover, Quintessa isn''t just some


    nobody; she''s the woman my son loves, and someone I''vee to


    respect. In my eyes, that girl is faret


    more noble than you''ll ever be. You spend your days pretending to be above everyone else, but in reality, swim


    you''re just a fish that caneality,


    upstream."

 Chapter 379

    Mrs. York had that ssic love-hate vibe going on, you know? When she couldn''t stand you, everything about you was off. But let her change her tune, and suddenly, you could do no wrong. And boy, did she have a fierce loyalty streak. Once she considered you part of her n, like she did with Quintessa, forget about it. She wouldn''t let anyone mess with you, especially not tolerate anyone throwing insults your way.


    With her purse slung over her shoulder and her chin lifted in defiance, Mrs. York strode past Mrs. Harrington without a second nce.


    Serena''s heart skipped a beat. "Cecilia..." she called out in a panic.


    Mrs. York paused, turned around, and added, "Oh, and another thing. Stop talking to me about ''old times.'' Once we''re back in Oakville, don''t you dare show up at my door. I can''t stand that fishy smell you carry around." By the time Mrs. York had walked away, Mrs. Harrington was pale with rage.


    All these years, she''d worked her tail off to fit into high society, to be the kind of poshdy everyone envied. And yet, here was Cecilia, making her feel less worthy than an ant on the sidewalk.


    Mrs. Harrington had tried so hard to keep her background a secret, thinking she had seeded. Everyone believed she was from Oakville''s elite. But now... her face burned with shame and anger. Mrs. York''s words stung more than a p across the face.


    "Too much... This is too much..." Mrs. Harrington muttered under her breath.


    Serena, tears brimming in her eyes, said, "Mom, please don''t be upset... If you fall ill, what am I going to do?"


    Mrs. Harrington''s eyes, red with fury, stayed fixed on the spot where Mrs. York had disappeared. "Serena, just you wait. I''ll make sure you marry into the York family, and no one can stop you." Serena shook her head. "Mom, I don''t care about marrying into the York family. I just want us, you and brother, to be happy. That''s all."


    But Mrs. Harrington''s grip on Serena''s wrist tightened.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Cecilia, Quintessa, you''ll see!


    ...


    Once everyone had left, the hospital room finally quieted down.


    Quintessa wanted to sleep but couldn''t. Her mind was racing with the events of the afternoon.


    And Rachel what was her deal, running off to tell Alexander? Was she trying to get on his good side because she liked him? Please, it wasn''t that simple.


    Rachel wasn''t that naive to expose herself like that. What was she really up to?


    As Quintessa tossed and turned, a thought struck her. No, it couldn''t be that serious... could it?


    Right then, a few cops showed up to inquire about the car explosion that afternoon.


    After a thorough questioning, Quintessa recounted everything, emphasizing the brakes and the car door. "Also, the fuel tank must have been tampered with," Tyrone added. "But after two explosions, any evidence is probably gone now."


    The cops nodded, jotting down every detail.


    Finally, one of them said, "This afternoon, ady named Rachel came to the station voluntarily. She mentioned the incident, reflected deeply on her actions, and provided some information, identifying the person who really wanted you dead."


    Quintessa and Tyrone asked in unison, "Who was it?"


    The cop pulled out a photo. "This person, Martha Ferber... do you know her?"


    ***


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 380

    Quintessa was taken aback for a moment, then nodded, "Yeah, I know her. The actress who got arrested a while back, right? We were on the same film set once."


    "She told me Martha suspects that it was you who framed her back then. Ever since she got out of the police station, she''s been looking for you."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    As soon as Quintessa saw Roxanne''s photo, she felt something was off, yet something also seemed right.


    How could Roxanne get mixed up with Rachel? How could those two possibly know each other?


    But if it was Roxanne, then everything started to make sense because she had a very clear motive.


    Several months had passed since the incident with Roxanne, and her showing up now wasn''t surprising. But to get involved with Rachel so soon after getting out, and nearly seeding in her scheme? That was something. Could Roxanne be that formidable?


    Quintessa asked, "So, did you catch Roxanne?"


    The officer shook his head, "No, she escaped. There''s a prop master on the Requiem set named Dave who was in cahoots with her. He sabotaged the brakes and the car door. He confessed everything. He used to be one of Roxanne''s die-hard fans. About a week ago, Roxanne found him."


    After the officer finished questioning and exined the situation, he prepared to leave.


    "Thank you, officer."


    "You''re wee."


    Once the officer left, Quintessa sat in silence, her expression dark and brooding.


    Tyrone wrapped his arms around Quintessa''s waist, "Stop worrying. I''m here for you."


    From the moment Quintessa''s trouble started, Tyrone seemed very calm, but no one knew better than he did the turmoil he had been through.


    He had left work early that afternoon and rushed to the set, only to find the car smoking and Quintessa trapped inside. Panic had seized him instantly.


    The only thought in Tyrone''s mind was, I can''t let her die, I can''t let her die, I haven''t told her I love her yet.


    Yes, love. He could finally confirm what his feelings for Quintessa truly were.


    It was no longer curiosity, no longer intrigue, no longer mere possessiveness.


    He wanted more than her body; he wanted her, all of her.


    That day when Quintessa lost


    ontrol of her emotions, T d to confess his feone had


    belongs to en.kikistort


    thinking he merely liked her


    But today, after a harrowing brush with death, he realized his feelings for her ran much deeper than mere liking.


    It was love!


    A deep, unacknowledged love. How could he have been so blind?


    Tyrone gently patted Quintessa''s head, "You''ve had a long day. Try to get some rest."


    "I can''t sleep." Sometimes, the more exhausted you are, the harder it is to fall asleep.


    "Wait for me a moment."


    Tyrone went out and returned shortly with a deck of ying cards, nodding at Alexander, "How about a game of poker?"


    Alexander had a headache, but


    seeing Quintessa, he wanted to to her, Vet, facing her cold


    velk


    demeanor, he wasn''t sure how to approach.


    Alexander nodded, "Sure, let''s y."


    Tyrone nced at Quintessa and Alexander, "The winner gets to ask the loser a question, which must be answered truthfully." Alexander said, "Deal!"


    Quintessa replied, "We''ll see."


    "Alright, since you''re thedy here, you get the privilege of opting out of answering."


    Tyrone smirked inwardly,


    challenging Alexander with a look: I''ve been ying cards since elementary school, and I wasn''t the yground card king for nothing. You''re going down today.

 Chapter 381

    Tyrone wasn''t about to give Alexander any chance to get close to Quintessa; he seized every opportunity to make Alexander lose hope.


    The three of them sat on a couch, deeply engrossed in a card game.


    As expected, Tyrone won the first round, with Quintessa finishingst.


    Rubbing his hands together, Tyrone chuckled, "Since I''m the winner, I won''t hold back."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes at him.


    Tyrone asked, "There''s something I''ve been wanting to ask you. That night we spent together, did you ever think of me over the past three years?"


    "Not once," Quintessa replied bluntly.


    Tyrone gritted his teeth, feeling like he had just humiliated himself, "Not even once?"


    After a brief pause, Quintessa nodded, "Well... there was one time..."


    Eagerly, Tyrone asked, "What was it?"


    Quintessa, stroking her chin, said, "I was thinking, if I had known it would end up with us together, I should''ve made my move sooner. Maybe if I had spent a few more nights with you three years ago, it would''ve driven Rachel insane." Fuming, Tyrone clenched his teeth, while Alexander''s lips twitched slightly.


    Regaining hisposure, heughed, "Right, absolutely... You should''ve made your move sooner. It''s a shame, really."


    Quintessa''s lips twitched, acknowledging Tyrone''s shamelessness.


    Alexander remained silent, his quiet demeanor more pronounced than usual.


    In the second round, Tyrone won again, with Quintessa losing. His face was adorned with a smug smile, convinced of his unmatched gaming skills.


    "Sorry, but I''ve won again," Tyrone said.


    Quintessa, discarding her cards, responded, "Ask away."


    Leaning forward, Tyrone inquired, "So, how would you rate my skills?"


    "In what aspect?"


    Tyrone tapped the couch, "In bed, of course. You even told my mom you had my baby. Bringing it up makes me blush; it''s so embarrassing!" Quintessa''s face twitched, "Do you really want me to say?"


    "Come on Alexander isn''t a stranger. Let''s discuss it. If there''s anything you''re not satisfied with, I''ll strive to improve. I''ll make sure you enjoy it more and more." Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Alexander''s face paled slightly. Tyrone''s purpose in asking such intimate questions was clear - a childish tactic. He knew Alexander liked Quintessa and deliberately unted their closeness in front of him.


    It was a low move, but undeniably effective.


    Recalling Tyrone''s words, Alexander felt a sharp pain. The girl he had cherished so deeply was slowly being taken from him, and he didn''t know how to express that pain. Quintessa, unfazed, eyed Tyrone and tapped a two of spades, saying leisurely, "Well... if I had to score you..."


    Sometimes, the simplest methods can be the most devastating.


    Hearing this, Tyrone sensed trouble, §Ö especially noticing her finger tapping on the two. He quickly gathered the scattered cards, "Alright, let''s skip this question. Next round."

 Chapter 382

    Alex abruptly grabbed Ty''s hand, "What''s the rush? I wanna know too, how much you''d get rated."


    Ty clenched his teeth in frustration, "Oh, so you''re done ying dumb?"


    Alex offered a smile, "Let''s not change the subject. I''m actually quite curious about this answer."


    Quinn gnashed her teeth in irritation, damn it, were they treating her like she was invisible?


    Stretching out her leg, she kicked both of them, "You both wanna know so bad, huh? Well, I''m not in the mood to tell anymore. If you''re that curious, go out and hire an escort to find out for yourselves." Both guys instantly deted, with Ty muttering, "How could I? I''m a clean guy, you''re all I need. But Alex, maybe he should go try..."


    Alex just chuckled.


    The next few rounds mostly saw Ty winning, with Alex asionally iming a game, and Quinn always losing.


    Quinn''s eyes were almost red from losing. If this had been for real money, she figured she''d literally be losing her pants.


    Alexid down his final card, turning to Quinn. "I don''t really have any issues, just some things I''d like to talk to you about. I hope you''ll hear me out."


    "What if I don''t want to?" Ty tossed his cards down in protest.


    "That doesn''t matter!"


    Quinn couldn''t quite pin down her feelings for Alex. Friends, maybe once, but now... was that still the case?


    Or exes? They had never really gotten that far in the past.


    Quinnid her cards down, "Go ahead, say it."


    Alex looked at her earnestly, "I''ve been in a fog these past days. I''ve been trying to forget you, but the more I try, the harder it seems. I''ve thrown myself into work because that''s the only time my mind feels at peace. But once I''m off work, I''m lost, not knowing what to do with myself."


    Ty scoffed, "Lost... you should just get lost for real!"


    Alex managed a bitter smile, "I know it sounds cheesy, and I''m not asking for your sympathy. I just wanted to


    talk to you. I can''t seem to let you I


    go, like a part of me will always


    remember, that memory."


    "I went back looking for you, but you had already left. I''m sorry, I was toote. I''m not trying to force anything, but... can we just be friends? Regr friends."


    Tyughed sarcastically, "Regr friends? Don''t make meugh. Is there ever just ''regr'' between men and women?"N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    He turned to Quinn, "What if I said I wanted to be ''just friends'' with you, would you believe me?"


    Quinn gave him a sidelong nce, "The kind of friends who wake up together? Really?"


    "Ah, you''re so smart," Ty said, leaning in to steal a kiss.


    After kissing her, he raised an eyebrow at Alex: I dare to kiss and tell, do you?


    Quinn pushed Ty''s head away.


    "Thank you for saving me today. If you think we can be just friends... then let''s leave it at that."


    Quinn felt grateful towards Alex. Back in those dark days, they had supported each other to get through. Even if there was no love, the bond formed through adversity couldn''t be erased.


    Ty frowned, "I saved you today too. Why don''t you thank me?"


    Quinn wrapped her arms around his neck, kissed him, then momentarily let go and patted his head, "Good boy."

 Chapter 383

    Tyrone instantly mellowed, resembling a dog that had just been petted the right way, almost snuggling up to Quintessa for more affection.


    Alexander''s face turned a shade paler, but somehow, in the blink of an eye, he had an epiphany. It was as if his mind had cleared, reminiscent of the moment of enlightenment often spoken about in spiritual circles. Perhaps it was the culmination of continuous setbacks that led to this moment of rity, a kind of "two wrongs make a right" realization. Maybe after enough hits, one finally sees the light.


    Alexander managed a smile. "You know, you two don''t have to put on an act in front of me. If I were the type to give up easily, I would''ve done so long ago. And if I wanted to fight for her, I would''ve already been in the fray."


    Tyrone scoffed. "Ha, as if. Who''s pretending? Can''t you see this is genuine?"


    Ignoring him, Alexander turned to Quintessa. "I won''t force you to make any decisions. I respect you. Just know that if... one day he lets you down, I''ll always be here waiting for you."


    Tyrone made a face. "ying the sympathy card, huh? That kind of role went out of style on TV a long time ago."


    Still, Alexander didn''t bite. He continued, "Seriously though, if you ever need legal advice, you know where to find me. I''ll give you a discount."


    Tyrone frowned. "As if we need your help. Do you think my team of legal advisors are just for show? And you have the audacity to talk about fees? Some monk who''s just returned from abroad, do you even understand how things work here? You think Quinn''s money is easy toe by? Giving it to you would be like throwing it away."


    Alexander''s lips quirked up, his pallor giving way to his usual charismatic and refined demeanor.


    "I guarantee, I can outdo any of them and help you... win any case."


    Quintessa nodded. "Okay!"


    Tyrone was displeased. "You''re actually agreeing?"


    Quintessa nudged Tyrone''s leg. "Bedtime. I have to be on set tomorrow."


    Tyrone shuffled the cards haphazardly, trying to linger. "Why are you going to the set? You almost got blown up yesterday."


    Quintessa pulled up the covers,


    closing her eyes. "That''s exactly whyT¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    let


    I want to go. I need to show up, the paparazzi snap a few pictures to prove em still in one piece. It''s


    important to show some people that


    I''m still alive, just to spite them."


    The inte was aze with news of Quintessa''s near-fatal ident on set, narrowly escaping death by a mere two seconds.


    Thements were hrious, with many saying, #Even the heavens can''t stand this siren, nning to take her down!#


    Quintessa posted a picture of her bandaged injuries in the afternoon with the caption: Seems like this siren is too wicked even for the heavens to take!


    Quintessa didn''t bother reading responses, nor did she care. As someone who thrived amidst controversy, she to


    U


    the gossip and rumors.


    simpervel


    Quintessa nudged Tyrone''s arm. "Go sleep on your bed."


    "This is my bed."


    Quintessa... let it be.


    Suddenly, Tyrone''s phone rang. Picking it up, he saw it was James


    1. After a brief exchange, the


    usually carefree expression on Tyrone''s face darkened slightly hinting at a storm brewing beneath the surface.

 Chapter 384

    Tyrone gently let go of Quintessa, signaling he needed to step out for a call.


    Quintessa''s eyes fluttered open, curiosity lighting up her face. This call must be immensely important.


    Tyrone lifted his chin with a hint of sass. "Trade secrets, ever heard of ''em? Can''t have everyone in on it. You, maybe, but that guy? He''s my rival in love. Think I''d let him in on it?" With a teasing smirk, Tyrone stepped out, only to pause and turn back, "While I''m out making this call, I want both of you to keep it straight. No funny business... or else." Alexander chuckled, shaking his head.


    Once Tyrone left, Alexander asked Quintessa, "Do you like him?"


    Quintessa hesitated, "I''d rather not say."


    A shade of sadness crossed Alexander''s eyes, "Got it."


    If it were a t no, Quintessa would''ve said so. But her reluctance meant she was torn.


    His best friend and the woman he loved were together.


    Life, indeed, is full of unexpected turns.


    ...


    At the end of the hallway, Tyrone''s figure loomed tall under the dim light, a stark contrast to his yful demeanor moments ago.


    "Just as you predicted, after SeanCopyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    got arrested, the first name he dropped was Quintessa Young. He even yed an audio of her allegedly


    ordering a hit. Looks like he


    was


    prepared for a fallout. But, Lilian''s safe for now; his so-called ''evidence'' doesn''t hold up."


    "Lilian met with Sean today. It ended badly, and I''m worried if they join forces, it could spell trouble for Quintessa."


    Tyrone narrowed his eyes, "Let''s give Lilian a dose of her own medicine. Make her and Sean turn against each other for good." "You mean?"


    "Use the tragedy of Dolores'' death and that of her deceased secretary. These skeletons in their closets will pit them against each other."


    Sean was desperate, likely looking to drag someone down with him. The deaths of Dolores and his secretary were their dark secrets. Only aplete fallout would expose them.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Tyrone had looked into the death of Quintessa''s mother, initially ruled a suicide. Recent findings suggested she was coerced, making it murder.


    Understanding Quintessa more,


    Tyrone realized her motives went et


    beyond mere vengeance. She,


    to clear her mother''s name,


    Sestore her dignity.


    Dolores was no homewrecker, just a mother striving to protect her child.


    After the call, Tyrone returned to find Quintessa asleep, with Alexander dozing off nearby.


    Hey beside Quintessa, embracing her, lost in thought.


    As silence enveloped the night, Tyrone suddenly got up, lifting Quintessa over his shoulder.


    Startled awake, Quintessa eximed, "What are you doing?"


    With a stoic face, Tyrone replied, "Doing what I''ve wanted to do for a while."

 Chapter 385

    Quintessa felt a sharp difort as Tyrone''s shoulder dug into her abdomen, her head hanging downwards, causing blood to rush to her head, making her feel dizzy and somewhat nauseous. Quintessa pped Tyrone''s back, "Let me down, will ya?"


    Tyrone winced as a shot of pain surged through a wound on his back where Quintessa identally hit him, "No can do."


    Carrying Quintessa, Tyrone climbed up the stairwell to the rooftop.


    Once they reached the top, he gently set her down.


    The moment Quintessa''s feet touched the ground, her knees buckled, nearly causing her to copse, but Tyrone caught her in his arms.


    The cool breeze of a summer night on the rooftop was refreshing, helping Quintessa''s head clear a bit, "In the dead of night, what''s the big idea? You''re not nning on making us both goners, are you?" Tyrone pondered for a moment, "Something like that, I guess."


    Quintessa took a step back, rmed, "What are you up to in the middle of the night? Don''t mess around, I''m not ready to kick the bucket yet."


    Tyrone pulled Quintessa closer, "Let''s y a game."


    Quintessa... I... Ugh!Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Are you sleepwalking? Dragging me out here in the middle of the night just to y a game? You..."


    Tyrone nodded, dead serious, "Of course... what else?"


    He pulled out a deck of cards, the same one they had yed with before.


    He said, "Come on, try your luck, draw four cards..."


    Quintessa, still groggy from being woken up, gritted her teeth, "I don''t have time for your silly games, I''m beat. Go bother someone else."


    But Tyrone grabbed Quintessa''s


    hand, not


    Vol


    you''ve etting her go, "Nope,


    y. Don''t think about


    going back down unless we finish."


    Quintessa rolled her eyes in exasperation and blindly picked four cards.


    Tyrone urged, "Flip them over."


    Quintessa, irritated, "You weren''t always like this... Why don''t you go back to being that cool, domineering CEO?"


    Tyrone grinned, "Thanks for thepliment. I know I''m handsome. Keep going, flip them over."


    "Bro, what are you up to?" Quintessa was utterly speechless. Was he out of his mind, doing this in the middle of the night?


    Shaking her head, Quintessa turned over the four cards - an Ace of Hearts, a 3 of Hearts, an Ace of Diamonds, and a 4 of Hearts! Quintessa didn''t pay much attention; she never liked card games much.


    Tyrone''s lips curled into a smile, "Lucky draw. Want to know what these four cards mean?"


    Quintessa yawned, "You''re fortune telling now? Go ahead, I''m going back to sleep."


    After a few steps, she heard Tyrone call from behind, "Hey, Quintessa, I''m offering you a lifetimemitment. Interested?"


    Quintessa paused, turning slowly to


    §Ö


    face him. The moonlight was dim on the rooftop, making it hard to see Tyrone''s face clearly, but his eyes were bright and intense.


    He held up the four cards Quintessa had just drawn, "Well? Do you want them?" Suddenly, the sleepiness that clouded Quintessa''s mind vanished.


    In the world of cards, an Ace represents "1," and putting together the numbers she drew made 1814- a universal onlinenguage for "forever."


    Quintessa''s eyes widened, heart racing so fast she dared not open her mouth, fearing her heart might leap right out.


    Tyrone approached with the cards, "If you want it, whatever I have, it''s yours..."

 Chapter 386

    In that moment, Quintessa could hear nothing but Tyrone''s voice. His presence became clearer and clearer in her eyes until he was all she could see. Frozen in ce, Quintessa finally managed to ask, "Does that include your entire York Financial Group?"


    "Everything!" "But why?"


    A sly smile yed on Tyrone''s lips. "Because you''re my woman, Quintessa. I want to treat you right, spoil you rotten... simply because I''ve fallen for you."


    Tyrone let out a self-deprecatingugh. "Remember when you told me I''d better pray I don''t fall for you? Looks like I didn''t get that divine protection, huh? So, what do we do now?" Quintessa''s heart was pounding. She had finally heard the confession she had been waiting for from Tyrone.


    She had made this untouchable man fall in love with her.


    Back then, she had been filled with so much hatred and rage, swearing to herself more than once: Tyrone, I''ll make you fall for me and then, I''ll destroy you.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Now... after everything they''ve been through, Tyrone had changed so much right before her eyes, transforming little by little.


    Her journey had been smooth sailing thanks to Tyrone.


    She owed her survival today to him!


    The vow she had made with such conviction back then, she wasn''t sure if she could still fulfill it.


    It took Quintessa a while before she found her voice again. "But have you ever considered that I''ve never seen you as my man?"


    Quintessa hadn''t seen Tyrone as her man, or rather, she hadn''t let anyone into her life.


    She didn''t know what her future held, nor how much longer she''d have to walk in darkness. She didn''t want to be entangled in any emotions, nor did she want to drag anyone down with her. She had told herself that she was destined to walk alone in the dark.


    Tyrone wasn''t surprised or shocked by Quintessa''s words. He had anticipated her response when he decided to confess his feelings.


    "Do you like Snow?" he asked.


    Quintessa shook her head. "No."


    "What about Jonathan?"


    Again, she shook her head. "No."


    "And Alexander...?"


    Quintessa had decisively shaken her head at the previous names, but at this one, she hesitated for a second. "...No."


    Tyrone''s face darkened. "Why the hesitation?"


    "There was a fleeting moment of attraction once. I don''t know if it was liking or not: But that bit of fondness faded with time and distance.


    Besides, if I were to pursue a


    rtionship, it wouldn''t be wiel.ne


    swn vel.n


    him."


    If things had stayed the same between them, Quintessa thought, maybe she would have truly fallen for Alexander. But there were no such things as what-ifs. Once separated, that was it. No


    e


    swning


    back.


    Moreover, having seen Alexander''s family dynamics, Quintessa didn''t want to judge. But as Mrs. York had put it, marrying into the Harrington family was a recipe for disaster.


    Tyrone was quite satisfied with her


    response. "It doesn''t matter...


    because you can''t have any other man but me. Even if you don''t see me as your man, I''ve got a lifetime to spend proving you wrong. If ites to it, I''ll wait until the end of time."


    Though Tyrone made concessions in some areas, he had his own bottom line-Quintessa belonged with him.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 387

    "I love you, and I don''t care who you love. I don''t care if I''m not in your heart, but you can only be mine."


    What''s this about wanting the soul but not the body, or the body but not the soul? He wants both.


    If he had to choose just one, there''s no doubt, it would have to be the body.


    With the body, having the person by your side, constant as the tides, time grinding away bit by bit, sooner orter, I''ll make you mine.N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Tyrone was unlike anyone else, unlike anyone Quintessa had ever met. She didn''t know how to describe Tyrone.


    Sometimes he was like a child, other times a troublemaker, and yet, he could also take on the world for her. She had hated him, used him, and now... she didn''t know what she felt for him. Quintessa had always held her defenses tight, fully aware of her situation, knowing what she had to do, and understanding what woulde after everything was done.


    She knew she wasn''t heading for a good end...


    She didn''t believe she deserved to love or be loved.


    Looking into Tyrone''s eyes, Quintessa felt a tumult of emotions. If only she were just a regr office worker, just an ordinary girl, how wonderful that would be!


    Tyrone saw the struggle in Quintessa''s eyes, her soul tormented.


    Biting his lip, Tyrone steeled himself, not interrupting her. She almost wanted to say: forget it, if you don''t know how to answer, then don''t.


    But then he thought about the stakes, thought about Alexander, Jonathan, and Snow. Damn it!


    Quintessa''s hands clutched at the fabric of her clothes, palms sweaty, her throat burning.


    Quintessa wanted to see her own heart clearly, but she couldn''t. It felt like her heart wasn''t there anymore, that space was empty.


    Panic set in for Quintessa, for the first time showing her disarray in front of Tyrone. Her eyes betrayed unspeakable fear, her lips quivering, "I... I don''t know. It''s like... I... might not know how to love someone anymore..."


    Since witnessing her mother''s death, Quintessa had bid farewell to her childhood in that instant. Her world skipped over adolescence entirely, maturing in an instant amidst her mother''s blood and corpse.


    That''s when she knew: I don''t want others to love me, and I don''t need to love others. I must be. strong, I must seek vengeance, I must be cold and ruthless.


    Because she was so insignificant, so small, easily crushed by anyone.


    She dared not to get attached, dared not to have friends, fearing a slight mistake would doom her forever.


    When someone bes cold and heartless for too long, perhaps, they truly lose the ability to love, because they can''t find where their heart truly lies.


    It''s like a habit, not formed overnight, but once established, it''s hard to break.


    Quintessa was like that. Before, she didn''t see anything wrong with it. She thought it was fine; she could ignore everyone.


    But... now, when someone different tells her, "I offer you a lifetime, do you want it?" it struck Quintessa hard, making her realize she couldn''t find her heart. But...


    Quintessa''s eyes were dry; she had no tears left to cry. She opened her mouth, and after a while, she said, "But I don''t want to refuse, so what should I do?" Yes, she didn''t want to refuse.

 Chapter 388

    Yeah, she didn''t want to say no. Guess it''s selfish folks like her.


    Not sure if it''s love, but still unwilling to turn away the warmth. Craving someone else''s efforts - if that''s not selfish, what is?


    Tyrone let out a sigh of relief inside, a smirk ying on his lips. "What''s the problem? This is fine. I don''t need you to ept anything, and as long as you don''t refuse, that''s the best oue for me. You''re mine. I''m not asking for your love right now, and I won''t meddle too much. But, from now on, I want in on everything that''s about you."


    That''s Tyrone for you. Arrogant, shameless even, but offering the strongest fortress.


    You don''t have to like the fortress, but you''re expected to live in it.


    The evening breeze of a summer night swept by, bringing a refreshing chill.


    Quintessa''s smile bloomed like a night-blooming flower in the darkness, stunningly beautiful.


    She said, "Tyrone, you know, sometimes, you really are an incredibly, incredibly annoying person."


    Tyrone raised an eyebrow. "Of course, I know. How many people have liked me from the start? But if you find me annoying, what can you do about it? Deal with it!"


    He brushed a strand of hair from Quintessa''s face. "I didn''te here to force anything on you. It''s just that I think you should know what''s on my mind. You should know I like you, not treating you as an object. I''m serious."


    "Besides... why should I pour my heart out to you, and you act as if nothing''s happening? I need to put some pressure on you, let you know I''m here. Don''t just casually flirt with any guy. You''re mine. But I don''t want to end up giving you away to the guy next door." Quintessa couldn''t help butugh. "Alright..."


    Tyrone tipped her chin up. "Try to find your heart. I''ll help you. Until you''re sure about how you feel, you''re my girlfriend. And of course... even more so once you''ve made up your mind."


    "And what if, when I do find my heart, it belongs to someone else?"


    Tyrone let go of her, disdain clear on his face. Hah... then try it when the timees. Drag ''the guy next door'' along for the ride, I''ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve here."


    Quintessa felt a mix of emotions, bittersweet, yet there was something called hope, taking root inside her.


    ...


    Alexander opened his eyes to find the two people who were in the bed next to him gone. He slowly sat up, opened the curtains, and pushed the window open. The hospital at night was quite peaceful.


    Such tranquility reminded Alexander of the first night he met Quintessa.


    He was undercover in a gang gathering evidence and got discovered. Quintessa was also hiding from enemies, and they just crashed into each other in a foreignnd. Two people from the sameN?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    country, speaking the same C


    It sounded like something straight out of a TV show.


    Too bad it wasn''t the ending you''d see on TV.


    The door creaked open, Tyrone walked in, arm around Quintessa, looking triumphant.


    "Man, what are you doing up in the middle of the night, posing like some artsy poet, indulging in mncholic beauty? Close the window, I don''t want to feed the mosquitoes even if you do."


    Alexander closed the window. "You guys aren''t sleeping either, huh?"


    Tyrone, still hugging Quintessa, nted a kiss on her cheek, boasting, "Yeah, I''m up. What''s it to you?"


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